Looking for a stylish yet effortless hairstyle that works for any occasion? Messy updos for long hair are the perfect solution! We’ve rounded up the most stunning disheveled styles that strike that delicate balance between elegance and casual charm.
These versatile updos don’t require salon-perfect precision—that’s what makes them so appealing. Whether you’re heading to a formal event, a casual brunch, or just need to look put-together on a busy day, a strategically “undone” updo can elevate your look while saving you precious styling time. The best part? These styles actually work better with second-day hair and a little texture, making them ideal for those of us with lengthy locks.
10 Effortless Messy Updos for Long Hair
1. The Twisted Messy Bun
The twisted messy bun offers a perfect balance between elegance and effortlessness. Start by gathering your hair at the crown of your head and loosely twist it around itself to form a bun. Secure with bobby pins, allowing some strands to fall naturally around your face. This style works beautifully for dinner dates or weekend brunches while maintaining that coveted undone look.
2. Textured Low Knot
A textured low knot provides sophisticated charm with minimal effort. Begin by creating waves throughout your hair using a wide-barrel curling iron. Pull your locks back into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around its base, pinning as you go. Gently tug at sections to create volume and that desirable lived-in appearance.
3. Half-Up Twisted Crown
The half-up twisted crown combines the best of both worlds—hair up and down. Take two sections of hair from each side of your face and twist them away from your face. Bring the twisted sections to the back of your head and secure with bobby pins. Pull a few pieces loose for that perfectly imperfect finish that transitions effortlessly from day to night.
4. Topknot with Face-Framing Tendrils
Topknots with face-framing tendrils create a flattering frame for your features. Gather your hair into a high ponytail on the crown of your head. Twist the ponytail until it begins to coil around itself, then wrap it into a bun shape. Secure with pins and gently pull out a few strands around your face to soften the look and add romantic appeal.
5. Braided Updo with Volume
Braided updos with volume combine texture and dimension for eye-catching results. Create a loose Dutch or French braid starting from the crown and working toward the nape. Once at the nape, twist the remaining hair into a loose bun and secure. Carefully pull at the braid to add volume, then spritz with texturizing spray for added hold and movement.
6. Messy Side Chignon
Messy side chignons offer asymmetrical elegance that’s perfect for special occasions. Sweep all your hair to one side and create a low ponytail behind your ear. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the hair tie, securing with pins as you go. Loosen sections throughout for dimension and spray lightly with flexible-hold hairspray to maintain the style without stiffness.
7. Pineapple Updo with Curls
Pineapple updos showcase and protect natural curls while looking stylishly undone. Flip your head upside down and gather your curls high on top of your head. Secure with a scrunchie, allowing your curls to cascade around like a fountain. This protective style works wonderfully for sleeping or casual outings while preserving your curl pattern and adding height.
8. Knotted Ponytail Bun
Knotted ponytail buns transform the classic ponytail into something special with minimal effort. Create a mid-height ponytail and split it into two sections. Tie these sections into a simple knot, then wrap the ends around and secure with pins. Tease the crown slightly before styling for added volume and that perfectly undone appearance.
9. Gibson Tuck with Texture
Gibson tucks with texture offer vintage-inspired elegance with modern messiness. Begin with tousled hair and create a low ponytail at the nape. Roll the ponytail upward, tucking the ends underneath to form a roll against your head. Secure with pins throughout and pull pieces loose for texture. This versatile style works for everything from office days to weekend weddings.
10. Loose French Twist
Loose French twists update a classic updo with modern, relaxed appeal. Gather your hair at the back of your head as if creating a ponytail. Twist the hair upward along your head, tucking the ends in and securing with pins as you go. The key is to keep it deliberately imperfect, with wisps of hair escaping throughout for that coveted lived-in look that appears effortless yet intentional.
Essential Tools and Products for Creating the Perfect Messy Updo
Creating that perfectly undone look requires the right arsenal of tools and products. We’ve compiled everything you need to achieve stunning messy updos for your long locks.
Essential Tools
Curling Iron or Straightener serves as the foundation for adding texture and volume to your hair. Alternate between curling towards and away from your face to create more dimension and textured waves.
Wide Tooth Comb helps gently work through your curls after they’ve cooled, creating beautiful movement throughout your hair without destroying the curl pattern.
