17 Messy Hairstyles You Need to Try Now
There’s an undeniable charm in a perfectly imperfect hairstyle. The messy look isn’t just about rolling out of bed; it’s a deliberate choice to exude an air of effortless cool, sophisticated nonchalance, and ultimate comfort. It speaks volumes about confidence, suggesting you’re too busy living your best life to worry about every strand being in place, yet you still manage to look utterly fabulous. This trend has dominated runways and red carpets alike, proving that sometimes, less structure means more style.
Whether you’re battling a bad hair day, seeking a quick yet stylish fix, or simply want to add a touch of relaxed elegance to your ensemble, messy hairstyles are your secret weapon. They are incredibly versatile, adaptable to various hair lengths and textures, and can be dressed up or down for any occasion, from casual brunches to elegant evenings out. Get ready to explore a world where ‘messy’ translates to utterly captivating, as we unveil the top 17 looks that will transform your hair game with minimal fuss and maximum impact.
1. The Classic Messy Bun
The messy bun is the undisputed queen of undone hairstyles, a staple for good reason. It’s the ultimate grab-and-go style that looks chic whether you’re heading to the gym, running errands, or even stepping out for a casual dinner. The key to its charm lies in its relaxed nature, with wisps framing the face and the bun itself appearing artfully disheveled rather than stiffly perfect. This versatile look can be worn high on the crown for a playful vibe or lower at the nape for a more sophisticated feel.
Achieving the perfect messy bun is simpler than you think; it’s all about embracing imperfection. Start by gathering your hair into a ponytail, then twist it loosely and wrap it around the base, securing with an elastic or pins. Don’t be afraid to pull out a few strands around your face and neck, and gently loosen the bun itself for added volume and a more lived-in texture. A little texturizing spray can enhance its natural, airy quality, making it appear effortlessly stylish and beautifully carefree.
Effortlessly chic: The timeless appeal of a perfectly undone messy bun.
2. The Laid-Back Messy Ponytail
Forget the sleek, severe ponytail; the messy ponytail is its cooler, more relaxed cousin. This style brings an air of casual elegance, whether it’s positioned high for an energetic bounce or low for a more romantic, bohemian feel. It works wonderfully with all hair types, adding an instant touch of laid-back sophistication that never tries too hard. The beauty of this look is its adaptability, making it perfect for a busy workday or a relaxed weekend outing.
To achieve this look, avoid brushing your hair too smoothly. Instead, use your fingers to gather your hair, ensuring there’s natural volume at the crown and texture throughout. Secure with a hair tie, then gently tug at sections around the elastic and at the crown to loosen things up and create that coveted ‘undone’ effect. A spritz of sea salt spray can enhance natural waves and add a desirable grit, transforming a simple ponytail into a statement of casual artistry.
Ponytail perfection, reimagined: Embrace the freedom of a laid-back, voluminous messy ponytail.
3. Textured Messy Waves (Bedhead Chic)
Textured messy waves, often affectionately dubbed ‘bedhead chic,’ are the epitome of effortless cool. This style gives the impression that you’ve just rolled out of bed with naturally perfect, tousled locks, even if a little styling magic was involved. It’s universally flattering, adding volume and movement to any hair length, and creates a soft, romantic, yet edgy aesthetic that’s perfect for both day and night. The key is to achieve a natural, lived-in look that avoids stiff curls.
To master this look, start with damp hair and apply a texturizing spray or mousse, scrunching as it air-dries. For added definition, use a curling wand on medium heat, wrapping sections of hair around it in alternating directions, but leaving the ends out to maintain a less polished finish. Once cooled, gently run your fingers through the waves to break them up and create that desired messy texture. A final mist of flexible hold hairspray will keep your beautiful bedhead looking fresh all day.
Wake up and wave: The ultimate ‘bedhead chic’ for a touch of undone glamour.
4. The Messy Half-Up Bun
The messy half-up bun perfectly balances sophistication with playful charm, offering the best of both worlds. It keeps hair off your face while showcasing your length and texture, making it an ideal choice for days when you want a styled look without committing to a full updo. This style is particularly flattering for those with longer layers or natural waves, as it enhances their movement and adds a whimsical touch to any ensemble. It’s a favorite for casual outings, festivals, or even a relaxed office setting.
Creating this look is incredibly simple and requires minimal effort. Take the top section of your hair, from your temples or slightly above, and gather it as if you’re making a half-ponytail. Twist this section into a loose bun, securing it with a small elastic or a few bobby pins. Don’t worry about perfection; let a few strands fall freely around your face and from the bun itself. A quick spritz of dry shampoo or texturizing spray can add volume and grip, ensuring your messy half-up bun looks perfectly imperfect all day.
