The messy bun is a hairstyle hero, a quick fix for busy mornings and a symbol of effortless style. But did you know its placement can completely change your look? The choice between a high bun and a low bun is about more than convenience.
The High Bun: Youthful and Energetic
A high messy
bun, often called a top knot, sits at the crown of your head and radiates a playful, energetic vibe. It’s a style that suggests confidence and a carefree attitude, perfect for a weekend outing, a creative meeting, or a day when you simply want to feel fresh and dynamic. Because it pulls the hair up and away from the face, it can create a lifting effect that accentuates your cheekbones and eyes. While it looks effortless, achieving that perfect balance of messy and secure can be an art form. The high bun is often seen as more casual and can sometimes feel youthful, making it a go-to for a relaxed yet intentional look.
How to Create the Perfect High Bun
The key to a great high bun is often starting with second-day hair, which has more texture and grip. Begin by flipping your head upside down and gathering your hair into a high ponytail on top of your head, using your fingers instead of a brush to maintain a natural, bumpy texture. Secure the ponytail with a hair tie. On the last loop of the elastic, don't pull the ponytail all the way through; instead, create a looped bun, leaving the ends out. You can then take the loose ends, cross them over the front of the bun's base, and pin them at the back. Gently tug at the bun to add volume and pull out a few face-framing tendrils to soften the look. A spritz of texturizing spray can give fine hair the extra hold and volume it needs.
The Low Bun: Elegant and Sophisticated
In contrast, the low messy bun, positioned at the nape of your neck, offers a completely different aesthetic. This style is often perceived as more elegant, sophisticated, and mature. It's a versatile choice that can feel chic and put-together enough for the office, a dinner date, or even a formal event like a wedding. The low bun provides a softer, more romantic look, especially when a few strands are left loose to frame the face. It suggests a calm and composed demeanor, making it the perfect hairstyle when you want to look polished without appearing too severe. Unlike its high-perched counterpart, the low bun is often seen as more conservative and timeless.
Crafting an Effortlessly Chic Low Bun
Creating a low messy bun is just as simple. Start by gathering your hair into a loose, low ponytail at the nape of your neck. You can either twist the entire ponytail and coil it around the elastic, securing it with bobby pins, or use the loop method. For the loop method, pull the ponytail only halfway through the elastic on the final wrap to create a bun. Then, you can wrap the remaining ends around the base to conceal the hair tie and pin them in place. To achieve the 'messy' element, gently pull on the sides of the bun to fan it out and loosen a few strands around your face and neck. This style works well even on shorter hair that can't be pulled into a high bun.
When to Choose Which Bun
Deciding between a high and low bun often comes down to the occasion and the overall vibe you want to project. A high bun is your best friend for active days, casual social events, or when you’re rocking a fun, trendy outfit. It’s the hairstyle equivalent of your favorite pair of sneakers—comfortable, reliable, and full of personality. The low bun, on the other hand, is like a classic blazer. It’s perfect for professional settings, romantic evenings, and any time you want to add a touch of understated elegance to your look. It pairs beautifully with more sophisticated attire and can make you feel instantly more put together with minimal effort.
