Messy Bun Hairstyles Perfect for Weddings are all about that effortlessly chic updo carelessly thrown together yet absolutely breathtaking. For brides, bridesmaids, or wedding guests alike, this look strikes the perfect balance of elegance and ease, ideal for a day when you want to look your best while still feeling like yourself.
I’ve been styling hair for weddings for over a decade, and lemme tell you, nothing quite captures that “I woke up like this” sophistication like a perfectly imperfect messy bun. It keeps hair off your neck during warm-weather ceremonies, stays put through hours of dancing, and photographs like an absolute dream from every angle.
Whether your vibe is boho, classic, modern, or somewhere delightfully in between, there’s a messy bun variation with your name on it. So grab a cup of something delicious, get comfy, and let’s dive into these 25 stunning messy bun hairstyles that are absolutely perfect for your big day or anyone else’s!
1. The Classic Messy Bride Bun
This ain’t your average topknot. The classic bridal messy bun sits low at the nape of the neck, with softly pulled tendrils framing the face. It’s deliberately undone but still holds its shape throughout the entire celebration.
What makes it wedding-worthy is the careful balance between structure and softness. Your stylist will build a foundation that won’t budge, then artfully pull pieces loose to create that coveted lived-in texture. This style works magnificant with a veil tucked underneath or can stand beautifully on its own.
For best results, this style works on second-day hair with a bit of texture spray for grip. Trust me, you’ll want to practice your “looking back over the shoulder” pose—this bun photographs like an absolute dream from behind!
2. Braided Crown Messy Bun
Imagine a delicate braid circling your head like a crown, leading into a softly tousled bun at the back. Magical, right? This style combines the romance of braiding with the effortless vibe of a messy bun.
The braided element adds structure and interest, making this a more intricate choice that still feels relaxed. It works especially well for outdoor or garden weddings where that touch of whimsy feels right at home. Your guests won’t be able to stop staring as you walk down the aisle with this gorgeous combo.
Don’t have thick enough hair? No worries! This style can be amplified with clip-in extensions to create more volume and length for the braid and bun portions.
3. Half-Up Messy Bun
Can’t decide between wearing your hair up or down? This half-up messy bun delivers the best of both worlds. The top portion is gathered into a textured bun, while the rest cascades down in soft waves or curls.
This versatile style frames the face beautifully while still giving you that messy bun vibe. It’s perfect for brides who want to show off their length but need hair off their face for the ceremony and reception. The contrast between the structured top and flowing bottom creates a dynamic look that photographs stunning from every angle.
I specially love this option for brides with highlights or dimensional color, as it really showcases the varying tones throughout your hair.
4. Side-Swept Messy Bun
For the bride who wants something a bit more dramatic, the side-swept messy bun delivers major romance. The bun is positioned slightly off-center, usually just above one ear, creating an asymmetrical look that’s undeniably elegant.
What makes this style so striking is how it elongates the neck and jawline from certain angles. It pairs excellently with statement earrings on the exposed side and can be adorned with fresh flowers or jeweled pins for added sparkle.
This style requires a bit more structure to keep it secure, so expect your stylist to use additional bobby pins and possibly some strategic backcombing to ensure it stays put through all the hugging and dancing.
5. Textured Voluminous Messy Bun
Big hair, don’t care! This statement-making bun is all about maximum volume and texture. Unlike more sleek variations, this style embraces fullness and dimension, creating a bun that looks substantial and eye-catching.
The key to this show-stopping style is the prep work. Your hair will be curled and teased strategic to create that coveted volume before being gathered into a large, textured bun. The final look appears much fuller than your natural hair might suggest!
Brides with fine or thin hair particularly benefit from this approach, as the styling techniques can create the illusion of much thicker hair. Pair it with a delicate tiara or headband for even more wow factor.
6. Boho Messy Bun with Flowers
Nothing says romantic quite like fresh blooms nestled into a softly tousled bun. This free-spirited style is the epitome of boho wedding dreams, combining natural textures with the organic beauty of floral elements.
The bun itself is usually looser and more deliberately “undone” than other variations, with plenty of pieces pulled out to enhance that effortless appearance. Small, delicate flowers like baby’s breath, small roses, or local wildflowers can be tucked throughout the style.
For winter weddings when fresh flowers mightn’t be available, high-quality silk flowers or preserved blooms work just as beautifully. This style pairs perfectally with flowy, less structured wedding gowns.
7. Twisted Messy Bun
For brides seeking something with a bit more architectural interest, the twisted messy bun offers beautiful dimension. Instead of simply wrapping hair around itself, sections are twisted before being pinned, creating lovely rope-like textures throughout the bun.
