As someone who quite honestly just can't be bothered to spend hours styling their hair daily, I am always on the lookout for chic hairstyles that look good but require minimal effort. And while a simple red carpet-worthy ponytail might be one of the first styles that spring to mind if you're looking for something quick, it isn't the most favored look amongst celebrities and fashion girls. As it turns out, their "basic" hairstyle of choice is the bun. Why? Well, it takes no skill (just twist up your hair at the nape of your neck or on top of your head and secure with a hairband), yet it can add major cool-girl points to your look in moments. Trust me. Keep scrolling to see 32 of the best bun hairstyles as demoed by some of my favorite celebrities and fashion friends.
There are countless variations to suit every hair type and occasion, from sleek, polished looks to textured, bohemian twists. The classic bun remains a timeless foundation, while creative iterations-from top knots to space buns-offer personality and flair. Below, a gallery of ideas inspired by real styles, plus practical notes for recreating them at home with minimal fuss.
Celebrity-inspired classic and modern buns
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley often wears strands scraped back into a bun at the nape or on top of the head, delivering a polished yet effortless vibe. Sofia Richie Grainge wore her iconic slicked-back bun for her wedding day, and the claw-clip bun works beautifully for off-duty days. Charithra Chandran's bun features a '90s-inspired spiky twist, adding edge without sacrificing elegance. Monikh Dale embodies the fashion-girl approach with a slicked-back bun that remains supremely pretty. Meghan Markle backcombs at the crown to give the bun extra oomph, a technique that can elevate the look in an instant. Zendaya's top knot sits high on the head with effortless tendrils that frame the face. Nnenna Echem favors a simple, elegant low bun with minimal accessories. Jodie Comer demonstrates how a bun can look casually chic with a few flyaways for movement. Laura Harrier's faux bun is created by wrapping a braid atop the head for an unexpected twist. Yara Shahidi doubles up with two buns, a nostalgic '90s throwback that's utterly cute.
Stephanie Broek channels Scandinavian minimalism by braiding before twisting into a bun at the nape. Margot Robbie keeps her award-season bun relaxed by letting the ends tuck loosely and a few strands fall around the neck for a carefree finish. ASOS Lotte suggests transforming the top half of a classic half-up, half-down style into a bun. Beyoncé takes the bun to glamorous new heights with volume and drama. Katherine Langford proves a high bun can work for a night out, with tendrils left loose to soften the look. Alyssa Coscarelli blends Audrey Hepburn elegance with a retro fringe for a refined, timeless vibe. Priyanka Chopra masterfully combines a French-girl fringe with a gravity-defying topknot. Ada Oguntodu champions abundance-“the more buns, the merrier.”
Bella Hadid favors a simple, off-duty micro-bun that feels laid-back yet chic. Victoria Beckham demonstrates that topknots can be impeccably chic, even in a pared-down form. Zoë Foster Blake wraps braids into a bun with loose strands for a look that works for any occasion. Jessi Regina adds a side swoop for It-girl energy. Johanna Piispa balances casual and business-ready with a bun that leaves some ends out from the base. Ireland Baldwin tames a slightly messy bun while keeping roots controlled for a whimsical effect. Raïssa uses a big hair tie as a statement, showing that accessories can redefine the simplest bun. Blessing Afolayan’s space bun braids push the idea into playful territory. MV Tiangue braids traditional cornrows into a low bun for a practical, on-the-go style. Herrrana Addisu divides thick hair into two or three sections to form smaller elevated buns along a center part.
Some buns are designed for texture and volume: a textured bun, a voluminous crown, or a braided element can transform a simple knot into a statement piece. There are also styles that play with position, from side buns to topknots, and even multiple buns arranged as a Mohawk or crown-like silhouette. Certain looks emphasize finishing details-flyaways, stray hairs, and soft face-framing pieces-to keep the style modern rather than rigid. The gallery and description underscore that bun hairstyles are timeless, versatile, and accessible to different hair types and lengths.
