23 Cute Messy Buns For Thanksgiving Dinner

Thanksgiving is about comfort, laughter, and warmth and your hairstyle should match that same cozy vibe. Messy buns are the perfect go-to for the big dinner. They’re cute, easy to do, and look great no matter your hair length or texture. Whether you’re hosting, cooking, or just showing up with dessert, a messy bun keeps your hair out of the way while still looking stylish.

Below are 10 adorable messy bun ideas that are perfect for Thanksgiving dinner each one simple enough to do yourself, yet pretty enough to impress.

1. Classic Loose Messy Bun

The classic loose messy bun never fails. It’s relaxed, feminine, and perfect for any outfit. Pull your hair into a low ponytail, twist it gently, and wrap it around into a bun. Secure it with a few bobby pins, letting some strands fall freely. You can add a bit of texturizing spray to make it look full and soft. This look works great with cozy sweaters and soft makeup.

For a quick upgrade, tie a thin ribbon around the base of your bun. Choose autumn shades like burnt orange or deep brown for a festive touch. It’s easy, timeless, and effortless ideal for Thanksgiving photos and long family talks by the fire.

2. Top Knot Messy Bun

If you want your hair completely out of the way while cooking or hosting, try the top knot messy bun. Gather your hair high on your crown, twist it into a loose bun, and pin it casually. Don’t worry about perfection—the messier, the better!

Add a few face-framing pieces to soften the look. This bun pairs beautifully with statement earrings or a chunky knit. Spray a little dry shampoo before styling for added grip and volume. It’s functional, chic, and gives that carefree holiday feel.

3. Low Side Messy Bun

The low side messy bun gives off romantic, relaxed vibes. Pull your hair to one side and loosely twist it into a bun below your ear. Use a few pins to secure it, then tug gently for softness. This hairstyle pairs well with off-shoulder sweaters or flowy blouses.

Add a small decorative clip or pin for a seasonal accent something with gold leaves or pearls looks beautiful. The off-center placement feels casual but intentional, making it perfect for an intimate Thanksgiving dinner with friends or family.

4. Braided Messy Bun

A braided messy bun adds texture and dimension. Start by loosely braiding your hair from one side and wrapping it into a bun at the back. Secure with bobby pins and pull on a few strands for that carefree finish.

This style looks best on hair with natural waves or curls. To keep it simple, use a clear elastic for your braid before pinning it up. Add small accessories like pearl pins for a subtle festive touch. It’s an easy DIY look that feels charming and seasonal.

5. Half-Up Messy Bun

If you prefer to leave your hair down, the half-up messy bun is perfect. Gather the top half of your hair and twist it into a loose bun. Let the rest of your hair flow naturally. This look adds instant volume and looks cute from every angle.

It’s also beginner-friendly no special tools needed. Add texture spray or dry shampoo for grip. Pair it with natural waves for that “effortlessly put together” feel. Ideal for casual dinners or Friendsgiving parties.

6. Double Messy Buns

For a playful twist, try double messy buns—one on each side. Part your hair down the middle, twist each section into a bun, and secure loosely. This hairstyle feels fun and laid-back, perfect for a relaxed dinner setting.

To keep it adult and chic, pull out small pieces at the front and use a lightweight hairspray for hold. This style is great for medium-length hair and adds instant personality to your Thanksgiving look.

7. Messy Bun with Scarf

Adding a scarf turns a simple messy bun into a stylish statement. Tie a soft fabric scarf around the bun or weave it through your hair before twisting. Choose fall patterns like plaid or earthy florals.

It’s an easy way to match your outfit while keeping things practical. The scarf adds color and charm, making it perfect for family photos or outdoor dinners. Plus, it’s a smart way to hide flyaways while still looking chic.

8. Curly Messy Bun

If you have curly hair, the curly messy bun looks amazing without much effort. Gather your curls into a bun, letting some strands naturally frame your face. The volume and texture make the bun look fuller and stylish.

To enhance definition, apply a light curl cream before styling. Add a few bobby pins to hold the shape but avoid making it too tight. It’s perfect for women who want to keep their curls front and center during the festivities.

9. Twisted Messy Bun

The twisted messy bun gives a modern, polished vibe while staying relaxed. Divide your hair into two sections, twist them around each other, and pin them into a bun. Gently loosen it for texture and softness.

This look works well with medium to long hair and pairs nicely with statement accessories. You can finish with a shine spray to catch the light in photos. It’s a great style for anyone who wants something easy yet elegant.

10. Knotted Messy Bun

The knotted messy bun looks intricate but takes only minutes. Tie your hair into a ponytail, split it in half, and knot the two pieces together. Wrap the ends around and secure with pins. Pull a few pieces loose for that lived-in finish.

It’s great for medium hair and keeps things lighthearted yet refined. Add a soft scrunchie or decorative pin for a finishing touch. Perfect for when you want a low-effort hairstyle that still feels special for the season.

11. Soft Messy Bun with Side Bangs

If you want a style that looks put-together yet natural, the soft messy bun with side bangs is your go-to. It’s a timeless, flattering look that adds a romantic touch to your Thanksgiving outfit. The side bangs frame your face beautifully, especially when paired with subtle makeup and gold accessories.

Start by parting your hair slightly off-center. Gather your hair into a loose bun at the nape of your neck or mid-height wherever feels most comfortable. Pull a few strands around your temples to keep it relaxed. If your bangs are short, curl them slightly with a flat iron to add volume.

For texture, spritz some texturizing spray or dry shampoo at the roots before styling. This gives that effortlessly full look. Use bobby pins instead of elastics for a softer hold. Finish with a light mist of hairspray just enough to keep the bun in place without making it stiff.