What makes this style special is how the twists catch the light, creating natural highlights and shadows that add depth to your hair. It’s slightly more structured than a traditional messy bun but still maintains that effortless appeal.
This technique works especially well on highlighted or balayaged hair, as the twists showcase the different tones beautifully. Add a sparkly hair accessory or some pearl pins for a touch of bridal glamour.
8. Low Messy Bun with Accessory
Positioned at the nape of the neck, this low-slung bun creates a timeless silhouette that’s both comfortable and flattering. What elevates it to wedding-worthy status is the addition of a statement hair accessory positioned at the side or back of the bun.
Whether you choose a vintage brooch, a bejeweled comb, or a modern geometric pin, the accessory becomes the focal point against the textured background of the bun. This style works amazingly well with backless or low-back wedding dresses, drawing the eye downward along the spine.
Many brides choose to incorporate meaningful pieces here—perhaps your grandmother’s jewelry or something blue—making this style as sentimental as it is beautiful.
9. Messy Space Buns
For the non-traditional bride looking to make a playful statement, consider elevated space buns! This style features two smaller messy buns positioned on either side of your head, creating a look that’s equal parts fun and fashion-forward.
The wedding version of this trendy style is more sophisticated than its festival counterpart, with more intentional messiness and perhaps some braided elements leading into each bun. It’s unexpected, memorable, and guaranteed to set you apart.
This avant-garde choice pairs surprisingly well with modern, architectural wedding dresses or jumpsuits. Not for the faint of heart, but absolutely stunning for the bride who marches to her own beat!
10. Messy Bun with Braid Wrap
This elegant variation features a standard messy bun that’s elevated by having a braid wrapped around its base, creating a beautiful textural contrast and secure anchor point. The braid essentially cradles the bun, adding definition and interest.
The beauty of this style lies in its versatility—the braid can be a traditional three-strand, a fishtail, or even a four-strand braid depending on your preference. The combination of textures makes this style photograph beautifully, capturing dimension even in flat images.
For brides with layers or shorter pieces that don’t reach the bun, this technique helps incorporate those sections beautifully into the overall style.
11. Messy Chignon Bun
The chignon gets a modern update with this intentionally undone variation. Sitting low at the nape like its classic counterpart, the messy chignon bun has softness and movement that the traditional sleek version doesn’t offer.
Unlike higher messy buns, this low-positioned style works harmoniously with almost any neckline and is particularly stunning with high-necked gowns or detailed backs. The softer texture makes it feel contemporary while the positioning keeps it timelessly elegant.
If you’re wearing a family veil or one with significant weight, this lower placement provides an ideal anchor point that won’t cause headaches as the day progresses.
12. Messy Top Knot with Wispy Bangs
High on the crown and full of texture, the messy top knot creates elongating lines that are incredibly flattering in person and in photographs. When paired with soft, wispy bangs or face-framing layers, it achieves the perfect balance of structured and soft.
This higher placement draws attention to your facial features and creates a sleek profile that’s perfect for showing off statement earrings or a dramatic neckline. Despite its elevated position, when done right, this style can be surprisingly comfortable for all-day wear.
The combination of height at the crown and softness around the face is particularly flattering for heart-shaped faces, but can be adapted to suit any face shape with the right amount of looseness around the front.
13. Messy Bun with Ribbon
Sometimes the simplest additions make the biggest impact. A length of beautiful ribbon—silk, velvet, or satin—threaded through a messy bun creates a romantic, almost balletic effect that’s both timeless and trending.
The ribbon can match your wedding colors, provide your “something blue,” or add a touch of unexpected color to your bridal look. The long ends can be left trailing down for a dynamic element that moves beautifully in both wind and wedding dances.
What I love most about this style is how easy it is to personalize—the ribbon can be switched out between ceremony and reception if you want a color change, or removed entirely for a different look later in the evening.
14. Twisted Crown into Messy Bun
This regal style begins with twisted sections along the sides of the head that meet and merge into a textured bun at the back. The twisted “crown” portion adds architectural interest while still maintaining that coveted undone quality.
The front sections can be twisted tightly for more definition or loosely for a softer effect, depending on your personal style. This technique is particularly effective for incorporating and controlling curly hair, providing structure without sacrificing the natural texture.
One practical benefit? The twisted sections provide excellent security, meaning this style tends to stay put exceptionally well through hours of celebration.
