Finding the perfect balance between effortless and elegant is the ultimate goal for any special occasion. If you are blessed with a dense mane, you know that finding 10 messy bun party hairstyles for women with shoulder length thick hair can feel like a challenge when gravity is against you. However, mid-length thick hair is actually the ideal canvas for volume-packed, textured updos that stay secure all night. These modern hairstyles offer a chic makeover for your evening look while keeping things playful. Keep scrolling for some serious hair inspiration that will elevate your party style.
1. The Textured Low Chignon
This look features a low-slung, loosely pinned bun at the nape with face-framing tendrils. It is trending because it balances a formal silhouette with an effortless, “undone” aesthetic. Thick hair is perfect here because it provides the natural volume needed for a substantial bun. This hairstyle beautifully flatters oval and heart-shaped faces by softening the lower jawline. To maintain this, use a medium-hold spray to keep the texture secure all night. The primary benefit is a sophisticated appearance that remains comfortable for hours. It is the ideal choice for weddings or upscale cocktail parties. This style offers a timeless finish.
2. The Half-Up Top Knot
The half-up top knot involves gathering the top section of hair into a messy, coiled bun while leaving the rest loose. This trendy hairstyle is incredibly popular for its ability to manage thick hair bulk while showing off length. It suits wavy and straight textures best, providing a youthful and energetic vibe. Round and oval face shapes benefit most from the added height this style provides. Using a bit of dry shampoo will give your hair the necessary grip for a secure knot. This is a fantastic option for casual house parties or outdoor summer events. It perfectly blends practicality with a modern, stylish edge.
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This romantic style incorporates a thick Dutch braid that wraps into a voluminous messy bun at the back. It is currently a top hair inspiration for those seeking a bohemian-chic aesthetic for formal events. The braid helps to tuck away heavy layers, making it excellent for shoulder-length thick hair. Square and heart-shaped faces look stunning with the soft, face-framing texture this style offers. Secure the bun with U-shaped pins to ensure it stays in place while dancing. Its key benefit is the intricate look that appears much more difficult to achieve than it actually is. This is a dream hairstyle for whimsical garden parties.
4. The Twisted French Pin Updo
This minimalist updo uses a single large decorative pin to secure a vertical, messy twist of hair. It draws inspiration from 90s minimalism and is currently seeing a massive resurgence in stylish haircuts trends. Thick hair provides the necessary density to keep the pin firmly anchored without slipping. This vertical orientation flatters round and diamond face shapes by elongating the neck. For best results, apply a texturizing paste before twisting to prevent the hair from being too slippery. The main aesthetic is one of “quiet luxury” and effortless grace. It is perfect for gallery openings or sophisticated dinner dates.
5. The Double Space Bun Delight
Double space buns feature two messy knots sitting high on the head for a playful, festive look. This style is highly appealing because it evenly distributes the weight of thick hair, preventing scalp tension. It works exceptionally well on curly or coily textures that naturally hold their shape. Oval and angular face shapes look particularly vibrant with this symmetrical, face-lifting hairstyle. Use clear elastics to secure the bases before pinning the buns into a messy shape. The primary benefit is a fun, youthful energy that lasts through the most active parties. This is a go-to choice for music festivals or New Year’s Eve.
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The side-swept bun gathers all the hair to one side, creating an asymmetrical and glamorous messy cluster. This hairstyle is a favorite for evening events because it adds a sense of old-Hollywood drama. It is particularly flattering for square or rectangular face shapes as it breaks up strong vertical lines. Thick hair is essential here to ensure the bun doesn’t look sparse when pulled to the side. Lightly tease the crown before styling to add extra height and a modern makeover feel. The overall aesthetic is romantic, soft, and deeply feminine. It is ideally suited for formal galas or holiday dinner parties.
