A messy bun is a wedding classic that never goes out of style. Whether you’re the bride, a bridesmaid, or an honored guest, this effortlessly elegant hairstyle blends romance, charm, and sophistication in one stunning look. The beauty of a messy bun is its versatility—it can be styled to complement any wedding theme, from a glamorous ballroom affair to a rustic outdoor ceremony. With soft waves, delicate braids, and the perfect accessories, a messy bun can transform into a statement-making updo that highlights your personal style. To make your wedding hair journey even easier, we’ve curated 25 of the most breathtaking messy bun hairstyles, complete with Amazon product recommendations to help you achieve the look effortlessly. Whether you prefer a boho-inspired bun, a sleek yet tousled finish, or a soft chignon adorned with pearls, you’ll find the perfect inspiration right here.
1. Classic Low Messy Bun – Timeless & Elegant
source@emilyraebridalhair
Nothing beats the beauty of a classic low messy bun when it comes to achieving a timeless wedding hairstyle. This style is ideal for brides who love an understated yet refined look. The bun sits neatly at the nape of the neck, with soft tendrils left loose to frame the face, creating a naturally romantic feel. What makes this bun truly special is its effortless structure—it’s polished yet relaxed, ensuring you look graceful without appearing overly styled. To keep your bun in place throughout the ceremony and reception, use a strong-hold hairspray that maintains a soft, touchable finish. A few pearl-embellished pins can also add a delicate bridal touch to elevate the elegance of this hairstyle.
2. Voluminous High Messy Bun – Bold & Beautiful
source@monique_bridal_hmua
For brides who want a hairstyle with height and drama, the voluminous high messy bun is a perfect choice. This bun sits at the crown of the head, creating an elongated silhouette that enhances your facial features and adds a regal vibe. Ideal for pairing with strapless or off-the-shoulder wedding dresses, this bun draws attention upward, making your neck appear longer and your overall look more poised. To achieve maximum volume, start by teasing the roots and using a hair donut for added fullness. A texturizing spray will also help give the bun that effortless, undone feel while keeping it secure. If you want to add an extra bridal touch, consider weaving in a delicate crystal headpiece or lace ribbon to complete the look.
3. Bohemian Braided Messy Bun – Effortlessly Chic
source@angies.mua
If you’re dreaming of a romantic, whimsical wedding hairstyle, a bohemian braided messy bun is the way to go. This style effortlessly blends soft waves and braids to create a dreamy, ethereal look that pairs beautifully with flowy wedding gowns and floral accessories. To achieve this hairstyle, start by loosely braiding sections of your hair before pulling them back into a low bun, allowing some strands to remain loose for a relaxed, carefree effect. A textured mousse will help create volume and hold, ensuring the braids stay in place throughout the day. Complete the look with golden leaf hairpins or delicate floral clips, which add a touch of boho elegance while keeping your bun looking effortlessly polished.
4. Twisted Messy Bun – Simple Yet Stunning
source@beautybyroha
The twisted messy bun is one of the easiest yet most sophisticated wedding hairstyles, making it an excellent option for brides who want a low-maintenance updo with a refined edge. The beauty of this bun lies in its simplicity—strands of hair are loosely twisted and pinned into a bun, creating a structured yet relaxed appearance. This style works beautifully with or without accessories, making it ideal for both minimalists and those who love a bit of sparkle. To ensure a secure hold, use a flexible-hold hairspray that allows movement without stiffness. If you want to elevate the look, adding a small pearl comb or dainty hair vine can provide the perfect finishing touch.
5. Side-Swept Messy Bun – Asymmetrical Elegance
source@vanillahairstudio
For brides who love unique, asymmetrical hairstyles, the side-swept messy bun is a must-try. Unlike traditional buns that sit in the center or back of the head, this one is elegantly positioned to one side, creating a soft and romantic effect. This hairstyle pairs beautifully with one-shoulder dresses or gowns with intricate lace detailing, as it adds balance and visual interest to the overall bridal look. To style this bun, start with loose curls, sweep the hair to one side, and secure it into a low bun, leaving a few strands loose for a natural, breezy feel. A pearl-encrusted hair clip or delicate crystal barrette can enhance the charm of this style, giving it a sophisticated touch. To keep your bun in place all day, a lightweight finishing spray is essential.
6. Loose Tendrils Messy Bun – Soft & Romantic
source@nix_makeupandhair
This dreamy hairstyle features soft, wavy tendrils that gracefully frame the face while the rest of the hair is gathered into a relaxed bun. The loose tendrils add an ultra-feminine touch, making this look perfect for brides who want a hairstyle that feels effortless yet refined. To achieve this look, start by curling the front sections of your hair with a ceramic curling wand, then pin the remaining strands into a loose, textured bun at the back. A spritz of light-hold hairspray will help keep the tendrils in place while maintaining their natural movement. For an added bridal touch, accessorize with tiny pearl pins or a delicate floral comb to enhance the romantic vibe.
