Two young girls taking pictures. Double bun and messy top knot hairstyle.

Hot Mess: 4 Messy updo hairstyles for that effortlessly chic look

Messy is sexy with these updo hairstyles that are easy to do, and chic at the same time!

Messy updo hairstyles exude that perfectly laid-back vibe that is all about ease and effortlessness. Not only is it a great casual style, it’s a reliable go-to whenever you don’t have time to whip up an elaborate hairdo. With just a little bit of thought and inspiration, though, you can transform the messy updo hairstyle into a chic after-work look or even an elegant but fun cocktail party ensemble. Here are a few examples of classic messy updo hairstyles for you to choose from!

4 Effortless and chic messy updo hairstyles

Top Knot

It doesn’t matter whether or not you have long or short hair, the top knot hairstyle is one of the most basic but chic looks you need to have in your everyday hair repertoire. Its tousled and uncombed texture is intentional, allowing strands of your hair to frame your face and soften the tight bundling up on top.

asian girl with a top knot bun hairstyle
Top knot is easy to make and can save a lot of your time. Credit: indigitalimages.com

Editor’s Tip: To complete the woke-up-like-this vibe, spray some TONI&GUY Matte Texture Dry Shampoo on your bedhead hair before bunching it up into a top knot. The dry shampoo will give you extra grip and coat your strands with definition and volume, ensuring loose hair won’t lie limply on your face.

Millennial filter top knot messy bun
Half a double bun makes a cute side top knot! Credit: Shutterstock

Low and loose

This simple messy updo variation can take your bun down low and immediately make you look more relaxed and casual. The low ponytail combined with a messy bun works wonders for a sexy, effortless hairstyle that is acceptable in both the boardroom and the bar.

loose-and-messy-low-bun
A loose and messy low bun has more character and style than a plain low ponytail.

Editor’s Tip: This is probably instinctive to you by now: Running your fingers down your hair and putting them together in a low, loose bun. For added texture, spritz some TONI&GUY Sea Salt Texturising Spray to get that model-off-duty vibe.

easy updos messy pull-through low bun
A messy bun like this lends an easygoing, laidback vibe. Credit: istock

Braids

It’s no surprise that braids have made it to this hair inspiration list. From romantic braids to powerful goddess braids, the hairstyle succeeds in keeping strands away from the face but working double time in creating visual textures on your hair.

tight shot of goddess braids from fashion week
Let a few strands loose to soften tight goddess braids. Crediti: indigitalimages
loose puffy mohawk braid
This mohawk braid is a combination of a puffy French braid on top and twist braids thrown over the shoulder. Credit: indigitalimages.com

Tucks and folds

Last but not the least let’s look at the Gibson Tuck of the Victorian era — a hairstyle period known for volume and mass on their coifs! It incorporates simple techniques such as folding and twisting, allowing the hair to move naturally around the shape of the face while keeping hair away from the nape.

messy updo hairstyle victorian fashion
The original Gibson Tuck was big and messy. Credit: Shutterstock

Editor’s Tip: Keep tucks and folds in place with a moderate application of TRESemmé Freeze Hold Hairspray. With the strength of its hold, it really only takes a few spritzes to keep this updo (and all its natural messiness) in place.

blonde girl getting ready for prom
Weave your hair into loose layers and put them in a low bun. Credit: Shutterstock