Surging in popularity across runways, red carpets, and even professional settings, the man bun has become the “final frontier of grooming,” as defined by a notable GQ article. While a dedicated cohort of men has embraced the man bun for years, its recent widespread appeal can be attributed to iconic figures such as Jared Leto, Brad Pitt, and Instagram sensation Brock O’Hurn. These celebrities effortlessly showcase disheveled or sleek knots atop their heads, contributing to the man bun’s meteoric rise as a grooming trend. Embrace this stylish phenomenon that is captivating the fashion scene, and join the ranks of those who effortlessly exude charm with this distinctive hairstyle.
What Is a Man Bun
A man bun, a distinctive take on the traditional female bun, offers a versatile hairstyle that can be worn atop the crown, low at the nape, or customized to suit individual tastes. This trendy look involves gathering the entire hair or just the top portion into a ponytail, which is then skillfully looped into a bun. Often known by various names such as the bro bun, hipster bun, or even colloquially referred to as a “mun,” this hairstyle adds a touch of contemporary flair to men’s grooming. Explore the creative possibilities and embrace the man bun as a unique expression of personal style.
How to Grow a Man Bun
Achieving the perfect bun hinges on maintaining a sufficient hair length, typically around eight to nine inches for a full bun – an endeavor spanning approximately seven to eight months of growth. However, for a stylish semi-bun, a more modest length of four to five inches at the crown or nape is sufficient. Nurturing your hair during the growth process is paramount; a well-maintained mane not only ensures the convenience of a bun but also adds an aesthetic appeal. Prioritize hair care by employing suitable products and regular conditioning, tailored to your specific hair type, to lay the foundation for a polished and visually pleasing bun.
How to Do a Man Bun
Two distinct styles define the realm of man buns: the full bun and the semi-bun, each offering a canvas for diverse styling possibilities. The essential tool for both is a simple elastic band, but you can elevate your look with hair creams and wax, adjusting texture and shine to match your preferences. For the classic full bun, gather all your hair and secure it on the crown of your head or at the nape, resulting in a single large bun—an ideal choice for those with long locks.
Alternatively, the semi-bun is tailored for medium-length hair. Gather the top half of your hair at the crown and fashion it into a bun. This style pairs well with shaved sides or a fade haircut, with all hair elegantly gathered into a bun. For a polished man bun, follow these steps:
- Begin with clean, dry hair, straightening if necessary and using a reliable heat protectant.
- Use a small amount of pomade, wax, or your favorite oil to sleek your hair back.
- Gather all your hair at the top of your head or at the nape.
- Secure a ponytail with a hair elastic.
- Loop the hair tie 1-2 times more, stopping halfway on the last loop to create a ‘loop’ bun.
- Take the excess hair and wrap it around the bun.
- Tuck the ends underneath the elastic band or secure with bobby pins for a neat and stylish finish. Elevate your grooming routine with these steps for a refined and fashionable man bun.
Man Bun Styles in 2023
From hipsters and celebrities to men with Caribbean and Asian influences, the trend of channeling the allure of handsome locks into fashionable and artsy buns is making waves. Now, you too can embrace this stylish movement. Stay tuned for the key insights and techniques that will empower you to master the art of crafting a trendy and eye-catching bun, allowing you to effortlessly join the ranks of those who have elevated their grooming game to new heights.
1. Man Bun with Fade Line Up
@markgardnercaringbah
Exuding confidence, the top man bun paired with shaved sides creates a striking and bold style that encircles the entire head. This distinctive look is perfectly complemented by a clean, well-groomed round beard and a precisely executed blunt line up. The harmonious combination of these elements contributes to an overall appearance that radiates confidence and sophistication. Elevate your grooming game with this confident and on-trend hairstyle, showcasing a seamless blend of boldness and meticulous grooming.
2. Classic Full Bun for Long Hair
@markgardnercaringbah
Renowned as the most iconic and timeless knot, hardcore man bun enthusiasts readily acknowledge that the single tied-up full bun stands out as the pinnacle of sought-after trends. For those blessed with truly long locks, this style effortlessly exudes a sense of effortlessness and requires minimal upkeep. Embrace the simplicity and ageless appeal of this classic man bun trend, a style that effortlessly captures the essence of understated sophistication.
