Stylish Messy Bun Ideas for Medium Hair – Perfect for Any Occasion

Embracing a relaxed and stylish vibe, the messy bun is a quintessential hairstyle for medium-length hair. Perfect for both casual and formal settings, this versatile updo adds a touch of effortless chic to any look. Ideal for those with medium-length tresses, this guide delves into various messy bun styles, highlighting suitability, expressive qualities, and essential maintenance tips.

1. Elegantly Tousled Messy Bun

This hairstyle features a beautifully tousled messy bun at the back, accentuated with strands loosely curled and elegantly draped to frame the face. The hair color is a rich brunette with subtle highlights enhancing its depth.

Suitability and Expression This style is particularly flattering for oval and heart-shaped faces. It exudes a romantic and sophisticated aura, making it suitable for bridal events or elegant evenings.

Care and Maintenance To maintain this look, use a flexible-hold hairspray and light serums to manage flyaways and add a glossy finish.

2. Soft and Romantic Updo

This soft, romantic messy bun is styled with voluminous, intricately twisted locks that create a full, textured updo. The light brunette shade with soft highlights complements the gentle, airy feel of the style.

Suitability and Expression Ideal for round or square faces, this bun softens angles and radiates a gentle, bridal elegance. It’s perfect for weddings or special occasions where grace and poise are desired.

Care and Maintenance A texturizing spray will help enhance the bun’s volume, while bobby pins secure the style discreetly.

3. Chic and Sleek Messy Bun

This chic messy bun sits elegantly at the crown, featuring sleek, twisted sections that add a contemporary twist to the classic bun. The hair is a deep brunette, providing a striking contrast to lighter skin tones.

Suitability and Expression This style suits angular faces by softening features with its height and structure. It’s perfect for professional settings or formal gatherings.

Care and Maintenance Regular smoothing serums and a strong hold hairspray will ensure the bun stays intact and sleek throughout the day.

4. Delicate Whimsical Bun

A whimsical interpretation of the messy bun, this hairstyle includes soft, cascading curls and delicate flyaways that enhance its dreamy quality. The golden blonde hair is highlighted with lighter tones, adding dimension.

Suitability and Expression This bun is ideal for softer facial features and works well with both casual and semi-formal attire. It expresses a youthful, free-spirited charm.

Care and Maintenance Use curl-enhancing products and a gentle hairspray to maintain the curls’ shape and the style’s overall softness.

5. Casual Boho-Chic Bun

Characterized by its high placement and loose, flowing strands, this messy bun is the epitome of boho chic. The warm golden tones of the hair enhance the casual, sun-kissed look of the style.

Suitability and Expression This bun is particularly flattering for all face shapes, lending a relaxed and approachable vibe. It’s perfect for everyday wear or a casual day out.

Care and Maintenance A sea salt spray can add texture, while minimal product usage will allow the hair’s natural style to shine through.

6. Cozy Knit and Messy Bun

Capturing a relaxed yet fashionable style, this messy bun is casually piled atop the head, with loose strands elegantly framing the face. The brunette strands highlighted with lighter tones add a touch of warmth, making it ideal for a cozy atmosphere.

Suitability and Expression This hairstyle is perfect for those with oval and square face shapes, as it draws attention upwards, elongating the face. It suggests comfort and ease, ideal for leisurely days or a stylish casual outing.

Care and Maintenance Maintain this look with a moisturizing hair serum to keep the flyaways smooth and the hair healthy, paired with a light-hold hairspray to keep the bun in place without stiffness.

7. Youthful High Messy Bun

This youthful, high messy bun is effortlessly chic, with voluminous curls loosely gathered to create an airy, playful updo. The deep brown hair with subtle highlights enhances the texture and volume, portraying a fresh and lively appearance.

Suitability and Expression The style works well for heart-shaped and round faces, balancing the facial proportions with its height. It conveys a sense of spontaneity and youth, perfect for both daytime engagements and casual evenings.

Care and Maintenance Use a volumizing mousse to enhance the body and texture of the curls before styling, and finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to keep the style playful and dynamic.

8. Elegant Updo with Loose Curls

This elegant messy bun features loose, flowing curls that soften the overall updo, creating a romantic and sophisticated hairstyle. The light brunette tones are enhanced with delicate highlights, adding dimension and depth.

Suitability and Expression Ideal for oval and rectangular face shapes, this style adds softness and femininity to sharper features. It’s particularly suitable for formal events where a touch of classic elegance is desired.

