A boho messy bun looks as if it took thirty seconds, but the best ones balance looseness with structure. This gallery shows ten ways to get that balance: a low knot pinned with a wooden hair stick, an asymmetrical half-bun, a side bun that shows off sun-kissed highlights, a scarf woven through a low updo, double mini buns running like a mohawk, and natural hair braided with beads into a high bun.
Texture is what makes these work. Freshly washed, slippery hair tends to slide out, so second-day hair, sea salt spray or a texturising mousse gives the grip needed for a bun that stays messy in a deliberate way. Shoulder-length hair can manage most of these with a few pins, and shorter lengths can borrow volume from a donut bun form.
Face-framing pieces make a big difference. Long, chin-length bangs soften the forehead and cheeks, while a few loose tendrils stop an updo from looking severe.
1. Wooden Accessories
A low knotted bun is held in place with a wooden hair stick, an accessory that suits the eco-minded side of boho style. Pair it with linen clothing and woven bags, and look to small independent makers for genuinely sustainable pieces.
Inspiration: @saya__designs
2. Game-Changing Chin-Length Bangs
Long, chin-length bangs can make anyone feel comfortable in an updo. They frame the face, add playfulness and draw attention away from a high forehead or full cheeks. They also grow out gracefully and pair perfectly with a loose messy bun.
Inspiration: @ambervdzalm
3. Asymmetrical Bun
An asymmetrical half-ponytail, half-bun looks deliberately imperfect and very feminine. The trick is finding the right amount of messiness, so it reads as relaxed elegance rather than careless. Neat brows and a polished outfit help balance the undone hair.
Inspiration: @kathleen_hair
4. Multifunctional Hair Scarf
A silk scarf opens up plenty of styling options; wrap it around a low bun or braid it into the hair for a colourful accent. Coordinate the print with your outfit, or go for an eclectic mix-and-match look if that suits your style.
Inspiration: @hairby.brittany
5. Side Bun Experiments
A side bun is simple, adaptable and flattering at any age. It shows off fine sun-kissed highlights nicely. Play with texture and accessories, secure everything with bobby pins and finish with a volumising spray. It works on many hair lengths.
Inspiration: @barefootblondehair
6. Two Buns Mohawk
Two textured mini buns run along the top of the head in a mohawk shape, a style created by Michael Gray. Add shiny accessories for a more festive look. If your hair is shorter, a donut bun form can quietly add bulk.
Inspiration: @michaelgrayhair
7. Infinity Braid as a Detail
An infinity braid, which weaves in a figure-of-eight pattern, accents a low knotted bun in another design by Michael Gray. It takes practice to master, but small woven details like this add a sophisticated, mysterious touch.
Inspiration: @michaelgrayhair
8. Texture Is Key
Texture is essential for a voluminous, beachy bun on shoulder-length hair. Use mousse for fine hair, a texturising finishing spray and a crimper at the roots. Sea salt spray makes hair easier to control, and a couple of pins secure the whole updo.
Inspiration: @lenabogucharskaya
9. Goddess Vibes
Beaded braids are gathered into a high natural bun for a goddess-inspired protective style. Gold or wooden beads complete the bohemian look. A strong gel smooths the edges, or the bun can be left as a soft, messy puff.
Inspiration: @chimeedwards
10. Flower Power
Flower accessories are central to true hippie-chic style. This soft bun by Amalia Berglund works for everything from pool parties to weddings, and boho styles like this remain a popular choice for brides wanting a romantic feel.
Inspiration: @amaliaberglund
Building a messy bun that doesn’t fall apart
- Prep with texture spray or dry shampoo at the roots, then rough-dry or crimp a few sections for grip.
- Gather hair loosely, twist it around the base and secure it with a thin elastic before pinning.
- Pull at the twisted sections with your fingertips to loosen and widen the bun.
- Slide in U-shaped pins rather than standard bobby pins; they hold volume without flattening it.
- Tug out a few strands around the face and at the nape last, so they look intentional.
Choosing boho accessories
Natural materials suit the look best: wooden or bone hair sticks, woven clips, linen or silk scarves and real or faux flowers. Match scarf colours to your outfit for a coordinated look or mix prints for a more eclectic one. For natural and textured hair, gold or wooden beads threaded onto braids add the same bohemian feel while keeping the ends protected.