STYLE

Nailing the messy bun is a must this summer because, yes, on bad hair days, you can *still* achieve the effortless "I woke up like this" look. But mastering the perfectly imperfect hairstyle can be harder than it seems. Luckily for you, we've decoded the secret to creating a tousled messy bun in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Prep your hair.

Consider this permission to skip washing your hair today. Messy buns work best on day-old locks, as the added oils help the style stick. Pro tip: Use a texture spray or dry shampoo to give a quick refresh and add volume. 

@lunamontana

Step 2: Pull your hair into a high ponytail.

The recipe for any messy bun starts with a high pony. Using a brush, (we heart The Hair Edit Finish & Shine Brush, $21, Ulta), flip your hair upside down and secure it at the top of your head with a hair tie. Don't fret if it's loose with a few bumps. That's the beauty of a messy bun—it doesn't have to be perfect! Be sure to pull out the baby hairs and a few pieces to frame your face.

@sydneyserena

Step 3: Twist your hair into a bun shape. 

Next, twist the hair on your finger and wrap it around the center base of the ponytail. Fluff out the sides of the bun with your hands. Feel free to pull and tug on some strands to adjust based on your liking.  

@itsrileylewis

Step 4: Secure the bun.

Now that the bun is starting to come together, it's time to keep it in place! Using a few bobby pins, secure the tail of the ponytail around the bun. If there are any stray hairs that you want hidden, bobby pin them underneath the bun.

@hannahmeloche

Step 5: Add some extra volume. 

Congrats, you're almost there!  You can either stop here or make the bun more volumized and textured with hair add-ins. To go the extra mile, we recommend the Hairdo Style-a-do Mini Duo Pack ($28, CVS) for a fuller updo. Using your fingers, simply slide the attachment over your bun and tease. 

@realsophiegrace

Step 6: Jazz up your messy bun. 

For some wow-factor, adding in cute accessories is our fave way to level up a basic messy bun. We're currently obsessed with The Hair Edit Marble Pins ($9, Ulta) to keep extra pieces of hair in place and to add some color. You can also opt for a patterned scruchie, clips or a headband—it's up to you!

@elliethumann

Want more summer hairstyles to try? Check out these fab posts:
☀️ 4 fun (and simple) ways to dye your hair this summer
☀️ How to get the *perfect* beach waves for summer
☀️ 6 easy ways to braid your hair

Tag us in your messy bun pics on Insta @girlslifemag for a chance to get featured!

Slider and top image: @spencer.barbosa

by Madison Yee | 6/28/2022