Effortlessly chic and playful: The messy half-up bun is your go-to for casual elegance.
5. Messy Side Braid
The messy side braid offers a romantic and bohemian twist to a classic hairstyle, moving away from rigid perfection towards a soft, artistic disarray. It’s a fantastic option for showcasing textured hair, adding visual interest and a touch of whimsical charm to your look. This style is incredibly versatile, suitable for anything from a casual brunch to a more formal outdoor event, and can be adapted to various hair lengths, providing a relaxed elegance that feels completely unforced.
To achieve this enchanting look, sweep all your hair over to one side. Begin braiding loosely, whether it’s a traditional three-strand, a fishtail, or even a French braid, securing the end with a small elastic. The magic happens next: gently pull apart the sections of the braid, starting from the top, to loosen it and create a fuller, more voluminous appearance. Don’t be afraid to pull out a few face-framing pieces to enhance the softness and overall messy effect. A light hold hairspray can help maintain its airy, undone charm.
Bohemian dream: The messy side braid adds romance and effortless charm to any look.
6. Messy Top Knot
The messy top knot is the high-fashion cousin of the classic messy bun, sitting proudly atop the crown of your head. This elevated style elongates the neck and offers a sophisticated yet playful silhouette, perfect for making a statement without looking overly done. It’s an excellent choice for showcasing a dramatic neckline or statement earrings, drawing attention upwards with its chic, carefree allure. The top knot is particularly popular for its ability to transition seamlessly from a busy day to an evening out.
To create a perfectly imperfect top knot, gather your hair into a high ponytail, as close to the crown as possible. Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around its base, securing with an elastic or several bobby pins. The trick is to avoid making it too tight or neat; gently pull at sections of the bun and at the roots to introduce volume and soften the edges. Allow some shorter layers or fringe to escape around your face for an even more relaxed and stylish finish. A touch of shine spray can give it a healthy, polished sheen.
Crown your look: The messy top knot is the ultimate statement of chic, effortless style.
7. Messy Lob/Bob
The messy lob (long bob) or bob haircut is a masterclass in modern, chic styling, proving that short to medium lengths can embrace the undone trend beautifully. This look thrives on texture and movement, often enhanced by subtle layers that encourage a natural, tousled finish. It’s a versatile cut that frames the face wonderfully, offering a sophisticated yet edgy vibe that’s low-maintenance and high-impact. The messy bob or lob is perfect for those seeking a fresh, contemporary look that exudes confidence and style.
Styling a messy lob or bob is all about encouraging its natural texture. On damp hair, apply a volumizing mousse or sea salt spray, then rough-dry with a diffuser or air-dry to enhance waves. For extra definition, use a flat iron or curling wand to create soft, bendy waves, alternating directions for a less uniform look. Finish by shaking out your hair with your fingers and applying a texturizing powder or spray at the roots for lift and grit. The goal is a casual, lived-in feel, so resist the urge to over-style.
Short, chic, and perfectly undone: The messy lob/bob is the epitome of modern cool.
8. Messy Pixie Cut
The messy pixie cut is a bold and spirited style that celebrates texture, layers, and a playful attitude. Far from being flat or severe, a messy pixie embraces movement and volume, creating a dynamic look that’s both daring and incredibly chic. It highlights facial features beautifully and conveys a sense of confidence and modernity. This style proves that short hair can be just as versatile and expressive as longer locks, offering endless possibilities for personal flair.
Styling a messy pixie is surprisingly easy and quick. Start with slightly damp hair and apply a small amount of texturizing paste or pomade. Use your fingertips to rough up the hair, pushing it in different directions to create definition and lift. You can emphasize certain layers, create a faux hawk effect, or simply tousle it all over for that desirable ‘just rolled out of bed, but make it fashion’ look. The beauty is in its imperfection, allowing for a unique and personalized finish every time you style it.
Bold and beautiful: The messy pixie cut, a testament to playful, confident style.
9. Messy French Braid
The messy French braid takes a classic, elegant style and infuses it with a dose of laid-back charm, transforming it into something effortlessly romantic. By loosening the sections and pulling apart the braid, you create an illusion of fullness and softness that’s far more approachable and whimsical than its perfectly polished counterpart. This style is fantastic for keeping hair out of your face while still showcasing length and beautiful texture, making it ideal for a variety of settings from a picnic to a garden wedding.
