Top knot buns are one of the most versatile and stylish hairstyles you can try. Whether you’re heading to a formal event, a casual day out, there’s a top knot bun for every occasion.
In this article I’ll share 27 different top knot bun styles, from sleek and polished to fun and messy.
Let’s begin!
27 Top Knot Bun
1. Classic High Top Knot
The classic high top knot is a timeless and polished hairstyle that exudes elegance. This style has roots in ancient Greece, where it was worn by both men and women.
To create this look, gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head. Twist the ponytail around itself and secure it with bobby pins.
Finish with a bit of hairspray to smooth any flyaways. This style is perfect for formal occasions or days when you want a sleek, put-together appearance.
2. Messy High Bun
The messy high bun is a modern, laid-back version of the traditional top knot. It became popular in the early 2000s as a go-to style for casual and chic looks.
Pull your hair into a high ponytail without worrying about it being perfect. Twist and wrap the ponytail around the base, securing it with bobby pins.
Tug on a few strands to create a messy, effortless vibe. This bun is ideal for relaxed outings or when you want a quick, stylish fix.
3. Braided Top Knot
The braided top knot combines the texture of braids with the sleekness of a bun, adding a unique twist to the classic style. This hairstyle has been influenced by various cultures, including African and Greek traditions.
You should start by braiding a section of your hair, then gather all your hair, including the braid, into a high ponytail.
Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with pins. This style adds intricate detail and is great for special occasions or adding flair to your everyday look.
4. Half-Up Top Knot
The half-up top knot is a versatile style that combines the ease of a bun with the freedom of loose hair. This look became trendy in the 2010s, offering a balance between casual and chic.
To create this style, take the top half of your hair and gather it into a ponytail. Twist this section into a bun and secure it, leaving the rest of your hair down.
5. Double Top Knots
Double top knots bring a fun and playful element to your hairstyle, often seen in pop culture and festivals. Inspired by the 90s space buns trend, this look involves creating two buns on either side of your head.
Part your hair down the middle and gather each section into high ponytails. Twist each ponytail into a bun and secure with pins. This style is perfect for a quirky, youthful look and is great for concerts or casual outings.
6. Low Top Knot
The low top knot offers a sophisticated alternative to the high bun, often seen in elegant and formal settings. This style has been a staple in various cultures for centuries, symbolizing grace and poise.
To achieve 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.
This style is ideal for formal events or professional settings where a polished appearance is desired.
7. Top Knot with Fringe
The top knot with fringe (bangs) is a chic and face-framing style that highlights your features. This look became popular in the 1960s and has remained a fashionable choice.
To create this style, gather your hair into a high ponytail, leaving your bangs out. Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with pins.
Style your bangs as desired. This bun is perfect for adding a modern touch to your look while keeping your face framed beautifully.
8. Textured Top Knot
The textured top knot adds volume and dimension to the classic bun, making it ideal for those with fine hair. This style has roots in 1920s Hollywood, where voluminous hairstyles were all the rage.
You should start by applying a texturizing spray to your hair and backcombing the roots for extra volume.
Gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with bobby pins. This bun is great for creating a fuller, more dramatic look.
9. Sleek Braided Bun
The sleek braided bun is an elegant and intricate style that combines the smoothness of a sleek bun with the detail of braids. Popular in royal courts and modern fashion shows, this look is both timeless and sophisticated.
Begin by creating a high ponytail and braiding it tightly. Wrap the braid around the base of the ponytail to form a bun and secure with pins.
10. Twisted Top Knot
The twisted top knot is a unique and stylish take on the traditional bun, adding a touch of complexity and elegance. This look has origins in ancient Asian cultures, where twisted hairstyles were a symbol of beauty.
To achieve this style, divide your hair into sections and twist each one before gathering them into a high ponytail.
Twist the entire ponytail into a bun and secure with bobby pins. This bun is perfect for adding a sophisticated twist to your everyday look.
11. Elegant Swept-Up Bun
An elegant swept-up bun is ideal for a sophisticated evening out. To create this style, start by curling your hair to add texture and volume.
Gather your hair into a high ponytail, leaving out a few face-framing pieces. Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with bobby pins.
The history of this hairstyle dates back to ancient Greece, where women styled their hair in similar updos for formal events.
12. Loose Messy Bun
A loose messy bun offers a relaxed, effortless look that’s perfect for casual outings. You should 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. Secure with pins and finish with a light hairspray.
This bun style became popular in the early 2000s, reflecting a laid-back, bohemian vibe. It’s a go-to for anyone wanting to look chic without appearing overly styled.
13. Upside Down Braid Bun
The upside-down braid bun adds an unexpected twist to the classic bun. Start by flipping your head over and braiding the hair from the nape of your neck up to the crown. Once the braid reaches the top, gather the rest of your hair and form a bun.
This style, popularized in the 2010s, adds texture and interest to your bun, making it perfect for special occasions.
14. Top Knot with Accessories
Enhance a simple top knot with accessories like headbands, scarves, or decorative pins. To create this look, form a standard top knot and then add your chosen accessory.
