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What Are Different Hair Bun Styles?

Amanda R. Bell
Amanda R. Bell

There are several different types of hair bun styles that can provide a sophisticated or more relaxed look. A classic bun wraps the hair into itself, and can be located in several different parts of the head. Braided buns are created much like the classic style, except that the length of the hair is braided before being wrapped. Texturized buns are typically looser than the classic style, and often have loose, face-framing layers and small pieces sticking out of the bun. Any of these hair bun styles may be accessorized with different hairpins or clips.

For classic hair bun styles, the hair is gathered into a ponytail and twisted into itself. As the twist becomes tighter, the hair is wrapped around the base of the ponytail until it forms a bun. Pins are then used to secure the hair. These types of hair bun styles can be placed on the center of the head, at the nape of the neck, closer to the crown, or even on the side.

Some people French braid hair before putting it in a bun.
Some people French braid hair before putting it in a bun.

Braided hair bun styles provide a unique twist on this classic look. Once the hair is gathered into a ponytail, the length is then braided and the braid is wrapped around the base of the ponytail into a bun. In some cases, hair may be French braided and then wrapped at the nape of the neck into a bun. Like the classic style, the braided bun can be on the side, center, or crown of the head, or the nape of the neck.

Buns are popular for dancers.
Buns are popular for dancers.

Texturized buns are typically softer than other buns. While the hair is still wrapped around itself, it is typically left looser, with pieces falling or sticking out of the bun. In some cases, the hair is curled prior to being pinned into a bun, creating a softer look, and face framing spirals are left in wisps. The hair close to the head that is pulled back into a bun may be teased, providing texture at the top. These buns, as with others, can be located anywhere on the head.

Several different accessories can change the look of each of these hair bun styles. These styles may be done with decorated hairpins that stick out of the bun itself. Combs may be used on the sides of the head to hold shorter hair in place or to provide added interest to the style. Different color ribbons or hair extensions may also be twisted into the bun to decorate the hair bun styles themselves. Both casual and more formal styles also lend themselves to the use of headbands, which can help to hold shorter hair back and add interest to the look.

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    • Some people French braid hair before putting it in a bun.
      By: Madeleine Openshaw
      Some people French braid hair before putting it in a bun.
    • Buns are popular for dancers.
      By: Yurok Aleksandrovich
      Buns are popular for dancers.