15. Double-Texture Messy Bun
This innovative approach combines two distinctly different textures—usually sleek roots transitioning into a textured, voluminous bun. The contrast between smooth and messy creates visual interest and a modern edge to this wedding style.
The sleek portion frames the face beautifully and can be particularly flattering if you have strong facial features you want to highlight. Meanwhile, the textured bun brings that soft, romantic element that’s so desirable for wedding hair.
This dual-texture approach works especilly well for those with naturally straight hair who want to incorporate some messiness without having their entire style look tousled.
16. Loose Messy Bun with Hair Vine
For the ultimate in romantic wedding hair, consider a deliberately loose, low messy bun adorned with a delicate hair vine that winds its way through the textured pieces. The effect is ethereal and reminiscent of Greek goddesses.
The bun itself is styled to appear almost on the verge of falling out—though it’s secretly secured to stay put all day. The strategic looseness creates a soft frame around the face and nape of the neck, exuding effortless beauty.
Hair vines, which are flexible wire structures adorned with crystals, pearls, or floral elements, can be shaped to follow the contours of your particular bun, making this a highly customizable option for brides seeking something truly unique.
17. Knotted Messy Bun
Unlike traditionally pinned buns, the knotted variation creates interesting loops and texture by literally tying sections of hair into loose knots before securing them. The result is a bun with more architectural detail and unusual dimension.
This technique creates natural spaces within the style, perfect for tucking in small flowers or decorative pins. It also tends to hold extremely well for thick, heavy hair that might slip out of more conventional bun styles.
The knotted approach works beautifully for rectangular or oval face shapes, as it adds width and balances facial proportions with its interesting dimensional quality.
18. Messy Bun with Headband
Incorporating a statement headband into a textured messy bun creates a look that’s both sophisticated and slightly retro-inspired. The headband sits just behind the hairline, with the bun positioned at mid-head or lower depending on your preference.
What makes this combination so wedding-worthy is how the structured headband plays against the deliberate messiness of the bun. You can choose anything from a subtle satin band to a bold, heavily embellished statement piece, depending on your overall bridal aesthetic.
This style offers practical benefits too—the headband helps keep any shorter layers or flyaways controlled while still maintaining that coveted undone effect in the bun itself.
19. Asymmetrical Messy Bun
Breaking from traditional centered placement, the asymmetrical messy bun sits off to one side, creating a modern, fashion-forward silhouette that’s perfect for the contemporary bride. The intentional imbalance draws the eye and creates visual interest.
This positioning works wonderfully for showcasing unique earrings on the more exposed side, or for highlighting interesting necklines that are designed with asymmetry in mind. The bun itself can be as textured and voluminous as you like.
From a practical perspective, this slightly unusual positioning can actually be more comfortable for some brides, especially when sitting back against chairs during the reception. Just be sure to consider which side will be more photographed during your ceremony!
20. Messy Bun with Face-Framing Tendrils
Perhaps the most universally flattering variation, this style features a textured bun with deliberately pulled-out sections around the face. These soft tendrils soften the look and highlight your facial features beautifully.
The face-framing pieces can be as subtle or pronounced as you prefer—from wispy, barely-there strands to more substantial curled sections. This approach works especially well for brides with strong jawlines or those who want to soften a high forehead.
What makes this style particularly wedding-friendly is how natural it looks as the day progresses. As other styles might fall victim to humidity or dancing, this one is designed to get slightly softer and more lived-in, only enhancing its appeal!
21. Multiple Mini Messy Buns
For a truly unique approach, consider having your stylist create several smaller messy buns instead of one larger one. These can be arranged in a linear pattern down the back of the head or clustered together for a sculptural effect.
This unexpected style creates beautiful texture and dimension that standard buns simply can’t achieve. It’s particularly effective for showcasing hair with multiple colors or highlighting unique hairpieces placed between the mini buns.
While certainly more time-intensive to create, this architectural approach stays remarkably secure and photographs beautifully from every conceivable angle—a true 360-degree style!
22. Bubble Messy Bun
The bubble bun technique creates a segmented, elongated bun with visible “bubbles” or puffs of hair throughout. When given the messy treatment, these sections are softened and pulled apart slightly for a textured yet structured effect.
This modern variation on the traditional bun works wonders for brides with very long hair who want to showcase that length while still wearing an updo. The technique creates the illusion of even more length and volume.
For wedding styling, your hairdresser will likely incorporate pearl pins or tiny floral elements between the bubbles, enhancing the dimensional quality of this playful yet sophisticated style.
