Have you ever woken up late for work and realized that you don’t have time to style your hair? Or maybe you’re just looking for a way to add some volume and texture to your short hair. If so, then a scruffy bun is the perfect solution for you! This easy-to-do hairstyle is perfect for any occasion, and it can be dressed up or down depending on your outfit. Plus, it’s a great way to hide greasy hair or second-day hair.
To start, you’ll need to gather your hair into a high ponytail. Secure the ponytail with a hair elastic, and then start to pull the hair through the elastic, leaving a small loop of hair at the end. Once you’ve pulled all of the hair through the elastic, take the loop of hair and wrap it around the base of the ponytail. Secure the loop with a bobby pin, and then fluff up the bun to create a messy, textured look. You can also add some hairspray to help hold the bun in place.
If you’re looking for a more polished look, you can use a brush or comb to smooth out the hair before you pull it into a ponytail. You can also add some hairspray to the roots of your hair to help keep it in place. Once you’ve pulled your hair into a ponytail, you can wrap the hair around the elastic several times to create a tighter bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins, and then smooth out any flyaways with a brush or comb. Finally, you can add some hairspray to the bun to help hold it in place.
Gather Your Tools
Even though the scrunchie bun is a simple and low-maintenance hairstyle, you will still need a few tools to achieve the perfect look. Here is a detailed breakdown of everything you need:
Bobby Pins
Bobby pins are essential for securing the scrunchie bun in place, especially if you have short hair. Choose bobby pins that are close to your hair color for a more natural look. It is recommended to use at least 4-6 bobby pins for short hair, depending on the thickness and length of your hair.
Hair Ties
You will need a hair tie to create the bun itself. For short hair, it is best to use a small, thin hair tie that will not create a bulky bump at the base of the bun. Opt for a hair tie that is close to your hair color to blend in seamlessly.
Rattail Comb (Optional)
A rattail comb is a fine-toothed comb with a long, thin handle. It is perfect for teasing and separating hair, which can help create a more voluminous and textured scrunchie bun. If you want to add some extra height or volume to your bun, a rattail comb can be a valuable tool.
Create a Messy Ponytail
To create a messy ponytail, start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head. Secure the ponytail with a hair tie, leaving a few loose strands around your face.
Once your ponytail is secured, gently pull on the hair at the base of the ponytail to create a messy effect. You can also gently tease the hair at the crown of your head to add volume.
To finish off your messy ponytail, wrap a small piece of hair around the hair tie to hide it. Secure the hair with a bobby pin, and you’re done!
Here are some tips for creating a messy ponytail with short hair:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. | This will help to create a fuller, more voluminous ponytail. |
| Tease your hair at the crown of your head. | This will help to create height and volume. |
| Don’t be afraid to pull on your hair. | This will help to create a messy, undone look. |
| Use a light-hold hairspray. | This will help to keep your ponytail in place without making it look stiff or crunchy. |
Form the Bun
Once you’ve gathered your hair, it’s time to start forming the bun. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Create a ponytail: Gather your hair into a ponytail at the desired height on your head. Secure it with a hair tie.
- Divide the ponytail: Divide the ponytail into two equal sections. These sections will form the base of your bun.
- Twist and wrap: Start by twisting one section of hair tightly. Then, wrap the twisted section around the base of the ponytail. Secure it with bobby pins.
- Repeat the process: Repeat step 3 with the other section of hair. Twist it tightly and wrap it around the base of the ponytail. Secure it with bobby pins.
- Combine the twists: Once both sections are wrapped, combine them by wrapping the first twisted section over the second twisted section. Secure with bobby pins.
- Shape and fluff: Shape the bun by gently pulling and fluffing the hair to create a messy, effortless look. You can use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to achieve the desired texture.
- Secure with hairspray: Finish by spraying your bun with hairspray to hold it in place. This will help keep the scruffiness intact.