7. Crown Braid Messy Bun – Regal & Graceful
source@dianna_elizabeth_beauty
Combining the beauty of a braided crown with a soft, tousled bun, this hairstyle exudes royal elegance. The crown braid wraps around the head like a halo, leading into a voluminous, textured bun that looks effortlessly graceful. This style is perfect for outdoor weddings, as it keeps the hair away from the face while still looking stylish and refined. To create this look, use a lightweight mousse for added grip before braiding, ensuring the plaits stay in place throughout the day. A golden vine hairpiece or delicate beaded headband can add a fairytale touch, making this the ultimate princess-inspired wedding hairstyle.
8. Low Messy Bun with Face-Framing Layers – Soft & Feminine
source@hollys_hairdos
This hairstyle is all about achieving a delicate, romantic look with wispy layers that frame the face beautifully. The low messy bun sits at the nape of the neck, creating an elegant yet effortless style that works with all face shapes. The secret to making this look soft and flattering is the addition of face-framing layers that gently fall around the cheeks and jawline. These strands add a touch of movement and make the overall style feel airy and relaxed. To create this look, use a round brush and hairdryer to softly curl the layers inward for a natural finish. A light-hold finishing spray will keep everything in place without making it stiff. Pair this bun with dainty pearl earrings or a small crystal hairpin for an added touch of bridal beauty.
9. Messy Bun with a Veil – The Perfect Bridal Look
source@nirmala_makeupartistry
A veil instantly transforms a simple messy bun into a breathtaking bridal masterpiece. Whether you opt for a short birdcage veil, a romantic cathedral-length veil, or a chic fingertip veil, the placement is key. For this look, a low or mid-level messy bun works best, as it provides a stable anchor point for the veil to sit securely. To achieve the perfect balance, gently tease the crown for subtle volume before pinning the bun. A veil comb or clip will ensure your veil stays put while allowing it to flow naturally. If you want to add extra charm, incorporate tiny pearl or floral pins within the bun for a cohesive, elegant aesthetic.
10. Messy Bun with Fishtail Braid – Boho Meets Elegance
source@liezelstyles
A fishtail braid woven into a messy bun is the ultimate blend of bohemian and sophisticated bridal beauty. This hairstyle works wonderfully for outdoor or rustic weddings, adding a unique texture that enhances the overall look. The fishtail braid starts from the side or crown and merges seamlessly into the bun, giving the illusion of an intricate yet effortless style. To achieve this, use a texturizing spray to add grip and prevent slipping. If you’re looking for the perfect finishing touch, a delicate flower hairpiece or gold leaf clip can elevate the style to a dreamy bridal look.
11. Curly Messy Bun – Natural & Bouncy
source@hometown_roots
For brides with naturally curly hair, embracing your texture in a messy bun creates a stunning, voluminous style that feels both effortless and elegant. The key to this look is defining the curls before loosely gathering them into a bun, ensuring the natural shape and bounce remain intact. Using a curl-enhancing cream or defining mousse will keep the curls soft and frizz-free. A few sparkling hairpins tucked within the curls can add a dazzling touch, making this hairstyle truly shine.
12. Braided Crown with Low Messy Bun – Regal & Romantic
source@ashleybrooke
This hairstyle gives off an enchanting, fairytale-like elegance with a braided crown that wraps around the head before flowing into a soft, textured bun. Ideal for vintage or garden weddings, this look is both timeless and dreamy. To achieve the perfect braid, use a light-hold styling cream to add smoothness and control flyaways. A golden vine hairpiece or small pearl accents woven into the braid can enhance the romantic effect.
13. High Textured Messy Bun – Chic & Sophisticated
source@svglamour
A high messy bun with added texture is perfect for brides who want a polished yet relaxed updo. This style gives the face an instant lift while adding height and drama to the overall look. To achieve this, use a volumizing powder at the roots and a boar bristle teasing brush to create soft volume. A sleek headband or crystal-encrusted hairpiece can add a sophisticated finishing touch.
14. Messy Bun with Side Twists – Modern & Stylish
source@invitebride
Side twists add a modern, chic touch to a classic messy bun. This style features small twisted sections that frame the face before being incorporated into the bun, creating a sophisticated yet relaxed feel. Use a light-hold gel to keep the twists sleek, and complete the look with a pearl barrette or dainty jeweled pins.
15. Messy Bun with Bangs – Effortlessly Chic
source@theupdodarling
Bangs and a messy bun are a match made in wedding hairstyle heaven. Whether you have soft curtain bangs, wispy layers, or bold blunt bangs, this combination creates a fresh and youthful bridal look. A ceramic flat iron can help shape the bangs perfectly, and a delicate floral hair clip can add a touch of romance.
16. Messy Bun with Hair Vine – A Touch of Whimsy
source@lalasupdos
A hair vine weaved through a messy bun creates an effortlessly whimsical look perfect for nature-inspired weddings. The vine can be placed along the bun or wrapped around it for a stunning effect. A flexible bridal hair vine with pearls or crystals is the perfect accessory to enhance this ethereal look.
