Your Guide to the Man Bun

When it comes to popular hairstyles for men, short hair is likely what comes to mind. But what about the man bun? If you’ve ever scrolled through your social media feeds, we’d bet you’ve come across celebrities, influencers, and even friends sporting a man bun hairstyle. It’s a great way for men with longer hair to keep their strands out of their face without sacrificing an inch of style. Interested in giving this hairstyle trend a try for yourself? Read on to learn everything you need to know about man bun styles, including 10 different man bun hairstyles—from the top knot to the messy bun—you can consider.

WHAT IS A MAN BUN?

A man bun is just what you’re probably thinking—a bun worn by a man with longer hair. This can be an actual bun or a ponytail. Typically, it’s located on the crown of the head, though there are many different options and ways to style a man bun. And, as you can imagine, a man bun haircut requires having strands that are around shoulder length if not longer.

THE HISTORY OF THE MAN BUN TREND

The man bun has been around since long before celebrities began to sport it on the red carpet. Throughout history, it has made its way atop the heads of historic leaders and warriors alike, as well as some of our favorite actors, cartoons, and sports players.

HOW TO STYLE A MAN BUN

If you’ve never put your hair into a bun before, it may not seem like the easiest feat. You’ve probably seen women toss their hair into buns in a few seconds flat, and you’ll get there eventually. While there are different ways to style your man bun, the basics are as follows: Place a hair elastic—not a rubber band—around your wrist. Then gather your hair as if creating a ponytail. Twist the length around the base to form a bun, then wrap the hair tie around it. Ta-da!

We’d say just about anyone can pull off a man bun—it all depends on the look you’re going for! With the right style, you can customize your bun to fit the atmosphere you’ll be in and the vibe you want to communicate. Like we’ve mentioned, there are plenty of options when it comes to styling a man bun—which brings us to…

10 DIFFERENT MAN BUN HAIRSTYLES

Ready to rock a man bun? If you need some inspiration, check out these 10 different man bun hairstyles.

MAN BUN STYLE #1: LOW BUN

If you’re testing the waters of the man bun trend, a low bun may be a good place to start. Sitting at the nape of your neck, it’ll pull your hair out of your face without making your bun the center of attention. We love the look of a low man bun with some facial hair.

MAN BUN STYLE #2: MINATURE PONY

Like we said, your bun doesn’t have to be a bun! If you’re a hairstyling newbie, a miniature ponytail man bun is virtually foolproof. All you have to do is gather your hair at the back of the crown of your head—making sure to smooth any bumps or knots—and secure with a clear elastic. No twisting or rolling required.

MAN BUN STYLE #3: TOP KNOT

Show off your man bun loud and proud with a traditional top knot. As you can guess, this option is located at the top of your head and is ideal for those with a longer hair length. You can make it messy or keep the look clean and polished with the help of the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle LOCK IT Clean Style Gel and a few bobby pins.

MAN BUN STYLE #4: BRAIDED BUN

Yes, man bun braids are a thing! As it turns out, those braiding skills your little sister tried to show you back in the day may actually come in handy. First, gather your hair into a ponytail and secure with a clear elastic—wherever you see fit. You can have it be at the top of your head, back of your head, or nape of your neck. Just keep in mind that the base of your ponytail will be the center of your bun. Then, create a traditional three-strand braid, securing with a clear elastic when you reach your ends. Wrap the braid around the base of the ponytail to form a bun, tucking the ends and pinning into place with bobby pins. The result? A trendy, textured braided bun.

Editor’s note: Clueless when it comes to braiding? Head over to our article, Braiding Basics: How to Braid Your Hair.

MAN BUN STYLE #5: MESSY BUN

There’s just something about a carefree, messy man bun that’s so manly. Not to mention, it’s super easy to create. Simply gather your locks, twist, and secure with an elastic. No need to fret over it being perfect—that’s the point!

MAN BUN STYLE #6: FADE HAIRCUT

Have you heard the phrase ‘man bun fade’ being tossed around? This man bun variation features the trendy fade haircut you’ve likely seen popping up on your Instagram on the sides and back of your head, but with length kept at the crown to create a man bun. The result? An edgy, trendsetting ‘do.

MAN BUN STYLE #7: TEXTURED BUN

Do you have naturally curly hair? A textured man bun is oh-so-handsome. Embrace your curly texture and sweep it into a bun. Bonus points if you leave a few face-framing ringlets loose!

MAN BUN STYLE #8: UNDERCUT

Undercuts have become one of the most popular ways to add a unique, hidden touch to your hair. This is a great option for those who want to sport a man bun, as your undercut will be on full display. You can keep it simple and shaven or opt for a design in your undercut.

MAN BUN STYLE #9: HALF BUN

Half-up hairstyles aren’t just for the ladies! If you want to show off your long length, part your hair from ear to ear and pull your top section of hair into a top knot. Leave the rest hanging free!

MAN BUN STYLE #10: MOHAWK

Mohawks have been making a comeback as of late, and they’re a great way to give a man bun a try. If you love a dramatic, eye-catching ‘do, this is the perfect option. The rest of your hair will be cut short except for your hawk, which will be twisted into a man bun at the top of your head. Edgy, right?

Next: 5 Spiky Hairstyle for Men