This style dates back to various cultures where hair adornments were used for decoration and status.
Accessories can transform a basic bun into something eye-catching and unique, suitable for both casual and formal events.
15. Textured High Bun
A textured high bun provides volume and a dynamic look. Start by backcombing the hair at the crown to add lift, then gather your hair into a high ponytail.
Twist the ponytail into a bun, securing it with pins. This style, reminiscent of the voluminous hairstyles of the 1960s, adds a modern twist with its messier, more relaxed finish.
16. Casual High Knot Bun
For a relaxed, everyday style, try a casual high knot bun. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a loose bun, and secure it with bobby pins, allowing some strands to fall naturally.
This bun, popular among busy professionals and students alike, provides a quick and easy way to keep hair out of the face while maintaining a stylish appearance. Its simplicity and practicality make it a favorite for daily wear.
17. Formal High Bun
A formal high bun is perfect for weddings, proms, or any formal event. Smooth your hair into a high ponytail, ensuring there are no flyaways.
Twist the ponytail into a sleek bun and secure with pins. Add elegant accessories like pearl pins or a delicate hairpiece for extra flair.
This timeless style, often seen on red carpets, exudes sophistication and elegance, making it ideal for any special occasion.
18. Box Braid Top Knot
The box braid top knot is a stylish and practical way to wear box braids. Gather your braids into a high ponytail and twist them into a bun, securing with a hair tie or pins. This style, rooted in African hair traditions, not only looks chic but also protects the hair.
It’s perfect for those with braids who want a versatile and elegant updo that showcases their intricate braiding.
19. Messy Bun with Braid
Combine a braid and a messy bun for a stylish and effortless look. Start by braiding a section of your hair, either at the front or side, and then gather all your hair into a messy bun. Secure with pins, allowing some strands to fall naturally.
This style gained popularity in the 2010s for its boho-chic appeal, making it a favorite for festivals and casual outings.
20. Top Knot with Flower
Add a bohemian touch to your top knot with a floral accessory. Create a high bun and secure it with pins. Add a flower or floral crown around the bun for a whimsical, romantic look.
This style is perfect for outdoor events, weddings, or festivals, drawing inspiration from nature and vintage floral hairstyles. It adds a soft, feminine touch to your look, making you feel like a fairy-tale character.
21. Headband Braid and Bun
For a charming twist on the top knot, start by braiding the front section of your hair like a headband and incorporating it into your bun.
The headband braid dates back to ancient Greece, where women used braids to signify status and beauty.
To create this look, part your hair and braid a section from one ear to the other. Gather the rest of your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure with pins.
22. Loose Top Bun
The loose top bun offers an effortlessly elegant appearance, ideal for a day when you want to look polished without much effort.
Historically, loose buns have been a staple in various cultures, from ancient China to modern runways.
This look is created by pulling your hair into a high ponytail and loosely twisting it into a bun, allowing some strands to fall naturally.
The key is not to over-tighten the bun, giving it a relaxed and casual vibe. Secure with bobby pins and a light hairspray for hold without stiffness.
23. Half-Up Knot with Braids
Combining braids with a half-up top knot brings a playful yet sophisticated style. Popular among teens and young adults, this look is both trendy and versatile.
Begin by sectioning off the top half of your hair. Braid small sections on either side, then pull the rest of the top half into a ponytail, twisting it into a bun.
Secure with pins. This style allows you to showcase intricate braids while keeping the rest of your hair down, making it great for highlighting long or voluminous hair.
24. Top Knot with Bangs
The top knot with bangs is a classic combination that frames the face beautifully while keeping the hair stylishly secured.
To achieve it, start by creating your bangs, whether they are blunt, side-swept, or wispy. Gather the rest of your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with pins.
The contrast between the sleek bun and the soft bangs adds dimension and interest to your hairstyle, which makes it suitable for both casual and formal settings.
25. Twisted Knot Bun Updo
Perfect for weddings or formal events, the twisted knot bun updo is an elegant hairstyle that exudes sophistication. This style has roots in Victorian-era updos, known for their intricate designs.
You should start by dividing your hair into sections and twisting each section individually. Gather all the twists into a high bun and secure with pins.
The twists add texture and complexity to the classic bun; and finish with a bit of hairspray to keep everything in place throughout the event.
26. Knot Bun with Veil
The knot bun with a veil is a bridal favorite, combining the elegance of a bun with the traditional beauty of a veil. This style dates back to medieval times when brides wore veils as symbols of modesty and purity.
To create this look, pull your hair into a high or low bun, depending on your preference. Secure the veil at the base of the bun, ensuring it drapes elegantly.
The bun provides a stable anchor for the veil, keeping it in place while adding a sophisticated touch to the bridal ensemble.
27. Simple & Minimalist Knot Bun
For those who prefer a clean and understated look, the simple and minimalist knot bun is the perfect choice.
To create this bun, gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with bobby pins.
The simplicity of this style highlights the natural beauty of your hair and works well for both formal events and everyday wear.