Care and Maintenance A light curl cream can help define the curls without weighing them down, and a medium-hold hairspray will ensure the hairstyle holds throughout the event.

9. Chic Messy Bun with Playful Strands

Featuring a chic, messy bun with playful strands cascading around the face, this hairstyle blends casual flair with a touch of elegance. The dark hair with lighter tips creates an appealing contrast and adds a modern twist to the traditional bun.

Suitability and Expression This bun is excellent for elongated face shapes, as it adds volume at the sides and reduces length visually. It’s perfect for those seeking a fashionable yet approachable look.

Care and Maintenance To achieve this look, use a texturizing spray for volume and hold, along with bobby pins that match the hair color to keep strands securely in place.

10. Refined Messy Bun with Soft Highlights

This refined messy bun is masterfully styled with strands loosely twisted and pinned to create a soft, yet structured updo. The subtle highlights through the ash blonde hair add a luxurious and dimensional look, perfect for enhancing the intricate styling.

Suitability and Expression This hairstyle suits all face shapes due to its balancing proportions and is particularly flattering for those attending sophisticated gatherings or formal dinners.

Care and Maintenance Use a smoothing brush and a light finishing spray to achieve a sleek, controlled finish that maintains the softness and natural flow of the bun.

11. Playful and Textured Messy Bun

This style showcases a high, textured messy bun that encapsulates a playful and carefree essence. Strands of hair in varying shades of brunette create a dynamic look, with pieces loosely falling around the face to soften the overall appearance.

Suitability and Expression Ideal for younger individuals or those with a playful, energetic personality, this bun is suited for round and oval face shapes. It expresses a laid-back, youthful vibe perfect for casual outings or creative workplaces.

Care and Maintenance Using a texturizing powder or dry shampoo will add grip and volume to the hair, making the messy bun easier to style and maintain throughout the day.

12. Vibrant High Messy Bun

Highlighted by its bright auburn color, this high messy bun features soft, wavy tendrils that enhance its cheerful and vibrant appearance. The bun itself is loosely gathered at the crown, allowing some strands to naturally escape, which adds to the relaxed vibe of the hairstyle.

Suitability and Expression This hairstyle is particularly flattering for those with heart-shaped and oval faces, as it draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones. It’s a perfect choice for anyone looking to showcase their dynamic and warm personality.

Care and Maintenance A light hairspray and a touch of shine serum can help maintain the curls’ vibrancy and keep the bun in place without sacrificing the natural bounce of the hair.

13. Romantic Loose Messy Bun

This romantic messy bun is styled with loose, flowing strands that frame the face beautifully, creating a soft and inviting look. The dark brunette hair is enhanced with subtle highlights, adding depth and texture to the updo.

Suitability and Expression Suitable for romantic evenings or elegant events, this style works well for all face shapes, especially those with defined jawlines as it softens their features. It conveys a sense of sophistication and elegance.

Care and Maintenance To achieve this hairstyle, use a flexible curling cream to enhance the natural waves before pulling the hair back into the bun. Finish with a spray of light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place while maintaining a natural movement.

14. Sophisticated and Sleek Messy Bun

Featuring a neatly styled messy bun with a polished finish, this hairstyle combines sophistication with a touch of casualness. The bun is perfectly rounded at the back, with a few strands strategically pulled out to add a relaxed feel.

Suitability and Expression This bun is excellent for professional settings or formal occasions, suitable for those with rectangular or oval face shapes. It speaks to a composed and confident personality.

Care and Maintenance A smoothing brush and a firm-hold gel can help achieve the sleek look of the bun, while a finishing spray will keep stray hairs in place all day.

15. Ethereal and Delicate Messy Bun

This ethereal style features a delicately assembled messy bun with soft, wispy strands floating around the face, creating a dreamlike quality. The light blonde hair with subtle natural highlights enhances the airy feel of the hairstyle.

Suitability and Expression Perfect for bridal occasions or formal events, this bun suits those with finer hair textures and softer facial features. It exudes grace and delicacy, ideal for showcasing a gentle and romantic side.

Care and Maintenance Use a volumizing mousse on damp hair to build a base for the bun. Secure with pins that match the hair color for a seamless look, and mist with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the ethereal appearance throughout the event.

16. Whimsical and Wavy Messy Bun

This hairstyle features a voluminous, wavy messy bun perched atop the head, with delicate strands softly framing the face, lending an ethereal and whimsical look. The rich brunette hair is subtly highlighted, enhancing the texture and volume of the bun.

Suitability and Expression Ideal for individuals with oval or square faces, this hairstyle balances the facial features with its height and fullness. It conveys a romantic and artistic vibe, perfect for gallery openings or creative events.

