24 Best 70s Hairstyles Updo Messy Buns Ideas That Still Rock Today

So, you’ve been scrolling through endless hairstyle inspo, and you keep stumbling across those retro 70s updos and messy buns that look effortlessly cool, right?

I don’t blame you—there’s just something about the 70s that screams chic without trying too hard. If you’ve ever tried to nail a messy bun and ended up with something closer to a bird’s nest… trust me, you’re not alone.

But hey, that’s part of the fun!

I’ve always loved 70s hairstyles because they balance structure with a “who cares” kind of attitude.

You can throw your hair up, add a scarf, and suddenly look like you’re about to hop into a vintage convertible with Fleetwood Mac blasting in the background.

Let’s break down 24 messy bun and updo ideas from the 70s that are not only nostalgic but also wearable today.

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Why the 70s Hairstyles Still Work

Before we dive into the looks (yes, pun intended), let’s talk about why these hairstyles refuse to die out.

• They’re versatile. You can dress them up for a wedding or dress them down for brunch.
• They flatter almost everyone. Big volume, loose buns, curtain bangs—something for every face shape.
• They’re low-maintenance. You don’t need a glam squad to pull these off. Sometimes the messier, the better.

Ever wondered why modern messy buns look so much cooler when you toss in a little retro flair? Because the 70s basically perfected that effortless vibe.

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1. The Classic 70s Messy Bun

Think of the bun that looks like you did it in 30 seconds but somehow comes out magazine-worthy. This one is all about volume and texture. Backcomb the crown just a little, twist your hair loosely, and pin it. Done.

Pro tip: Leave some strands out around the face for that “I woke up like this” energy.

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2. The Boho Scarf Bun

If you’ve ever raided your mom’s or grandma’s closet, you’ve probably found a silk scarf waiting to shine again. Wrap it around your bun or tie it at the base. Instant 70s boho goddess.

IMO, this is the ultimate summer festival look. Who needs flower crowns when you’ve got vintage scarves?

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3. The High Crown Updo

The 70s loved drama up top. Tease your crown, smooth it slightly, then secure the rest in a low bun. You get that iconic lifted volume without the helmet-hair look.

Ever notice how this style makes you look taller too? Hair = free height booster.

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4. Braided Messy Bun

Mixing braids with buns wasn’t invented by Pinterest—our 70s queens did it first. Braid one or two small sections and wrap them around your bun for a textured, romantic vibe.

It looks fancy, but in reality? It’s just braids and bobby pins.

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5. Side-Swept Bun

Not every bun needs to sit dead center. Sweep your hair to the side and create a loose bun near your ear. Add a big flower if you want full-on retro drama.

Perfect for date nights when you want to look like you made an effort (but didn’t).

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6. The Carefree Bun with Curtain Bangs

Curtain bangs scream 70s. Pair them with a messy bun, and you’ve basically nailed the aesthetic. The contrast of soft bangs and a casual updo makes this look both polished and laid-back.

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7. The Textured Bun with Loose Waves

Curl your hair loosely before putting it up. The bun will look fuller, and the little escapee strands will frame your face beautifully. This is basically the “cool girl” bun of the 70s.

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8. The Double Bun (aka Space Buns)

Yes, space buns are Y2K-famous, but guess what? They lived in the 70s too. The difference? They were softer, looser, and often accessorized with scarves or beads.

If you don’t take yourself too seriously, this one’s for you. 🙂

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9. The Messy Bun with a Middle Part

The middle part owned the 70s. Combine it with a messy bun, and you’ve got a sleek-meets-undone vibe. A couple face-framing pieces pulled out seals the deal.

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10. The Voluminous Top Bun

If you’ve got thick hair, this one’s your playground. Tease it up, twist it high, and let the volume shine. It’s dramatic, bold, and very “Studio 54” energy.

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11. The Messy Low Bun

Low buns have that I didn’t try look—except they look amazing. In the 70s, women often paired them with bold makeup or oversized sunglasses.

It’s basically the perfect “lazy but stylish” option.

