26 Half Up Messy Bun Hairstyles for Every Hair Type

Half up messy bun hairstyles are a versatile and trendy look that suits every hair type. Whether your hair is straight, curly, wavy, thick, or thin, this style is a favorite for both casual and formal settings. Let’s explore why this hairstyle has become so popular and how you can create the perfect half up messy bun.

Why Half Up Messy Bun Hairstyles Are So Popular

Half up messy buns are loved for their laid-back yet polished look. They provide a way to keep your hair out of your face while still showcasing your natural texture. This style is great for every hair type—whether it’s sleek and straight, full of curls, or somewhere in between. The half up style also offers the best of both worlds: the freedom of loose hair and the practicality of an updo.

One of the biggest appeals of half up messy buns is that they’re incredibly easy to do. With just a few twists and pins, you can create a chic style in minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or special events.

Tips for Creating the Perfect Half Up Messy Bun

While half up messy bun hairstyles may seem effortless, a few key tips can help you perfect the look. Here are some tools and products that will make styling easier:

• Bobby pins: Essential for securing the bun in place.
• Texture spray or dry shampoo: Adds grip and volume, especially for fine hair.
• Hairspray: Helps hold everything together without making it look stiff.
• Comb for teasing: Adds volume at the crown for a fuller look.

General tips for creating a perfect messy bun:

• Start by taking a section of hair from the top half of your head.
• Lightly tease the crown for added volume if you have thin or fine hair.
• Twist the section loosely into a bun, securing it with pins or a small hair tie.
• Pull out a few face-framing strands for a relaxed vibe.

Now, let’s dive into specific half up messy bun hairstyles for different hair types.

1. Classic Half Up Messy Bun for Straight Hair

Straight hair can sometimes lack the texture needed for a messy bun, but with a little teasing at the crown, you can achieve the desired volume. Gather the top half of your hair and twist it loosely into a bun. Secure it with pins and leave a few strands out for a laid-back finish.

2. Textured Half Up Messy Bun for Wavy Hair

Wavy hair is perfect for a half up messy bun since the natural waves provide texture and volume. Simply pull back the top section of your hair, twist it into a bun, and secure it. Let your waves add a carefree, beachy vibe to the look.

3. Voluminous Half Up Messy Bun for Curly Hair

Curly hair adds natural volume to a messy bun. Gather the top portion of your curls and loosely twist them into a bun. Let the remaining curls cascade down, adding a touch of elegance to the messy look.

Half Up Messy Bun Hairstyles for Short Hair

Even if you have short hair, you can still rock a half up messy bun with a few simple tricks. These styles are fun, quick to do, and will add a touch of style to your short locks.

4. Mini Half Up Messy Bun for Pixie Cuts

For those with pixie cuts, you can create a mini version of the half up messy bun. Gather the top layer of your hair and twist it into a tiny, loose bun. Secure it with a small elastic and a few bobby pins, letting the rest of your hair remain free for a playful look.

5. Half Up Messy Bun for Bob Haircuts

Bob-length hair is great for creating a cute and effortless half up messy bun. Simply pull the top half of your hair back, twist it into a messy bun, and secure it. You can leave out a few strands around your face for that casual, messy effect.

6. Layered Half Up Messy Bun for Short Layers

Short, layered hair adds an extra dimension to the half up messy bun. The layers naturally create texture and movement, making the bun appear fuller and more voluminous. Just gather the top layers of your hair, twist them into a loose bun, and let some layers fall around your face for a soft, chic look.

Half Up Messy Bun Hairstyles for Medium Hair Length

Medium-length hair is ideal for creating various half up messy bun styles. The length allows you to play with texture and volume while still keeping the look easy and fun.

7. Braided Half Up Messy Bun for Medium Hair

Add a little flair to your half up messy bun by incorporating a small braid. Start by braiding a small section of hair from the front and then pull it back into a messy bun with the rest of your top hair. The braid adds texture and a unique twist to the style.

8. Loose Half Up Messy Bun with Soft Curls

For medium-length hair with soft curls, the half up messy bun can look incredibly romantic. Simply gather the top section of your hair and twist it into a loose bun, allowing your curls to fall freely. The softness of the curls creates a relaxed yet elegant style.

9. Boho Half Up Messy Bun with Waves

If you have wavy hair and love a boho vibe, this half up messy bun is for you. Pull back the top section of your hair, twist it loosely, and secure it with a hair tie. Leave the rest of your waves to cascade down for a carefree, effortless look.

Half Up Messy Bun Hairstyles for Long Hair

Long hair gives you more room to experiment with various bun styles, and half up messy buns are no exception. The length allows for larger, fuller buns that make a statement.

10. High Half Up Messy Bun for Long Hair

A high half up messy bun is perfect for long hair because it adds volume and height. Pull the top section of your hair up to the crown of your head, twist it into a messy bun, and secure it. Let the rest of your long hair flow down for a fun and flirty style.

11. Twisted Half Up Messy Bun for Thick Hair

Thick hair can make for a stunning half up messy bun, but it requires a little extra securing. To add dimension, twist small sections of hair before gathering them into the bun. This method adds texture and makes the bun stand out even more.

12. Low Half Up Messy Bun for Sleek Styles

For a more polished take on the half up messy bun, try a low bun. Pull the top half of your hair back, twist it into a low bun at the back of your head, and let the rest of your hair fall naturally. This style is perfect for both casual and formal occasions.

