27 Bun Hairstyles for Every Mood, Moment, and Hair Type
Bun hairstyles are a timeless go-to for many people, offering a perfect mix of practicality and elegance. Whether you’re looking for a way to keep your hair out of your face or want a classy updo for a special event, the bun is endlessly versatile. It works across all hair types—straight, wavy, curly, coily—and can be dressed up or down depending on your mood or the occasion. From sleek ballerina buns to relaxed, messy styles, buns are a canvas for creativity and self-expression.
Let’s explore 27 bun styles that can work for workdays, weekends, and everything in between.
1. Classic Low Bun
The classic low bun sits at the nape of the neck and is all about clean lines and subtle sophistication. It’s often used in professional settings or formal events because it offers a tidy appearance that still feels soft and graceful. It’s also a great way to protect your ends, especially for natural hair. Add a side or middle part for variation, or smooth it all back for a sleek, timeless finish. A spritz of setting spray can help hold everything in place for the whole day.
2. Sleek High Bun
This is the bun for when you need to look polished and pulled-together—fast. Gather all your hair into a tight ponytail at the crown, smooth everything with edge control or gel, and twist it into a bun. This look emphasizes the face and neck, so it pairs beautifully with statement earrings or a bold lip. It’s ideal for hot weather, gym workouts, or even red carpet-worthy events when styled with precision.
3. Messy Bun
The messy bun is the unofficial hairstyle of busy mornings, relaxed weekends, and effortless beauty. It’s great because it doesn’t have to be perfect—loose strands and a little frizz are part of the charm. You can create it in seconds with just a hair tie and a few pins. The messier it gets, the better it tends to look, making it a favorite for people who want style without the stress.
4. Top Knot Bun
The top knot is like the cooler, edgier sibling of the sleek bun. It sits high on the head and can be either tight or loose depending on your vibe. It’s a favorite for those who love minimal effort with maximum effect. Use a bit of texturizing spray before styling if you want volume, or go sleek with a brush and gel. This look is great for highlighting cheekbones and jawlines.
5. Braided Bun
A braided bun combines structure with texture, making it a more detailed take on the traditional bun. You can braid the ponytail before wrapping it, or create a braided crown that leads into a bun. It works beautifully for formal occasions like weddings or proms but is simple enough to wear casually with a few bobby pins and hair ties.
6. Low Side Bun
Romantic and soft, the low side bun shifts the focus slightly by placing the bun just behind the ear. This style feels vintage and graceful, often paired with loose curls or a deep side part. It’s perfect for dates, garden parties, or any setting where you want to look feminine and refined. Add a flower pin or comb for an extra touch of elegance.
7. Double Buns
Double buns are playful, bold, and full of personality. This look involves parting the hair down the middle and creating two buns—one on each side of the head. It’s a favorite for younger people, festival goers, and anyone wanting to try something outside the box. You can make them sleek or messy, symmetrical or slightly mismatched for a fun, carefree vibe.
8. Space Buns
Space buns are similar to double buns but worn higher up on the head, giving off a futuristic and edgy feel. They’re often seen at music festivals or in street fashion, and they pair well with colored hair, glitter, or bold makeup. Try adding braids into the buns for a creative twist or part your hair into zigzags for even more visual interest.
9. Curly Bun
For curly-haired folks, a curly bun is a celebration of volume and texture. Gather your curls loosely into a puff or bun without flattening them, allowing some spirals to escape naturally. This style is soft, flattering, and doesn’t require heat styling. It works especially well with second- or third-day curls and looks beautiful paired with a headband or silk scarf.
10. Bantu Knot Bun
This traditional African style involves twisting sections of hair into small buns that are coiled and secured against the scalp. Bantu knots can be worn as a full head of small buns or combined into one large bun at the crown. It’s both protective and expressive, reflecting deep cultural roots while making a bold fashion statement.
11. Knotless Bun
A knotless bun is created using a gentler technique that places less tension on the scalp. It’s especially ideal for natural hair or those with sensitive roots. By avoiding tight pulls, this bun preserves your edges and prevents breakage while still offering a neat and stylish appearance. Use a soft scrunchie or fabric tie to keep it secure.
