13 Easy Hair Buns to Spice Up Your Everyday Look

One of the easiest ways to transform your look is by switching up your go-to hairstyle. Of course, getting a new trendy haircut, like the "mixie" or the ubiquitous "octopus," will surely make an impact, but that big of a chance is not for the faint of heart. Nothing matches the ease and versatility of incorporating more looks, like easy hair buns, into your daily rotation. While you can always brush up on your braiding skills and break out the hot tools now and then, it's hard to beat this classic updo.

Your options for easy hair bun styles are plentiful. The timeless look offers a chic and quick fix to all hair woes, as it can be worn by people of all hair types, textures, and lengths. From an effortless messy bun to a half-up bun and even quick-to-achieve side bun hairstyles, all you need is a little bit of inspiration and some hair ties to get you started.

Ahead, we've rounded up a variety of hair bun styles requiring no previous experience to pull together. Whether you're searching for braid bun hairstyles for a fun night out with friends, or just want to elevate one of your typical bun hairstyles, you'll find a look that suits your needs and aligns perfectly with your style. Keep reading to discover just how many different easy bun hairstyles there are to choose from for long hair, curls, and even lobs.

Side-Bun Hairstyle

The side bun is a fun twist on a classic. Rather than gathering your hair at the nape of your neck, pull it to one side so you can see it when staring head-on in the mirror. Secure your hair with a ponytail, then twist the hair around it and secure it with a bobby pin.

Puff High Bun Hairstyle

We love a slicked-back puff, especially when it's placed high on the head, as shown above. Pull your hair into a high ponytail, then secure it into a bun shape with a hair tie or bobby pins. Slick everything back using a pomade or hair gel for a chic look.

Natural Hair Braided Bun Hairstyle
Getty | Arnold Jerocki

Natural Hair Braided Bun Hairstyle

This slicked-back braided bun hairstyle sits directly on the back of the head, which helps put a spotlight on your facial features. While you can leave the style as is, the addition of the braided tail pinned on the side of the head to form a curl on the forehead gives it an edgy, high-fashion feel.

Messy High Bun Hairstyle
Getty | Edward Berthelot

Messy High Bun Hairstyle

Gigi Hadid is proof that sometimes the messier, the better when it comes to easy hair buns for beginners. The model's high updo appears as though it was simply twisted into place and secured with a fun scrunchie. The wispy, undone pieces are the finishing touch on this messy bun hairstyle.

Easy Low Bun Hairstyle

Nothing beats an easy-to-achieve low bun hairstyle, especially when you're in a rush and only have a few minutes to dedicate to your hair. Let this low bun be your go-to for those hurried days. Not only does it look chic and polished, but it barely takes any time to pull off. We know a hack for creating the perfect low bun that you can try. To elevate the style even more, leave a few face-framing wavy pieces out at the front.

Twisted Low Bun Hairstyle

Braided buns can prove to be a bit challenging when you're doing your own hair. Enter, this super quick, equally sophisticated low bun hairstyle that involves playfully twisting a tied section of hair for a perfectly imperfect finish. Straighten an inch or two of hair at the end and leave it out to the side for an effortless touch. If you're a beginner, check out this perfect hair accessory to help you achieve a twisted bun in no time.

'90-Inspired Spikey Bun Hairstyle
Getty

'90-Inspired Spikey Bun Hairstyle

A slicked-back spikey hair bun style is suitable for a formal event but can also be worn to hang out with friends or run some errands. This style, which includes twisted sections of hair pinned to create a bigger bun, is inspired by popular looks worn in the '90s. For an easy step-by-step breakdown, check out this "treatment bun" tutorial.

Curly and Coily Bun Hairstyle

Wear your natural hair in a classic high bun to keep your hair off your neck and accentuate your features. You can keep out a few strands to frame the face, which will make this easy bun hairstyle look super cute and stylish. This updo will look great on both tight coils and looser waves.

Messy Bun Haistyle

Don't be fooled: messy bun hairstyles deserve a spot in your hairstyle catalog. This easy hair bun for long hair is extremely versatile, working on every hair type, texture, and length. You can tie your tousled hair up in a classic high bun or lower at the nape of the neck depending on your preference. Leaving out a few pieces of hair at the front and styling them in loose curls adds a touch of elegance to the otherwise tousled look.

Natural Hair Braided Bun Hairstyle

Style your natural hair into a low bun with two Dutch braids on either side of your head to secure it back. This braided bun hairstyle is incredibly versatile, fitting any occasion imaginable.

Fishtail Braided Bun Hairstyle

Loose fishtail braids can add volume to your hair without the need for hot tools. Add a low, twisted bun at the end to complete the sophisticated style. A few wispy face-framing pieces add to the romantic feel of this bun hairstyle.

Braided Bun Hairstyle

People blessed with thick, extra-long hair will find that a braided bun is effective at keeping their hair up and out of the way. Start by simply making a high ponytail and braiding it into one or two plaits. Then, wrap them around the base of your ponytail into a high bun. It makes such a cute high bun hairstyle.

Waterfall Braided Bun Hairstyle

Loose waterfall braids can add instant volume and texture to your hairstyles, and a bun updo isn't an exception. The beauty of this high bun hairstyle lies in its imprecision, so start by loosely securing the front of your hair in a waterfall braid, then gather your hair into a soft bun at the top of the head using a hair tie and bobby pins.

— Additional reporting by Renee Rodriguez


Ina Bansal is a contributor at PS, where she writes for the Beauty vertical.


Renee Rodriguez (she/her) is a staff writer and social producer for PS. She writes across all verticals, but her main areas of expertise focus on fashion and beauty content with an emphasis on reviews and editor experiments. She also produces social content for the PS TikTok and Instagram accounts.