Half Up Messy Bun Hairstyles for Special Occasions

Half up messy buns aren’t just for casual days—they can be elevated for special occasions with a few accessories and techniques. Whether it’s a wedding, party, or formal event, these styles can make you look effortlessly chic.

13. Half Up Messy Bun with Pearl Accessories

Adding pearl accessories to a half up messy bun can instantly make the look more elegant. Gather the top section of your hair into a messy bun, and then place pearl pins or a pearl hair clip around the bun to give it a sophisticated, polished touch.

14. Braided Crown with Half Up Messy Bun

For a more intricate style, try combining a braided crown with a half up messy bun. Start by creating small braids on each side of your head, then pull them back into a messy bun. This look works beautifully for formal occasions like weddings or parties.

15. Messy Bun with Floral Embellishments

Floral embellishments can turn your half up messy bun into a romantic, boho-chic style perfect for outdoor weddings or garden parties. Simply tuck small flowers or a floral clip into your bun for a soft and whimsical look.

Half Up Messy Bun Hairstyles for Textured Hair

Textured hair brings a whole new level of volume and interest to half up messy buns. Whether you have naturally textured hair or want to create texture with products, these styles add extra flair.

16. Half Up Messy Bun with Teased Roots

Teasing the roots adds height and volume to a half up messy bun, especially for those with fine or straight hair. Lightly tease the crown of your head before pulling your hair back into a bun, and secure it with pins. This creates a fuller look that stays in place.

17. Half Up Messy Bun with Beach Waves

Beach waves and a messy bun are a match made in heaven. If you’re going for a carefree, beachy vibe, create loose waves with a curling wand or let your natural waves shine. Gather the top half of your hair into a messy bun, leaving the waves flowing down for a relaxed, vacation-ready look.

18. Tousled Half Up Messy Bun for Volume

A tousled half up messy bun is perfect for those looking to add a little extra volume to their style. Use a texture spray or dry shampoo to create fullness, then pull your hair into a loose bun. The messier, the better with this voluminous look.

Quick and Easy Half Up Messy Bun Hairstyles

When you’re short on time but still want to look stylish, these quick and easy half up messy bun styles are perfect. They take just a few minutes to create but leave you looking put-together all day.

19. 5-Minute Half Up Messy Bun

If you’re in a hurry, this 5-minute half up messy bun is a lifesaver. Simply gather the top half of your hair, twist it into a loose bun, and secure it with a hair tie or bobby pins. It’s a simple, no-fuss style that still looks effortlessly chic.

20. Low Maintenance Half Up Messy Bun for Everyday Wear

For an everyday style that requires minimal effort, try a low-maintenance half up messy bun. Pull back a small section of hair, twist it loosely, and pin it in place. This casual style is perfect for running errands or lounging at home while still looking cute.

21. High and Messy Bun for Gym Days

For days when you need a functional hairstyle for the gym, the high half up messy bun is ideal. Pull your hair up high to keep it off your neck, twist it into a messy bun, and secure it tightly. It’s practical and stylish enough to wear from the gym to brunch.

Half Up Messy Bun Hairstyles for Second-Day Hair

Half up messy buns are perfect for styling second-day hair. They help refresh your look without having to wash or restyle everything from scratch. Here are a few simple ideas to make the most of your second-day locks.

22. Half Up Messy Bun for Oily Hair

If your hair tends to get oily by the second day, a half up messy bun can be a stylish way to hide it. Simply spray some dry shampoo at the roots, then pull the top half of your hair into a messy bun. This will keep your hair off your face and give you a fresh, carefree look.

23. Dry Shampoo Half Up Messy Bun

Dry shampoo is your best friend for second-day hair. Apply it at the roots to add volume and texture, then create a loose messy bun with the top half of your hair. This style is quick and easy, and it’s perfect for reviving your hair between washes.

24. Textured Messy Bun for Second-Day Waves

Second-day waves often have great texture, making them ideal for a half up messy bun. Simply pull the top section of your hair back, twist it into a loose bun, and secure it with a few pins. The natural texture of second-day waves will add volume and hold to the bun.

Creative Variations of Half Up Messy Bun Hairstyles

If you’re looking for a fresh take on the classic half up messy bun, here are some creative variations that will give your hairstyle a unique twist.

25. Double Knot Half Up Messy Bun

For something a little different, try a double knot version of the half up messy bun. Instead of one bun, split the top half of your hair into two sections and knot them together twice before securing them. This look is playful and modern, perfect for a casual day out.

26. Fishtail Half Up Messy Bun

Incorporate a fishtail braid into your half up messy bun for a trendy and eye-catching style. Braid a small section of hair using the fishtail technique, then pull it back with the top half of your hair into a messy bun. This combination of braids and buns adds texture and interest to your look.

Half Up Messy Bun Hairstyles for Every Hair Type

Half up messy bun hairstyles are the perfect blend of style and practicality, offering endless possibilities for every hair type. Whether you have straight, wavy, curly, thick, or fine hair, there’s a half up messy bun variation that will suit you. Try out these styles and experiment with different accessories, braids, or twists to make the look your own.

If you’re looking for even more hairstyle inspiration, check out our article on 25 Short Hairstyles for Girls That Are Perfect for Every Season for more fun and stylish ideas!