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12. The Scarf-Wrapped Crown Bun

Instead of just tying a scarf at the base, wrap it around your whole crown and then secure your bun. It gives you a regal, bohemian vibe that feels timeless.

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13. The Wispy Bun

The 70s loved softness. Pull out wispy strands all around your bun so it doesn’t look too perfect. The key word here: effortless.

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14. The Braided Crown with Bun

Think of a halo braid that leads into a messy bun. This one feels like a mix of hippie and fairy tale. Add some flowers if you really want to channel your inner flower child.

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15. The Side Braid into a Bun

Start a braid at one side of your head, then sweep it into a messy bun at the back. It’s practical, but it looks like you spent hours styling it.

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16. The Loose Chignon

A chignon sounds fancy, but in the 70s it was relaxed and soft. Pull your bun low and let a few pieces frame your face. Add a clip for extra retro flair.

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17. The Beaded Bun

Yes, beads. Women in the 70s often decorated their buns with beaded accessories. It instantly takes a messy bun from casual to disco-ready.

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18. The Big Bun with Hairpieces

Extensions weren’t just a modern thing. Women used hairpieces to create massive buns in the 70s. If your natural bun feels too small, fake it till you make it.

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19. The Flipped-Out Bun

Remember those flipped-out 70s ends? You can create a bun and let the ends stick out playfully. It’s messy, funky, and super retro.

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20. The Tousled Bun with Headband

Headbands ruled the 70s. Throw one on with your messy bun, and you instantly look like you belong in a vintage ad. Bonus: it keeps flyaways in check.

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21. The Braided Pony Bun

Start with a high ponytail, braid it loosely, then wrap it into a bun. This gives you both structure and texture. The 70s twist? Keep it loose, not tight.

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22. The Feathered Bun

You know that feathered Farrah Fawcett look? Imagine that but pulled into a bun. Blow out your hair with feathered ends, then casually pin it back. You’ll get soft volume everywhere.

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23. The Rolled Bun

This one looks like you literally rolled your hair up and pinned it. Spoiler: that’s exactly what it is. Super quick, super retro.

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24. The “I Don’t Care” Bun

My personal favorite. Just throw your hair up without overthinking it. In the 70s, the attitude mattered more than the precision. If it looks a little messy? Even better.

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Quick Tips for Nailing 70s Messy Buns

• Texture is key. Use dry shampoo or texturizing spray.
• Accessories make the look. Scarves, beads, flowers, or headbands.
• Don’t over-style. A little imperfection adds charm.
• Volume rules. Backcombing or teasing helps achieve that authentic 70s height.

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Why You Should Try These Styles Today

Messy buns and 70s updos aren’t just cute—they’re practical. You can wear them to weddings, parties, or literally while running errands. They save you on bad hair days, and they add instant retro glam. Plus, they’re the kind of hairstyles that look good even after they loosen up throughout the day. Honestly, who doesn’t want that?

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FAQs About 70s Hairstyles and Messy Buns

Q: Do I need super long hair for these styles?
Not really. Medium-length hair works for most of them. For extra volume, you can always cheat with extensions.

Q: How do I keep my messy bun from falling apart?
Use bobby pins strategically and spritz with hairspray. But remember—some messiness is part of the charm.

Q: Can I wear these styles for formal events?
Absolutely. Pair them with elegant accessories, and you’ve got a chic look perfect for weddings or parties.

Q: Which 70s messy bun works best for beginners?
The classic messy bun with curtain bangs or the low bun. Both are simple and forgiving.

Q: Do I need specific 70s accessories?
Nope, but scarves, beads, and vintage-inspired clips will definitely amp up the retro vibe.

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Final Thoughts

The 70s gave us some of the most iconic hairstyles ever, and messy buns with updos are at the top of the list. Whether you’re aiming for casual chic, bohemian vibes, or disco drama, there’s a style here for you.

Next time your hair refuses to cooperate, channel your inner 70s diva, throw it up, and call it a look. Trust me—you’ll get compliments for days.