23. Messy Gibson Tuck
This vintage-inspired style is essentially a rolled messy bun, creating a tucked appearance at the nape of the neck that’s reminiscent of Edwardian elegance. The messier, modern version maintains the rolled structure but incorporates softness and pulled-out pieces.
The unique shape of this style pairs beautifully with vintage or heirloom hair accessories positioned at the top of the roll. It’s also an exceptional choice for brides wearing gowns with historical inspiration or detailed backs that deserve attention.
One of the most comfortable updo options, the Gibson tuck distributes weight evenly and sits at a natural resting point on the head, making it ideal for brides planning long celebrations who don’t want to be bothered by pinching or pulling.
24. Messy Bun with Side Sweep
This dramatic interpretation features a deep side part with a voluminous sweep across the forehead, leading into a textured messy bun positioned toward the opposite side. The result is glamorous yet undone—perfect for the bride who wants to make a statement.
The side-swept portion adds vintage glamour reminiscent of Old Hollywood, while the messy bun keeps the overall look fresh and contemporary. This combination works particularly well for dramatic makeup looks or statement jewelry.
While this style does require more product to maintain the sweep, the payoff in photographs is absolutely worth it, creating a classic silhouette that will never look dated in your wedding album.
25. Incorporated Braid Messy Bun
Our final messy bun variation features a bun where braided sections are incorporated throughout the textured style. Rather than wrapping around the base, these braids are woven into the bun itself, creating peekaboo moments of pattern and texture.
The incorporated braids can be as thin or thick as you prefer, and the technique works wonderfully for adding structure to very fine hair or controlling very thick hair. The braids also provide natural anchor points for securing flowers or decorative pins.
This mixed-texture approach offers incredible dimension in photographs and moves beautifully if you choose to have some sections left looser. It truly combines the best elements of braided styles and messy buns into one show-stopping wedding look.
26. Starlight Pin Galaxy
Imagine your hair transformed into a celestial wonderland, with dozens of tiny, pearlescent or crystal pins arranged to mimic a constellation across your updo. Each pin catches the light as you move, creating a twinkling effect reminiscent of the night sky.
The base style is typically a smooth, rounded updo that provides the perfect “canvas” for this stellar arrangement. Your stylist will strategically place pins of varying sizes to create depth and dimension across the entire style.
This look works especialy well for evening weddings when lighting will enhance the sparkle effect. It’s also perfect for brides who prefer minimal floral elements but still want substantial visual interest in their hair.
27. Negative Space Braid
This innovative style plays with the concept of absence, creating deliberate “empty” sections within a complex braid pattern. The negative spaces become part of the design itself, creating windows that reveal underlying hair or scalp in geometric patterns.
The technique requires precision and planning, as your stylist will need to map out where these negative spaces should appear within the overall design. The contrast between the intricately braided sections and the open areas creates striking visual interest.
This avant-garde option photographs beautifully and works particularly well for fashion-forward brides with angular features or those wearing architectural, modern gowns with their own geometric elements.
28. Sculptural Loop Updo
Think beyond conventional updos with this artistic style that features hair shaped into dimensional loops and whorls that build upon each other to create a truly sculptural result. Unlike flat styles, this one celebrates height and form.
Each loop is carefully crafted and positioned to complement the others, creating a three-dimensional arrangement that can be appreciated from every angle. The style can be adapted to be more symmetrical or deliberately asymmetrical depending on your preference.
This statement-making choice requires substantial pin work to maintain its shape, but the payoff is a truly unique bridal look that’ll have everyone asking who created your incredible hair art.
29. Holographic Ribbon Weave
This contemporary style incorporates special-effect ribbons with holographic or iridescent finishes woven throughout a conventional braid or updo base. As you move, the ribbons catch and reflect light in rainbow hues, creating a subtle yet magical effect.
The holographic elements can be as prominent or subtle as you prefer—perhaps just a hint of shimmer peeking through in certain lighting, or a more prominent feature of the overall design. The base style can be adapted to your face shape and dress style.
This technique offers a modern alternative to traditional sparkly accessories, creating a futuristic vibe that’s perfect for the bride who wants something thoroughly contemporary and unexpected.
30. Twisted Trellis Half-Up
Inspired by garden architecture, this romantic style features multiple thin strands twisted to create a trellis-like structure across the back of the head. The remaining hair flows freely beneath in your choice of texture—from sleek straight to bouncy curls.
The twisted sections might form diamond patterns, squares, or other geometric shapes, creating a framework that both secures and showcases the loose hair beneath. This provides beautiful structure while maintaining romantic movement.
