Don't Want None Unless You Got Buns Hun: 5 Top Knots Hairstyles

Whether you are getting ready for a formal occasion or to run your daily errands, hair buns are among the most convenient, easy and comfortable top knots hairstyles that you can wear. They are a versatile and chic to tame your mane while adding a touch of effortless style to your look. 

So, let's not waste any more time - and unleash the power of the bun and transform your hair game to new heights! 

1. Brunch: Messy Top Knot

 

First on our list of top knots hairstyles is this beautiful messy bun, perfect for a brunch with your friends or an evening walk with your significant other.

It is easy to pull off when your hair is dirty—or when you had a little too much fun the night before. The messy top knot might even be a legal requirement for attending brunch at a spot that's serving mimosas pronto!

The Clean N' Mean Dry Shampoo Powder can help tackle any greasiness issues prior to tossing that hair up. Make this hair bun idea with your head bent over if you want more of the front bun look.

Make a figure eight with the hair tie and gently tug the strands out for a fuller look. Don't forget to loosen the hair around the temples a bit too. Nobody needs a bun induced migraine!

2. Holiday Party: Sleek Twist Top Knot

 

Speaking of stunning top knots hairstyles, we can't forget to mention this sleek twist top knot, great for parties or just a fun night out. 

Not to be confused with the messy top knot (yes, girl, there's a difference), J-Lo put the sleek top knot on the map.

A fun but classy top knot bun hairstyle that you can actually do yourself, create the shiny, smooth locks required to do this bun with some Gloss Boss Serum and the Megastar Hair Straightener.

Festive but not aggressive, this hair bun idea is shockingly easy to pull off: after straightening, make a high pony, twist the high pony then loop it around the front and twist toward the back, securing it with a pin. Beauty blogger MakeUpByGio has a super easy how-to here.

3. Running Errands: The Half Bun

 

Looking for great top knots hairstyles on the edgy side?

This half bun says, "I'm a woman who wants her hair looking chic, but I also might need a closer look at the price tag on this shirt at Target."

Only got half the time to do your hair? Great. Only do half your hair. Throw the top section of hair into a bun, touch up the bottom section with your fave curling wand or flat iron, and hit the door.

4. Date Night: Side Part Sleek Low Bun

 

Because sometimes you have to get ready for date night in a hurry (hello, moms everywhere). Celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin has a good play by play for this bun, which she created for Kim Kardashian.

For this one of our awesome top knots hairstyles, make sure hair is silky smooth to start and tame any flyaways with the Style Setter Hair Straightener and top off with Freeze Please Finishing Spray. The smoother, the better, so to really make sure your flat ironing is on point, also use the NuMe Styling Comb as you straighten.

5. The Movies: Messy Low Bun AKA "The Meghan Markle"

 

Last on our list of top knots hairstyles, we have this beautiful messy low bun. 

A little bit of Hottie Alert Hairspray on a low pony (adds shine, texture and hold), face-framing layers, and a British royal beau are all you need to pull of this bun.

Separate the pony into two sections and twist them around each other, then twist the now combined pony around the elastic and secure with a pin. Or for an even easier version, recreate that messy top knot at the nape of your neck and pin to your liking.

12 must-know tips for awesome top knots hairstyles

1. Prepare your hair

While a top knot hairstyle is a great option for styling your hair in-between washes, clean and dry hair generally tends to be more manageable - otherwise, oils and product buildup can make it harder to style and manage.

So, if you are considering doing a top knot hairstyle for a formal occasion, such as a wedding or a party, make sure your hair is clean and dry. On the contrary, if you are using it is a quick and easy hairstyle in-between washes, you can consider using a dry shampoo to enhance its look.

2. Use a dry shampoo

And this is exactly what our second must-know tip for awesome top knot hairstyles is - don't shy away from dry shampoo! It is a great way to enhance hair texture, as well as smooth out frizz and flyaways.

In addition, if you are dealing with greasy hair, it can be an amazing ally - it has oil-absorbing properties, and it can texture and volume to your beautiful bun without leaving any residue.