17. Textured Low Messy Bun – A Soft, Romantic Finish
source@thekaraday
For brides seeking a dreamy, ethereal look, a textured low messy bun offers the perfect combination of softness and elegance. This style works best with naturally wavy or lightly curled hair, as the added texture enhances the relaxed yet sophisticated aesthetic. The key to achieving this look is gentle teasing at the crown to create volume before loosely gathering the hair into a bun at the nape. To keep the bun looking airy and effortless, gently pull a few strands loose around the face. A dry texture spray will help maintain the structure while keeping the bun soft. For accessories, consider a delicate lace headband or a vintage pearl hair comb to add an old-world charm to this effortlessly romantic style.
18. Sleek and Messy Bun Hybrid – The Best of Both Worlds
source@shanpetrohair
For the modern bride who loves the contrast between polished and undone elements, a sleek crown paired with a tousled bun creates an eye-catching hybrid. The top section is combed back smoothly for a sophisticated touch, while the bun remains soft and voluminous, giving off a laid-back yet stylish feel. Achieving this look requires smoothing serum for a sleek finish on the crown and volumizing powder to keep the bun full and airy. A pearl-studded headband or crystal-embellished clip can add a subtle touch of luxury, making this the ideal hairstyle for a contemporary wedding aesthetic.
19. Floral-Adorned Messy Bun – Fresh & Romantic
source@brioso.by.sonalburde
For an ultra-romantic bridal look, nothing beats the beauty of fresh flowers woven into a messy bun. Whether you opt for a single statement bloom like a rose or scatter smaller flowers like baby’s breath or lavender, this style brings a touch of nature into your wedding ensemble. To achieve this look, create a loosely pinned bun with face-framing tendrils left out for a soft, romantic effect. Use mini floral hairpins or real flower combs for a long-lasting, picture-perfect finish. A light mist of flexible-hold hairspray will keep everything secure without making the hair stiff.
20. Messy Bun with Pearl Details – Elegant & Classic
source@hairxprincyy
Pearls have long been a symbol of timeless elegance, and incorporating them into a messy bun instantly elevates the look. This style works beautifully with both high and low buns, offering an effortlessly chic vibe. To create this look, first style the bun with loose, voluminous twists before pinning it in place. Then, scatter pearl-encrusted hairpins throughout the bun for a soft, sophisticated touch. If you prefer a subtler approach, a pearl headband or a single pearl-studded clip can add just the right amount of grace.
21. Twisted Crown with Messy Bun – Soft & Bohemian
source@laurasnyderhair
For a whimsical and fairytale-like bridal look, a twisted crown leading into a messy bun is a stunning choice. This hairstyle begins with two soft twists along either side of the head, which then meet at the back to form a loose, textured bun. The twisted sections add a subtle yet intricate detail, making the hairstyle feel effortlessly boho-chic. A golden vine headpiece woven into the twists can enhance the enchanting effect. To keep the twists looking defined, use a lightweight styling cream that won’t weigh down the hair. This style pairs beautifully with bohemian-style gowns and garden weddings.
22. Messy Bun with Hair Wrap – Chic & Modern
source@danabraids
A simple yet sophisticated way to elevate a messy bun is by wrapping a section of hair around the base. This technique hides the hair tie and gives the bun a polished yet natural look. This style is particularly flattering for brides who prefer sleek yet voluminous updos. Start by gathering your hair into a loose bun, securing it with an elastic, then take a small section of hair and wrap it around the base, pinning it in place discreetly. To enhance the texture of the bun, use a light-hold texturizing spray before styling. For a contemporary bridal touch, pair this style with minimalist pearl earrings or a sleek bridal comb.
23. Tousled Bun with a Deep Side Part – Glamorous & Bold
source@bridalbabesbymelissa
A deep side part instantly adds a touch of old-Hollywood glamour to a messy bun, making it perfect for brides who want a look that feels dramatic yet effortless. The asymmetry of a deep side part creates volume and structure, beautifully complementing soft curls gathered into a tousled bun. This style is especially flattering for brides with long, thick hair. To achieve this look, use a root-lifting spray to add volume at the crown, then secure the bun loosely at the nape. A crystal-encrusted comb tucked on the side of the bun can amplify the red-carpet-worthy elegance of this hairstyle.
24. Messy Bun with Loose Curls – Feminine & Soft
source@harymay_bridal
If you love the undone, romantic aesthetic, a messy bun with loose curls is a dreamy choice. This style leaves several curled strands cascading from the bun, creating a soft, flowy effect. It’s especially flattering for brides with layered or naturally wavy hair. Start by curling the hair with a 1.25-inch curling wand, then loosely pin sections into a bun, allowing a few curls to fall naturally. To keep the curls defined and frizz-free, use a light mist of flexible hairspray. A delicate floral hairpin or vintage-inspired barrette can add a touch of bridal charm.
25. Half-Up Messy Bun – The Best of Both Worlds
source@everystrandmatters
For brides who love the idea of wearing their hair both up and down, a half-up messy bun is the perfect compromise. This style allows the softness of cascading waves while keeping hair away from the face, making it an ideal choice for outdoor weddings or breezy ceremonies. To create this look, gather the top section of the hair and twist it into a loose bun, leaving the rest flowing in soft waves. A subtle pearl-studded barrette or tiny floral pins can add the perfect finishing touch. For long-lasting waves, use a heat protectant spray before curling and a lightweight setting mist to hold the style.
