A messy bun is an ideal for medium-length locks, particularly on the second day or after applying dry shampoo to add texture and grip. This look is ideal for girls looking chic and athletic at once, performing reformer pilates classes, or engaging in intense HIIT workouts without experiencing discomfort.
1. Clean and Detangled Hair
Use a volumizing product to give your locks extra lift and texture for an elegant version of the messy bun. This step is especially essential if your hair needs more the thickness to hold its style without assistance. A messy bun often looks its best on slightly dirty locks, as it kind of becomes more intentional if your strands still need to be washed. Additionally, loose strands of hair can be tucked in to cover any bobby pins or elastics visible under your bun – giving it an elegant, feminine touch suitable for weddings and other special events.
2. Part Your Hair
If your natural locks have curls, try crinkling your locks before styling this look to add volume. Alternatively, use a volumizing hairspray. This tutorial shows how to achieve a messy bun in several simple steps on medium-length hair. Begin with a clean ponytail, apply dry shampoo or texturizing spray (FEKKAI Full Blown Volume Dry Texturizing Spray is recommended, Kristin Ess Dry Finish Working Texture Spray is another good choice), and style as desired. Be mindful not to secure your hair too tightly as this could lead to traction alopecia – a type of balding caused by repeatedly pulling at one area of the scalp – creating tension alopecia. Instead, leave some face-framing strands loose around your hairline for an ideal romantic look.
3. Gather Your hair into a Loose Ponytail
Opting for a casual ponytail over brushing helps create a more natural appearance. Add drama and texture to your messy bun by teasing it with a fine-tooth comb or spraying some hairspray. Tug on teased sections until they fluff up before wrapping them around the base of the ponytail. This look works exceptionally well on second-day or lived-in hair, although you can also create it on freshly washed locks. Just make sure you use some dry shampoo to reduce oil build-up on the scalp – this will also help your locks keep their volume.
4. Wrap Your Hair Around the Base of the Ponytail
Add braids for an eye-catching and unique twist by transforming a highly messy bun into an intricate, low messy bun with just one elastic. Watch this tutorial! For an effortless, messy bun, grab and twist out framing pieces that fall out and secure with bobby pins at the base of your ponytail. Finally, connect the hair tie using bobby pins so it stays secure. This look works best on second-day or unwashed hair; for silkier textures that won’t stay put, add texture with dry shampoo or texturizing spray before styling for the best result. Finish it off with some hairspray to complete this feminine and sophisticated look.
5. Secure the Ponytail with an Elastic
If your ponytail is small, delicate, or has excellent locks, spritz some dry shampoo or texturizing spray before styling to give your locks some grip and ensure they don’t shift around throughout the day. This will also prevent them from becoming unruly during wear! This look can easily be tailored to any style or occasion. Pull a few front pieces out for a more whimsical, romantic style, or create a low bohemian messy bun by wrapping a single strand around a hair tie. If you have additional time, finish it with a headband or braids for an elegant, polished finish.
6. Finish with Hairspray
Fallen hair will add texture and life to this adorable, messy bun. For added control, spray some hairspray or texturizing spray for extra hold. Another way to elevate a messy bun is with braids, giving a fairytale princess vibe—experiment with adding side or center parts to customize this look further. If your hair is thin and delicate, spray some dry shampoo or texturizing spray to add volume so your messy bun looks full and beautiful. This step should help give it more body!