Bobby Pins play a crucial role in securing various sections of your updo, ensuring everything stays perfectly in place throughout the day or night.
Hair Texturizing Products That Create Volume
Hairspray works wonders when lightly applied to sections before curling, helping to set the curls and add lasting volume. Spray it on finished curls to rough them up for that effortless, lived-in appearance.
Texture Spray adds essential grip and volume, particularly when applied to the crown area. This product creates the perfect base for your updo by providing the necessary texture for pins to hold securely.
Must-Have Hair Accessories for Securing Your Updo
Bobby Pins remain the most essential accessory for securing twisted sections to your head without becoming visible. Choose pins that match your hair color for a seamless look.
Hair Ties or Elastic Bands offer the support needed to gather your hair into a ponytail before twisting and securing it into your chosen updo style.
Hairpins provide additional security for more elaborate or voluminous updos. These longer pins anchor twists more firmly and can secure any stubborn stray strands that escape your style.
The Classic Messy Bun: A Timeless Favorite for Long Locks
The classic messy bun stands as one of the most versatile and beloved hairstyles for those with long locks. This effortless updo combines texture and volume to create that perfectly undone look that works for virtually any occasion.
Step-by-Step Tutorial for the Perfect Messy Bun
- Curl Your Hair
Start by curling sections of your hair, alternating the direction of each curl to build maximum texture and volume. You can use either a curling iron or straightener depending on your preference and what you have available.
- Prepare the Top Section
Separate your bangs and any face-framing pieces you want to keep out of the bun. Bobby pin these sections temporarily to keep them out of the way while you work on the rest of your hair.
- Rough Up the Curls
Once all your hair is curled, gently tousle the curls with your fingers to create that relaxed, lived-in appearance. Adding a light mist of texture spray at this stage helps maintain the messy texture throughout the day.
- Create a Ponytail
Gather all your hair into a ponytail at your desired height. Use your fingers instead of a brush to maintain texture, being careful not to smooth the hair too much as you want to preserve that messy quality.
- Twist and Wrap
Divide your ponytail into two equal sections for more control. Loosely twist one section clockwise, then wrap it counterclockwise around the base of your ponytail. Secure with bobby pins, then repeat the same process with the second section, wrapping it in the opposite direction.
- Add Volume and Movement
Finish by gently pinching and pulling small sections of hair around the crown to create additional volume and that perfectly imperfect look. This technique instantly transforms a tight bun into a softer, more romantic style.
Variations to Customize Your Messy Bun
Low vs. High Bun
Position your bun based on the occasion—a low messy bun creates an elegant look perfect for weddings and formal events, while a high messy bun offers a more casual, playful vibe ideal for everyday wear.
Adding Bangs
Your bangs can dramatically change the overall appearance of your messy bun. Incorporate them into the bun for a sleek finish, or leave them out to frame your face and add dimension to the style.
Different Curl Directions
Experiment with curl patterns to achieve various effects. Curling all sections away from your face creates a more uniform, polished look, while alternating directions produces extra texture and volume for that truly messy aesthetic.
Accessories
Elevate your messy bun with strategically placed accessories. Decorative hairpins, embellished hair ties, or even a delicate hairpiece can transform a simple messy bun into a statement-making style.
Texture and Volume Products
Apply the right products to enhance your messy bun’s staying power. Texture sprays create grip and definition, while volumizing products applied at the roots before styling help achieve that coveted lifted crown that makes messy buns so flattering.
Romantic Messy Braided Updos for Special Occasions
Braided updos add an extra dimension of elegance to messy hairstyles, making them perfect for weddings, proms, and formal celebrations. These intricate yet seemingly effortless styles combine the romantic appeal of braids with the fashionable undone look that’s so popular for special events.
The Braided Crown Updo with Loose Tendrils
Creating a braided crown updo starts with proper sectioning of your hair. First, separate the top portion from your part down to the tops of your ears, keeping this section aside temporarily. Smooth back the crown area gently while maintaining volume, then gather the remaining hair into a low ponytail to create a solid foundation for your updo. Take the sectioned-off hair and transform it into a loose braid—either a fishtail or traditional braid works beautifully depending on your preference. Wrap this braided section around your crown area, carefully tucking the ends beneath the rest of your hair to conceal them. Pulling out a few face-framing tendrils adds the romantic, soft touch that makes this style particularly stunning for special occasions. Bobby pins should be inserted strategically to secure the braid while maintaining the relaxed aesthetic.