Gallery concepts and practical recreations
1. Braids integrated into a bun create a chic, woven look-braids don’t wrap around the bun, but are part of it. 2. A sleek side part with a razor-crisp finish works well with natural cowlicks. 3. A textured bun that feels elaborate yet effortless. 4. Bold colors and textures with a neat bun that includes a bang section. 5. Braids as part of the updo introduce variety and playfulness. 6. A chunky basket weave braid yields a modern, sculptural bun. 7. A dynamic fishtail braid style adds texture and movement. 8. Emphasize the texture of curls for a simple yet striking bun. 9. Modern braided bun variations that stand out. 10. Cornrows gathered into a tall bun for a dramatic effect. 11. A side-position bun that feels youthful and lively. 12. A side bun wrapped with Dutch braid and fishtail for a complex look. 13. You don’t need long hair to wear an updo; even shorter lengths can work with clever pinning. 14. Playful scar-free styling possibilities for everyday looks. 15. Balayage highlights with a large loose braid can add spice to a side bun. 16. Thick or naturally curly hair can be worn in a textured half-up bun that shows off natural texture. 17. Two buns offer a fresh take on the classic. 18. Face-framing pieces left out keep a messy bun approachable. 19. Thick cornrows into a jumbo bun make a bold statement. 20. A two-braid-to-bun combination creates an updo with mixed textures. 21. A line of buns (like a Mohawk) makes a strong fashion statement. 22. Sometimes, the simplest buns are the most beautiful. 23. A high, bulky bun with a crown-like braided finish looks sophisticated. 24. An intricate updo can be simplified by breaking it into manageable elements. 25. Subtle highlights add dimension to curly buns, ideal for formal occasions. 26. Bantu knots offer a protective, sculptural bun option. 27. A classic braided ponytail transformed into a bun can be done quickly. 28. Casual buns can be incredibly easy to achieve on your first attempt. 29. Curly buns celebrate natural texture as a playful update. 30. A compact, feminine twisted low side bun can work with fine hair. 31. Two buns may require extensions or lifting with the right technique. 32. Long beach waves pair perfectly with two space buns for a festival vibe. 33. A four-strand braid can form a wide braided headband for a regal touch. 34. Upgrade a sock bun with a twist around its base and a hair bow. 35. A vivid color with a bold hair bow can steal the show. 36. Buns with bangs can look sleek and neat when cut precisely. 37. The half-up, half-down look with a thick middle braid adds drama. 38. Extensions and accessories can elevate a bun into a rounded, refined updo. 39. Rainbow bun with sculptural volume makes a striking statement. 40. A strong top knot tames curly locks and focuses attention on facial features. 41. A braided bun in a Greek-inspired style pairs beautifully with formal attire. 42. A pine cone bun offers a playful variation. 43. Pigtail braids paired with buns create a romantic look. 44. A chic low bun at the nape with a twist and delicate details. 45. The bun itself can be the focal point with minimal other elements. 46. Side buns can resemble origami flowers for artistic flair. 47. A big, formal bun is an exquisite updo for weddings or galas. 48. Braids added to a bun personalize the look, including side braids and twists. 49. A messy top knot is appealing because its natural messiness adds charm. 50. Finishing touches like twists and highlights complete the look. Save your favorite ideas to try later; when you choose a bun, there’s never a dull moment.
The bun is the little black dress of the hairstyling realm-universally flattering and incredibly versatile. Whether you’ve got five minutes or five hours to get ready, these styles prove there’s a bun for every mood and occasion, from gym to red carpet.
Practical steps: how to achieve a reliable bun
Classic Bun: Twist hair in one direction to form a simple knot at the back of the head; secure with a scrunchie or colored u-pins for a tight hold. Stacked Bun: If you have length, double the bun or use multiple elastics to secure it and play with texture by pinning parts of the bun. Gibson Girl Bun: Create fullness at the crown with a small bun on top; twist the top portion while allowing the bottom to fan out, then pin. Low Bun: Gather hair at the nape and secure for a romantic look; great for layered hair. Top Knot: A high-position bun that adds volume and a modern beehive feel. Space Buns: Two equal buns on the sides; part with a zigzag for a Y2K twist. Easy Ponytail Bun: Start with a ponytail, pull hair through only halfway to form a loose drape that imitates both ponytail and bun. Twisted Bun: Twist the length into a bun for added texture and hold. Dutch Braid + Fishtail Bun: Combine two braid techniques into a single bun for complexity with easier maintenance. Use a hair donut for extra volume when needed.
Accessories and finishing touches
Hair accessories can transform a simple bun: claw clips, floral wraps, snoods, bun wraps, hair combs, sticks, decorative flowers, butterfly clips, and scrunchies. A ribbon can be woven around the bun for a Coquette-inspired finish, or pearl accessories can elevate a bridal look. A single twist braid around the bun can add a delicate accent.
Bottom line: buns are endlessly adaptable. They suit various hair textures and lengths and can be dressed up or down with minimal effort, making them ideal for busy days, workouts, or occasions where you want your look to say "effortlessly chic." You can also enhance any bun with hair extensions or clip-in buns for instant length and volume when needed.
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