How to Do a High Messy Bun for a Stunning New Look

Want a hairstyle that’s effortlessly chic yet totally doable in minutes? The high messy bun is your secret weapon. It’s playful, stylish, and perfect for anything from a casual coffee run to a last-minute date night. Plus, it works on almost any hair type and length. With a few simple tools and tricks, you can create a bun that looks like it belongs on a Pinterest board.

Gather Your Tools

Before you start twisting and tucking, make sure you have everything you need: a hairbrush or comb, a hair tie (preferably one that matches your hair color), bobby pins, hairspray or texturizing spray for extra hold, and dry shampoo if your hair is freshly washed and too silky. Having these on hand makes the process smoother and prevents frustration halfway through.

Step 1: Prep Your Hair

Messy buns look best with a little texture. If your hair is freshly washed, it may be too soft and slippery. Spray some dry shampoo at the roots to add grip. For extra volume, lightly tease the crown using a comb. If your hair is naturally wavy or curly, enhance the texture with a bit of texturizing spray. The goal is to have hair that holds shape but still feels soft and touchable.

Step 2: Create the Base Ponytail

The high messy bun starts with a ponytail at the crown of your head. Tilt your head slightly forward and gather all your hair into a high ponytail. Secure it with a hair tie, keeping it firm but not too tight—it should feel comfortable. For a relaxed vibe, gently pull out a few strands around your face. This step sets the foundation for a loose, romantic bun that doesn’t look forced.

Step 3: Twist, Wrap, and Pin

Now comes the fun part: shaping your bun. Take the ponytail and twist it loosely. Wrap it around the base of the ponytail to form a bun. Use bobby pins to secure the bun in place, allowing some ends to stick out for that messy effect. Gently tug at sections of the bun to make it look fuller and more relaxed. Don’t stress about perfection—messy is the goal.

Step 4: Final Touches

The final touches make your messy bun look intentionally styled. Pull a few wisps of hair loose at the nape of your neck. Slightly loosen the bun to add volume. Mist with hairspray if you need extra hold, or leave it soft for a casual vibe. Optional: Add a hair accessory like a scrunchie or decorative pins for a playful twist.

Final Words

Messy buns work best with layers; long, even hair can be more slippery. For super fine hair, lightly curling your hair beforehand adds volume. If your bun feels too tight, loosen it with your fingers instead of pulling it out completely—it keeps the style natural. Don’t be afraid to experiment—some of the best messy buns are asymmetrical or a little “imperfect.”

Creating a high messy bun is all about balance: effortless yet styled, casual yet chic. With a bit of practice, this look can elevate your everyday outfits or add glamour to an evening out.

Give it a try, play around with textures, and soon you’ll have a go-to hairstyle that always turns heads.

Keep a few bobby pins and hair ties in your bag—you never know when a last-minute bun will save the day!