3. Tied Back Long Braids with Fade
@jubei_ma
Let the adventurer within you be captivated by the allure of meticulously cared-for long braids gracefully tied back in a half pony bun, revealing an artistic edge. The addition of a tidy undershave, complete with clean lines, serves to accentuate the aesthetics of the wanderer knot. Immerse yourself in the journey of style as you embrace this distinctive look, a perfect blend of adventure and artistry that sets you apart with a touch of wanderlust charm.
4. Artsy Fishtail Bun with Tattoo
@lena_piccininni
Combining a natural hair man bun with a fishtail braid yields a captivating and marvelous hairdo. The high fade not only imparts an impression of meticulous upkeep, which is fitting, but also radiates an exceptionally creative vibe. This aesthetic is further enhanced when paired with a charming tattoo and a bushy beard, creating a distinctive look that seamlessly merges style, creativity, and individuality. Elevate your grooming game with this unique pairing that promises a harmonious blend of sophistication and creative flair.
5. Thick Man Bun with Line Up
@criztofferson
The dynamic duo of the man bun and beard creates a powerful combination in this style. The undercut introduces a substantial thickness to naturally dense hair, enhancing dimension with carefully crafted layers. Meanwhile, the fade expertly complements the clean straight lines and curves, adding a touch of precision. This particular style is ideal for individuals seeking to preserve their curly hair texture while emanating an edgy and alluring aura. Embrace this trend for a look that seamlessly blends sophistication with a hint of bold sensuality, showcasing a harmonious balance of style and individuality.
6. Loose Bun for Dreads
@dreadstuff_com
Opting to loosely twist dreadlocks into a substantial and weighty top bun isn’t just a captivating choice but has also gained immense popularity among African-American men and notable professional athletes, including the American Football sensation, Harry Fitzgerald. This distinctive style not only adds a unique flair to your appearance but also resonates with cultural diversity and individual expression. Embrace this trend for a look that effortlessly combines cultural significance with a touch of contemporary style, capturing the essence of both tradition and modernity.
7. Black Man Bun with Mid Fade
@londonschoolofbarbering
The allure of this sexy and edgy burst fade is heightened by the natural texture peeking through, introducing an intriguing dimension to the cut. While the style exudes refinement, it remains remarkably easy to maintain, offering the perfect balance of sophistication and practicality. The cut provides just the right amount of height, allowing the bun to gracefully bloom out from the top of the head. Embrace this trend for a look that seamlessly merges style with simplicity, showcasing an effortlessly chic and eye-catching appearance.
8. Casual Man Bun with Long Beard
@_thefinalcut
Elevating your look with a chic, rock-star-inspired style, the undercut lends a refined touch to the casual allure of the sloppy bun. The extended length of the hair allows for protruded ends that distinctly stand out, creating a visual statement. Complementing this captivating hairstyle is a long, silky, and impeccably grown beard, enhancing the overall appeal of the man bun. Embrace this trend for an effortlessly stylish appearance that effortlessly merges sophistication with a hint of rock-and-roll edge, showcasing a perfect blend of boldness and refinement.
9. Swirled Bun in Wavy Hair
@jimijimmi
Catering to the time-conscious gentlemen, this style eliminates the need for intricate cuts. Simply gather your long, wavy locks into a carefree, swirly bun, and you’re ready to roll. Even when complemented by a full beard, this low-maintenance look exudes an exceptionally stylish and alluring image. Embrace the effortless charm of this style for a quick yet trendy grooming option that effortlessly combines convenience with a touch of irresistible allure.
10. High and Tight Man Bun with Design
@criztofferson
Achieving self-expression through your hairstyle is effortless with a high skin fade paired with a messy, shaggy knot and a distinctive design element. This cool and unique style can be brought to life by skilled barbers, so be sure to conduct thorough research to find the right professional for you. Embrace this trend for a look that effortlessly combines artistic flair with modern grooming, ensuring you stand out with a style that is both bold and individualistic.