Tips for a Perfect Scruffy Bun
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use texturizing spray | Apply a texturizing spray to your hair before creating the bun to add volume and grit, making it easier to achieve a messy texture. |
| Tease your hair | For extra volume, tease your hair at the roots before gathering it into a ponytail. This will give your bun a more lifted and voluminous appearance. |
| Leave some strands loose | Allow a few strands of hair to frame your face for a more relaxed and effortless look. These loose strands will add a touch of softness and femininity. |
| Use different bun shapes | Experiment with different bun shapes, such as top knots, low buns, or side buns. This will create variety and add a unique touch to your hairstyle. |
Secure the Bun
To secure the bun, you will need bobby pins or hairspray. If you are using bobby pins, insert them into the hair at an angle to help them hold better. You can also use a hair elastic to secure the bun, but this may not be as effective.
If you are using hairspray, spray it onto the bun and then use your fingers to smooth it down. This will help to keep the bun in place and prevent it from frizzing.
Once the bun is secured, you can use your fingers to fluff it up a bit to add some volume. You can also use a teasing comb to add some texture to the bun.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for securing the bun:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Gather hair into a loose ponytail |
| 2 | Secure the hair with a hair elastic |
| 3 | Divide the hair into two sections |
| 4 | Twist the two sections of hair around each other to create a bun – Start by twisting the left section of hair around the right section. – Then, twist the right section of hair around the left section. – Continue twisting the hair until it is all twisted together. |
| 5 | Secure the bun with bobby pins |
| 6 | Spray the bun with hairspray |
| 7 | Fluff up the bun with your fingers |
| 8 | Add texture to the bun with a teasing comb |
Dishevel the Bun
The final step is to add some intentional messiness to your bun. This will give it a more undone, lived-in look. Here’s how to do it:
1. Gently pull out some strands of hair around the edges of the bun. Use your fingers to gently tug at the hair, creating a few loose tendrils. This will soften the look of the bun and make it appear more relaxed.
2. Run your fingers through the bun itself. Lightly tousle the hair inside the bun to create some volume and texture. Avoid brushing it too much, as this could make the hair look too polished and neat.
3. Use a hairspray or dry shampoo to set the bun. This will help to hold the bun in place and prevent it from unraveling. Spray the hairspray or dry shampoo evenly over the bun, focusing on the edges.
4. Accessorize as desired. You can add a headband, hair clip, or other accessory to your bun to personalize the look. This is a great way to add a pop of color or an extra touch of style.
5. Perfecting the Scruffy Bun
| To achieve a perfectly scruffy bun: | |
|---|---|
|
Use bobby pins to secure the bun |
To prevent the bun from unraveling, use bobby pins to secure it in place. Insert the bobby pins into the base of the bun, criss-crossing them to ensure a strong hold. |
|
Experiment with different placement |
Don’t limit yourself to the top of your head. Try placing the bun lower on the back of your head for a more bohemian vibe, or off to one side for an asymmetrical look. |
|
Add volume with dry shampoo |
Sprinkle some dry shampoo into the roots of your hair before creating the bun. This will absorb excess oil and give your hair a natural lift, making the bun appear fuller. |
Add Accessories
To add a touch of glamour to your scruffy bun, consider incorporating accessories. Here are a few ideas:
Hair Clips
Hair clips come in a wide variety of styles, from simple bobby pins to intricate jeweled barrettes. Choose a clip that complements your outfit and adds a bit of sparkle to your bun. To secure the clip, simply push it into the base of the bun and twist it slightly. You can also use multiple clips to create a more dramatic effect.
Headbands
Headbands are a great way to keep your hair out of your face and add a touch of style to your outfit. To wear a headband with a scruffy bun, simply place the headband around your head, just above the bun. You can adjust the headband to the desired tightness and leave it in place for a comfortable and effortless look.