Messy Fishtail Braid Updo Tutorial
Preparing your hair properly lays the groundwork for a gorgeous fishtail braid updo. Begin by curling your entire head of hair to introduce texture and volume throughout, which creates the perfect canvas for this romantic style. Separate a section from the crown area and divide it into two equal portions to initiate your fishtail technique. Start the fishtail by taking small pieces from the outer edge of one section, crossing them over to join the opposite section. Continue this pattern down the length of your hair, intentionally keeping the braid loose rather than tight to achieve that desirable messy appearance. Once you’ve braided to your desired length, secure with a small elastic band to maintain the structure. Gather all your hair, including the braided section, into a low ponytail or bun position at the nape of your neck. Enhance the volume by gently pinching and pulling small sections around the crown, creating that coveted lived-in texture and movement. Wrap the fishtail braid artfully around your ponytail or bun base, securing with bobby pins as you go. Frame your face by freeing a few strands around your hairline, amplifying the romantic, effortless vibe. Finish with a light misting of hairspray to ensure your masterpiece stays intact throughout your special event without looking stiff or overdone.
Trendy Twisted Messy Updos for Long Hair
Building on our previous messy updo styles, twisted variations offer a unique blend of structure and casual elegance that’s perfect for long hair. These twisted styles combine the romantic appeal of braids with the effortless charm of messy updos.
Rose-Shaped Braided Bun and Twisted Chignon
The rose-shaped braided bun creates a romantic and elegant look that’s surprisingly simple to achieve. Start with a ponytail, then create a loose braid and wrap it into a circular bun. Gently pull at sections of the braid to form petal-like shapes, securing each part with bobby pins for that beautiful rose effect.
For a more sophisticated option, try the messy twisted chignon. This style cleverly combines boho messiness with structured elegance by forming two loose twists and securing them into a large, textured chignon at the nape of your neck. We love how this style works for both casual brunches and formal events.
The Twisted Low Bun for Everyday Elegance
The twisted low bun offers versatility and ease that makes it perfect for daily wear. Begin by dividing your hair into two equal sections. Create two twists working from front to back on each side of your head. Secure both twists at the nape of your neck with a clear elastic band. Continue twisting the remaining length into two separate buns and pin them in place with bobby pins. This style balances casual charm with polished elegance, making it suitable for everything from office meetings to weekend outings.
Half-Up Twisted Messy Styles for Casual Outings
Half-up twisted styles provide the perfect blend of structure and freedom for casual events. Gather the top half of your hair into a mid-high ponytail as your foundation. Divide this ponytail in half, then split each of those sections in half again. Twist these smaller sections around each other to create loose, textured twists before securing with a clear elastic band.
Apply texture spray throughout for enhanced volume and dimension. Pinch and pull at the twists to create that perfectly imperfect messy look. Wrap these loose twists around each other to form one substantial twist, then coil it around the elastic band of your original ponytail. Secure everything with bobby pins, gently tugging at sections of the bun for additional volume and that coveted undone appearance. This style works beautifully for brunches, shopping trips, or casual dinners when you want to look put-together without appearing too formal.
Red Carpet-Inspired Messy Updos for Formal Events
Formal events call for hairstyles that balance elegance with effortlessness, and messy updos deliver exactly that. Let’s explore some red carpet-worthy styles that’ll make you look like you just stepped off the runway.
The Messy Bun stands out as a celebrity favorite, regularly spotted on stars like Zendaya and Gigi Hadid. Start by pulling your hair into a high ponytail, then tease the crown for added volume. Twist and wrap your hair loosely into a bun, securing with bobby pins. For that truly effortless vibe, gently pull out a few face-framing pieces to soften your look.
Adding texture and volume elevates the classic messy bun to red carpet status. Apply a wave-improving hairspray to damp hair for a relaxed summer-inspired look that works surprisingly well for formal occasions. Finish with a light hold hairspray for a sleek yet undone appearance.
Complete your red carpet updo with finishing touches that add polish without looking too perfect. Small hairpins, delicate hair slides, or even subtle hair jewelry can transform a simple messy style into something truly special for your formal event.