11. The Cosmopolitan Samurai Bun
@gerrybarber
Looking to make a lasting impression? Opt for the well-structured and tightly executed semi-loop, coupled with a high fade, emanating a distinct Asian vibe. The addition of a blunt and meticulously neat line up elevates this man bun haircut to new levels of elegance—an absolute head-turning twist that commands attention. Embrace this trend for a look that not only showcases cultural influences but also offers a sophisticated and eye-catching style that leaves a memorable impact.
12. Top Knot with Shaved Sides
@ashleypaigecollective
Presenting a more understated take on the Mohawk style, this man bun with shaved sides remains equally bold. The well-executed V-cut showcases sides that are neatly buzzed instead of shaved right down to the scalp, adding a touch of refinement to the edgy aesthetic. To complete the look, a trimmed and shapely beard seamlessly complements this daring hairstyle. Embrace this trend for a distinctive appearance that strikes a perfect balance between boldness and sophistication, capturing attention with its unique and stylish allure.
13. Inverted Braid Faux Hawk
@dustin_burks
Embracing the current trendiness of man braids, the undercut in this style takes the overall updo to the next level by intensifying the thickness, effectively emphasizing the high bun. While the braiding process demands dedication and effort, it contributes a significant amount of depth and dimension to the already lustrous hair color. Dive into this stylish and intricate hairstyle that not only showcases the dedication of braiding but also enhances the visual appeal of the overall look with added texture and dimension.
14. Asian High Bun-Tail with Undercut
@aiden_archuleta
Diverse in their forms, man buns cater to various preferences, and the elegant brown high bun-tail presented here is easily attainable with well-maintained dense hair. Particularly captivating in the silky, soft, and long tresses characteristic of Asian hair, this style exudes an effortless charm. The added allure of an undercut paired with long hair introduces a captivating contrast of textures, elevating the overall aesthetic. Discover the beauty of this versatile and chic man bun, showcasing the ease of achieving a stylish yet approachable look with the right hair care and grooming.
15. Crown Bun with Straight Line
@joelmasterbarber
A true timeless work of art, this style stands as a trendsetter in its own right. The meticulous contours of the line-up not only accentuate the facial features but also enhance the overall shape of the face, providing a subtle lift to the high bun. Delve into this classic yet contemporary hairstyle that seamlessly combines precision and trendsetting, showcasing a look that not only exudes sophistication but also offers a timeless appeal. Elevate your grooming routine with this stylish choice that effortlessly balances artistry and classic charm.
16. The Rebellion Semi-Bun
@barberobengie
This hairstyle boldly echoes defiance with every inch. The intricate design details encircling the head infuse a rebellious edge into the overall look. Complemented by a high fade and a carefully angled line-up, this style makes the bun and the contours of your face unmistakably stand out. Embrace this head-turning choice that radiates confidence and rebellion, combining intricate design elements with a fade that adds a unique dimension to your overall appearance. Elevate your style with a look that effortlessly blends edginess and precision, making a statement that refuses to be ignored.
17. Textured Bun with Full Beard
@khanartist1
The full bun and beard combination stands as the epitome of man bun styles. Featuring a straightforward loop that requires no major skills, it serves as the ideal, low-maintenance bun for individuals with exceptionally long and dense hair. This classic yet effortless style showcases the simplicity of a well-executed full bun paired with a groomed beard, offering a timeless and laid-back look that remains effortlessly stylish. Embrace this ultimate man bun style for an easygoing yet impactful grooming choice that complements both long and dense hair textures with ease.
18. The Weaved Man Bun
@_jazitup
The flawless, lustrous French braid and cornrows confidently converging toward the crown find their perfect union in the charming and compact bun, accentuated by a meticulously executed undercut. The fade lends a polished appearance to the overall look, yet the focal point remains the eye-catching combination of braids and bun. This style effortlessly marries precision with intricate detailing, creating a visually stunning and attention-grabbing aesthetic. Embrace this unique blend of sophistication and creativity, where every element works in harmony to craft a head-turning hairstyle that exudes both elegance and flair.
