Side buns are an elegant and versatile choice for both casual and formal occasions. Whether you prefer sleek and polished or loose and romantic, side buns offer a stylish way to wear your hair up while keeping the look fresh and modern. Here are 20 trendy side bun hairstyles that will suit a variety of events in 2024.

Formal Side Bun Hairstyles

Side buns are making a big comeback in 2024, blending casual charm with sophisticated elegance. Whether you’re attending a wedding, prom, or just a casual day out, these 20 side bun hairstyles will give you plenty of inspiration for your next look.

1. Twisted Up Side Bun

The twisted up side bun is a perfect blend of elegance and simplicity. Twists add texture and dimension, making it ideal for formal events or casual chic outings.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Medium to long hair, all face shapes.
• How to Style: Twist small sections of hair from both sides of your head and gather them into a side bun.
• Extra Tip: Add a few hairpins with pearls or gems for a more formal touch.

2. Loose and Curly Side Bun

A loose and curly side bun gives off a relaxed, romantic vibe. It’s perfect for both everyday wear and more formal occasions, giving your hair a soft and effortless appearance.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Wavy or curly hair, oval faces.
• How to Style: Curl your hair before gathering it into a loose bun at the side, letting a few strands fall out for a messy yet stylish look.
• Extra Tip: Use a lightweight mousse to enhance the curls and maintain hold.

3. Blonde Wavy Side Updo

A wavy side updo is a classy, formal style that enhances your natural waves. This look is perfect for weddings or formal dinners, adding volume and a soft, glamorous touch.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Long, wavy hair, heart-shaped faces.
• How to Style: Pull your wavy hair into a side bun, leaving a few loose waves to frame your face.
• Extra Tip: Use a shine spray to make the waves stand out and look glossy.

4. Braided Crown and Curly Bun

The braided crown with a curly side bun is both intricate and beautiful, combining the elegance of a braid with the playfulness of curls. This look is perfect for prom or special events.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Medium to long, curly hair.
• How to Style: Braid the crown section of your hair, then gather the rest into a curly side bun.
• Extra Tip: Accessorize with small flowers or hairpins for an extra feminine touch.

5. Light Brown Messy Side Bun

A messy side bun gives off a relaxed, undone vibe that’s perfect for casual days or even a chic night out. This look is ideal for those who prefer a more laid-back style.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Fine to medium hair, oval faces.
• How to Style: Tease your hair lightly for volume, then gather it loosely into a side bun, allowing a few strands to fall naturally.
• Extra Tip: Use a texturizing spray to give the bun extra volume and grip.

6. Elegant French Braid/Side Bun Combo

This elegant hairstyle combines a French braid with a side bun, offering a chic and formal look perfect for events like weddings or galas.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Thick hair, all face shapes.
• How to Style: Create a French braid starting at the front, leading it into a side bun at the nape.
• Extra Tip: Keep the braid tight for a polished look, and finish with a shine spray.

7. Low Messy Bun with Loose Curls

The low messy bun with loose curls is a stylish, casual option. The low placement of the bun paired with soft curls makes this look effortlessly beautiful.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Wavy or curly hair, round faces.
• How to Style: Curl your hair first, then pull it into a loose, low side bun, allowing a few curls to hang freely.
• Extra Tip: Add a floral accessory for a romantic, bohemian touch.

8. Twisted Bridal Updo

A twisted bridal updo is a classic and timeless hairstyle for brides or formal events. The twists create an elegant and sophisticated look that complements any bridal gown.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Medium to thick hair, oval faces.
• How to Style: Twist sections of your hair and pin them into a side bun.
• Extra Tip: Incorporate a decorative hairpiece or veil to complete the bridal look.

9. Delicate Side Bun with Garnish

A delicate side bun with garnish, such as beads or flowers, adds a whimsical touch to your hairstyle. This look is perfect for weddings, proms, or any special occasion where you want to stand out.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Fine to medium hair, oval faces.
• How to Style: Create a soft side bun and pin in small flowers or decorative pieces.
• Extra Tip: Keep the garnish minimal for a more delicate, refined look.

10. Grecian Goddess Fishtail Braid

The Grecian goddess fishtail braid is a regal, elegant hairstyle. The fishtail braid leads into a side bun, creating a dramatic yet refined look ideal for formal events.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Long hair, oval faces.
• How to Style: Create a fishtail braid on one side and wrap it into a bun.
• Extra Tip: Loosen the braid slightly for a more voluminous, goddess-like effect.