Celebrity-Inspired Messy Chignons
The Loose Chignon offers versatility and elegance perfect for any formal occasion. Create this look by forming a low ponytail, then twisting your hair into a bun at the nape of your neck and securing with bobby pins. Mist lightly with hairspray for a smooth finish while maintaining that effortless appeal. Pull out a few strands around your face for the perfect amount of “mess” that keeps the style looking modern.
Textured Chignons take the classic style up a notch by incorporating volume at the crown. Tease your hair before twisting it into the bun to create ever-changing texture throughout. This technique adds dimension to the traditional chignon, making it perfect for formal events where you want to stand out without looking overdone.
Elegant Messy Updos with Statement Accessories
Hair Jewelry instantly transforms any messy updo into an event-worthy style. Position decorative clips, slides, or small hairpins strategically to secure loose strands while adding elegant visual interest. These accessories serve both functional and decorative purposes, elevating your messy updo from casual to sophisticated.
Headbands offer a simple yet effective way to dress up messy buns or chignons. Choose delicate designs that complement your outfit’s color and style for a coordinated formal look. The contrast between the structured headband and textured updo creates a balanced style that’s perfect for special occasions.
Bobby Pins with decorations provide a subtle way to add flair to your formal updo. Select pins with embellished ends or decorative elements that peek through your hairstyle. These small details catch the light and add dimension to your updo while helping maintain its structure throughout your event.
Beach-Ready Messy Updos for Summer Days
Looking for effortless hairstyles that can withstand summer heat while keeping you stylish? These beach-ready messy updos are perfect for long hair during those hot summer days when you want to look put-together without spending hours on styling.
The Classic Messy Bun
The messy bun remains a timeless summer favorite that’s incredibly easy to create. Start by gathering your long hair into a mid-high ponytail position. Divide this ponytail into two equal sections and twist them around each other to create texture. Secure the twisted hair with a clear elastic band for stability. Wrap these twisted sections around the base of your ponytail, carefully tucking the ends underneath to create a rounded shape. Bobby pins will help secure everything in place. Gently pull on the edges of your bun to create that coveted messy, effortless appearance that’s perfect for beach days.
Messy Low Buns
Low buns offer a cooler alternative for scorching summer temperatures. Begin by pulling your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Twist the entire ponytail and wrap it around its base to form a circular bun shape. Secure with several bobby pins, placing them in different directions for maximum hold. The key to achieving the perfect summer messy look is to pull gently on the bun’s edges after securing it. This technique instantly creates that relaxed, undone aesthetic that works beautifully for beach outings or casual summer gatherings.
The Messy Top Knot with Textured Waves
The messy top knot elevates your summer style with its height and texture. Create this look by first gathering all your hair into a high ponytail on the crown of your head. Split the ponytail into two sections and twist them together for added dimension. Wrap the twisted hair around the ponytail base to form a knot-like structure. Bobby pins should be inserted strategically to hold everything in place without showing.
Texture plays a crucial role in achieving this summer-ready style. Apply a quality texture spray throughout your hair before styling to add volume and grip that will help maintain the updo in humid conditions. After your top knot is secured, use your fingers to gently pinch and pull small sections apart, creating more volume and that perfectly imperfect messy appearance. This style works excellently for beach days when you want your hair completely off your neck while maintaining a stylish profile.
Pineapple Updo with Curly Hair Variations
The pineapple updo is particularly flattering for those with naturally curly long hair during summer months. Begin this protective style by flipping your head upside down and gathering all your curls toward the top of your head. Form a high, loose ponytail without pulling the hair all the way through the elastic. Allow your natural curls to cascade down in all directions, creating the signature “pineapple” shape that keeps hair off your neck while showcasing your beautiful texture.
Curly hair variations can enhance this summer style even further. Apply a curl-defining product before styling to keep your natural texture frizz-free even though humidity. When creating your pineapple updo, consider loosely twisting and wrapping some of the curls around the base for added dimension. Use bobby pins to strategically secure any wayward curls while maintaining their natural shape and bounce. This approach creates a customized, beach-ready look that celebrates your natural texture while keeping you cool during those hot summer days.
