Unique Bun Hairstyles: 15 Trending Ideas You Haven’t Tried Yet
A bun can look polished, playful or completely unexpected with a few clever details.
These ideas mix soft loops, sleek finishes, braids and modern knotted shapes.
Save the styles that suit your hair length, occasion and preferred level of hold.
Airy High Messy Bun
This high bun gets its shape from loose loops rather than a tightly wrapped coil.
The wispy finish keeps the style relaxed, while the lifted placement makes the hair look fuller from the back.
Leave a few short pieces free around the nape and hairline so the bun does not feel too formal.
Best for: Medium to long hair with some natural texture.
For root volume: Add dry texture spray before gathering the hair.
Half-Up Floral Loop Bun
This half-up style keeps the lower lengths curled while the top section is folded into a soft looped bun.
The small white flowers sit through the bun instead of covering it, so the woven shape still shows.
It is a useful option when you want an updo detail without taking all of the hair off the shoulders.
Best for: Weddings, parties and shoulder-length hair.
Keeps it in place: Use hidden grips beneath each loop before adding flowers.
Voluminous Side-Swept Loop Bun
The large loop at the back creates width, while the smooth crown keeps the overall shape balanced.
Long face-framing pieces soften the lifted bun and help it suit both oval and angular face shapes.
This finish looks polished without being severe because the ends and front sections are left slightly loose.
Ask your stylist: For padding or light backcombing if your hair is fine.
Holds better with: Flexible hairspray applied between each shaping step.
Sleek Sculpted Loop Bun
This bun is built from wide, glossy loops that overlap to create a sculptural flower-like shape.
The smooth base makes every section stand out, so neat preparation is more important than extra volume.
It works especially well for formal events where you want the hairstyle to look precise from every angle.
Best for: Straight or smoothed medium to long hair.
Salon tip: Ask for each loop to be pinned from underneath so the grips stay hidden.
Textured French Twist Bun
This updo combines the vertical shape of a French twist with loose bun-like loops at the back.
The crown has controlled volume, while the curled tendril near the face keeps the finish soft.
It gives long hair a structured shape without the tight, flat look of a classic twist.
Best for: Thick hair that needs secure internal pinning.
Good to know: A strong row of crossed grips will support the centre seam.
Centre-Parted Double Space Buns
Two compact buns placed high on each side give this style its playful, balanced shape.
The clean centre part keeps the look intentional, while the fine strands near the face soften the symmetry.
You can keep the buns neat like this or gently pull the outer edges for a fuller result.
Best for: Casual days, festivals and medium-length hair.
Quick styling: Make two high ponytails first so both buns sit at the same height.
High Bun with Long Face-Framing Pieces
The bun sits high and slightly back, giving lift without making the front look overly tight.
Long separated pieces around the face create a softer outline and make the updo feel more current.
The contrast between the smooth sides and the lightly textured bun keeps the style clean but not rigid.
Works great if: You like an updo that still frames the cheeks and jaw.
Fighting frizz: Smooth only the gathered sections and leave the front pieces natural.
Oversized Loop Bun with Flower Clip
This oversized bun uses broad loops to display the bright pink streaks through the top and centre.
The flower clip works as both decoration and a practical anchor at the base of the shape.
Because the bun is intentionally large, it suits hair with plenty of length or added volume support.
Best for: Creative events and colour that deserves to be seen.
How to get it: Shape the loops around padding, then secure the clip last.
Braided High Bun with Sleek Centre Part
The sharp centre part and smooth sides give this high bun a clean, lifted finish.
Braided sections are wrapped around the top to add texture without making the base look bulky.
This is a strong choice when you want the face completely open but still want detail in the bun.
Best for: Formal occasions and hair that holds a firm ponytail.
Keeps it smooth: Apply a light styling gel with a dense brush before securing the base.
Double Dutch Braids into a High Bun
Two Dutch braids travel from the front hairline towards a full bun at the crown.
The braids add grip and visual detail, making the style feel more secure than a simple top bun.
Soft pieces near the temples stop the braided sections from looking too tight around the face.
Best for: Long hair and active days when you need reliable hold.
Pro tip: Gently widen the braids before forming the bun for a fuller finish.
Woven Side Braid with Low Bun
A wide woven braid runs diagonally through the side before joining a soft bun at the nape.
The loose front section balances the detailed braid and keeps the style from feeling overworked.
This shape is especially flattering when you want interest from the side as well as the back.
Best for: Fine to medium hair with enough length for a low bun.
At home tip: Use a small elastic at the end of the braid before hiding it inside the bun.
Sleek Braided Low Bun with Styled Edges
This low bun is formed from a thick braid, giving the compact shape more texture and depth.
The smooth side part and carefully styled edges create a crisp finish around the hairline.
Keeping the bun close to the head makes the style comfortable under jackets, hats or evening accessories.
Best for: A polished look that needs to last all day.
Holds better with: A firm elastic at the base and small pins around the braid.
Knotted Low Bun with Loose Ends
Rounded loops are tied into a low knot while several straight ends are left visible underneath.
The unfinished ends give the style a modern edge and make it feel less traditional than a tucked chignon.
It is a clever way to turn smooth, straight hair into an updo with both structure and movement.
Best for: Straight medium to long hair.
Style note: Keep the loose ends deliberate and lightly separated rather than fluffy.
Soft Looped Low Bun
Wide side sections sweep into a low bun made from loose, overlapping loops.
The shape sits gently at the nape, which makes it elegant without adding too much height.
A few soft ends are left free below the bun to keep the finish relaxed and touchable.
Best for: Bridesmaids, dinners and softly layered hair.
For that finish: Use a shine mist on the smooth sections, not directly on the loose ends.
Sleek Rope-Twist Top Bun
This high bun is made from several rope-like twists arranged into an intentionally irregular knot.
The sleek base creates a strong contrast with the pointed ends that project from the bun.
It is a fashion-forward option for anyone who wants a neat hairline with a more experimental shape on top.
Best for: Long hair with a smooth, workable texture.
Pro tip: Twist small sections firmly, then pin each one separately for better control.