For garden or outdoor weddings, your stylist can incorporate tiny fresh flowers or greenery into the intersection points of your “trellis,” enhancing the botanical inspiration of this unique half-up style.
31. Segmented Ponytail Cascade
This dramatic style reinvents the standard ponytail by segmenting it into multiple connected sections down the length of the hair. Each segment creates a subtle rounded shape before flowing into the next, creating rhythm and dimension.
The segments might be created using clear elastics wrapped with hair for a seamless look, or showcased with decorative elements between each section. The overall effect elongates the neck and creates beautiful movement with every turn of your head.
This style works amazingly well for brides with very long hair who want to showcase that length while still having a clearly “styled” bridal look rather than simply wearing it down.
32. Laced Corset Braid
Taking inspiration from historical fashion, this innovative style incorporates actual lacing techniques into a central braid. Thin satin ribbon is woven through the braid in a corset-inspired pattern, creating beautiful crosscross detail.
The ribbon can match your wedding colors or provide a striking contrast. The “lacing” is typically featured along the center back of the head, creating a focal point that’s revealed as you walk down the aisle or hit the dance floor.
This romantic style works wonderfully for vintage-inspired weddings or brides wearing gowns with their own lacing or corset details, creating a harmonious head-to-toe look.
33. Floating Sections Updo
This gravity-defying style creates the illusion of hair sections that appear to float or hover disconnected from the main style. Strategic pinning and structure beneath creates negative space that makes portions of hair seem to defy gravity.
The technique requires clever engineering with hidden supports, but the visual effect is stunning—creating an ethereal, almost magical quality. The floating sections might frame the face or create interest around the crown.
This avant-garde choice works particularly well for editorial-minded brides seeking something that pushes the boundaries of conventional bridal hair while still maintaining elegance and sophistication.
34. Woven Basket Crown
This intricate style features hair literally woven in basketry patterns to create a crown-like structure that sits atop the head. The weaving technique creates beautiful texture and dimension while providing a secure base for veils or accessories.
Unlike braided crowns that follow a linear path, this style creates a true woven surface with hair going both over and under in perpendicular directions. The technique can incorporate different widths of sections for varied texture.
For bohemian or rustic weddings, consider having your stylist weave delicate dried flowers or herbs into your basket crown, enhancing both the texture and the organic nature of this unique style.
35. Wrapped Pearl Cascade
This luxurious style features strands of hair wrapped around pearl strands that cascade down from a gathered section. The pearls become structural elements within the style rather than simply decorative additions pinned on top.
The pearl strands create beautiful weight and movement, swaying gently as you move throughout your celebration. They can be arranged symmetrically or concentrated on one side for a more dramatic effect.
This opulent choice pairs perfecty with simple, elegant gowns where the hair becomes a key accessory. The pearls catch light beautifully, creating subtle illumination around your face and neck.
36. Folded Origami Precision Bob
This architectural style takes a classic bob and transforms it through precise folding techniques that create angular, origami-inspired shapes within the silhouette. Each fold is deliberate, creating geometric precision that’s thoroughly modern.
The folded sections might reveal underneath colors for those with balayage or highlighted hair, adding another dimension to this structural style. The precision cuts through the softness typically associated with wedding hair, creating something boldly contemporary.
This option works beautifully for brides with shorter hair who want something more creative than conventional bridal styles often designed for longer lengths. It pairs excellenty with minimalist, architectural gowns.
37. Spiral Twist Galaxy
This hypnotic style features hair arranged in a series of concentric spiral twists that radiate outward from a central point. The spiral pattern creates a vortex-like effect that draws the eye inward before flowing outward again.
Each twist is precisely positioned to build upon the previous one, creating a cohesive pattern that can spread across the entire back of the head. The technique works with various hair lengths, though medium to long hair provides more definition.
For celestial-themed or night-time weddings, consider having your stylist incorporate tiny crystal pins throughout the spirals, creating a galaxy-like sparkle effect that enhances the cosmic inspiration.
38. Suspended Braid Curtain
This innovative half-up style features multiple fine braids that hang like a curtain from a secured upper section. Unlike standard half-up styles where hair simply falls, these intentionally positioned braids create structure and pattern within the loose hair.
The “curtain” of braids might all be the same style or feature varying techniques—perhaps mixing fishtail, three-strand, and twist braids for textural contrast. The upper section provides security while the braided curtain offers controlled movement.
This technique creates beautiful dimension for those with highlighted or balayaged hair, as the braids showcase the various tones throughout your color. Consider delicate metallic threads woven into select braids for subtle sparkle.
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