There are certain hairstyles that are simply timeless, universally flattering, and suitable for a variety of hair types. Bun hairstyles got into this category thanks to their flexibility in styling and invariably gorgeous feminine look.
We have prepared a gallery of very different types of buns for any occasion, hair type, and length. Which of these amazing hairstyles with buns will you be wearing tonight?
What Types of Bun Hairstyles Are There?
Buns can be edgy, conservative, modern, classic, or vintage-inspired – it’s all about the style of your outfit and personal preference. The most popular bun hairstyles are created with these types of hair buns:
- Low buns: These buns are placed at the nape of your head and can be either messy or sleek. Bouffants, twists, braids going into a bun, or well-selected accessories are often used to elevate the low bun hairstyle.
- Top knots: High knotted, messy or cornrow buns all share the same idea of placing the bun on top of the head for maximum spotlight. Updos with high buns can be really showy and perfectly elongate the face.
- Side buns: Side buns benefit from the elegance of low buns, but do not need a special introduction, as they are clearly visible from the front. Versatile and flirty, these are definitely among the best types of buns to try.
- Braided buns: This hairstyle is created by braiding hair before twisting it into a bun. It can be as simple as twisting a braided ponytail and as intricate as creating a seashell out of the side fishtail braid.
- Chignon buns: Reminiscent of a french twist, chignon bun hairstyles retain the vibes of vogue and class. A perfect choice for a formal event!
Half up buns, pigtail buns, space buns and bantu knots are just as trendy. These are the bun hairstyles that give a funny twist to your hairdo, whether you head to a festival or just celebrate youth and joy amidst the everyday routine.
Bun Hairstyles Ideas and Inspiration
Whether you opt for a loose bun for wavy hair, a sleek high bun, or something in between, your styling possibilities are endless. If you love to rock your hair in a bun and are looking for some style inspiration, check out the photos below for some stunning ideas.
1. French Fishtail into a Lace Fishtail Bun
Braids have become good companions of bun hairstyles but nobody has ever blended a fishtail so flawlessly into a bun. The braid doesn’t wrap around the bun, but it’s a part of it! Really amazing!
@aurorabraids
2. Low Bun with a Side Part and Accesories
This sleek style features a razor crisp side part and works well with a natural cowlick. Twisted bun is an excellent solution for this long thick hair and trendy accessories help to achieve the simple grace and perfection.
@martinajagr
3. Textured Low Bun Hairstyle
This textured bun hairstyle looks elaborate and effortless at the same time. Note how the dimensional hair color shows off the fine details of the do!
@kimannesley.hair
4. A Perfect Dreadlock Bun
Unusual colors and textures only make bun hairstyles pop. These rich, burgundy dreadlocks are formed into a very neat bun with a bang section that falls off to one side. You can include a few shiny beads as an accent.
@kersti.pitre
5. Front-Braided Messy Bun Hairstyle
Having fun with braids is a part of the experimental process when trying out different updos. Try a waterfall twist as a headband braid and lift the rest of the hair into a messy bun. With a small bouffant, this messy bun updo is going to look even prettier.
@missysueblog
6. Basket Weave Braid and a Bun
A basket weave braid uses more strands than a typical French braid, resulting in a chunkier and intricate-looking plait you can try to diversify your updos with a bun. You can also substitute basket weave with a Dutch braid and get another cute and slightly different style.
@abigaillrrose
7. Fishtail Braided Bun
This interesting fishtail braid style is a powerful charge of inspiration for low bun hairstyles. Stray hairs are a charming detail that makes the braid look like a spikelet. It’s also a plus that usage of styling products isn’t evident.
@haselnussblond
8. Loose Side Bun for Wavy Hair
When texture steals the spotlight of your hairstyle, its design can and should be pretty simple. This romantic curly bun is tender and lovely, to say the least. Whether you have naturally curly or wavy hair or use a curling iron to create texture, the right curls are the most important element to creating the hairstyle. Once you have an abundance of loose waves placed throughout your entire head, simply guide them to one side to form a bun, and then pin it loosely in place.
