Different Types of Hair Buns

A bun may seem like a simple hair style, but there are many different types of hair buns suitable for many different occasions.

The most basic type of bun is twisting the hair together into a simple knot at the back of the head and securing it with a scrunchie. While this is a great everyday hairdo, there are also many other bun looks to choose from as well.

A tall double bun is a chic option for a formal hair style, and it is frequently preferred by dancers and other performers with long hair.

By doubling the bun and using two elastics to secure it, the hair is held more firmly and given a more interesting texture than a simple bun.

A low bun fastened at the nape of the neck can be a romantic, elegant look when paired with loose tendrils of hair that frame the face and neck.

This is a great look for women with layered hair that may not be easy to secure in a smooth bun, and curling the tendrils gives them a wistful, romantic look.

Different sections of hair can be twisted together to give a bun some surface texture, and adding a floral pin, fresh flower, or other accent adds color and creativity to the look.

This is a popular wedding hair style for brides and bridesmaids, and it is suitable for any special occasion.

Give your bun some emo edge by coiling the hair close to the scalp at the side of the head but leaving the ends loose.

The loose hair can then be fanned across the head (use plenty of hair spray for secure hold and shape), or it can be left to dangle beneath the coil and frame the neck, similar to a tendril look.

The defining characteristic of different types of hair buns is that the hair is smoothly gathered at the back of the head, but it does not have to be held in a simple knot or ball.

A more elaborate updo bun will use different sections of hair to create both volume and security as needed for an elegant style.

A fast, easy type of hair bun starts with a simple ponytail - gather hair in an elastic close to the scalp, but when pulling the hair into the elastic do not pull the ends all the way through.

That way, the hair forms a loose drape at the back of the head, giving the illusion of both a ponytail and a bun.

Long, thin hair can be wound into an elaborate coil before being pinned as a bun.

This keeps the hair secure but gives the bun much more texture and distinction than a circular coil.

Several hair pins or bobby pins may be necessary to keep the longer coil in place, however.

A bun doesn't have to be positioned at the back of the head or the nape of the neck.

A bun centered on the crown of the head gives the style instant volume and eye-catching appeal, similar to a modern beehive hairdo.

This style is best for short or medium hair, however, since longer hair will create a larger, bulkier bun that may become unbalanced or unwieldy.

Medium or long hair can be tied into a fast, messy bun as a quick way to get hair under control and out of the way.

This style does not work with layered hair, however, since the layers will fall out of the bun. Pushing a hair stick through the knot is a quick way to help keep it more secure.

Two buns, one on each side of the head, is a fun hair bun look popular for young girls in ballet or other dance classes.

Double buns can also be a great edgy look for an adult, particularly if the hair is thick enough for sizeable buns and may be too thick for a single knot.

With many different types of hair buns, the right accessories can turn a deceptively simple style into a more elegant look.

Hair clips, floral wraps, snoods, hair pins, bun wraps, and hair combs are all great options to add a touch of elegance to any bun look.

Want more hair bun ideas? Check out…

• How to Make a Hair Bun
• Hair Updos Ideas
• Half Updos
• Formal Hairstyles