Quick and Easy 5-Minute Messy Updos for Busy Mornings
Mornings can be hectic, but your hairstyle doesn’t have to suffer. These quick messy updos take just minutes to create while giving your long hair that effortlessly chic look.
The Classic Messy Bun
Start by curling your hair to add texture and volume using either a straightener or curling iron. Don’t worry about creating perfect curls—the messier, the better for this style. Gather your hair into a ponytail, roughing it up with your fingers to maintain that perfectly undone look. Wrap the ponytail around the elastic band, securing it with bobby pins for stability. Finally, pinch and pull sections of the bun gently to create more volume and achieve that coveted messy effect.
For a quicker version, try the 2-minute messy bun by gathering your hair into a ponytail, wrapping it around the elastic band, and tucking the ends underneath. Secure everything with bobby pins and adjust by gently pulling sections to create your desired level of messiness.
The Messy Ponytail with a Twist
Adding texture is key to elevating this simple style. Curl your hair beforehand to create dimension, though you can skip this step if you’re truly pressed for time. Separate your bangs and any face-framing pieces you want to keep out, bobby pinning them temporarily while you curl the rest of your hair.
Create your ponytail at whatever height feels most comfortable, then add the twist that makes this style special. Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic band to conceal it. Secure this wrapped section with bobby pins for a polished yet effortless look that appears more intentional than a standard ponytail.
Simple Messy Half-Up Styles for On-the-Go
The half-up messy bun offers versatility while keeping hair off your face. Gather the top half of your hair into a ponytail, then wrap it around the elastic band to form a bun. Secure with bobby pins and gently tug at sections to add volume and that coveted messy texture.
For an even quicker option, try the effortless half-up style by simply taking the top section of your hair and securing it with a small elastic band. Leave a few strands loose around your face for that relaxed, frame-improving effect. Spritz some texture spray or hairspray to maintain the style throughout your busy day without losing that carefree vibe that makes messy updos so appealing.
How to Make Your Messy Updo Last All Day Long
Creating a gorgeous messy updo is only half the battle—making it last through your busy day is equally important. We’ve gathered the most effective techniques to ensure your perfectly undone style stays put from morning until night.
Setting Techniques for Long-Lasting Results
Ponytail and Twist Method
Start by gathering your hair into a mid-high ponytail for a secure base. Divide this ponytail in half, then split each half into two sections for structure. Twist these sections around each other to create loose, textured twists that won’t easily fall out. Secure each twist with a clear elastic band to maintain the shape without visible hair ties.
Bun and Plait Method
Begin with a sturdy ponytail, then create a loose plait for added texture and grip. Wrap this plait into a bun shape, securing it with bobby pins positioned in crossing patterns for maximum hold. Gently pull at sections of the braid to create petal-like pieces that add to the messy aesthetic while maintaining structure.
Twisted Bun Technique
Separate your hair into two equal sections for balance and visual interest. Twist each side from front to back, creating tension that helps the style stay in place. Secure both sections at the nape of your neck, then continue twisting the lengths into two symmetrical buns. This dual-bun approach distributes weight evenly, preventing the updo from collapsing.
Setting Spray Strategy
Apply texture spray throughout your hair before styling to create grip and volume. After completing your twists or braids, use a light-hold hairspray to set the style without creating stiffness. This two-step approach creates the perfect balance between flexibility and staying power.
Touch-Up Tips for Refreshing Your Messy Updo
Pinching and Pulling Method
Maintain the desirable messy volume throughout the day by periodically pinching and pulling apart sections of your twists or buns. This technique prevents the updo from settling into an overly neat style and reinforces the effortless appearance we’re aiming for.
Strategic Bobby Pin Placement
Keep a few extra bobby pins in your bag for quick fixes to any falling sections. Insert pins with the wavy side facing down against your scalp for maximum grip. Tuck the ends discreetly into your updo to avoid visible pin marks while maintaining the structure.
Hair Serum Application
Apply a small amount of hair serum or oil to your fingertips, then lightly run them over any frizzy areas or flyaways. This tames unruly sections without flattening the intentional messiness of your updo, creating a polished yet undone finish.