To achieve this enchanting look, begin with a regular French braid, starting near your hairline and incorporating new sections as you go. Once the braid is complete and secured with a small elastic, gently pull at the outer loops of the braid, working your way up from the bottom. This ‘pancaking’ technique creates volume and gives it that desirable soft, messy appearance. Don’t hesitate to pull out a few face-framing pieces to enhance the overall relaxed and romantic vibe. A light mist of flexible hairspray will help hold the loose strands in place without making the braid stiff.
Romantic and undone: The messy French braid, a timeless twist on elegance.
10. Messy Fishtail Braid
The messy fishtail braid offers an intricate yet bohemian aesthetic that looks far more complicated than it actually is, making it a brilliant choice for those seeking high-impact style with low effort. Its unique weave creates a beautiful, textured pattern that truly comes to life when loosened and pulled apart, giving it an organic, lived-in feel. This braid is perfect for adding a touch of rustic charm to any look, whether worn to the side, down the back, or incorporated into an updo.
To create this stunning style, start by dividing your hair into two main sections. Take a small strand from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the inner side of the other section. Repeat this process, alternating sides, until you reach the end, then secure with an elastic. The magic happens by gently tugging on the sides of the finished braid, starting from the top. This ‘fluffing’ technique softens the braid, adds volume, and creates that sought-after messy, voluminous effect. A texturizing spray before braiding can provide extra grip and texture.
Intricate beauty, effortlessly styled: The messy fishtail braid, a bohemian dream.
11. Messy Low Chignon
The messy low chignon is the epitome of understated elegance, taking a classic, sophisticated updo and giving it a relaxed, contemporary twist. This style sits gracefully at the nape of the neck, offering a chic alternative to a tightly pulled-back bun, perfect for events where you want to look polished yet effortlessly stylish. Its softness, with tendrils artfully escaping, adds a touch of romanticism and approachability, making it suitable for both formal occasions and elegant everyday wear.
Achieving a beautiful messy low chignon involves embracing a certain degree of imperfection. Start by gathering your hair into a loose, low ponytail at the nape of your neck, securing it temporarily. Twist the ponytail into a loose coil or knot, securing it with bobby pins, making sure to keep the shape soft and slightly undone. Gently pull out a few face-framing pieces and loosen the bun itself to create volume and a more natural, romantic look. Finish with a flexible hold hairspray to keep it in place while maintaining its soft, airy texture.
Understated elegance: The messy low chignon, where sophistication meets soft, romantic charm.
12. Messy Beach Waves
Messy beach waves are the quintessential summer hairstyle, evoking images of sun-kissed days, salty air, and carefree adventures. This look is characterized by soft, natural-looking bends and a lived-in texture that appears effortlessly windswept and utterly desirable. It’s a universally flattering style that adds volume and movement to all hair types and lengths, making it a go-to for anyone seeking a relaxed yet stylish aesthetic, regardless of the season. The beauty of beach waves lies in their organic, unpolished finish.
To achieve these enviable waves, start with damp hair and liberally apply a sea salt spray or texturizing mist. Scrunch your hair upwards as it air-dries, or use a diffuser attachment on a blow dryer to enhance natural texture. For added definition, wrap random sections of dry hair around a large-barrel curling iron or wand, holding for only a few seconds and leaving the ends out. Once cool, break up the waves with your fingers and a final spritz of texturizing spray for that perfect windswept, sandy-shore vibe. Avoid brushing to maintain the undone texture.
Catch the wave: Effortless messy beach waves for that permanent summer glow.
13. Messy Braided Pigtails
Messy braided pigtails bring a playful, youthful, and undeniably charming vibe to your look, proving that this beloved childhood style can be incredibly chic for adults. Far from being too juvenile, when styled with a messy touch, they become a statement of relaxed fashion and bohemian flair. This look is perfect for casual days, festivals, or adding a touch of whimsy to an otherwise simple outfit. It works wonderfully with long or medium-length hair, providing both style and practicality.
To create perfectly imperfect messy braided pigtails, start by creating a messy center part or a slight zig-zag part with your fingers – no need for precision. Divide your hair into two equal sections. Loosely braid each section, whether it’s a traditional three-strand or a Dutch braid, securing the ends with small elastic ties. Once braided, gently pull at the loops of each braid to loosen them and create volume, adding to the desired messy effect. Leave out a few face-framing pieces to soften the look, enhancing its carefree and playful appeal. A little texturizing spray before braiding can help add grip and volume.
Playfully chic: Messy braided pigtails for a fresh, youthful, and fun-loving look.