Scarves
Scarves can be used in a variety of ways to accessorize a scruffy bun. You can wrap a scarf around the base of the bun to create a headband effect, tie it around the bun itself for a bohemian vibe, or use it to create a braided or twisted bun wrap. The options are endless, so get creative and experiment with different scarf styles and colors to find the look that suits you best.
Bows
Bows are a classic accessory that can add a touch of femininity to a scruffy bun. They can be made from fabric, ribbon, or even lace, and can be attached to the base of the bun using a bobby pin or hair elastic. Whether you opt for a simple bow or a more elaborate one, it’s sure to add a polished touch to your style.
| Accessory | Description |
|—|—|
| Hair Clips | Bobby pins, barrettes, or other clips |
| Headbands | Worn above the bun, keeps hair away from the face |
| Scarves | Wrapped around the bun or used to create a headband effect |
| Bows | Fabric, ribbon, or lace, attached with a bobby pin or hair elastic |
Finishing Touches
To complete your scruffy bun and elevate its appearance, consider these additional steps:
1. Secure Loose Ends:
Use bobby pins to secure any loose hair or flyaways, ensuring a tidy and polished look.
2. Add Hairspray:
Apply a light mist of hairspray to set the bun in place and prevent it from unraveling throughout the day.
3. Volumize with Dry Shampoo:
If desired, sprinkle some dry shampoo into the roots of the hair to add extra volume and lift, creating a fuller-looking bun.
4. Enhance with Accessories:
Accessorize your bun with headbands, hair clips, or ribbons to add a touch of personality and style.
5. Experiment with Textures:
Create different looks by experimenting with various hair textures. Use a curling wand or volumizing spray to add waves or curls, or brush your hair straight for a sleek and tidy finish.
6. Adjust the Messiness:
Control the level of messiness by pulling out a few strands of hair around the bun or leaving some loose ends intentionally.
7. Finishing Styles:
**a. Top Knot:** Gather all the hair into a high ponytail and wrap it around itself to create a knot on top of the head. Secure with bobby pins and leave some ends loose for a messy touch.
**b. Side Swept Bun:** Create a low ponytail on one side of the head and wrap it into a bun, leaving the opposite side loose and swept across the forehead.
**c. Half Bun:** Divide the hair into two sections horizontally and tie the top half into a bun, leaving the bottom half down. Adjust the height and volume of the bun as desired.**
Tips for a Perfect Scruffy Bun
Use dry shampoo or hairspray for extra grip
If your hair is clean, it may be too slippery to hold a bun. Add some dry shampoo or hairspray to the roots to give it some texture and grip.
Tease your hair
Teasing your hair will also help to give it more volume and make it easier to style into a bun. Use a teasing comb or a brush to gently tease the hair at the roots.
Use a hair tie that matches your hair color
A hair tie that matches your hair color will help to create a more natural-looking bun. If you don’t have a hair tie that matches your hair color, you can use a clear hair tie or a bobby pin.
Start with a high ponytail
A high ponytail will help to give your bun more volume and height. Pull your hair into a ponytail at the highest point on your head.
Wrap the hair tie around the ponytail base multiple times
Don’t just wrap the hair tie around the ponytail base once or twice. Wrap it around several times to create a secure base for your bun.
Form a loop with the end of the ponytail
Once you have wrapped the hair tie around the ponytail base several times, form a loop with the end of the ponytail. This loop will be used to create the bun.
Pull the loop through the hole in the hair tie
Pull the loop through the hole in the hair tie to create a bun. Pull the loop all the way through the hole to create a tight bun.
Secure the bun with bobby pins
Once you have created the bun, secure it with bobby pins. Insert the bobby pins into the bun at an angle to help them hold securely.
Hairspray to Hold
Once you’ve created your messy bun, it’s important to secure it in place with hairspray. This will help to keep your bun looking neat and polished, even if your hair is short.
When choosing a hairspray, look for one that has a strong hold. You’ll also want to choose a hairspray that is appropriate for your hair type. For example, if you have fine hair, you’ll want to choose a hairspray that is lightweight and won’t weigh your hair down. If you have thick hair, you’ll want to choose a hairspray that has a stronger hold.
