Top knot buns are a versatile and stylish hairstyle suitable for any occasion, be it a formal event or a casual day out. Explore 27 different top knot bun styles – from sleek and polished to fun and messy. Browse through the images for inspiration.
27 Best Top Knot Bun Hairstyles to Try
Classic High Top Knot Hairstyle
The classic high top knot hairstyle is a sophisticated and elegant look that never goes out of style. Dating back to ancient Greece, this hairstyle was popular among both men and women.
To achieve this look, gather your hair into a high ponytail at the top of your head, then twist the ponytail and secure it with bobby pins. Finish the look by smoothing out any flyaways with hairspray.
Perfect for formal events or days when you want a polished appearance, the classic high top knot is a versatile and chic choice.
Messy High Bun: A Modern and Casual Hairdo
The messy high bun is a trendy twist on the classic top knot hairstyle. This laid-back look gained popularity in the early 2000s for its casual yet stylish appeal.
To create this hairstyle, simply pull your hair up into a high ponytail without worrying about perfection. Twist and wrap the ponytail around its base, securing it in place with bobby pins.
Gently tug on a few strands to achieve a messy and effortless appearance. The messy high bun is perfect for casual outings or as a quick and stylish hair fix.
Braided Top Knot Hairstyle: Step-by-Step Guide and Cultural Influence
The braided top knot hairstyle blends the texture of braids with the elegance of a bun, offering a modern twist on a timeless look. This style is a fusion of diverse cultural influences, drawing inspiration from traditions such as African and Greek hairstyles.
To achieve this chic look, start by braiding a section of your hair before gathering all your hair, including the braid, into a high ponytail. Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with pins to create a sophisticated yet intricate hairstyle that is perfect for both special events and everyday wear.
4. Half-Up Top Knot Hairstyle
The Half-Up Top Knot hairstyle is a trendy and versatile look that combines the convenience of a bun with the freedom of loose hair. It has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to strike a balance between casual and chic.
To achieve this style, simply gather the top half of your hair into a ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it in place while leaving the remaining hair down.
5. Double Top Knots Hair Tutorial
Get a fun and trendy look with double top knots, inspired by the 90s space buns trend. This playful hairstyle is a popular choice for pop culture events and festivals.
To create double top knots, start by parting your hair down the middle and securing two high ponytails. Twist each ponytail into a bun and use pins to secure them in place. This style adds a youthful and quirky vibe to your look, making it perfect for concerts or casual outings.
Low Top Knot: A Sophisticated Hairstyle for Formal Occasions
The low top knot is a chic and refined alternative to the high bun, commonly seen in formal and elegant settings. This timeless hairstyle has symbolized grace and elegance in diverse cultures for centuries.
To create this look, gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with bobby pins for a sleek finish.
This hairstyle is perfect for formal occasions or professional environments where a polished appearance is desired.
7. Top Knot with Fringe – A Timeless and Chic Hairstyle
The top knot with fringe, also known as bangs, is a stylish and flattering hairstyle that draws attention to your facial features. Originating in the 1960s, this look has stood the test of time as a trendy choice.
To achieve this hairstyle, gather your hair into a high ponytail, leaving your bangs loose. Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with bobby pins.
Style your fringe to complement your face shape. This top knot adds a contemporary flair to your appearance while elegantly framing your face.
Textured Top Knot Hairstyle for Fine Hair
Transform your bun into a voluminous and dimensional textured top knot, perfect for those with fine hair. Originating from 1920s Hollywood glamour, this style adds a touch of old-school chic to your look.
Start by applying a texturizing spray to add volume and backcomb the roots for extra lift. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure with bobby pins for a fuller and more dramatic appearance.
9. Sleek Braided Bun Hairstyle: A Timeless and Sophisticated Look
The sleek braided bun hairstyle is a classic and intricate option that seamlessly combines the elegance of a smooth bun with the intricate detail of braids. This style has been favored by royalty and is a staple on modern fashion runways, offering a timeless and sophisticated appeal.
To achieve this look, start by creating a high ponytail and braiding it tightly. Then, wrap the braid around the base of the ponytail to form a bun and secure it in place with pins.
