90s Messy Bun🫶

Okay, fellow hair enthusiasts, let's talk about the absolute queen of effortless cool: the 90s messy bun! I've been obsessed with bringing back those iconic grunge vibes, and after countless tries, I've finally perfected my go-to high messy bun technique. It’s not just a hairstyle; it’s a statement, and honestly, it’s saved me so many bad hair days. If you're like me and love a look that's chic without trying too hard, then you're in the right place for a super easy hair tutorial! First things first, you don't need a ton of fancy tools to achieve this classic 90s bun hairstyle. For this hair bun tutorial for long hair, all you really need is a good, sturdy hair tie (or two if your hair is super thick!) and maybe some bobby pins for extra security. I love how you can get this authentic how to do a messy bun with hair tie only look, keeping it simple and true to the era. Step 1: Prep Your Hair for Hold. I usually start with second or third-day hair, as it naturally has more grip and holds style better than freshly washed hair. If your hair is too clean and slippery, a little dry shampoo at the roots can add some much-needed texture and volume. Don't worry about perfection here; remember, the charm is in the 'messy'! Step 2: Gather Your Hair into a High Ponytail. This is absolutely key for nailing the high messy bun aesthetic. Flip your head upside down or lean back to gather all your hair at the very top of your crown. Think 'pineapple' position! The higher you place it, the more dramatic and authentically 90s it feels. I sometimes use a paddle brush to gently smooth it back for a slightly neater base, but often, I just use my fingers for that ultimate lived-in feel, letting a few strands escape naturally. Step 3: Create the Loose Loop. Now for the bun itself. Secure your hair with your hair tie as if you're making a regular ponytail. On the last loop, here's the trick: don't pull your hair all the way through. Instead, create a loose loop or a half-bun, leaving the ends sticking out. This is where the 'messy' magic really begins to take shape! Step 4: Twist, Wrap, and Secure. Take those loose ends that are sticking out and gently twist them around the base of the bun you just created. You don't want it too tight – the goal is a relaxed, undone look. Secure these ends with another hair tie if needed, or strategically place a few bobby pins to tuck them in discreetly. This is also the perfect moment to pull out a few face-framing pieces to achieve that effortless wispy messy bun with bangs look, even if you don't actually have bangs! Step 5: Embrace the Mess and Add Volume. Now for the fun part! Gently tug at different sections of the bun to create more volume and an even messier, more relaxed appearance. Don't be afraid to pull out more face-framing pieces or strands around your ears. If you have natural waves or bun with curls hanging down, let them frame your face or neck beautifully. For those with thin hair who might struggle with volume, try backcombing your ponytail a bit before creating the loop, or even using a texturizing spray to add grip. A small bun shaper can also work wonders for extra fullness without looking bulky. This step is all about making it truly yours and embodying those grunge 90s hairstyles vibes. What I adore about the 90s messy bun is its incredible versatility. It’s perfect for a casual day out running errands, but you can also easily dress it up with some cute earrings for an evening look. It’s literally a timeless hairstyle idea that brings a touch of vintage cool without being over the top. And yes, a simpler, slightly lower version makes for an adorable kids messy bun too, perfect for active days! So there you have it! My personal, step-by-step take on how to make a bun for long hair with that quintessential 90s flair. Give it a try, experiment with how messy or neat you want it, and enjoy rocking this iconic 90s hair bun! It’s all about feeling good and looking effortlessly cool, just like we did (or wished we did!) back in the 90s.