12. Twisted Bun
This style starts by twisting sections of hair—either two-strand or flat twists—and wrapping them into a bun. It gives a soft, feminine result that’s ideal for formal events, Sunday brunches, or picture days. You can add pins or flowers for extra charm, and it works beautifully on both straight and textured hair.
13. Bun with Bangs
Pairing a bun with bangs adds depth and dimension to your hairstyle. Curtain bangs, blunt bangs, or wispy side bangs can soften the face and create balance, especially with higher buns. It’s a popular choice for those who want to keep their hair off their neck while still having some face-framing elements.
14. Donut Bun
Also known as the sock bun, the donut bun creates a round, full bun using a mesh bun maker or rolled-up sock. It’s perfect for ballerinas, formal settings, or any time you want a perfectly shaped bun that holds strong all day. It looks clean and professional, and it’s great for medium to long hair.
15. Half-Up Bun
The half-up bun is a modern favorite that pulls the top section of your hair into a small bun while leaving the rest loose. It works on curly, straight, or wavy hair and adds an instant edge to your look. It’s ideal for in-between hair wash days and gives off that “cool girl” effortless vibe.
16. Braided Crown Bun
This elegant updo starts with a braid that wraps around the head like a crown, finishing with a bun at the back or top. It’s stunning for weddings, proms, or special events where you want to feel regal and graceful. This style can be done on natural hair or with extensions for extra volume.
17. Loose Low Bun
A loose low bun offers a relaxed, dreamy feel. It’s usually worn with soft waves or face-framing strands left out. It’s often styled with minimal product to give it a lived-in, romantic finish. Ideal for brunches, outdoor weddings, or lazy weekends when you still want to look put together.
18. Bun with Accessories
Accessories can transform even the simplest bun into a standout style. Try adding pearls, gold cuffs, silk scarves, or jeweled pins. Whether you’re heading to a festival or a formal dinner, the right accessory adds personality and polish to your look instantly.
19. Faux Bun with Extensions
Don’t have the volume you want? No problem. Faux buns allow you to clip in or wrap around bun pieces that give you a fuller, more dramatic look. It’s perfect for special events or when you want a fuller bun without waiting for growth.
20. Protective Braided Bun
This bun starts with braids—either cornrows, knotless, or box braids—and wraps them into a large, secure bun. It’s an excellent long-term protective style that can last for weeks while looking stylish every day. Perfect for travel, work, or just giving your natural hair a break.
FAQs About Bun Hairstyles
Are buns suitable for all hair types?
Yes! Buns are one of the most adaptable styles out there. Whether your hair is straight, curly, coily, or wavy, you can find a bun style that works with your texture.
How do I keep my bun secure all day?
Use quality hair ties, pins, or bun makers depending on your hair’s thickness. For long-lasting hold, prep the hair with styling cream or gel and finish with a light mist of hairspray.
Can I sleep in a bun?
Yes, but opt for a loose, low bun with a satin scrunchie to avoid breakage. Wearing a satin bonnet or using a silk pillowcase will help keep your hair protected overnight.
Are buns protective hairstyles?
Many buns are protective, especially when they tuck the ends of your hair and reduce manipulation. Avoid tight styles that cause tension, and keep your scalp moisturized for best results.
How do I avoid tension or damage from frequent buns?
Switch up the placement of your bun, use soft elastics, and give your hair a break between styles. If you feel pulling or pain, it’s too tight.
Conclusion
Whether you’re going for simple, chic, artistic, or bold, bun hairstyles offer unlimited potential for self-expression. They’re not only easy to style but also help protect your hair and keep your daily routine stress-free. From elegant updos to carefree messy buns, there’s truly a bun for every moment in your life.
Try experimenting with different textures, accessories, or partings to make each bun style your own. With just a few adjustments, you can go from casual to glamorous, day to night, or desk to dance floor — all with one classic hairstyle.
