The messy bun, a celebrity favorite and practical staple, is a look that's equal parts effortless and chic. Its undone, casual vibe makes it a go-to style for everyday wear, and it's incredibly easy to master. Let's dive into a step-by-step guide to create the perfect messy bun, ensuring you'll look put-together and stylish in no time.
Before we start, ensure your hair is free of tangles and has some texture - clean, freshly washed hair can be tricky to work with for this style. It's best to start with second-day hair or use some texturizing spray or dry shampoo to give your locks a hint of grit.
Preparing Your Hair
Start by gathering your hair at the nape of your neck. You can choose to leave a few face-framing tendrils out for a softer look, or pull it all back for a sleeker appearance.
Secure your hair with an elastic, not too tight, just snug enough to keep it together without causing tension or pulling at your hairline.
Creating Texture
To achieve that messy, undone look, your hair needs some texture. Use your fingers to gently pull out small sections from the bun, creating pieces that frame your face and soften the overall effect.
If you have finer hair or want more volume at the crown, try tricks like princess Leia-style buns or criss-cross wrapping around the base of the bun.
Loosening the Bun
Once you're happy with the initial placement and texture, it's time to loosen the bun. Use your fingers to scrunch the bun upwards, giving it a more casual, undone look. Be gentle and pull sections out randomly to create that 'messy' effect.
Tuck any loose pieces into the bun or leave them to frame your face, depending on your desired look.
Finishing Touches
The secret to a great messy bun is in the details. Use your fingers to gently tug at the hair around your hairline, creating a softer, more imperfect look. This helps to disguise the clean lines and makes it appear more casual.
If you want to add volume, pull out a few pieces around your temples and forehead, or consider backcombing small sections to lift the roots and create height.
Hiding the Elastic
To hide the elastic, take a small piece of hair from the bun, wrap it around the elastic, and tuck it back into the bun/securing it with a hairpin if necessary. This adds a subtle touch of elegance to your hairstyle.
Alternatively, cover the elastic by taking a section of hair from the main bun and wrapping it around the base, securing it with a pin. This creates the illusion of a fuller, thicker bun.
There you have it - a perfect, effortless-looking messy bun in just a few simple steps. Practice makes perfect, so don't worry if it doesn't look immaculate on your first try. Keep trying, and before you know it, you'll have the messy bun down to an art. Happy styling!