After many reader requests, I've put together a fun and simple photo how-to for styling a messy bun! It's easier than you think to get a nice high messy bun. Here's how I do it...
How To Style A Messy Bun 1. Depending on how long your hair is you can style the bun on the top of your head, towards the bottom (near your neck) or to the side. My hair is pretty long, so I can style it all three ways. If your hair is shorter, try a lower bun. See below for more variations of the messy bun. 2-3. Tie a ponytail. I love them super high at the top of my head. Be sure to tie your rubber band tight. 4. Use bobby pins to twist and pin pieces of your hair all around the base of the ponytail. This creates a super cute bun! 5. Be sure to use plenty of bobby pins so pieces don't fall out. 6. Arrange and spray! ♥
My messy buns looks a little bit different each time I style one. When my hair is curly or wavy the bun looks more messy and varied. When my hair is flat ironed the bun looks more smooth and circular.
Here are a few examples of fun variations for the messy bun. I love wearing it on the side of my head or down low for a different look. Have fun experimenting! XO, elsie




can't wait to try that!
Posted by: strawberry MILK mustache | July 11, 2011 at 03:25 PM
Super cute! I usually just do the pony tail thang. . . but I am about to run upstairs and try the 'bun' out! Okay, I have to ask. . . your lashes are amazing ~ what do I have to do to get that look!
Posted by: Stephanie | July 11, 2011 at 03:28 PM
nice buns! wish i could pull off bangs....
Posted by: sistakt | July 11, 2011 at 03:30 PM
I have always wondered how you did your bun in the pic of you wearing the record store jumper. Thanks so much for sharing! I would definitely love to see more hair and makeup tutorials!
Posted by: Elizabeth | July 11, 2011 at 03:30 PM
I always love a good messy bun. I wear my hair in one almost every day. =)
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Posted by: Closet Cravings | July 11, 2011 at 03:30 PM
i love wearing messy side buns. i should try it your way. now that my hair is getting longer, i need to try different ways of styling it so i don't get bored & spontaneously decide to chop it off!
Posted by: Megan Lane | July 11, 2011 at 03:32 PM
Oh thanks so much for posting this! This helps my buns always turn out weird looking!
Posted by: larissa | July 11, 2011 at 03:36 PM
I love this, I think I need to grow my hair out a little bit but I think with your instructions I could pull this off. Thanks!
Posted by: Jenn | July 11, 2011 at 03:37 PM
I love how everyone has a different way to do this! So cute.
xxoo
Posted by: Charley Taylor | July 11, 2011 at 03:41 PM
It always called my attention the way you do your hair. If only it were so simple to follow the instructions :/ ...
Have a colorful week! ;)
Miki.
Posted by: Miki | July 11, 2011 at 03:44 PM
FANTASTIC!!
thanks for sharing!
xoxo, Maryam
http://athomewithmaryam.blogspot.com
Posted by: Maryam | July 11, 2011 at 03:51 PM
Very cute! You're hair is so full and gorgeous! Lovely.
Kacie
http://www.acollectionofpassions.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Kacie | July 11, 2011 at 03:53 PM
Such a great hair DIY, love it!
Zoe
http://blessedbeeapothecary.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Zoe | July 11, 2011 at 03:57 PM
OH, Elsie. What would my poor hair do without this tutorial!
Thanks :)
Posted by: paperpocket | July 11, 2011 at 04:00 PM
THANK YOU! My hair is so long [and hot!] this summer. I'm so excited to try this messy bun style! Thanks love! xx
Posted by: Mandy @ Miss Indie | July 11, 2011 at 04:02 PM
oh yay! i'm so glad you shared this. wearing my hair up is the only way to go right now cause it is sooooo hot outside!
Posted by: Amanda | July 11, 2011 at 04:03 PM
thanks! i love this look.
Posted by: Reyna | July 11, 2011 at 04:05 PM
Love it...Love it!!!!
I do this often in the summer...Super easy and a great way to stay cool.
Posted by: dena miller | July 11, 2011 at 04:07 PM
There's not enough of these kind of posts, but when there is it's always good! You look great!
http://www.designers-artists.com
Posted by: DNA (designers+artists) | July 11, 2011 at 04:11 PM
Messy buns were my go-to when I had long hair. I just made the leap to cut it off pretty short so I'm happy for the lower versions listed below! Awesome! <3
Posted by: Ashlee | July 11, 2011 at 04:15 PM