To apply hairspray, hold the can about 6-8 inches away from your head and spray evenly over your bun. Be sure to spray the underside of your bun as well. Once you’ve applied hairspray, let it dry completely before touching your hair.
Here is a table of recommended hairsprays for short hair:
| Product Name | Hold Strength | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Elnett Satin Hairspray | Strong | $12.99 |
| John Frieda Frizz-Ease Extra Strength Hairspray | Extra Strong | $6.99 |
| Tresemme Tres Two Extra Hold Hairspray | Extra Hold | $4.99 |
Start With Air-Dried Hair
For a more effortless, undone texture, don’t blow dry your hair before creating the bun. Air-dried hair will naturally have more grip and volume, making it easier to keep the bun in place.
Use Dry Shampoo
If your hair is lacking in texture or grip, sprinkle some dry shampoo at your roots and massage it in. This will absorb excess oil and create a more matte finish, providing a better foundation for the bun.
Section Off the Top
To create a voluminous bun, section off the top half of your hair, tying it up with a hair tie. This will give you more hair to work with for the bun, resulting in a more impressive look.
Tease the Roots
Use a teasing comb to gently tease the roots of the hair you have left down. This will create volume and give the bun a more lived-in texture.
Create a Loose Ponytail
Gather all of your hair into a loose ponytail, securing it with an elastic at the base of your neck. Don’t worry if the ponytail looks messy or uneven; this will add to the scrunchie’s overall style.
Wrap the Ponytail
Take the ponytail and wrap it around the base of the ponytail, creating a bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins and leave a few loose strands around the edges for a more casual look.
Mess It Up
Use your fingers to gently pull and separate the hair around the bun, creating a more relaxed and undone texture. Don’t be afraid to leave some strands loose or sticking out for a more effortless look.
Hairspray for Hold
If desired, mist the bun with hairspray to help it hold in place. However, use hairspray sparingly as too much can make the bun look stiff and unnatural.
Variations:
Variation |
Description |
|---|---|
Half-Up Bun |
Tie the top half of your hair into a bun, leaving the rest down for a more casual yet stylish look. |
Messy Bun With Braids |
Braid one or two sections of hair and wrap them around the base of the scrunchie for a more intricate and eye-catching touch. |
Double Bun |
Create two buns on either side of your head for a playful and youthful look. |
How to Do a Scruffy Bun with Short Hair
A scruffy bun is a versatile and effortless hairstyle that can be effortlessly chic or intentionally messy. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create a scruffy bun with short hair:
- Gather your hair: Use a hairbrush or your fingers to gather all your hair into a ponytail at the crown of your head. Use a hairband to secure the ponytail.
- Create a messy bun: Take the ponytail and wrap it around the hairband in loose loops. Secure the bun with bobby pins as needed.
- Pull out some strands: Gently pull out a few strands of hair around the bun to create a more relaxed and messy look.
- Shake it up: Tilt your head forward and shake your hair to loosen up the bun and create a more natural, lived-in texture.
- Finishing touches: Use your fingers to style and shape the bun as desired. You can add volume by teasing the roots or smooth out any flyaways with a hairspray.
People Also Ask About How to Do a Scruffy Bun with Short Hair
Can I do a scruffy bun with very short hair?
Yes, you can still create a scruffy bun with very short hair. Use the same steps mentioned above, but aim for a smaller and tighter bun. Make sure to tease the roots to create as much volume as possible.
How can I make my scruffy bun last longer?
To ensure your scruffy bun stays in place all day, make sure to use a strong hairband and secure the bun with bobby pins. You can also apply a light hairspray to hold the bun in place.
Can I accessorize my scruffy bun?
Absolutely! A scruffy bun is the perfect canvas for accessories. You can add a headband, hair clip, or even a scarf to elevate the look and add a touch of personality.
