How to Do a Messy Bun for Long Hair

Having long hair can be a blessing and a curse. On the plus side, it means you have a lot more to play with when it comes to hairstyles. But at the same time, it also means that you have a lot more hair to take care of, which isn’t always so fun. While updos often get a bad rap because they have a zillion steps to them, they can actually be a great option for long hair! Seriously, who says creating hairstyles on long hair has to be complicated? One style we absolutely love for long hair: the messy bun! Yep, messy buns are perfect for days when you don’t feel like doing much to your hair but you still have to pull yourself together. Creating a messy bun with long hair may seem like it’d be difficult at first, but with the right trip and tricks up your sleeve, you’ll be able to nail the look in no time at all.

Below, find four messy bun options, plus tips for taking care of long hair.

1.THE CLASSIC MESSY BUN

For a look that has both volume and texture, try the classic messy bun. You can literally roll out of bed, throw your hair up, and be good to go.

What you’ll need:

Texturizing spray

Hair tie

Bobby pins

Get the look by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Spritz your roots

Start by applying some texturizing spray to your roots, then, brush your hair to distribute the product.

Step 2: Create a ponytail

Tie your hair up into a messy ponytail.

Step 3: Twist your hair

Loosely twist the length of your ponytail into a bun.

Step 4: Secure your messy bun

Secure your messy bun with bobby pins—but remember, that the more disheveled it looks the better! So, don’t worry about any ends poking out, as this only adds to the overall look.

2. THE WET HAIR MESSY BUN

This next messy bun hairstyle is great for those lazy summer days spent lounging by the pool or on the beach. Bonus: When your hair is wet, it’s actually easier to manipulate into a messy bun.

What you’ll need:

L'Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle AIR DRY IT Wave Swept Spray

Hair tie

Get the look by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Create waves

Wash your hair, then spritz a wave-enhancing hair spray onto wet hair. Let your hair air dry until it’s damp—not soaking wet.

Step 2: Make a bun

Pull your hair back into a bun, securing it with a hair tie.

Step 3: Mess it up

Gently pull out some strands to give the hairstyle a messy effect.

3. THE DISHEVELED LOW MESSY BUN

For something that’s a little more sophisticated, try a disheveled low bun. Messy buns secured in the center of the head aren’t always ideal for those with long hair, since they can feel off balance. Instead, tie your low bun at the nape of your neck.

What you’ll need:

Hair elastic or bobby pins

L'Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray Strong Hold

Get the look by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Create a bun

Simply twist your hair and wrap it into a bun, securing it with an elastic or a few bobby pins.

Step 2: Secure with hair spray

Spray on a strong-hold hair spray to help keep everything in place.

4. THE DUTCH BRAIDS LOW MESSY BUN

Somehow, braids just seem to elevate any look—wouldn’t you agree? And this particular style combines a pretty Dutch braid with a messy bun. How chic!

What you’ll need:

Mini clear elastics

Bobby pins

Get the look by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Set up your hair for a braid

Part your hair to the side, then grab a section of hair from the heavier side to begin your braid.

Step 2: Make your Dutch braid

Divide that section into three smaller sections, crossing the back strand under the middle, then the front strand under the middle, then the back strand under the middle, bringing in a section of hair into the braid. Then, cross the front section over the middle, bringing in another section.

Step 3: Continue the braiding process

Repeat this process twice more, or until the braid reaches your ear.

Step 4: Secure your braid

Once you’ve gotten to your ear, create a regular braid until you reach your ends, and tie it off with a mini clear elastic.

Step 5: Make another Dutch braid

Create a Dutch braid on the other side of your hair, tying it off with a mini clear elastic.

Step 6: Create a ponytail

Gather all of your hair into a low ponytail, securing it with an elastic.

Step 7: Make your messy bun

Pin up sections of your hair to create a messy low bun.

For more messy bun ideas, here are 3 Messy Buns to Wear Year-Round.