Looking for that effortlessly chic look? We’ve got you covered with messy hairstyles that embrace imperfection while delivering maximum style points. These tousled, carefree looks are having a major moment right now—and for good reason. They’re quick to create, versatile for all hair lengths, and give you that coveted “I woke up like this” vibe.
Whether you have short pixies, mid-length bobs, or flowing locks, there’s a perfectly imperfect style waiting for you. We’ve rounded up 15 stunning messy hairstyles that work for every hair type and occasion. From five-minute morning transformations to elevated evening looks, these styles prove that sometimes the most beautiful hairstyles come with a touch of calculated chaos.
Tousled Beach Waves for Medium to Long Hair
Beach waves remain the ultimate messy-chic hairstyle for medium to long hair, creating that coveted “just left the ocean” texture with minimal effort.
How to Achieve Beach Waves Without Heat
Creating beautiful beach waves doesn’t require damaging heat tools. Start by washing your hair with a texturizing shampoo and conditioner to build a foundation for waves. After showering, gently towel-dry your hair until it’s damp but not soaking wet. Apply a salt spray generously throughout your strands, focusing on the mid-lengths to ends. Divide your hair into 4-6 sections and twist each section away from your face until it forms a tight rope. Secure these twists with clips or pins at the ends and allow your hair to air dry completely. Once dry, release the twists and run your fingers through your hair to break up the waves. For extra volume, flip your head upside down and shake out the waves gently. This method works overnight too—simply create loose braids before bed and wake up to effortless waves.
Products That Enhance Natural Wave Texture
The right products make all the difference when creating tousled beach waves. Sea salt sprays like Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray provide that authentic beach texture by mimicking the effect of ocean water. Wave-improving mousses offer lightweight hold without stiffness—apply to damp hair before your twisting technique for longer-lasting results. Texturizing creams work wonders for those with naturally straight hair, adding grip and definition to help waves form. Hair oils specifically formulated for wavy styles can combat frizz while maintaining that perfectly imperfect look—apply just a few drops to your palms and press into dry hair. Dry shampoo serves as a secret weapon for adding volume at the roots while absorbing excess oil that might weigh down your waves. We’ve found that layering products works best: start with a mousse on damp hair, enhance with salt spray, and finish with a light-hold texturizing spray for that lived-in beach wave effect that lasts all day.
The Bedhead Bob for Short to Medium Lengths
The Bedhead Bob stands out as one of the most versatile messy hairstyles for those with short to medium-length hair. This effortlessly chic cut features strategic layers designed to look perfectly undone while requiring minimal maintenance for maximum style impact.
Creating Volume in Short Messy Bobs
Volume is the secret ingredient that transforms a regular bob into a head-turning bedhead style. Layered cuts shaped specifically to enhance your natural texture create the foundation for this look. Hair cut with layers around the shoulders adds substantial volume and a feminine touch without demanding extensive styling time.
Texturizing spray applied directly to the roots lifts and separates strands for instant fullness. Dry shampoo works double-duty by absorbing excess oil while creating the perfect amount of volume, especially beneficial for second or third-day styling when hair naturally has more texture.
Styling Products for the Perfect Bedhead Look
Achieving the ideal bedhead bob requires a curated selection of styling products that enhance texture without weighing hair down. Texturizing spray serves as the cornerstone product, adding necessary volume, texture, and just enough grit to create that coveted undone appearance.
Dry shampoo plays a vital role in maintaining the messy aesthetic by absorbing oil while creating lift at the roots. Sea salt spray delivers that beachy, tousled texture that enhances natural waves and emphasizes layers throughout the bob.
Styling cream or pomade applied sparingly adds definition and light hold to layers while preserving the effortless vibe. Round brush blow-drying creates additional volume, though many prefer to air-dry then rough-dry with fingers for that authentic bedhead effect.
For the most natural-looking result, use fingers rather than brushes to distribute product evenly throughout your hair. Applying minimal product prevents the common mistake of weighing down your bob, which can make it appear greasy rather than stylishly messy.
Effortless Messy Buns for Medium to Long Hair
The messy bun remains one of the most versatile and chic hairstyles for those with medium to long locks. This perfectly imperfect style combines sophistication with an undone, casual vibe that works for everything from office meetings to weekend brunches.