@modernsalon
9. Upside-Down French Braid into a High Bun
Many bun hairstyles incorporate braids, making it somewhat difficult to choose a braided idea that stands out. This one however, is definitely more modern. Finish the upside-down braid with a bun with a braided base for a finished look.
@braidsandstyles12
10. Cornrow Braids into a Bun
Sure you can add a few braids to your bun for some added pizzazz, but nothing compares to cornrows that come together to form a thick and tall knot. A cornrow bun is never out of style!
@jdivastyles
11. Fishtailed Seashell Bun
The side position adds to the playfulness of this particular bun creation. It looks very lively and naturally cute due to hair texture and wispy flyaways. The fishtail braid is very carefully rolled up into a perfect seashell bun, though.
@lena_nymeria
12. Side Bun with Fishtail and Dutch Braids
What makes bun hairstyles so versatile is that you can position your bun in a variety of ways. This bun is formed loosely at one side and wrapped by two crisscrossing plaits – a Dutch braid and fishtail. The final result is a voluminous, intricate-looking bun that is sure to turn heads.
13. Cute Short Hair Bun
You do not need to have long hair to wear it in an updo. Leverage good old boby pins to pull off a delicate short hair bun at the nape of your head.
@martinajagr
14. Scarf Bun
Looking for stylish ways to wear hair scarves? Braiding it into your braid and then twisting is a bun is an excellent hairstyle idea, giving both volume and a pop of color.
@palade.simona
15. Messy Side Bun with a Braid
Balayage coloring and a large, loose braid prove they can go the distance and add some spice to a banal low side bun. With a bun carefully placed off to one side, the updo itself is actually pretty simple, effortless-looking and messy, even though there are no flyaways.
@hair.bynsc
16. Half Up Half Down Seashell Bun
If you are blessed with naturally thick or curly hair, here is a way to wear a bun and show off your natural texture at the same time. The half up, half down ‘do is the best of both worlds, and this pretty style proves it. The half-up bun is wrapped into a seashell shape, and the rest of the hair is curled into perfect ringlets. The hair looks fluffy and very special.
@braided_to_infinity
17. Two Buns in One
Two buns instead of one is a fresh take on the classic hairstyle that may be sometimes referred to as “boring” because you see it on so many girls. A double bun also appears more voluminous, especially when you include a wrap around its base.
@missysueblog
18. Messy Top Bun and Face-Framing Pieces
Leaving out face-framing pieces is definitely a good move when styling a messy bun. Want to know another secret that makes the hairstyle look so good? It is the luxyhair bun collection that helps to achieve a good-looking large bun with little to no effort. And if you don’t like any extensions, here is our guide on how to make a messy bun with thin hair.
@fancyfaceinc
19. Goddess Braids into a Large Bun
Thick cornrows braided close to each other give an elegant invisible braids look, while a jumbo size bun makes it really statement-making. You can wear this protective hairstyle for several weeks, mind the weight of the bun, which you will have to carry on your head every day, though. If you are not that strong, opting for box braids that can be styled in more diverse ways can be a better option.
@closetoperfectionstyles
20. Low Braided Bun
This updo is made from two different types of braids – a vertical French braid for the upper section of hair and a fishtail, wrapped in a bun, for the lower section. The way this messy bun rests softly at the nape of the neck pulls the whole look together.
@hairstylesbygabby
21. Pinned Mini Buns
The only thing better than a single bun is a row of buns that gives a Mohawk look to your updo. Bun hairstyles rarely get any cuter than this, thanks to the idea to collect mini buns in one hairstyle. Great for shorter hair or medium length locks, these tiny knots are fun and modern with just a hint of edge.
@braidsandstyles12
22. Polished Chocolate Brown Chignon Bun
Sometimes the most beautiful bun styles are those that are the simplest. From the rich chocolate brown hair color to the sleek, twist over the base, this is a lovely formal bun, but also appropriate for the office.