Twisted Top Knot Hairstyle
The twisted top knot is a chic and sophisticated variation of the classic bun, bringing a touch of intricacy and glamour to your hairdo. With roots in ancient Asian traditions, twisted hairstyles have long been associated with beauty and refinement.
To create this style, segment your hair into sections and twist each one before gathering them together into a high ponytail. Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it in place with bobby pins. This twisted top knot is an ideal way to elevate your everyday look with a hint of elegance.
Elegant Swept-Up Bun: Sophisticated Hair for a Stylish Evening
For a sophisticated evening look, consider the elegant swept-up bun hairstyle. Start by curling your hair to enhance texture and volume.
Create the style by gathering your hair into a high ponytail, leaving out a few face-framing sections. Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it in place with bobby pins.
This timeless hairstyle has roots in ancient Greece, where women often wore similar updos for formal occasions.
Loose Messy Bun: Effortless and Chic Hairstyle for Casual Outings
A loose messy bun is the perfect hairstyle for a relaxed and effortless look. To achieve this style, gather your hair into a high ponytail without smoothing it down too much.
Twist the ponytail into a bun, allowing some strands to fall out naturally for a carefree look. Secure the bun with pins and finish with a light hairspray for hold.
The loose messy bun style gained popularity in the early 2000s, embodying a laid-back, bohemian vibe. It’s a versatile choice for those looking to appear chic without appearing overly styled.
Upside Down Braid Bun Hairstyle: Step-by-Step Guide
Transform your classic bun with the trendy upside-down braid bun hairstyle. To achieve this look, flip your head over and braid your hair from the nape of your neck up to the crown. Once the braid meets the top, gather the remaining hair to create a stylish bun.
This unique hairstyle, which gained popularity in the 2010s, adds texture and flair to your bun, making it ideal for special events and occasions.
Top Knot Hairstyle with Accessories
Upgrade your top knot hairstyle using stylish accessories such as headbands, scarves, or decorative pins. Start by creating a traditional top knot and then incorporate your chosen accessory for a trendy look.
This fashion trend has historical roots in various cultures that used hair adornments for ornamental and societal purposes.
By adding accessories, you can elevate a simple bun into a striking and distinctive hairstyle suitable for any occasion, be it casual or formal.
Textured High Bun: Step-by-Step Guide
Get a voluminous and dynamic look with a textured high bun hairstyle. Begin by teasing the hair at the crown for added lift. Next, gather your hair into a high ponytail.
Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with pins. This hairstyle, inspired by the voluminous trends of the 1960s, features a modern twist with its messy and relaxed finish.
Casual High Knot Bun: A Quick and Stylish Hairdo for Everyday Wear
Elevate your everyday style with a casual high knot bun. To achieve this look, gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a loose bun, and secure it with bobby pins. Let some strands fall naturally for a relaxed vibe.
This easy-to-create bun is a favorite among busy professionals and students for its convenience and chic appearance. It provides a simple yet stylish solution for keeping hair out of your face while adding a touch of elegance to your daily look.
Formal High Bun Hairstyle for Special Occasions
For weddings, proms, or formal events, the formal high bun is an elegant choice. Start by smoothing your hair into a high ponytail to eliminate any flyaways.
Next, twist the ponytail into a sleek bun and secure it with hairpins. To add a touch of sophistication, consider accessorizing with pearl pins or a delicate hairpiece.
This classic hairstyle, often spotted on red carpets, embodies sophistication and elegance, making it a perfect option for any memorable occasion.
Box Braid Top Knot Hairstyle: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to create the trendy and protective box braid top knot style. Simply gather your box braids into a high ponytail, twist them into a bun, and secure with pins or a hair tie. This chic updo is not only stylish but also keeps your hair safe from damage.
Perfect for those looking for an elegant and versatile hairstyle that highlights their intricate braiding. Explore step-by-step instructions and tips for achieving the box braid top knot look.