19. The Quintessential Bun with Polished Sides
@edwardklipperhands
In search of a versatile and sophisticated all-in-one bun? Look no further than this style – the shaved sides seamlessly fading into the beard offer clean lines that accentuate the face. Meanwhile, the long hair atop the head effortlessly forms a stunning high bun. This masterpiece doesn’t just make a solid statement; it exudes toughness, elegance, and intelligence all at once. Elevate your grooming game with this bold and refined choice that showcases a harmonious blend of precision and effortless style, ensuring you leave a lasting impression wherever you go.
20. Messy French Braid Bun
@jacobhkhan
This showcases the easiest approach to the man bun. With a French plait that doesn’t require meticulous neatness and a messy knot exuding a cool and relaxed vibe, it captures the essence of a carefree, bohemian-style bun. Don’t you wish you could flaunt this effortlessly chic and laid-back look too? Embrace the simplicity and charm of this hassle-free man bun, offering a perfect balance of ease and style that’s bound to turn heads with its carefree yet fashionable allure.
21. The South of France Fade Haircut
@edwardklipperhands
Introducing you to a fresh term – the South of France haircut, which is essentially another variation of the mohawk. Gaining popularity after Usher sported it, this haircut features a wide cut with a burst fade on both sides. The top can be either short or long, with the latter pairing seamlessly with a ponytail or a stylish top knot. Explore this trendy and versatile hairstyle that adds a unique twist to the classic mohawk, offering a distinctive look inspired by the Southern French style and capturing the essence of modern grooming with a touch of celebrity influence.
22. Taper Cut Man Bun with Short Sides
@dannistylez
If you’re looking to refresh your overgrown locks, consider the taper cut—a style characterized by a gradual decrease in hair length. Take it up a notch by requesting your barber to incorporate a shaved design, be it a simple line or an intricate carved pattern. Why opt for a cut that trims almost two-thirds of your locks? Firstly, short sides and long top cuts are currently on-trend. Secondly, this style significantly reduces maintenance efforts, offering a stylish and practical solution. Experience the appeal of a modern, low-maintenance hairstyle that effortlessly blends sophistication with a touch of artistic flair—exactly what you need for a fresh and trendy look.
23. Hipster Messy Sock Bun
@gaelmorais
Various bun styles cater to longer hair, ranging from sleek and messy to high and low, as well as neat and fluffy, encompassing both business and hipster aesthetics. Discovering your ideal style involves experimentation, but one undeniable truth is that a truly sexy man bun embraces your unique hair texture. Allow some strands to naturally protrude from your top knot for an effortlessly natural and attractive look. Embrace the diversity of bun styles for longer hair and find the one that perfectly complements your individuality, effortlessly blending style with your distinct hair texture.
24. Asian Braided Bun with Shaved Sides
@chiyukihair
Many Asian men boast thick, textured hair, leading them to favor braided hairstyles with shaved sides. To manage this hair type, create several cornrows in the front and initiate two side braids from the top section. Conclude the hairstyle with regular 3-strand braids, forming a ‘loop’ bun and wrapping the braided ends around its base. Ensure a secure hold for the style. To enhance its allure, consider introducing an additional shade into your braids for added visual interest. Embrace this braided and shaved sides style, perfectly suited for the unique texture of thick Asian hair, creating a distinctive and eye-catching look.
25. Half-Ponytail Bun and Long Beard
@perpetually.beardy
The perennial dilemma of whether to don a beard or go clean-shaven haunts many men. If your facial hair is flourishing, relish in this phase, but ensure a harmonious balance between the hair on your head and your chin. This style shines in the combination of medium locks and a long beard. The allure is further heightened by the wet effect, making this half up bun hairstyle particularly appealing. Achieve the same sleek look by using wax. Embrace the art of balancing facial hair and hairstyle with this distinctive and stylish choice, where the interplay of medium locks and a long beard creates a captivating and harmonious aesthetic.