Quick High Messy Bun Tutorial
Creating a high messy bun requires minimal effort but delivers maximum style impact. Start by thoroughly brushing your hair to eliminate any tangles and create a smooth base. Gather all your hair into a high ponytail position and secure it with a non-rubberized hair tie to prevent unwanted creases or breakage. Twist the ponytail carefully and wrap it around the base to form a loose bun shape. Secure the style with several bobby pins strategically placed throughout the bun while intentionally keeping it slightly undone for that effortless appearance. Pull out a few face-framing strands to enhance the messy aesthetic and soften your features. Finish the look with a light application of flexible hold hairspray that maintains the style without making it appear too polished or stiff.
Low Messy Bun Variations
The low messy bun offers multiple styling options that adapt beautifully to different occasions and preferences. For a classic low messy bun, simply pull your hair into a loose gathering at the nape of your neck, allowing several strands to fall naturally for that relaxed, carefree appearance. This universally flattering style works wonderfully for both medium and long hair lengths.
Transform your look with a messy chignon by gathering your tresses into a low bun position and intentionally allowing some strands to escape for a romantic, slightly undone finish. Long-haired beauties will particularly appreciate how this elegant yet effortless style showcases their length while maintaining that coveted messy-chic vibe.
Try the messy French twist for a sophisticated take on undone styling by twisting your hair upward and securing with pins, deliberately leaving wispy pieces loose around your face and neckline. This versatile style can be modified into a stunning low bun variation by directing the twist downward toward the nape of your neck, creating a look that’s both polished and perfectly imperfect.
Textured Pixie Cuts for Ultra-Short Hair
Ultra-short hair comes alive with textured pixie cuts that blend effortless style with playful personality. These layered cuts are specifically designed to achieve that coveted messy look, adding a laid-back charm that feels both modern and carefree.
Adding Texture to Short Pixie Styles
Creating texture in short pixie styles starts with the right foundation. We recommend using volumizing or thickening shampoo and conditioner, especially for those with fine or flat hair, as this builds essential body that supports the textured look. Texturizing sprays work wonders by instantly adding grit and dimension to even the shortest locks, transforming a simple cut into a stylishly disheveled masterpiece.
Apply dry shampoo at the roots to create lift and separation that enhances the messy appeal. Gentle tousling with your fingers breaks up any uniform sections, creating natural-looking texture that appears effortlessly undone. Products such as lightweight pomades can be worked through the ends of your pixie to define pieces and create that perfectly imperfect finish that looks intentional rather than unkempt.
Maintaining the “Perfectly Undone” Pixie Look
The key to maintaining that coveted “perfectly undone” pixie lies in using a light hand with styling products. Too much product weighs down ultra-short hair and creates a sleek appearance that contradicts the messy aesthetic we’re aiming for. Styling slightly damp hair or working with day-old locks often yields the best results, as freshly washed hair can sometimes appear too clean and structured.
Regular trims every 4-6 weeks keep your textured pixie looking intentionally messy rather than simply grown out. Focus maintenance on preserving the layered structure that gives the cut its character and movement. We’ve found that shoulder-length or shorter layered cuts strike the perfect balance between feminine style and low-maintenance appeal. For daily refreshing, simply mist with water, apply a minimal amount of texturizing product, and tousle with fingers to revive yesterday’s perfectly imperfect style.
The Half-Up Messy Top Knot for All Lengths
This versatile style works beautifully on any hair length and offers an effortless look that’s both practical and stylish. The half-up messy top knot combines the convenience of having your hair out of your face with the chic appearance of loose, flowing locks.
Styling Tips for Fine Hair Half-Up Knots
Fine hair requires special consideration when creating a half-up messy top knot to ensure volume and staying power. Start by applying a volumizing spray or mousse at the roots before styling to create essential lift and body. Gather the top section of your hair with a gentle touch to avoid flattening what volume you have. Secure your ponytail with a non-rubberized hair tie, which prevents the sleek look that can make fine hair appear even thinner. Bobby pins work wonderfully for securing any stray hairs without adding tension that might pull your style flat. After completing your knot, spritz with texturizing spray throughout your style to add grit and longevity to fine hair structures.
Creating the Perfect Amount of Messiness
The secret to achieving that coveted “perfectly imperfect” look lies in balancing structure with deliberate dishevelment. Begin by creating a neat foundation—brush your hair thoroughly, then gather the top half into a ponytail. Twist this section and wrap it around the base to form your knot. Now comes the artful part: gently pull out select strands around your face and loosen sections of the knot using your fingers or a comb for that effortless vibe. Second-day hair works exceptionally well for this style as it naturally has more texture and grip. For freshly washed hair, apply dry shampoo or texturizing spray to mimic that second-day texture. Finish with a light-hold hairspray that maintains your messy masterpiece while still allowing natural movement and bounce throughout the day.
