When it comes to buns, the side bun is the more polished and stylish take on the classic top bun. It brings softness, femininity, coolness, and a touch of retro charm.
The side bun hairstyle is a beautiful option that works with different hair types and colors. The main requirement is enough length to pull the hair into place.
Beautiful Side Bun Hairstyle Ideas
The beauty of the side bun is undeniable. It is attractive and noticeable from afar, which says a lot about the effect it can have on your look. If you are still thinking about trying a bun on the side, start with a few classic versions first.
Stand in front of the mirror and try different versions of the bun so you can see what suits you best and what works with your hair type.
Practice makes perfect. Below, we have handpicked 25 alluring side bun hairstyles that you must try.
1. Soft Twisted Side Bun
This twisted side bun works beautifully on long blonde hair. Pull the hair to one side and secure it in a ponytail. Then separate the ponytail into several pieces, twist each one, and wrap it around the band. Loosen the twists slightly at the end for a fuller finish.
2. Sleek Rolled Bun
Sleek rolled buns come in many different forms, and this one is simple but effective. The hair is pulled back and combed smooth, and the bun is made horizontally, like a roll tucked from the outside in. The ends are fastened with pins.
3. Romantic Braided Bun
Another polished and occasion-ready look is the side bun hairstyle with a side braid. The braid is big and voluminous, starting from the top and flowing into a soft side bun.
4. Textured Side Braid Bun
This side braid bun is a beautiful upgrade from a regular braided style. It starts from the top, follows the side of the head, and ends in a pretty bun with soft texture and definition.
5. Highlighted Curly Bun
If you want your bun to look curly and full of dimension, the first thing you need to do is curl your hair. When that is done, pull it to the side, tie a low ponytail, and create an unusual bun.
6. Center-Parted Side Bun
The middle part defines this hairstyle. It is not too deep, just enough to make a difference. The rest of the hair is pulled low at the back and styled into a smooth side bun.
7. Chic Messy Bun
The messy bun with bangs is always trendy and stylish. This version of the messy side bun is especially chic and cool. The hair is pulled to the side, and the bun is pinned in an easy, effortless way.
8. Twisted Low Bun
The low side bun looks especially chic when it is done well. It is elegant and polished, making it suitable for occasions that call for a stricter dress code. The hair is pulled back, twisted to the side, and wrapped into a neat bun.
9. Side Bun with a Delicate Braid
This look features a subtle braid that becomes part of the bun. The hair is tied in a low side ponytail. A slim braid is made from the ponytail and then wrapped into the bun, leaving the braided detail visible on top.
10. Polished Loose Bun
This version of the loose bun is very elegant and polished, to the point that it does not leave much hair out. It is done like a wrapped bun, with the hair sections crossing from the outside in. The front is left soft and side swept.
11. Soft Curly Bun
Soft curls make this hairstyle look even bigger, fuller, and more voluminous. The hair is swept to the side, and the curls are pinned in place for a romantic, undone finish.
12. Crown-Braided Curly Bun
This hairstyle is especially appropriate for formal occasions. The hair is parted on the side.
The side crown braid goes from one side to the other and finishes in a curly side bun hairdo. A few curls fall from the bun for a softer visual effect.
13. Sleek Low Side Chignon
The chignon is considered the elegant version of the bun. In this hairstyle, the bun itself is tidy and refined, while the front is left soft and swept to the side.
14. Double-Braided Bun
If you have patience and time, try this look with two braids positioned side by side, both coming together in a textured side bun.
15. Jumbo Fishtail Bun
The fishtail to the side is a very unique and eye-catching look. Create a messy updo, then finish the side fishtail with a side bun. Add an accessory if you want to dress it up even more.
16. Side Braid Into a Mini Bun
This braided side bun starts with a braid at the back and travels across to the other side. It ends in a small twisted bun that looks neat and elegant.
17. Interwoven Bun
This side bun features smooth woven sections that cross the back of the head before finishing in a small bun. The result is neat, modern, and elegant.
18. Chunky Braided Side Bun
This look may need more than one pair of hands if you are doing it at home. Its beauty lies in the different directions of the hair sections, which come together for a rich, textured finish.
19. Sleek Tucked Bun
Sleek styles are often associated with formal events, so this tucked side bun is very appropriate for those occasions.
The hair is parted in the middle, the sides are super sleek, and the bun is rolled and tucked in.
20. Low Double Buns
The double side bun is much more noticeable on longer hair. The same goes for this version, positioned low on both sides.
Twist the hair, tie it into a knot-like shape, and secure it with pins so it stays in place.
21. Sleek Wrapped Chignon
This neat and tidy hairstyle has a formal feel. The hair is parted to the side, and the back is styled almost like an updo, finishing in a precisely wrapped side bun.
22. Copper Side Bun with Sweeping Fringe
The faux fringe falls softly across one side of the face from a loose front section. The rest of the hair is swept into a bun that sits very far to the side, almost reaching the cheek.
23. Polished Knotted Bun
Another hairstyle that works beautifully for formal events is the polished low side bun. The hair is sleek and firmly secured to the side. The bun itself looks like a refined mix of a knot and a twist.
24. Braided Low Side Bun
There are many ways to wear a side bun with braids. In this one, there is a single braid at the side that runs all the way toward the ends.
The hair is swept to one side and, together with the braid, shaped into a bun. The braid crosses over the bun and finishes tucked inside.
25. Oversized Side Chignon
This version of the side chignon is larger and fuller than the regular ones. It is rolled into place and fastened with pins so it stays secure.
How to Do A Side Bun
Doing a side bun is quick and easy. It can be done on straight or curly hair, and both versions look beautiful. If you are creating your bun at home, all you need is a brush, a hair tie, and a few bobby pins. Pull the hair back to one side and tie a low ponytail. You can wear it with a middle part, a side part, or no part at all.
Once the ponytail is secured, take the rest of the hair and wrap it into a bun. This can be done in different ways. You can twist the hair, braid it, or simply roll it. Each option will change the final finish of the bun.
As soon as you do that, secure the bun with another hair tie and pins. Depending on the look you want to achieve, you can smooth the front with hairspray or pull out a few pieces for a softer, messier finish.
How to Style A Side Bun On Short Hair
Women with very short hair may need extensions or added hair for a fuller side bun because the style usually works best on shoulder-length hair or longer. That said, shorter hair can still create a soft and pretty side bun effect.
As mentioned before, doing a bun on short hair is a bit more difficult, but not impossible. What you should know is that a side bun on short hair will look different from one done on long hair. But if you still want this look, the process is pretty much the same.
First of all, decide where you want to position your bun. Then decide how you will wear it, in terms of having or not having a part. When that is decided, pull the hair to the side.
Depending on the length of your short hair, you might not need a hair tie to make a ponytail, just pins. If that is the case, create a bun and secure it well with bobby pins. It will look cute and interesting.
FAQs on Side Bun Hairstyles
Both styles are beautiful in their own way. It really comes down to when and where you want to wear each one. The loose side bun feels more messy, casual, and relaxed.
The low side bun, when done neatly, can look very smooth and elegant. It is often the safer choice for those who do not want to experiment too much.
Buns can be done on every hair type. Some may need more setting spray and bobby pins than others, but they are all manageable.
As you master the art of the side-swept bun, start adding a few accessories and step out with your best look ever. There is no greater satisfaction than the looks you will catch while walking down the street.