Care and Maintenance To achieve this look, use a volumizing mousse and curl enhancing spray before styling. Secure the bun loosely with bobby pins that match the hair color, allowing some strands to fall naturally for a soft, undone look.

17. Elegant and Refined Messy Bun

This elegant messy bun is styled with smooth, flowing strands that sweep back into a neat bun, perfectly poised at the crown of the head. The dark, rich brunette hair is subtly highlighted, enhancing the texture and volume. Stray wispy tendrils gently frame the face, adding a touch of softness to the overall sophisticated look.

Suitability and Expression This style is exceptionally flattering for oval and heart-shaped faces, enhancing the cheekbones and eyes. It’s ideal for formal events and professional settings, where a neat yet stylish appearance is appreciated.

Care and Maintenance Achieving this look requires a smoothing brush and possibly a fine-toothed comb for backcombing at the roots for added volume. A light application of hairspray will help maintain the shape and smoothness of the bun throughout the day.

18. Captivating High Messy Bun

Characterized by its height and volume, this messy bun sits elegantly on top of the head, with strands artistically arranged to create a full, textured look. The hair’s natural brunette color is enhanced with subtle highlights, providing a vibrant, dynamic appearance.

Suitability and Expression This hairstyle is particularly suitable for those with round or square face shapes, as it elongates the face and draws the eyes upward. It expresses a sense of confidence and flair, perfect for social gatherings or creative outings.

Care and Maintenance To replicate this voluminous style, use a volumizing spray before pulling the hair back. Ensure the bun is secured with bobby pins that match the hair color, allowing some strands to escape freely for a more relaxed look.

19. Romantic and Soft Messy Bun

This hairstyle exudes romance with its soft, loose strands that cascade gently around the face and neck, creating a dreamy and delicate messy bun. The light brunette hair with honey highlights adds to the ethereal quality of the look.

Suitability and Expression Ideal for any formal or romantic setting, this style suits all face shapes, particularly those with more angular features, as it softens and adds a graceful femininity.

Care and Maintenance Using a curl-enhancing spray on the loose strands can help maintain their shape and volume. A flexible-hold hairspray will keep the bun intact while allowing for movement that enhances its romantic appeal.

20. Youthful and Spirited Messy Bun

This youthful messy bun is all about playful energy and texture, with a high placement and loose strands that frame the face in an effortless fashion. The rich auburn hair is highlighted to emphasize the texture and depth of the bun.

Suitability and Expression Perfect for younger individuals or those with a vibrant, energetic personality, this bun works well with all face shapes and is especially flattering for those with lively social lifestyles.

Care and Maintenance To keep this look fresh and spirited, use a texturizing spray or dry shampoo for added volume and grip. Ensure the bun is loosely tied to maintain the casual, buoyant appearance throughout the day.

21. Timeless Beauty in a Messy Bun

This hairstyle portrays timeless beauty through a voluminous messy bun positioned elegantly at the crown. Strands intricately twist and tuck into the bun, creating a captivating texture, while loose, wispy hairs frame the face softly. The deep brunette tones provide a classic and refined look.

Suitability and Expression Ideal for oval and heart-shaped faces, this style lends a balanced, harmonious look to the wearer, perfect for both formal and informal gatherings. It exudes sophistication and grace, making it a go-to choice for those who appreciate a classic beauty aesthetic.

Care and Maintenance To maintain this look, use a texturizing spray to add volume and grip to the hair before styling. Secure the bun with bobby pins that match the hair color, allowing the natural texture to contribute to the overall softness of the style.

22. Chic and Modern Messy Bun

Featuring a high, sleek messy bun that’s both chic and modern, this style includes smoothly brushed back hair that highlights the facial structure, with a few strands deliberately left out to soften the edges. The bun itself is a mixture of twists and loops, giving it a structured yet playful appearance.

Suitability and Expression This hairstyle is particularly flattering for square and round faces as it elongates the face and highlights the cheekbones. It’s perfect for professional settings or trendy social events, offering a contemporary twist on the classic bun.

Care and Maintenance Achieve this polished look by using a smoothing serum before pulling the hair back. A strong-hold hairspray will ensure the bun stays in place all day, while a shine spray will add a healthy, glossy finish.

23. Whimsical Messy Bun with Natural Texture

This whimsical messy bun boasts a naturally textured look, enhanced by soft, airy strands that escape the bun to create a light, breezy feel. The hairstyle’s simplicity is its charm, with minimal styling that emphasizes the hair’s natural waves and color variations.

