Buns are more than just a hairstyle—they’re a timeless solution for bad hair days, humid weather, or when you simply want to elevate your look with minimal effort. Once relegated to two basic categories (messy or slicked-back), buns have undergone a Renaissance, emerging as one of the most versatile and chic hairstyles for every occasion. Whether you’re aiming for effortless elegance or bold creativity, there’s a bun style for everyone. Below, we’ve curated 35 stunning bun hairstyles inspired by celebrities and everyday muses, complete with expert tips from top hairstylists to help you recreate these looks at home.
1. Natural Voluminous High Bun
Janelle Monáe’s high pineapple bun is a celebration of natural curls, offering drama, height, and volume that transitions seamlessly from day to night. To achieve this look, gather your hair into a high ponytail, fluff your curls, and secure them into a bun. For extra volume, tease the base of your ponytail before wrapping it around.
2. Box Braid Updo
Tessa Thompson’s asymmetrical braided bun with kelly green box braids is edgy yet sophisticated. Pair this look with bold accessories like cat-eye sunglasses or a sparkly choker for an added pop of personality.
3. Slicked-Back Topknot
Rihanna’s sleek topknot is the epitome of sophistication. Celebrity hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein recommends creating a secure base by dividing your hair into two sections: first, pull up the top section (from the ears up) into a high ponytail, then add the bottom section. Smooth flyaways with pomade and twist the ponytail into a knot, securing it with French pins.
4. Messy Fringe
Jenna Ortega’s low messy bun paired with face-framing fringe strikes the perfect balance between casual and polished. Leave a few strands loose around your face to soften the look and add dimension.
5. Big Bun
For a voluminous bun that’s perfect for a night out, second-day dirty hair is your best friend. Add texture with dry shampoo, tease your ponytail for fullness, and wrap it into a bun. The messier, the better!
6. Upside-Down Topknot
Dania Ramirez’s low, twisted bun is an easy yet refined option for any occasion. Start with a low ponytail, tease the length for volume, and twist it into a bun. This style works beautifully for both casual outings and formal events.
7. Blunt Fringe
Lily Collins pairs her blunt bangs with a textured topknot for a mod-inspired look. The face-framing layers soften the overall aesthetic, making it ideal for those who want a polished yet playful vibe.
8. Messy Bun
Christina Milian’s flat messy bun is effortlessly chic. Add texture with a texturizing spray, flip your head over, and gather your hair into a high ponytail. Twist it loosely into a bun, pulling out pieces for a carefree finish.
9. Slicked Bun
Yara Shahidi’s sleek, tight bun is a testament to precision and polish. Use a styling stick or gel to smooth every strand into place, ensuring a flawless, no-flyaway finish.
10. Topknot With Bangs
Paz Vega proves that bangs and buns can coexist beautifully. Create a high ponytail, twist it into a knot, and let your bangs frame your face for a touch of effortless charm.
11. Y2K Spiky Bun
Megan Thee Stallion brings early 2000s nostalgia to life with her spiky red bun. Achieve this look by slicking your hair back into a high bun and shaping three defined spikes with strong-hold gel.
12. Tucked-In Chignon
Meghan Markle’s low-slung bun is elegant simplicity at its finest. Gather your hair into a ponytail at the nape of your neck, wrap it into a bun, and tuck the tail underneath for a seamless finish. Pull out a few strands for a relaxed, model-off-duty vibe.
13. Braided Bun
Alicia Keys’ low braided bun is both practical and stylish. If you already have cornrows, simply twist them into a bun for a quick and chic transformation. This style works best on second-day hair for added grip.
14. Loosely-Tied Loop
Sara Foster’s sleek low bun exudes boho chic. Smooth gloss or shine spray over your ends, pull your hair into a loose ponytail, and flip it up once, letting an inch hang out at the top. Secure it neatly for a daytime-ready look.
15. Super-Smooth Sock Bun
For a dramatic black-tie affair, try a sock bun with an XL sock or bun maker. This technique adds volume and structure, ensuring your bun stays put all night long.
16. Loose, Twisted Chignon
This romantic chignon is perfect for special occasions. Pair it with statement earrings and a bold lip for a look that oozes sophistication.
17. Undone Side Bun
Mary J. Blige’s side-swept low bun is effortlessly chic. Let a few strands fall naturally for a soft, lived-in effect.
18. Low, Middle-Part Bun
Sofia Richie Grainge’s wedding-day bun is a masterclass in understated elegance. A middle part and sleek finish make this style timeless and versatile.
19. Braided Low Bun
Zoe Kravitz’s platinum blonde braids styled into a low bun strike the perfect balance between high-maintenance color and low-effort styling.
20. Messy Topknot
Karlie Kloss’s messy topknot is equal parts cool and refined. Wrap your ponytail loosely around the base, teasing as you go, and leave a few face-framing pieces for a lived-in look.
21. Half-Bun
Nicole Richie’s youthful half-bun is perfect for casual outings or gym sessions. Day-three hair works best for this style, as the natural oils help keep it in place.
22. Wavy and Loose Bun
Zendaya’s messy topknot is effortlessly glamorous. Start with wavy hair, pull it into a high ponytail, and twist it loosely into a bun. Finish with hairspray for hold.
23. Tail-Out Bun
Lea Michele’s sleek updo features a playful twist—a tiny tail left out for added edge. Secure your bun as usual, leaving the end unpinned, and finish with flexible-hold spray.
24. Curly Top Knot
This curly top knot with face-framing layers is undone yet stylish. Perfect for transitioning from day to night, especially when paired with statement earrings or a bold lip.
25. Messy Midi Bun
Emma Roberts’ model-off-duty bun is effortlessly cool. Start with day-three hair, embrace imperfections, and trust that your first attempt will likely be your best.
26. Double Buns
Channel your inner Princess Leia with space buns. Keep them sleek and polished or embrace a free-spirited vibe by braiding the ponytails before wrapping them.
27. Criss-Cross Braided Bun
Taylor Swift’s ethereal low bun gets an upgrade with two fishtail braids. Leave sections of hair out, braid them, and pin them across the bun for a whimsical touch.
28. Braided Topknot
Issa Rae’s fishtail braided topknot is easier to achieve than it looks. Braid your ponytail down to the ends, wrap it into a knot, and secure with pins.
29. Low Bun with Face-Framing Pieces
Jennifer Lawrence’s undone bun is romantic and relaxed. Frame your face with soft, wavy pieces for a touch of elegance.
30. Curly Bun
Bella Hadid’s slicked-back curly bun highlights multi-textured hair. Experiment with contrasting colors or styles for a bold statement.
31. Accessorized High Bun
Lupita Nyong’o elevates her voluminous high bun with delicate beaded headbands. Accessories are an easy way to transform any hairstyle into something extraordinary.
32. Sleek Back Low Bun
Zoe Saldana’s glossy, side-swept low bun is perfect for formal events. Finish with hairspray and shine serum for a polished sheen.
33. Tilted Bun
Tai Beauchamp’s braided top knot sits slightly off-center, adding drama and volume. This asymmetrical style is both artistic and striking.
34. Vertical Trio Bun
Sarah Paulson’s trio of vertical buns is a fun and functional style for short hair. Divide your hair into three sections, create ponytails, and twist each into a bun.
35. Bangs + Braided Top Knot
Nicole Richie’s braided top knot paired with side-swept bangs is effortlessly chic. The combination softens the intensity of a slicked-back style while maintaining its edge.
With these 35 bun hairstyles, you’ll never run out of inspiration for your next updo. Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or keeping it casual, buns offer endless versatility and style.