Lived-In Layered Cuts for Long Hair
Long layered haircuts offer the perfect foundation for creating those enviably messy, carefree styles that look effortlessly chic. These versatile cuts add movement and dimension to lengthy locks, making them ideal for achieving that coveted “I woke up like this” aesthetic.
How Layers Enhance Messy Styling
Layers work wonders for creating perfectly imperfect hairstyles by adding natural texture and movement throughout your long hair. They distribute weight more evenly across your mane, preventing that flat, lifeless look that can plague one-length cuts. Strategic layering creates various lengths throughout your hair that naturally fall into a tousled pattern, making it significantly easier to achieve those casual, undone styles.
The beauty of layered cuts lies in their ability to enhance your hair’s natural texture while requiring minimal styling effort. When creating messy styles, these varied lengths allow certain pieces to stick out artfully while others fall softly, creating that desirable dimensional effect. Layered hair appears more feminine and stylish even when deliberately disheveled, with the different lengths catching light and creating visual interest from every angle.
Long Layered Haircut Maintenance
Even though their carefree appearance, long layered cuts do require some maintenance to keep them looking intentionally messy rather than simply unkempt. Regular trims every 8-10 weeks are essential to prevent split ends and maintain the shape and integrity of your layers. Without maintenance, layers can grow out unevenly and lose their ability to create that perfect messy texture.
Product selection plays a crucial role in improving the lived-in quality of layered cuts. Texturizing sprays, sea salt formulas, and light-hold styling creams can amplify your hair’s natural texture while adding volume and definition to your layers. For the most authentic messy look, we recommend styling second-day hair, as the natural oils provide additional texture and grip that freshly washed hair often lacks.
Creating the perfect imperfect style often requires minimal tools—just use a non-rubberized hair tie and a teasing comb to loosen strategic strands for that effortless vibe. Finger-styling rather than using brushes helps maintain the casual texture and prevents the hair from looking too polished or contrived.
Tousled Lob (Long Bob) Styles
The tousled lob combines the sophistication of a bob with the versatility of longer locks, creating an effortlessly chic look that’s become a staple in modern hair fashion. This intentionally messy style features strategic layers designed to create that coveted “perfectly imperfect” appearance while remaining remarkably low maintenance.
Achieving the Perfect Messy Lob
Starting with the right cut is essential for a perfectly tousled lob. Modern layered lobs are specifically shaped to create that desirable messy texture, adding both movement and dimension to your hair. Proper styling begins after washing, when you’ll want to rough dry your hair using your fingers rather than a brush to maintain that natural, undone appearance. Sea salt spray applied to damp hair creates beautiful texture and volume that enhances the messy aesthetic. For those with naturally curly or wavy hair, a diffuser attachment works wonders to enhance your natural texture while maintaining the tousled look. Straight-haired individuals can achieve similar results by applying texturizing products and creating loose waves with fingers or a wide-barrel curling iron before gently tousling the style.
Styling Tools for Textured Lobs
Texturizing spray serves as the foundation for any messy lob, adding essential volume and grip that creates that coveted undone appearance. Sea salt spray delivers beautiful beachy texture, perfect for improving the casual vibe of a tousled lob. Light hold styling creams provide flexible definition without weighing down your layers or creating stiffness that would contradict the effortless look. Your fingers often work better than brushes for styling a messy lob, as they allow you to manipulate individual pieces while maintaining natural texture. Diffuser attachments enhance natural waves and curls while preventing frizz, particularly beneficial for those with natural texture. Volumizing shampoos and conditioners build the foundation for a great messy lob by creating fullness and body from the start. Teasing combs can be used sparingly at the roots to create additional lift where needed, especially for those with finer hair textures.
Messy Braided Updos for Medium to Long Hair
Messy braided updos offer that perfect balance of elegance and effortlessness for medium to long hair. These styles combine intricate braiding techniques with deliberately undone textures to create looks that are both sophisticated and carefree.
