The messy bun is getting more popular in 2025.
According to popsugar “balletcore,” which celebrates the grace of ballet-inspired aesthetics, has gained traction on platforms like TikTok, with over 269 million views.
This showcases the trend of the messy bun increasing in 2025 and you must know the exact method how you can do this hairstyle.
That’s why today I am going to show the exact method to do the messy bun on your own with tips and mistakes to avoid.
Let’s get into it!
What is a Messy Bun?
So, before going into the tutorial let’s first understand what a messy bun is?
It is a relaxed, slightly undone hairstyle where the hairs are gathered loose and twisted into a bun, and often a few strands left out for a soft, casual look.
Unlike the sleek and tight updos, the messy bun embraces imperfection, giving off an effortless vibe while still looking stylish.
It became a go-to style because it is quick, versatile and works almost for any hair type.
Types of Messy Bun
There are different variations of messy buns that you can try. Here’s the most common and popular messy bun types.
1. High Messy Bun
The high messy bun sits on the top of your head, to create a bold, lifted look that can add instant style with minimal effort.
It is perfect for hot days, gym sessions, or when you want your face fully visible.
2. Low Messy Bun
The low messy bun sits at the nape of your neck and offers a more laid-back and elegant feel.
It is ideal for professional settings or dressier occasions where you want your hair styled but not overdone.
3. Side Messy Bun
The side messy bun placed just behind one ear, and gives a romantic and asymmetric touch to your look.
It works well for events like weddings or date nights.
4. Braided Messy Bun
For this messy bun you have to create a simple braid before wrapping the hair into a bun. It adds texture and details.
It is a great choice when you want to elevate your style without going too formal.
5. Half-Up Messy Bun
The half-up messy bun pulls the top half of your hair into a bun and the remaining hairs stays down.
It is a perfect choice for shorter hair lengths or days when you want a fun, casual look without pulling all your hair up.
Tools and Products You Need
You don’t need any complicated tools to create a messy bun that can hold well and look stylish.
Here’s the list of the products that you will need:
- Bobby pins for securing
- Wide-tooth comb/Paddle Brush
- Texturizing Spray/Dry Shampoo
These tools and products will give your hair some grip and fullness and make it easy to style.
Preparing Your Hair
Before starting a messy bun your hair needs the right texture to hold the style well.
You would be surprised that second or third-day hair works best because they would be less slippery and have more grip than fresh washed hairs.
If your hair is clean or super soft, then you must have to spray a bit of dry shampoo or texturizing spray at the roots and lengths.
This will help to add volume and a slightly gritty texture, which will make it easier to shape and pin your bun.
Step-by-Step Guide for Messy Bun
Step 1: Gather your Hair
First of all start with brushing your hair gently to remove any tangles. Then, use your hand or a wide-tooth comb to gather all your hair into a ponytail.
You have to choose the height based on the look you want, like high for a playful vibe, low for a relaxed feel, and mid-level for a casual everyday look.
Step 2: Create a Bun
Now hold the ponytail and twist it loose. Once you complete the twisting, now you have to create a bun by wrapping it with a twisted ponytail.
Remember you don’t need to wrap it tightly because a loose coil will give a fuller, and soft look.
Step 3: Secure the Bun
You can use a hair tie and wrap it around the bun to hold it in place.
Depending on your hair thickness you might need bobby pins to tuck in loose sections and add more hold.
Pin the bun from different angles to keep it balanced. You can use the bobby pins in a crisscross pattern for better grip.
Step 4: Add the Messy Touch
Now it is the fun part, pull out a few strands near your ears, neck, and hairline to frame your face.
To finish, lightly mist some hairspray if you want extra hold, but keep the overall look soft and natural.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Over-tight the Bun
One of the most common mistakes is pulling your hair too tight and thinking it will stay longer.
But do you know this can lead to tension headaches, hair breakage and a bun that looks too stiff.
You should aim for a secure but relaxed hold. Use the bobby pins to reinforce the shape without pulling hard at the roots.
Using Too Much Products
It is very easy to go overboard with hairspray or texture sprays in hope of better hold. But too many products weigh down the hair, and make it look greasy, causing flaking.
For a perfect messy bun a light mist of hairspray and a few spritzes of dry shampoo or texturizer are usually enough for a natural airy finish.
Conclusion
So, the messy bun is not just a hairstyle, it is a blend of ease, style and personality.
Whether you are heading to gym, brunch, or even a formal event, it will offer a look that is effortless and adaptable to any setting.
