13 stylish bun hairstyles for all occasions
Seeking inspiration for bun hairstyles? This one's for you!
With its effortless appeal and versatile nature, the bun has become a holy grail hairstyle for women all over the world. And, no matter what the occasion – or your hair length and type – there are a whole host of bun hairstyles out there just waiting to be discovered.
Ready to explore them and also add to your styling repertoire? Ahead, we’ve listed our favourite hair bun styles (and yes, you’ll probably be wearing buns 24-7 after this).
Bun hairstyles for every occasion
1. Low side bun
After a bun that looks ultra-sleek and can be done in less than 10 minutes? Then this polished, runway-approved low side bun is the ideal choice.
Whether you’re attending a fancy dinner party or catching up with your friends over drinks, you won’t need to worry about spending ages putting your hair in bun with this chic bun at hand.
2. Braided bun
If you’re looking to add a little more edge to your hair bun styles, incorporating braids into them is the way forward. And this pretty yet practical braided updo is a good case in point.
Love the idea of rocking this ‘do? Lucky for you, we’re showing you how to get the look.
Editor’s tip: To banish frizz and flyaways, smooth your hair with a strong hold hairspray, like the VO5 Ultimate Hold Hairspray.
With its ultra-fine and fast-drying formula, this VO5 Ultimate Hold Hairspray will help you control frizz and ensure your bun hairstyles last longer. too.
3. Grecian braided bun
Whether you’re the bride or the bridesmaid, your mane will be the complete definition of #weddinghairgoals with this Grecian-inspired braided style, which we spotted Olivia Culpo wearing.
This perfect hair bun will work best on longer tresses (or with the help of extensions) to help create a full-bodied finish.
4. Donut bun
When it comes to easy bun hairstyles, the donut bun always manages to find itself at the top, all thanks to clever tool behind the style — a hair donut.
Not only is this style perfect for ladies with thin strands who struggle to fashion their hair in a bun, but it’s also ready to make your strands feel extra fancy.
Up next: How to create the perfect hair donut bun.
5. Messy bun
There’s no denying that the messy bun is (and always will be!) the number one bun for any weekend look.
From brunch, shopping, to pre-drinks and parties – its laid-back and effortless appeal, makes this messy bun the perfect style for any low-key events you have planned.
6. Braided headband bun
Dealing with Rapunzel lengths? Show off your braiding prowess by trying out this braided headband bun, which is great for days where you want to keep your mane out of your face.
Style tip: For a really romantic look, why not try weaving ribbon or flowers into the braid?
7. Half-up bun
Not sure whether to style your long hair up or fashion your hair in a bun? You don’t have to pick sides: this half-up, half-down bun is the answer.
The best thing about it? You’ll be able to show off your long tresses in a practical, on-trend way, without worrying about your hair falling out of place.
Editor’s tip: If you’ve got gorgeous curls, like Angela Bassett, make sure you keep them hydrated with the TRESemmé Botanique Nourish & Replenish Hydrating Mist.
Enriched with coconut milk and aloe vera, this hydrating mist to smooth, condition and gently detangle hair ready for styling.
8. Double buns
Easy hair buns, like these double buns, add instant playfulness to your mane. So, it’s no wonder this cute updo is a festival favourite. Are you going to try them out?
9. Octopus bun
Yes really, the octopus bun is a thing and we bet you have already rocked this hairstyle without even realising…
The trick to creating this look is by wrapping your tresses as you would a topknot, but instead of wrapping until your tips, secure the style a few inches from the ends. Complete the look by fanning out the ends for your octopus-inspired finish.
10. Braided bun 2.0
You can always count on our hair crush Vanessa Hudgens to up the style stakes. Wearing her dark brown tresses in an undone bun, Vanessa completed the look with a striking Dutch braid at the back.
Now you may think this is tricky to create, but after you have seen our tutorial, you’ll be ready to take on this style for a beach holiday or beyond.
11. Braided hun
This might be your new favourite way to style your hair. With this braided half-up, half-down bun your hair will look a dream and you’ll be able to convince everyone to get on the bun hype.
12. Stacked buns
Thought you had seen all the bun hairstyles possible? Think again. Putting a new spin on the double space buns trend, this stacked bun updo is all you need to take you from the gym to a night out.
Editor’s tip: For a textured finish, we suggest using the VO5 Dry Texturising spray.
Perfect for reviving hair and giving a messy effect to layers, this nifty spray will give you the roughed-up texture this look requires.
13. Braided space buns
Our of our favourite things about bun hairstyles? No matter which type of braid you pair them with (be it Dutch or fishtail), they always manage to look double tap-worthy. The question is: are you selfie-ready?
Check out all the updo inspiration you will ever need!