Messy Bun Variations
The classic messy bun gets an upgrade with braided elements that add dimension and interest. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, then twist it around itself to create a loose, cinnamon roll-like bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins, ensuring you leave several pieces strategically loose for that perfectly imperfect finish. For a more intricate style, try incorporating a half-up half-down approach by braiding or twisting only the top portion of your hair while leaving the rest flowing free. Face-framing loose strands add to the relaxed aesthetic, making this style perfect for both casual and formal occasions. French twists can also be transformed into messy masterpieces by twisting the hair to one side, securing with pins, and intentionally leaving sections undone.
Deconstructed Fishtail Braid Techniques
Deconstructed fishtail braids create stunning texture and dimension that’s perfect for achieving that coveted messy look. Starting with day-old hair provides the ideal foundation, as slightly dirty hair offers better grip and natural texture that enhances the undone appearance. After completing your basic fishtail braid, gently pull the outer edges to create volume and that signature disheveled effect. Loosening the braid transforms it from a tight, structured style into something more organic and lived-in. Leave the ends of your braid loose rather than securing them tightly, allowing them to naturally fray for additional texture. This technique works beautifully whether incorporated into a half-up style or worn as a complete updo.
Messy Crown Braid Tutorial
Messy crown braids create a romantic, bohemian look that’s easier to achieve than it appears. Begin the braiding process at the crown of your head, taking small sections and crossing them over each other in a traditional braid pattern that follows the natural curve of your head. Incorporate volume as you go by gently tugging at the edges of the braid, creating that deliberately undone appearance that makes this style so appealing. Secure your crown braid with bobby pins, being careful to hide them within the braid itself while allowing a few face-framing pieces to escape. Finish the look with a light application of texturizing spray or dry shampoo to enhance the messy texture and provide additional hold without sacrificing movement. This versatile style transitions seamlessly from casual weekend brunches to formal evening events with minimal adjustments.
Shaggy Bangs and Layers for All Lengths
Messy hairstyles with shaggy bangs and layers work beautifully across all hair lengths, creating that coveted “perfectly imperfect” look. These cuts add volume, texture, and movement while requiring minimal styling effort for maximum impact.
Styling Curtain Bangs for a Messy Look
Curtain bangs offer an effortless addition to any messy hairstyle, framing the face with a relaxed vibe that’s both flattering and low-maintenance. Allow these bangs to fall naturally on either side of your face to enhance their carefree appearance. Use your fingers to gently tousle them rather than a brush for that lived-in texture that defines the messy aesthetic. A small amount of styling product can enhance the natural movement of your curtain bangs without weighing them down. The key to perfect messy curtain bangs lies in embracing their natural tendency to part in the middle while maintaining a bit of volume at the roots. For an extra dimension of messiness, try twisting small sections while they’re damp and allowing them to air dry for added texture.
Maintaining Shaggy Layers Between Cuts
Volumizing shampoo and conditioner create the perfect foundation for maintaining shaggy layers, especially for those with fine or straight hair that needs additional lift. Light hold styling products help define and enhance your layers without creating stiffness or an overly “done” appearance. Air-drying your hair preserves the natural texture that makes shaggy layers look their best, avoiding the sleek finish that heat styling often creates. Women can use a diffuser attachment when blow-drying to maintain texture while adding volume to their shaggy layers. Occasional use of a teasing comb at the roots keeps layers looking full and prevents them from falling flat between salon visits. Men can achieve textured, messy layers with pomade or texturizing spray applied to slightly damp hair and styled with fingers instead of combs. The beauty of shaggy layers lies in their adaptability—they can be styled differently each day by simply changing how you tousle or part your hair. Refreshing your layers between washes with dry shampoo adds texture while absorbing excess oil that might weigh down your messy style.
Textured Ponytails with Volume
Textured ponytails offer the perfect balance between polish and effortless style, creating dimension that flat, sleek ponytails simply can’t match. We love how this versatile style works for everything from workout sessions to elegant evenings out.
Creating the Perfect Messy Ponytail Height
The height of your ponytail dramatically impacts the overall vibe of your messy style. For a casual, relaxed look, position your ponytail lower at the nape of your neck where it creates an effortless weekend aesthetic. Mid-height ponytails strike the perfect balance between polished and undone, making them ideal for office-to-evening transitions. Start with two or three-day old hair to achieve optimal texture and grip that fresh hair simply can’t provide. Secure your ponytail with a non-rubberized hair tie to prevent excessive sleekness and encourage that coveted undone appearance. Try creating a messy top knot by pulling the upper section of your hair into a bun, securing it, then carefully loosening it with your fingers or a teasing comb for added volume.
