5. The Messy French Braid Bun

The Vibe: Casual, relaxed, practical, and stylish in that specific way that looks like zero effort.

The messy French braid bun is the long-hair version of the perfect casual summer updo. It begins as a French braid at the crown — picking up sections of hair as it progresses — and transitions into a messy bun at the nape, combining the two most universally loved summer hairstyle elements into a single, cohesive style. The messiness is not accidental — it is the entire point.

What Makes It Work in Summer:

The French braid section keeps all the hair that would normally frizz at the crown firmly braided and controlled. The messy bun at the nape keeps the length off the neck. The deliberate messiness means that as summer conditions gradually loosen and dishevel the style throughout the day, it only becomes more beautiful rather than looking unkempt.

How to Create It:

Start at the crown with a section of hair at the top of the head and divide it into three parts. Begin French braiding downward — crossing strands over the center and picking up new sections of hair from each side as you go. Continue the French braid from the crown all the way down to the nape, picking up all the remaining hair as you progress. At the nape, gather the remaining length into a loose bun, tucking and pinning rather than wrapping tightly. Pull specific pieces loose from the braid at the crown and from around the bun for a deliberately undone finish.

Pro Tips:

  • Braid the French section loosely rather than tightly — a loose French braid creates significantly more texture and volume at the crown, which is what makes this style look full and beautiful rather than flat
  • Use a scrunchie rather than a regular elastic at the base of the bun — it creates a softer, less severe base point and causes less breakage on long hair
  • The looser and more organic the bun at the bottom, the better — a slightly chaotic bun looks deliberately stylish; a perfectly wrapped bun looks like you were trying too hard
  • Pull face-framing pieces loose at the temples and around the hairline for softness and flattery

Best For: Long hair of any texture. Long wavy and curly hair creates an especially beautiful French braid texture.

Face Shape: The elongating effect of the French braid at the crown is flattering on round and square face shapes. The soft, messy bun at the nape adds balance for longer face shapes.

How Long It Lasts in Summer: Full day — the braided crown keeps the style intact even as the bun loosens.

Occasion: Beach days, picnics, casual summer events, errands, family gatherings.