@nicoledrege
23. Bulky Bun with Twists
Sleek bun hairstyles succeed when the bun is bulky and sitting high on the top of your head. This beautiful black braided bun looks like a crown. It includes twists of varied thickness and perfectly smoothed edges.
@nyasia_styles
24. Intricate Braid and Looped Pony
This is not just a cute bun hairstyle, it’s an intricate updo with elaborate details and a messy touch to the overall look. However, if you’d like to recreate it, you only need to reduce the styling process to the elements you will cope with even if you are a beginner. These include a jumbo dutch braid topped with a fishtail and a looped ponytail.
@braided_to_infinity
25. Curly Loose Bun
Subtle highlights for black hair is a wonderful way to make your locks dimensional which looks particularly beautiful in curly updos like this one. It would be ideal for a formal occasion such as a wedding or an outdoor party. Flowers in hair often turn out to be most beautiful hair accessory.
26. Alluring Bantu Knots Hairstyle
Bantu knots hairstyle is made by carefully sectioning hair and twisting buns out of each section. Apply some edge controlfor a sleeker look and enjoy the hairstyle. After twisting the buns out, you’ll be able to enjoy nice uniform curls, too.
@theglowment
27. Medium-Sized Braided Bun
This is a classic way to wear your braided bun that’s made simply out of a braided pony – a hairstyle you can do yourself in a matter of minutes. Of course, it works best for long hair, because longer strands promise a bigger bun.
@hairbunlover
28. Blonde Bun with Side Braid
Here’s a cute bun hairstyle that’s absolutely casual and easy to complete even if it’s the first time you do updo on your own. This bun is highlighted by a single side braid and complemented with wispy side bangs.
@murdocktalks
29. Afro Puffs
Wearing your hair in two buns has never looked as adorable as it does here. Curly buns for natural hair are equally playful and flattering, being a pretty update of the more traditional bun or pineapple look. The bright red spots add the perfect punch of color to complete this modern take on the updo.
@modelesque_nic
30. Coiled Side Bun
It’s not big or overly dramatic, but compact, pretty and very feminine. Even with very fine hair, this twisted low side bun looks decent. Twist section loosely and pin them in loops that also remind flower petals.
@cwhairlondoncwhairlondon
31. Two Sculpted Buns
Two buns like these require a lot of hair, so you may opt to use hair extensions or puff hair with a pick. Each bun is expertly sculpted and smoothed, creating a flawless look that is definitely a head-turner.
@modernsalon
32. Festival Hairstyle with Space Buns
Long beach waves and two cute space buns – what can be better for a summer fectival hairstyle? Pair the do with sunkissed hair highlights, and you are sure to leave a lasting impression.
@raisingraymond
33. Four-Strand Braid and Messy Bun
A four-strand braid is the best if you want to create a wide braided headband. Finish it with a messy bun and another thinner four-strand plait to get a casual hairstyle that’s good enough to be worn for a big event.
@anniesforgetmeknots
34. Sleek Bun with a Mini Hair Bow
Upgrade your sock bun with a twist around its base and a sassy detail, like a bow made from your hair. It’s placed right underneath the twisted base and slightly off to the side – an unexpected yet edgy touch that spices things up.
@mybraidposts
35. Red Hair Bow Bun
The fire engine red hair color gets your attention, but the big, beautiful hair bow is what makes your jaw drop. Cute bun hairstyles are taking on new forms today.
@bodmonzaid
36. Sleek Bun with Full Bangs
Buns with bangs are common, yet you rarely see them look this sleek and neat. The thick bangs are cut precisely above the eyebrows with not a hair out of place. The bun is formed just below the crown and accented with a single, pearl hair accessory that looks both romantic and feminine.
@dionnesmithhair
37. Half Up Bun with a Front Braid
The half up, half down look strikes again and this time it features a very thick middle braid. A loosely braided plait is the best way to highlight a cute half bun that sits right on the crown – the point from where the locks fall down.