Adding Texture to Sleek Ponytails
Transform an ordinary sleek ponytail into a textured masterpiece with a few simple techniques. Apply texturizing spray or powder throughout your hair before styling to build instant volume and grip that creates the foundation for messy perfection. After securing your ponytail, gently tug on selected strands to create deliberate looseness and that coveted lived-in appearance. Use the thin end of a teasing comb or your fingers to pull out small sections of hair from the ponytail, instantly adding dimension and that perfectly imperfect quality. Frame your face by pulling out a few strategic strands or bangs around your temples and cheeks to enhance the casual, windswept effect. Layered haircuts particularly enhance textured ponytails since they naturally create different lengths that contribute to the undone aesthetic without additional styling.
Undone Curly Styles for Natural Hair
Natural curly hair offers the perfect foundation for creating effortlessly messy styles that celebrate texture while maintaining a polished appearance. Working with your natural curl pattern rather than against it allows for stunning, low-maintenance looks that embrace your hair’s unique personality.
Improving Natural Curl Pattern for Messy Looks
Achieving that perfectly imperfect messy curl style starts with proper hair care fundamentals. Sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners are essential for maintaining your curls’ natural moisture balance, creating the ideal foundation for defined yet tousled styles. After washing, apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream throughout damp hair, gently scrunching upward to encourage curl formation and even product distribution. Diffusing your hair on a low heat setting helps define curls while minimizing frizz, though air-drying works wonderfully for those seeking an even more natural finish. Avoid over-manipulating your curls as excessive touching leads to frizz and disrupts your natural pattern. For added volume and texture, try gently shaking your roots once your hair is completely dry – this creates that coveted undone look while maintaining definition where you want it.
Products for Defined yet Messy Curls
Finding the right products makes all the difference when creating messy curly styles that maintain definition. Curl activators and enhancers serve as excellent starting products, reviving natural curl patterns without weighing hair down or creating an overly styled appearance. Light-hold styling products such as curl creams, lightweight gels, or volumizing mousses provide just enough control to define curls while preserving movement and bounce. Texturizing sprays add dimension and body to curly styles, improving the natural messy texture by creating separation between curls for that perfectly undone finish. Leave-in conditioners play a dual role by moisturizing curls and creating a protective barrier that keeps hair healthy while maintaining its tousled appearance throughout the day. When applying these products, focus on distributing them evenly with your fingers rather than brushes or combs to preserve your natural curl pattern and enhance the effortlessly messy aesthetic.
Messy Side-Swept Styles for Medium Lengths
Medium-length hair offers the perfect canvas for creating effortlessly chic, side-swept messy styles. The tousled, layered bob stands out as a particular favorite for those seeking a low-maintenance yet sophisticated look that exudes casual confidence.
Creating Volume at the Crown
Volume at the crown transforms any messy side-swept style from flat to fabulous. Texturizing spray or powder should be your go-to products for adding instant lift and dimension at the roots, creating that coveted height that gives even the finest hair beautiful structure and movement. Men and women alike benefit from using volumizing or thickening shampoo and conditioner before styling, especially those with naturally straight, fine, or flat hair that needs extra body. For a quick volume boost, try blow-drying your hair upside down, directing heat at the roots while using your fingers instead of a brush to maintain that perfectly undone texture.
Keeping Side-Swept Styles in Place
Side-swept styles require a delicate balance of hold without heaviness to maintain their effortless appeal. Light styling products are essential for creating texture while preventing the dreaded weighted-down effect that can flatten your carefully crafted volume. A small amount of styling wax or pomade applied with fingertips gives just enough hold while preserving the natural, tousled appearance that makes these styles so appealing. Finishing with a light-hold hairspray helps lock in both volume and texture without creating stiffness, allowing your hair to move naturally throughout the day. For heart-shaped faces, a side part works particularly well as it softens the forehead area and creates a beautifully flattering silhouette while maintaining that casual, undone vibe.
Disheveled Crop Cuts for Short Hair
Short hair offers incredible versatility when it comes to creating those perfectly imperfect messy styles. The disheveled crop cut has become increasingly popular for its edgy yet effortless appearance that works beautifully for all genders.
