Let’s be real—wedding hairstyles can be stressful. You want to look elegant, timeless, and a little Pinterest-worthy, but you also don’t want to spend four hours in a chair while someone shellacks your head into a helmet.

That’s where the messy bun hairstyle swoops in like a hero. It’s chic, practical, and (here’s the kicker) way easier than it looks.

I’ve always loved messy buns for weddings because they hit that sweet spot between effortless and sophisticated.

You get the romance of soft tendrils, the practicality of your hair staying out of your face, and the flexibility to style them up or down. Plus, if a piece falls out mid-reception, it just adds to the “I woke up like this” charm.

So, if you’re planning your big day—or even just need inspo for bridesmaids, guests, or that cousin who insists on DIY hair—here are 20 easy messy bun hairstyles for weddings that prove looking stunning doesn’t have to be complicated.

---

1. The Classic Low Messy Bun

This one’s a wedding staple. Sweep your hair into a low bun at the nape of your neck, let a few face-framing strands fall, and call it a day. It’s simple, elegant, and photographs beautifully.

Why it works: It flatters almost every face shape and works with both veils and hair accessories.

---

2. The High Messy Bun

Want something a little more dramatic? Pile your bun high on your head. The height gives you instant elegance while keeping your hair away from your shoulders.

Pro tip: Add volume at the crown before pulling it up for that “undone but intentional” look.

---

3. Messy Bun with Braided Crown

Ever wanted to feel like a boho princess? Wrap a braid around your head and tuck it into a messy bun. It’s whimsical and perfect for outdoor or rustic weddings.

Bonus: The braid keeps shorter layers in place so you’re not fussing with pins all night.

---

4. Romantic Side Messy Bun

Instead of centering the bun, pull it slightly to one side. It frames your neck beautifully and looks especially dreamy in off-shoulder dresses.

IMO: This style practically screams “romantic wedding vibes.”

---

5. Twisted Messy Bun

Skip the braid and twist sections of your hair before pinning them into a bun. The texture looks intricate but takes less than 10 minutes.

Question for you: Who doesn’t love a hairstyle that looks harder than it is?

---

6. Messy Bun with Loose Curls

Curl your hair first, then pin it up into a bun. The curls create natural volume and softness. This one’s especially great for bridesmaids who want a uniform look without being too “matchy-matchy.”

---

7. Messy Bun with Veil

Yes, messy buns pair perfectly with veils. Pin the veil right under or above the bun, depending on your vibe. Low buns usually work best here.

Pro tip: Make sure your hairstylist secures it with enough pins so it doesn’t slide mid-walk down the aisle.

---

8. Accessorized Messy Bun

Add a pearl pin, a crystal comb, or even fresh flowers. Accessories instantly elevate a simple bun into full-on bridal territory.

FYI: Fresh flowers look gorgeous but may wilt, so maybe have a backup option. 🙂

---

9. Half-Up Messy Bun

Can’t commit to a full bun? Do a half-up messy bun. It keeps hair out of your face while letting your natural length shine. It’s casual, cute, and works for outdoor weddings.

---

10. Messy Bun with Bangs

Got bangs? Lucky you. A messy bun paired with wispy bangs looks effortlessly chic. Curtain bangs in particular give off that soft, romantic feel.

---

11. Double Twist Messy Bun

Part your hair down the middle, twist each side back, and pin into a bun. It gives structure while still looking relaxed. Bridesmaids love this style because it holds up during dancing.

---

12. Oversized Messy Bun

For maximum volume, tease the crown before pinning the bun. The result? A big, fluffy bun that looks glam but not stiff.

Personal tip: This one’s amazing if you’ve got thick hair and want to show it off.

---

13. Low Messy Chignon

A chignon is just a fancy word for a tucked-under bun. Keep it loose, add some texture, and you’ve got a refined but effortless style. Perfect for black-tie weddings.

---

14. Messy Bun with Waterfall Braid

Start with a waterfall braid at the crown, then pull everything into a bun. It looks like you spent an hour on it when in reality, it’s about 15 minutes of work.

---

15. Side-Swept Messy Bun with Accessories

Add a jeweled comb or clip to one side of a low messy bun. The asymmetry adds drama without making the hairstyle over-the-top.

---

16. Low Messy Bun with Loose Waves

Curl your hair into waves first, then pin it into a bun. Let a few wavy strands fall around your face. It’s romantic and looks amazing in candid photos.

---

17. Messy Bun with Dutch Braid

A Dutch braid (aka an inside-out braid) leading into a bun gives a cool, textured effect. Brides who love a little edge often go for this one.

Sarcasm alert: Because nothing says “I’m totally chill” like a braid that looks like you spent hours on it.

---

18. Messy Bun with Ribbon

Add a satin or velvet ribbon tied around the base of your bun. It’s charming, budget-friendly, and adds a pop of color.

---

19. Layered Messy Bun

If you have layers, let them peek out instead of forcing them into the bun. This style embraces natural texture and movement.

Reality check: Layers falling out look intentional here, not sloppy.

---

20. The “Barely There” Messy Bun

Think of this as the bun’s minimalist cousin. Just pin your hair loosely at the back and let it fall however it wants. It’s relaxed, artsy, and ideal for casual weddings.

---

Tips to Nail the Perfect Messy Bun for a Wedding

Okay, so we’ve covered the styles. But how do you make sure your bun stays chic and not, well, messy-messy? Here’s what actually works:

• Use texture spray or dry shampoo before styling. Clean, slippery hair won’t hold.
• Bobby pins are your BFF. Pin in opposite directions to lock the bun in place.
• Leave some pieces out. Face-framing strands soften the look.
• Hairspray lightly. You want hold, not crunch. Nobody wants helmet hair.
• Trial run first. Don’t wait until the morning of the wedding to test your bun.

---

Why Messy Buns Are Wedding-Perfect

Messy buns work for weddings because they balance elegance with effortlessness. They don’t scream “overdone,” but they still look polished. Plus, they’re versatile—you can glam them up with accessories or keep them minimal for a low-key vibe.

I wore a low messy bun to my best friend’s wedding last year, and honestly, it saved me. I danced like a maniac, sweated through two layers of chiffon, and my hair still looked decent by the end of the night. Can’t say the same for my eyeliner, though.

---

Final Thoughts

So there you go—20 easy messy bun hairstyles for weddings that prove you don’t need a salon to look gorgeous. Whether you’re the bride, a bridesmaid, or just trying to outshine your cousin at the buffet table, there’s a messy bun style for you.

The trick is to keep it relaxed and not stress about perfection. Remember, the “messy” part is the point. As long as your bun feels comfortable and secure, you’re golden.

Now tell me—are you more of a low messy bun fan, or do you like the high, dramatic look? Either way, trust me: once you rock a messy bun at a wedding, you’ll wonder why you ever considered those stiff updos in the first place.