How to Do a Messy Bun Braid & Styling Ideas
Up your mane game with a messy braided bun.
You Will Need
Looking to add interest to your messy bun? With braid looks constantly popping up on our radar, we’ve decided to combine these style staples into one incredible ‘do, just for you! But we haven’t just thrown together any ordinary messy braid updo, oh-no. Ahead, we’ve enlisted the help of beauty vlogger N1kk1sSecr3t to show you how to rock a messy braid bun like a pro!
So, what are you waiting for? Watch her video tutorial above, and read on for our messy plait bun step-by-step guide. Plus, keep scrolling for more braided bun inspiration, with a look for every occasion.
Prep Your Hair.
Before starting your messy braid updo, you’ll need to prep your mane. With wavy hair, sprinkle some VO5 Instant Volume Powder into your roots and massage it in.
This nifty product will help give your strands added body and loads of texture.
Separate Your Ponytail.
Take a small section of hair (approximately 2 inches-wide) from one side of your ponytail. You’ll use this section of hair to create your first braid in the next step!
Create Two Braids.
Separate the hair you sectioned in the previous step into 3 small sections, and create a classic 3-strand braid. Secure your plait with a clear hairband when you reach the end.
Then, take another 2 inch-wide section of hair from the opposite side of your ponytail and braid this, too.
Add Some Shine.
To help make your messy plait bun look shiny, spray your pony with the Toni&Guy Illuminating Hair Perfume. Not only will this help add a layer of shimmer, but it’ll also make your hair smell divine!
Create Your Bun.
Now it’s time to create your braided bun. Take all of the hair in your ponytail and carefully wrap it around the base to form a bun shape, ensuring that your braids are on show.
Once you’ve done this, pin it in place with some bobby pins that match the colour of your hair.
Tease Your Bun.
Go back in with the VO5 Instant Volume Powder and sprinkle some into your messy plait bun.
Then, using your fingers, gently massage the product in and tease your bun to make it appear fuller.
Set With Hairspray.
To help lock your messy braid updo in place, spritz your hair with the TRESemmé Ultimate Shine Hold Hairspray.
Final Look.
Et voila, your messy braid bun is complete. With its textured finish and on-trend hidden braids, this undone updo is a surefire crowd pleaser!
7 More Braided Bun Styles to Try
Whether you’re looking for a new go-to style or you’re feeling like experimenting with your hair for a special event, there’s a braided bun look for you. Keep scrolling for some of our favourite bun and braid looks that’ll work whatever the occasion.
Low Twisted Bun
Chic and casual for every day or more polished for a formal event, this low twisted updo is the epitome of versatile.
Braided Bun
Elevate a classic high bun to the next level by incorporating a braided detail.
Dutch Braid Into Bun
Don’t forget to leave a few ’90s face-framing tendrils loose around your face for the perfect messy bun braid.
French Braided Bun
This impressive-looking French braided bun is the perfect gym or festival style as once it’s in place, it won’t budge.
Double Dutch Braided Bun
Got highlights? Show off the different tones in your strands with this full and voluminous-looking double Dutch braided bun.
Wrap Around Braided Bun
You don’t have to be a pro braider to be able to recreate this pretty wrap-around braid look.
Cornrowed Bun
Cornrows are a must-try for natural haired girls as they’re perfect for keeping curls protected.