7. The Scarf-Wrapped Messy Bun
This creative style involves weaving a silk scarf through a standard messy bun for a pop of color. It is a major trend on social media for those who want to accessorize without heavy jewelry. The scarf provides additional surface area to grip thick hair, keeping the bun stable. All face shapes can pull this off depending on how high or low the bun is placed. Choose a scarf that complements your outfit to create a cohesive and polished party look. This hairstyle offers a unique way to hide frizz or unwashed hair on busy days. It is the perfect accessory-driven look for brunch parties.
8. The “Pineapple” Bun with Bangs
This high-top messy bun allows curly textures to spill forward, mimicking the look of bangs. It is an iconic choice for women with coily or curly thick hair who want to celebrate their natural volume. This style flatters round and square faces by drawing the eyes upward and adding verticality. It is incredibly easy to maintain and requires minimal pinning if the hair is sufficiently dense. Use a silk scrunchie to avoid breakage while keeping the bun loose and airy. The main benefit is protecting your curls while looking effortlessly cool and party-ready. It works beautifully for casual gatherings and creative events.
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The stacked triple bun involves creating three small messy knots arranged vertically from the crown to the nape. This edgy hairstyle is a brilliant way to manage thick hair that has many shorter layers. It offers a “faux-hawk” vibe that is currently a major trend in modern hairstyles. Long face shapes benefit from the distributed volume that doesn’t over-elongate the head. Use a strong-hold hairspray on each individual knot to ensure they remain distinct and secure. The key benefit is the architectural interest and the fact that it stays extremely secure. This is a bold choice for birthday parties or club nights.
10. The Messy “Donut” Bun
This classic style creates a large, rounded bun at the crown with deliberate flyaways for a relaxed finish. It is a staple hair inspiration because it maximizes the perceived volume of shoulder-length thick hair. Heart and oval faces are complemented by the way this style highlights the cheekbones. To achieve the “messy” look, gently tug at the edges of the bun once it is pinned. This prevents it from looking too stiff or “ballerina-like” for a party setting. The overall aesthetic is clean yet approachable and very professional. It is perfectly suited for office holiday parties or semi-formal celebrations.
How do I keep a messy bun from falling out in thick hair?
To ensure your messy bun stays secure, start with a strong elastic base to anchor the weight of your hair. Use “U” shaped hairpins rather than just standard bobby pins, as they catch more hair and lock into the base more effectively. Applying a dry texturizing spray before styling will also provide the necessary friction to prevent the hair from sliding out.
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You should have a high-quality boar bristle brush for smoothing, several heavy-duty hair elastics, and plenty of large bobby pins. A texturizing spray or sea salt spray is vital for creating the “messy” grip needed for these styles. Additionally, a tail comb is helpful for sectioning and creating the perfect amount of volume at the crown.
Can I achieve these looks with straight hair?
Yes, but straight hair often requires more prep work to hold a messy shape without looking flat. Use a curling iron or wand to add a slight wave before you begin styling to give the hair more “bite” and volume. Using a volumizing mousse on damp hair before blow-drying can also provide the structural integrity needed for a lasting updo.
How do I make a messy bun look formal for a party?
The secret to making a messy bun formal lies in the details, such as adding a decorative hair accessory or leaving out intentional face-framing pieces. Ensure the hair at the scalp is somewhat polished or intentionally textured rather than just frizzy. Pairing the look with statement earrings also elevates the overall aesthetic from “gym hair” to a “red carpet” style.
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Dry shampoo is the most popular choice for adding instant grip and matte texture to thick hair. For a stronger hold, a workable hairspray allows you to shape the bun before it sets firmly in place. Texturizing pastes are also excellent for the ends of the hair to keep them from looking too wispy or unrefined within the bun.
How do I hide short layers when creating an updo?
If you have shorter layers that poke out, try incorporating small braids or twists to tuck those pieces into the main body of the bun. You can also use a small amount of hair wax to smooth the layers into the direction of the style before pinning. Embracing a few loose pieces can actually enhance the “messy” aesthetic you are aiming for.