Texturizing Products for Short Crops
Texturizing products form the backbone of any successful messy short hairstyle. Wax, light pomade, and texturizing sprays are essential tools that add structure and volume without creating an overly polished look. Men with straight, fine, or flat hair should consider incorporating volumizing or thickening shampoo and conditioner into their routine to create the foundation for textured styles. These specialized products build body and give hair the necessary lift for achieving that coveted tousled appearance. Applying just a small amount of product can dramatically transform short crops from ordinary to extraordinarily stylish with minimal effort.
Daily Styling Routine for Messy Crops
Creating the perfect disheveled crop starts with applying a small amount of wax or pomade to damp hair. Blow-dry while simultaneously tousling different sections in opposing directions to create a chaotic yet controlled texture. Finger styling plays a crucial role in achieving the messy look—simply run your hands through your hair instead of using a comb to maintain natural texture and prevent sleekness. For a more ever-changing appearance, try curling sections with a straightener but leave the ends untouched, then break up the curls with your fingers for an effortlessly cool vibe. This technique creates dimension and movement that looks deliberately undone. Adding more product to the ends can help define exact sections for a more distinct textured finish.
Voluminous Messy Blowouts for All Hair Types
The beauty of voluminous messy blowouts lies in their versatility—they work wonderfully for all hair lengths and types. Whether you have short pixie cuts, medium-length lobs, or long flowing locks, this effortlessly chic style adapts to straight, curly, thick, or fine hair with equal impact.
Creating Volume Without Excessive Heat
Achieving gorgeous volume doesn’t require damaging heat tools. Start with volumizing or thickening shampoos and conditioners to build a foundation for lift, especially if you have naturally straight or fine hair. Apply root lifters directly to damp roots before styling to create instant volume at the base. Texturizing sprays work brilliantly for adding body throughout the lengths without weighing hair down.
For a heat-free approach, try air-drying your hair with strategic product placement—apply volumizing mousse to roots and mid-lengths, then gently scrunch upward. Using a diffuser on a cool setting helps maintain natural texture while boosting volume without excessive heat damage. Flip your head upside down during the drying process to encourage maximum lift at the roots. Remember that working with your hair’s natural pattern rather than against it creates the most authentic messy volume.
Maintaining a Messy Blowout for Days
Day-old hair actually holds messy styles better than freshly washed locks. Second or third-day hair provides natural texture and grip that helps maintain the voluminous messy look longer. Touch up your blowout each morning by focusing only on the roots—a quick blast of dry shampoo absorbs excess oil while adding texture and lift.
Light-hold styling products extend the life of your messy blowout significantly. Apply pomades or styling creams sparingly to refresh ends and define pieces without creating heaviness. Strategic use of texturizing spray on day two or three instantly revives flat sections without requiring a complete restyle. For quick transformations when your blowout starts to fall, gather hair into a messy ponytail or loose bun, then pull out face-framing pieces for that deliberately undone effect.
Regular touch-ups with these techniques ensure your voluminous messy blowout remains stylishly disheveled rather than simply unkempt, giving you maximum wear from minimal styling effort.
Conclusion: Embracing Imperfection in Your Daily Hair Routine
Messy hairstyles aren’t just a trend – they’re a celebration of natural beauty and personal style. We’ve explored various options that work for all hair types and lengths proving that “perfectly imperfect” is more than just a catchy phrase.
Whether you’re sporting a disheveled crop cut short-term commitment or embracing your natural curls for the long haul these styles offer that coveted balance between effort and effortlessness.
Remember the beauty of these messy styles lies in their adaptability. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products textures and techniques to find your signature tousled look. After all the most stunning hairstyles are often the ones that appear delightfully unplanned.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are messy hairstyles and why are they popular?
Messy hairstyles combine effortless chicness with a carefree vibe, creating looks that appear stylishly undone. They’ve gained popularity because they’re quick to create, work for various hair lengths, and embrace the beauty of imperfection. These styles offer a lived-in, relaxed aesthetic that doesn’t require precision styling while still looking intentional and fashionable.
How do I create beach waves without using heat?
Create beach waves without heat by applying texturizing products to damp hair, then dividing it into sections. Twist each section away from your face and allow to air dry completely. Once dry, gently unravel the twists and scrunch your hair with your fingers. Finish with sea salt spray for added texture and that “just left the ocean” look.
What is a Bedhead Bob and who does it suit?
The Bedhead Bob is a versatile, layered short-to-medium length haircut designed to look perfectly undone with minimal maintenance. It features strategic layers that create volume and movement. This style suits most face shapes and hair textures, especially those looking for a low-maintenance cut that still offers style impact. It works particularly well for those with some natural texture.