11. Rustic Romantic Low Bun

The rustic romantic low bun is perfect for outdoor weddings or events. This hairstyle gives off an earthy, effortless vibe while still looking polished and stylish.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Long, wavy hair.
• How to Style: Pull your hair into a low side bun, leaving a few loose strands for a romantic touch.
• Extra Tip: Incorporate dried flowers or leaves for a more rustic look.

12. Edgy, Elegant High Updo

This high side bun features an edgy, structured design that balances elegance with modern flair. Ideal for fashion-forward events, this look is both bold and sophisticated.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Thick or medium hair, square faces.
• How to Style: Gather your hair into a high side bun, smoothing the edges for a sleek finish.
• Extra Tip: Add a sleek headband or metallic hair accessory for an extra edge.

13. Sleek Folded Design

The sleek folded side bun is a minimalist yet elegant hairstyle, ideal for those who prefer clean, structured looks. The folded design gives the bun a modern, geometric edge.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Fine to medium hair, heart-shaped faces.
• How to Style: Smooth the hair into a side bun and fold the ends neatly into the style.
• Extra Tip: Use gel or pomade to keep the style sleek and in place.

14. Messy and Curly Loose Updo

The messy and curly loose updo is perfect for those who love volume and texture. The loose curls give the side bun a playful, carefree look while still maintaining a formal touch.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Curly hair, round faces.
• How to Style: Curl your hair before loosely pinning it into a side bun, allowing some curls to fall naturally.
• Extra Tip: Use a strong-hold hairspray to maintain the volume and curls throughout the night.

15. Wrapping French Braid

The wrapping French braid gives a unique twist to the traditional side bun. This hairstyle wraps the braid around the bun, creating a stunning, intricate look.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Long, thick hair, oval faces.
• How to Style: Braid the hair into a French braid and wrap it around the side bun for a detailed finish.
• Extra Tip: Pancake the braid for extra volume and texture.

16. Red Dutch Braid-to-Bun

The Dutch braid-to-bun is an edgy, eye-catching hairstyle that is perfect for those who love bold, colorful looks. The red color adds vibrancy to the hairstyle.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Long, thick hair, all face shapes.
• How to Style: Create a Dutch braid on one side and tie it into a side bun.
• Extra Tip: Choose a bold hair color like red to make the braid stand out even more.

17. Gorgeous Loose Braid to Flat Bun

The loose braid to flat bun combination gives you a stylish yet understated look. This hairstyle is perfect for a casual or semi-formal occasion where you want to keep it simple yet chic.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Fine to medium hair, oval faces.
• How to Style: Braid your hair loosely and tie it into a flat side bun for a sleek finish.
• Extra Tip: Keep the braid loose for a more relaxed look.

18. Multi-Braid Bun Style

A multi-braid bun style adds texture and intricacy to a traditional side bun. Multiple braids are woven into a single bun, making this look ideal for formal events.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Thick or medium hair.
• How to Style: Braid several small sections of hair and gather them into a side bun.
• Extra Tip: Secure the bun with decorative pins or a clip for added flair.

19. Cherry Knot Bun with Twist Braid

The cherry knot bun with twist braid is a unique, artistic take on the traditional bun. The twist braid wraps around the cherry knot, creating a statement look.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Medium to long hair, oval faces.
• How to Style: Twist sections of hair into a cherry knot bun, then braid a small section and wrap it around the bun.
• Extra Tip: Use a ribbon or hair tie that contrasts with your hair color to highlight the braid.

20. Classic Side Bun with Flowers

A classic side bun adorned with flowers is a timeless, romantic hairstyle. Perfect for weddings or formal occasions, the flowers add a natural, feminine touch.

Tips:

• Ideal for: Medium to long hair, all face shapes.
• How to Style: Create a sleek or messy side bun and tuck fresh or silk flowers into the bun for decoration.
• Extra Tip: Choose flowers that match your outfit or theme for a cohesive look.

Conclusion

Side buns offer versatility, elegance, and the ability to adapt to both casual and formal settings. Whether you’re looking for something simple and chic or intricate and bold, these 20 side bun hairstyles for 2024 ensure that your look will stand out no matter the occasion.