Quick Adjustment Techniques
For on-the-go touch-ups, gently tug on the edges of your bun or twists to slightly loosen them. This maintains the relaxed, undone appearance that makes messy updos so appealing while ensuring the style doesn’t become disheveled. Focus on the front and sides that frame your face for the most noticeable impact.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating Messy Updos for Long Hair
Messy updos for long hair offer that perfect balance of elegance and effortlessness that we all crave. With the styles we’ve explored you can transform your long locks into stunning updos for any occasion without hours in front of the mirror.
Remember that the beauty of these styles lies in their imperfection. Embrace the loose strands and textured elements that make each updo uniquely yours. Whether you’re heading to the beach preparing for a formal event or just tackling a busy morning these versatile styles have you covered.
Armed with the right tools techniques and a little practice you’ll master the art of the perfectly imperfect updo. Now go ahead and give your long hair the stylish yet carefree treatment it deserves!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes messy updos appealing for long hair?
Messy updos are appealing because they combine stylish sophistication with an effortless vibe. They don’t require perfect precision, making them accessible for everyday styling. These versatile hairstyles work particularly well with second-day hair and added texture, offering a practical solution for those wanting to look polished without spending hours on styling. They’re suitable for both formal events and casual outings.
What tools do I need to create a messy updo?
Essential tools include a curling iron or straightener for adding texture, a wide-tooth comb for gentle styling, and bobby pins for securing your updo. You’ll also need hair texturizing products like hairspray and texture spray to create volume and grip. Don’t forget basic hair accessories such as hair ties and hairpins for securing various sections of your updo.
How do I create a classic messy bun?
Start by curling your hair to add texture. Prepare the top section and rough up the curls. Create a ponytail, then twist and wrap the hair around the base. Secure with bobby pins and add volume by gently pulling sections for a romantic finish. Spray with hairspray to hold. This versatile style works for both casual and formal occasions.
Can messy updos work for formal events?
Absolutely! Messy updos are perfect for formal events like weddings and galas. Red carpet-inspired styles like the Loose Chignon or elevated Messy Bun offer sophistication with an effortless vibe. Add hair jewelry or decorative pins for extra glamour. The key is balancing structure with intentional messiness for a polished yet relaxed appearance that works beautifully for special occasions.
What are some quick messy updos for busy mornings?
For busy mornings, try the 2-minute Classic Messy Bun: gather hair into a ponytail, twist, wrap, and secure with pins. The Messy Ponytail with a Twist involves creating a ponytail, dividing it in half, twisting sections together, and securing. Simple half-up styles take just seconds – pull back top sections, twist, and pin. These styles look intentionally undone while taking minimal time.
How do I make my messy updo last all day?
Use the Ponytail and Twist Method or Bun and Plait Method to secure your base style firmly. Apply setting spray before and after styling. For touch-ups, use the Pinching and Pulling Method to refresh volume and strategic bobby pin placement to secure loose sections. Carry a travel-size hair serum to smooth flyaways throughout the day without compromising the messy aesthetic.
What messy updos work best for summer or beach days?
The Classic Messy Bun and Messy Top Knot are perfect for keeping hair off your neck during hot days. For a cooler option, try the Messy Low Bun positioned at the nape. If you have curly hair, the Pineapple Updo celebrates your natural texture while providing heat relief. These styles withstand humidity and maintain their chic appearance, even during beach activities.
How can I add a romantic touch to messy updos?
Create a Braided Crown Updo by wrapping a loose braid around your head and adding face-framing tendrils. For a statement look, try a Messy Fishtail Braid Updo by creating a loose fishtail braid and wrapping it into a bun. The rose-shaped braided bun offers elegance by forming your braid into a circular pattern. These styles blend structure with soft, romantic details.
Do messy updos work with bangs?
Yes! Messy updos pair beautifully with bangs of all types. Incorporate curtain bangs by letting them frame your face while the rest of your hair is styled up. Straight-across bangs create a striking contrast with the textured updo. Side-swept bangs can be pinned partially back or left loose for a softer look. Bangs add dimension and personalization to any messy updo style.
How do I add texture to my hair for a better messy updo?
Apply texturizing spray to dry hair and scrunch. Use a curling iron to create waves in different directions for natural-looking texture. Backcombing sections at the roots adds volume and grip. Dry shampoo works wonderfully for adding grit to clean hair. For super sleek hair, try braiding damp hair overnight before styling to create natural waves that hold better in updos.