14. Messy Space Buns
Messy space buns are a fun, quirky, and incredibly stylish way to embrace the messy hair trend with a touch of playful retro futurism. This dual-bun style, perched high on either side of the head, offers a unique and eye-catching look that’s perfect for festivals, casual outings, or whenever you want to express a bold and carefree attitude. They are surprisingly versatile, looking great on various hair lengths, and add an instant dose of cool to any ensemble.
To create your own stellar messy space buns, first part your hair down the middle, either neatly or messily, depending on your desired effect. Secure each section into a high ponytail on either side of your head. Twist each ponytail loosely and wrap it around its base to form a bun, securing with elastic bands or bobby pins. The key is to keep them slightly undone; tug at sections of each bun to loosen them and create volume. Let a few wisps fall around your face for added softness and an effortlessly cool vibe. Dry shampoo can add texture and hold.
Galactic glam: Messy space buns are your ticket to out-of-this-world style.
15. Messy Braided Crown
The messy braided crown is a regal yet relaxed hairstyle that offers a fairytale-like charm with an undone edge. This ethereal look involves braiding sections of hair around the head to create a halo effect, but with a deliberate softness and looseness that prevents it from looking too stiff or formal. It’s an exquisite choice for adding a touch of romance and sophistication to any outfit, perfect for special occasions, or simply making an ordinary day feel a little more magical.
To craft this enchanting style, you can start with two French or Dutch braids beginning at your temples, braiding backward and around your head, meeting at the nape of your neck. Secure the ends and then gently pull apart the sections of the braids to create volume and a softer, messier appearance. Alternatively, braid smaller sections and pin them around your head to mimic a crown. Don’t be afraid to let a few strands escape around your face and from the braid itself; this enhances the messy, romantic feel. A light mist of hairspray will help hold the delicate structure.
Queen of undone: The messy braided crown, a touch of regal romance for any occasion.
16. Messy Updo with Tendrils
A messy updo with tendrils is the ultimate style for those who want to look elegant and put-together, yet retain an air of effortless charm. This sophisticated look takes the formality out of traditional updos by allowing soft, face-framing tendrils to escape and the bun or knot itself to be artfully disheveled. It’s perfect for weddings, proms, or any event where you desire a polished yet approachable aesthetic that feels utterly modern and romantic. The magic is in the intentional imperfection.
To achieve this captivating updo, begin by adding volume to your hair with a texturizing spray or by gently backcombing the roots. Gather your hair into a loose ponytail, either low or mid-height, then twist and pin it into a messy bun or knot, securing with bobby pins. The crucial step is to gently pull out sections around the crown for volume and, most importantly, several soft tendrils around your hairline and temples to frame your face. Curl these tendrils slightly for a more refined finish. A flexible hold hairspray will keep the structure while preserving the soft, airy feel.
Elegance redefined: The messy updo with tendrils, perfectly balancing polish and undone charm.
17. Messy Ponytail Braid Combo
The messy ponytail braid combo is a fantastic way to combine two beloved styles into one dynamic and visually interesting look. This style usually features a textured ponytail, often low or mid-height, with a braided element incorporated, adding a sophisticated twist and extra dimension. It’s perfect for when you want something more intricate than a simple ponytail but still desire the effortless appeal of a messy style. This versatile look can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from a casual day out to a stylish evening event.
To create this unique hybrid, start by styling your hair into a messy ponytail, ensuring there’s plenty of volume at the crown and texture throughout. Before securing the ponytail, you can create a braid (like a regular, French, or Dutch braid) along your scalp that feeds into the ponytail, or you can braid a section of the ponytail itself after it’s secured. Once the braid is in place, gently pull at its sections to loosen it and enhance its messy appeal. Tug at the ponytail itself to add volume and complete the perfectly undone look. A light texturizing spray will help hold everything in place while maintaining its natural flow.
Double the style: The messy ponytail braid combo, a fusion of texture and elegance.
Conclusion
There you have it – 17 inspiring messy hairstyles that prove beauty truly lies in embracing the imperfect. From the iconic messy bun to the bohemian braided crown, these looks offer a diverse range of styles that are effortlessly chic, incredibly versatile, and always on-trend. They are a testament to the fact that you don’t need hours of styling or an army of products to achieve a stunning hair day; sometimes, all it takes is a little creative disarray. So, go ahead, experiment with these undone wonders, find your favorite, and let your hair reflect your carefree spirit and undeniable style. Embrace the mess, and unleash your most confidently beautiful self!