What products do I need for creating messy hairstyles?
Essential products for messy hairstyles include texturizing spray for grip and volume, dry shampoo for added texture, sea salt spray for beachy waves, light-hold styling cream for definition without stiffness, and a light-hold hairspray to maintain the look. Choose products based on your hair type—lighter formulas for fine hair and more moisturizing options for thick or curly hair.
How do I create a high messy bun?
To create a high messy bun, gather your hair into a high ponytail, secure with an elastic, twist the ponytail loosely around the base, and secure with bobby pins. Pull a few pieces loose around your face for a softer look. Don’t worry about perfection—the charm lies in the casual, undone appearance. For extra volume, gently tug at sections of the bun.
What are lived-in layered cuts and how do they enhance messy styling?
Lived-in layered cuts are long hairstyles with strategically placed layers that add movement and dimension. These layers enhance messy styling by distributing weight evenly throughout the hair, creating natural texture and a tousled pattern that requires minimal effort. The varied lengths work together to create a carefree, “I woke up like this” aesthetic that maintains its shape even when styled minimally.
How do I achieve a Half-Up Messy Top Knot?
For a Half-Up Messy Top Knot, gather the top section of your hair (from temples up), twist it loosely, and secure with pins or a small elastic. For fine hair, tease the section first for volume. Pull a few strands loose for that “perfectly imperfect” look. Second-day hair works best, or use texturizing spray on clean hair. Finish with light-hold hairspray.
What’s the best way to style a messy lob (long bob)?
Style a messy lob by applying sea salt spray to damp hair and rough-drying with fingers for texture. Once dry, use a texturizing spray at the roots and mid-lengths. Style with fingers rather than brushes to maintain the undone look. For extra volume, use a diffuser or lightly tease at the crown. The key is creating texture while maintaining movement.
How do I create a messy braided updo?
For a messy braided updo, start with day-old hair or add texturizing spray for grip. Create a loose braid (French, Dutch, or fishtail) and secure with an elastic. Gently pull apart the braid to add volume and texture. Wrap and pin the braid into an updo shape, allowing some pieces to fall naturally. Secure with bobby pins and finish with light-hold hairspray.
What are shaggy bangs and how do I style them?
Shaggy bangs are textured, piece-y fringe that blend seamlessly with layered cuts. They add movement and frame the face while requiring minimal styling. To style, apply a small amount of texturizing product to damp bangs, then use your fingers to shape them as they air dry. Avoid over-styling—the beauty is in their natural, lived-in texture and effortless fall.
How can I add texture to a sleek ponytail?
Transform a sleek ponytail by teasing the crown before securing, then spraying texturizing product throughout the length. After creating the ponytail, gently tug at sections to loosen and create volume. Pull a few face-framing pieces loose for softness. For extra texture, wrap a small section of hair around the elastic and secure with a bobby pin underneath.
How do I maintain defined yet messy curls for natural hair?
Maintain defined yet messy curly styles by using sulfate-free shampoo and hydrating conditioners. Apply leave-in conditioner and curl activator to damp hair, then air dry or diffuse on low heat. For a messier look, gently separate curls with fingers once dry. Refresh with water and leave-in conditioner mix between washes. Use light-hold products to avoid weighing down curls.
What’s the best way to style a messy side-swept bob?
Style a messy side-swept bob by creating a deep side part while hair is damp. Apply texturizing spray at the roots and blow-dry, lifting at the crown for volume. Once dry, use fingers to tousle the hair, and apply a light styling cream or paste to define pieces. The side-swept orientation creates natural volume and a flattering frame for most face shapes.
How do I style a disheveled crop cut?
Style a disheveled crop cut by applying texturizing product to damp hair. Blow-dry while tousling with fingers to create natural movement. For added texture, use a small amount of pomade or wax, focusing on the ends and pieces you want to emphasize. The key is using minimal product and letting your natural texture show through for that effortlessly messy look.
How can I create a voluminous messy blowout that lasts?
Create a lasting voluminous messy blowout by applying volumizing mousse to damp roots, then rough-drying upside down for maximum lift. Once 80% dry, use a round brush to add direction without creating perfect curls. Finish with texturizing spray at the roots and mid-lengths. Preserve the style overnight by loosely gathering hair in a top knot and refreshing with dry shampoo.