3. Accessorize with bobby pins

Accessories are an amazing idea to make your top knot hairstyle look more chic and elegant, especially if you are going to a formal event. They are easy to add and can easily elevate your hairstyle to a whole new level.

If you don't have any bobby pins handy, NuMe offers a wide selection of gorgeous decorative pins and hair clips to enhance the appearance of your bun.

4. Choose the right hair tie

Use a strong and secure hair tie that will keep your top knot in place throughout the day. Avoid using hair ties with metal clasps, as they can cause damage and breakage to your hair.

5. Brush out knots and tangles

Brushing out knots and tangles is an essential step in preparing your hair for top knots hairstyle, regardless of the occasion or the exact style that you are going from. It not only makes your bun tidy and neat, creating a sleek base before gathering it up, but it will also reduce possible damage.

To do that, start by dividing your hair into manageable sections. Start by parting your hair down the middle and then sectioning it into two or more parts horizontally, depending on the thickness and length of your hair.

Begin detangling from the ends of your hair and work your way up to the roots. Gently comb through each section, being patient with any knots or tangles you encounter.

6. Use an argan oil serum 

If your dry hair is not adding to the awesome appearance of your top knot hairstyle, a great idea is to use an argan oil serum before styling, ideally on clean, towel-dried hair. 

Made from high-quality macadamia seed oil, the argan oil serum smooths and conditions the hair, making your final look softer and more poblished.

Apply the serum to your hair, starting from the mid-lengths and working your way down to the tips. Make sure to avoid applying the serum to the roots - this can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy.

7. Pay attention to the position

The position of your top knot can dramatically change your overall look. Experiment with different placements like high on your head for a playful and youthful vibe or lower for a more sophisticated and elegant appearance.

8. Secure flyaways

To achieve a polished look, take the time to tame any stray hairs or flyaways. Use bobby pins or hair spray to keep these unruly strands in place.

You can also use the NuMe Sleeky in a Bottle - this lightweight serum adds instant hydration and shine to your hair, and leaves it satin-smooth while reducing frizz and flyaways. 

9. Don't over-tighten

While you want your top knot to stay put, avoid pulling it too tight. Over-tightening can cause discomfort and may lead to breakage and hair damage.

10. Create volume

If you prefer a fuller top knot, consider backcombing or teasing the hair before styling. This will add volume and make your bun appear more substantial.

If you want to achieve maximum volume for your hair, you can also check this article we wrote on how to get volumized hair.

11. Messy chic

Going for a more relaxed and casual look for your top knot hairstyles? In that case, embrace the messy-chic top knot! Loosen a few strands around your face and tug gently at the bun to achieve that effortless appearance.

12. Practice your top knot hairstyle

Don't get discouraged if your first few attempts don't turn out exactly as you envisioned. Like any hairstyle, mastering the top knot takes practice. Be patient with yourself, and over time, you'll become a top knot pro.

FAQ

How do I make my top knot look fuller?

To make your top knot look fuller, backcomb the hair at the crown before gathering it into a bun. This adds volume and creates a thicker appearance. Use hairspray to hold the style in place.

Can I do a top knot with short hair?

Yes, you can do a top knot with short hair. Use bobby pins to secure a mini bun at the crown or opt for a half-up top knot style. Play with accessories to add flair and hold the shorter strands in place.

Are top knots damaging to the hair?

Top knots can be damaging if pulled too tight or worn frequently. Tension on the hair can lead to breakage and strain on the roots. Vary styles, avoid tight elastics, and give your hair breaks to minimize potential damage.

Hopefully, these are all top knots hairstyles you can realistically see yourself pulling off at home, even if it's five minutes before you need to leave! And make sure you have bobby pins ready to secure your bun of the day, whatever it might be. Share your thoughts with us on IG @NuMeHair or sign up for our newsletter at NuMehair.com for hair tips and exclusive offers.

Looking for more hair inspo? Check it out here or find fun and easy tutorials for more styles on our YouTube!

Author: Mary Patterson Broome