Suitability and Expression Perfect for younger individuals or those with a casual, laid-back style, this bun suits all face shapes, particularly those with more pronounced features, as it softens and adds a playful touch to the overall look.

Care and Maintenance For a natural textured look, use a sea salt spray or light mousse to enhance wave patterns before loosely gathering the hair into the bun. Secure with bobby pins, allowing the natural texture to shine through.

24. Elegantly Undone Messy Bun

This elegantly undone messy bun features soft, romantic twists and curls that loosely gather into a low bun at the nape. The hairstyle is enhanced with subtle highlights, which add depth and dimension to the dark hair, while stray tendrils gently frame the face and neck.

Suitability and Expression This style is especially flattering for those with longer face shapes, as it adds width and softness at the sides. Ideal for bridal events or romantic evenings, it exudes a sense of refined elegance with a touch of casual grace.

Care and Maintenance Use a flexible curling cream or spray on damp hair to encourage soft waves. Assemble the bun loosely at the nape, securing with decorative pins for a more formal touch, and finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain a soft, approachable look.

25. Sophisticated and Sleek High Bun

This sophisticated and sleek high bun is meticulously styled, featuring a polished and smooth finish that complements the sharp, clean lines of the face. The hair is pulled back tightly to accentuate the features, with the bun itself perfectly coiled at the crown for a modern, elegant profile.

Suitability and Expression Suitable for those with oval and rectangular face shapes, this hairstyle is ideal for professional environments or formal events where a neat, impeccable appearance is desired. It speaks to a sense of discipline and elegance.

Care and Maintenance To achieve this sleek look, apply a strong-hold gel to damp hair before brushing it back. Use a fine-tooth comb to eliminate any bumps and secure the bun with a hook elastic for a flawless finish. A high-shine spray will add the final touch of sophistication.

26. Effortlessly Chic Messy Bun

This hairstyle showcases an effortlessly chic messy bun, situated at the crown of the head with loose, flowing tendrils that frame the face beautifully. The rich brunette tones of the hair are accented with subtle highlights, adding depth and texture to the look.

Suitability and Expression This style is perfect for those with oval and square face shapes, providing a softening effect on angular features. It exudes a relaxed elegance, making it ideal for both casual outings and more formal occasions.

Care and Maintenance To achieve this look, use a texturizing spray or volumizing mousse to add body and grip to the hair. Twist and pin the hair loosely into a bun, allowing some strands to fall naturally for a more laid-back feel. Finish with a light hold hairspray to maintain the style without compromising its effortless appeal.

27. Romantic Twist on a Classic Bun

This romantic version of the classic messy bun features soft, curling strands that twist around the main bun, creating an intricate and visually appealing updo. The golden blonde highlights catch the light, adding a luminous quality to the hairstyle.

Suitability and Expression Ideal for round and heart-shaped faces, this bun accentuates the eyes and cheekbones while softening the jawline. It’s perfect for bridal events or romantic evenings, offering a dreamy and delicate aesthetic.

Care and Maintenance Use a curling iron to add curls to the hair before styling it into the bun for added texture. Secure the style with bobby pins, ensuring that some curls are left out to enhance the romantic feel of the look. A flexible-hold hairspray will help maintain the curls and keep the bun in place.

28. Modern Elegance High Bun

This hairstyle captures modern elegance with a high bun that combines smooth, sleek hair at the base with a textured, tousled bun on top. The contrast between the polished lower half and the relaxed upper half makes this look striking and contemporary.

Suitability and Expression This style works well for those with elongated face shapes, as it adds volume at the top to balance the face’s proportions. It’s particularly suited for formal events or professional settings, where a sophisticated yet stylish appearance is desired.

Care and Maintenance Achieve this sleek and textured look by using a straightening serum on the lower sections of the hair while applying a texturizing powder or dry shampoo to the top for volume. Pull the hair back into a high ponytail, then twist and pin the hair into a bun, allowing the texture to define the style. Use a strong-hold hairspray to secure everything in place, ensuring the sleek areas remain smooth and the textured sections maintain their volume.

In conclusion, the messy bun is a versatile and stylish hairstyle that works exceptionally well for medium-length hair. It can be adapted for a variety of occasions, from casual outings to formal events. By understanding the different styles and maintenance tips outlined, anyone can achieve a chic, effortless look that complements their face shape and enhances their natural beauty. Whether you’re aiming for a relaxed, romantic, or sophisticated vibe, the messy bun is a go-to choice that combines elegance with ease.