Messy Bun with Braid: Effortlessly Stylish Hairdo
Elevate your look with a combination of a braid and a messy bun. Begin by braiding a section of your hair – be it at the front or side – and then gather all your hair into a casual, undone bun. Secure it in place with pins, allowing some strands to frame your face naturally.
This trendy style, which surged in popularity in the 2010s for its bohemian-chic vibe, has become a go-to choice for festivals and laid-back outings.
Top Knot with Flower: Bohemian Hair Accessory
Elevate your top knot hairstyle with a bohemian twist by adding a floral accessory. Create a chic high bun secured with pins and adorn it with a flower or floral crown for a whimsical and romantic touch.
This trendy hairstyle is ideal for outdoor events, weddings, or festivals, drawing inspiration from nature and vintage floral designs. It adds a delicate and feminine element to your overall look, evoking a fairy-tale character vibe.
Headband Braid and Bun Hairstyle: Step-by-Step Guide
Elevate your top knot with a beautiful headband braid twist. The headband braid not only adds charm but also has historical significance dating back to ancient Greece.
To achieve this look, follow these steps:
- Part your hair and braid a section from ear to ear.
- Gather the remaining hair into a high ponytail.
- Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with pins.
Try this elegant hairstyle for a touch of sophistication and history in your look.
Loose Top Bun Hairstyle: Effortlessly Elegant Look
The loose top bun hairstyle exudes an effortlessly elegant appearance, perfect for days when you crave a polished look with minimal effort.
Throughout history, loose buns have been a perennial favorite in different cultures, spanning from ancient China to contemporary runways.
To achieve this style, gather your hair into a high ponytail and loosely twist it into a bun, allowing some strands to cascade naturally.
Avoid making the bun too tight; instead, aim for a relaxed and casual feel. Secure it with bobby pins and a light hairspray for a gentle hold without stiffness.
23. Half-Up Knot with Braids
Enhance your style with a playful and sophisticated look by combining braids with a half-up top knot. This trendy and versatile hairstyle is popular among teens and young adults.
To achieve this look, start by sectioning off the top half of your hair. Create small braids on each side and gather the remaining top half into a ponytail, twisting it into a bun. Secure with pins to showcase the intricate braids while leaving the rest of your hair down, perfect for highlighting long or voluminous hair.
Top Knot with Bangs: A Stylish and Timeless Look
The top knot with bangs hairstyle is a versatile choice that not only beautifully frames the face but also keeps your hair securely in place. Whether for a casual day out or a formal event, this hairstyle adds a touch of sophistication to your look.
To create this look, start by styling your bangs – whether they are blunt, side-swept, or wispy. Then, gather the remaining hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with pins. The combination of the sleek bun and soft bangs creates a striking contrast that adds depth to your overall appearance.
Twisted Knot Bun Updo: A Victorian-inspired Hairdo for Elegant Occasions
If you’re looking for a sophisticated hairstyle that’s perfect for weddings and formal events, the twisted knot bun updo is a great choice. With its roots in Victorian-era updos, this style features intricate designs that exude elegance.
To achieve this look, start by dividing your hair into sections and twisting each one individually. Gather all the twists into a high bun and secure them with pins. The twists add texture and complexity to the classic bun, giving it a modern twist.
Finish off the look with a touch of hairspray to keep everything in place throughout the event. This timeless hairstyle is sure to turn heads and make you feel glamorous.
Knot Bun with Veil: A Timeless Bridal Hairstyle
The knot bun with a veil is a classic bridal hairstyle that combines the elegance of a bun with the traditional beauty of a veil. This style has its roots in medieval times when veils symbolized modesty and purity for brides.
To achieve this look, simply create a high or low bun with your hair, depending on your preference. Secure the veil at the base of the bun, allowing it to drape gracefully.
The bun acts as a secure foundation for the veil, ensuring it stays in place while adding a touch of sophistication to the bridal ensemble.
Simple & Minimalist Knot Bun Hairstyle
The simple and minimalist knot bun is a perfect choice for those who prefer a clean and understated look. To achieve this hairstyle, gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with bobby pins. This elegant and minimalist style accentuates the natural beauty of your hair, making it suitable for both formal events and everyday wear.