@abigaillrrose
38. Big Ballerina Bun
Proving that hair extensions and hair accessories can be used to create the perfect bun, this look is a perfectly-rounded wonder. You could incorporate several hair extensions to create the sculpted roundness or simply insert a bun-maker hair accessory that you place on a ponytail and form a bun around it.
@cjartistrygirls
39. Sleek Rainbow-Shaped Bun
The striking black hair against the red lips and a matching dress is the main attraction of the look, but the design of the voluminous rainbow bun is also worth a double take. It has sort of a half-crescent shape that is smoothed to perfection with no messy strands or wisps of hair left out.
@sibels_hair_design
40. Sleek Topknot Power Bun
Looking to tame your curly locks? Style this powerful and brazen topknot style that is great for highlighting facial features and long, elegant neck. The superior sleekness of this do is a supremely secure and compact hairstyle solution that looks stunning.
@preciiousiizekor
41. Greek Style Messy Updo
Braided bun hairstyles can be done in a Greek style and paired with an empire waist dress for a very special occasion when you want to look very feminine. This blonde bun is messy and adorned with a fishtail braid, but you can just take the idea and experiment with details and textures.
@anniesforgetmeknots
42. Pine Cone Bun Braided Around
This bun reminds a pine cone which is a fun take on the classic bun. To go even further in customizing your bun updo, add a side braid and a braided rim – awesome for a casual style.
@n.a.t.t.i.a.a
43. Dutch Pigtail Braids into Buns
Pigtail braids pair with buns very well, creating a romantic bun hairstyle. Making the buns that resemble the pinned curls alludes to the loose, stretched to the sides loops of the braids.
@inspiredtocreate_
44. Twisted Low Blonde Bun
A chic way to spice up a low ponytail is to turn it into a chignon. Positioned right at the nape of the neck, the blonde twist bun features simple details that manage to create a unique updo. There is twisting around the base of the bun, as well as along the sides. Slightly loosen the hair that covers the crown before gathering it at the nape of the neck.
@tomica.hairskinbrowco
45. High Bun for Thick Hair
Another way to wear a bun high atop your head is to go the extra thick route. The actual bun is the focus, so there is no need for any other elements to take attention away. Once placed into a bun the hair is divided into three sections, backcombed, pinned and tucked into thick rolls that create depth and dimension.
@dionnesmithhair
46. Sleek Fancy Bun Updo
Side bun hairstyles can border on artistic, just have a look at this highlighted, sculpted style that resembles an origami flower. You would wear something like this for a very special occasion, like wedding or prom, so, if you like the design, trust this masterpiece to a professional.
@lalasupdos
47. Overlapping Blonde Bun
Here, a big bun and a formal bun come together to form an absolutely stunning updo for a wedding or gala. The bun is covered with chunky strands at different angles which convey a futuristic feel to the classic hairstyle.
@bellanellabeauty
48. Side-Braided Bun
A great way to personalize your bun and add a little spice to it is to experiment with braids. Hair braided on one side is a cute detail that turns your basic ballerina bun into a fancy updo. There is also a single twist braid that goes around the bun. The final result looks effortless with just a little edge.
@elin.braid
49. Bedhead Bun Hairstyle
The best thing about a messy top knot bun is that you really don’t have to do much to style it, and the actual messiness is exactly what makes it so appealing. Style with no previous combing and pull gently at the bun when it’s finished to loosen some pieces more than others.
@newenglandstyleguide
50. Bun Hairstyle with Strategic Twists and Highlights
The highlights may be the first thing that catches your eye, but the interesting technique of the twist bun is what will have you doing a double-take. What makes this updo unique is that it appears to be effortlessly pulled together; however, upon closer inspection, you will see that the twisting, tucking and pinning of the hair into a bun is actually quite strategic.
@leabuehler
With so many bun hairstyles to choose from it’s easy to get overwhelmed, so, don’t forget to save those you like the most and would like to try in the near future. Enjoy your styling and new updos! One thing is sure: when you decide on a bun, there is never a dull moment.