This hairstyle pairs perfectly with off-shoulder sweaters or floral maxi dresses. It’s simple yet elegant, ideal for a family dinner or even a cozy Friendsgiving gathering.

12. Twisted Messy Bun with Hair Accessories

This one’s for those who love a touch of sparkle! The twisted messy bun with accessories looks artistic yet takes only minutes to create.

Start by dividing your hair into two sections, twist each side gently, then wrap them into a loose bun. Use hairpins to secure it and let a few strands fall freely around your neck. Add some decorative clips — gold leaves, pearls, or even mini acorns for a fun seasonal vibe.

The beauty of this look is how easy it is to personalize. You can go boho with feathers, chic with metallic pins, or romantic with pearl accents. The bun’s imperfect texture keeps it casual, while the accessories make it festive enough for dinner photos.

Use a curling wand on the front pieces to keep them soft and face-framing. Pair this bun with dangly earrings and a turtleneck dress to balance elegance and effortlessness.

13. Low Messy Bun with Braided Crown

If you love boho vibes, this braided crown messy bun will be your favorite. It’s creative, detailed, yet super doable — perfect for Thanksgiving family portraits.

Start by creating two loose braids from the front sections of your hair. Pull them back and cross them like a crown. Secure the ends with pins, then gather the remaining hair into a messy bun at the back. Tug lightly at the braids to make them fuller.

This style works best on slightly dirty or textured hair, so skip washing for a day. It’ll give your bun more grip. If your hair is thin, try teasing the roots gently for volume.

Add a little shimmer spray for a soft holiday glow. Whether your outfit is cozy or classy, this hairstyle complements both perfectly.

14. Messy Top Knot with Velvet Scrunchie

This is one of those hairstyles that says “effortlessly cute” in seconds. The velvet scrunchie messy top knot is both cozy and trendy — ideal for long dinners and comfy sweaters.

Flip your hair upside down and gather it high on your crown. Twist it loosely into a bun and secure it with your velvet scrunchie. The key is to let it look a little undone a few stray strands make it perfect.

Velvet adds that festive touch, especially in fall tones like burgundy, emerald, or mustard. Use texture spray for grip and body before styling.

This style keeps your hair out of your face while still looking fashionable for dinner photos. Add hoop earrings or layered necklaces for an extra stylish finish.

15. Messy Bun with Ribbon Tie

Ribbons instantly add charm. A messy bun with a ribbon is timeless, feminine, and ridiculously easy to pull off.

Start with a mid-height bun twist, wrap, and secure it loosely. Then take your ribbon (silk or satin looks best) and tie it around the base into a bow. Choose colors like deep red, rust, or cream to match the Thanksgiving theme.

You can style your hair slightly wavy beforehand to get a soft, romantic look. This style works beautifully on medium to long hair and takes less than five minutes to do.

Pair it with a cozy cardigan or an off-shoulder dress, and you’re Thanksgiving-ready without even trying.

16. Low Textured Bun with Loose Waves

This hairstyle screams relaxed elegance. The low textured bun combines soft waves with just the right amount of messiness.

To create it, curl your hair lightly with a large barrel iron. Then pull it back into a loose bun near your nape. Don’t smooth it too much you want to keep that airy, wavy texture. Pin pieces loosely and pull a few strands out near your temples.

It’s great for naturally wavy or fine hair since it adds volume without effort. Finish with a bit of shine spray for a touch of gloss.

This bun pairs perfectly with earth-toned outfits and warm Thanksgiving lighting.

17. Double Twist Messy Bun

Looking for something a little playful? The double twist messy bun adds a creative spin to your regular bun.

Split your hair into two sections. Twist each side loosely, then cross and wrap them around each other to form a bun. Secure with pins and let a few tendrils fall freely.

The look gives off a casual, artsy vibe great for teens or anyone wanting a touch of uniqueness. Add gold clips or hair cuffs for decoration.

This one’s easy to do on slightly damp hair and works great even if your hair isn’t super thick.

18. Curly Messy Bun with Face-Framing Pieces

If you’ve got curls embrace them! The curly messy bun is all about celebrating texture.

Gather your curls loosely on top of your head, twist gently, and secure with pins instead of a tight elastic. Let a few curls fall naturally around your face for a soft finish.

To add definition, scrunch in some curl cream or mousse before styling. If your curls tend to frizz, lightly mist with a humidity-resistant spray.

This look pairs beautifully with chunky sweaters and statement earrings, giving that effortless, warm vibe that feels just right for Thanksgiving.

19. Messy Bun with Tiny Braids

This style mixes boho detail with casual charm. The messy bun with tiny braids is a fun twist on a simple updo.

Before creating your bun, braid two small sections near your temples. Pull them back, then gather all your hair into a loose bun. Wrap the braids around the base to give it a textured, creative look.

This bun works best on second-day hair the natural oils make it hold better. Add dry shampoo for grip and volume.

It’s cute, quick, and looks even better when you pair it with fall makeup tones like bronze or peach.

20. Half-Up Messy Bun

For those who love leaving their hair down but still want a festive touch, the half-up messy bun is perfect.

Pull the top half of your hair into a loose bun at the crown. Twist and pin it lightly, leaving the bottom half flowing. Add waves or curls for extra body.

It’s effortless and works on almost any hair length. The half-up style keeps your face open while showing off your natural texture.

Use a cute clip or scrunchie to finish. It’s comfy, stylish, and perfect for a relaxed dinner or Thanksgiving photos.

21. Loose Messy Bun with Curtain Bangs

The loose messy bun with curtain bangs gives a soft, effortless feel that works beautifully for Thanksgiving dinner. The face-framing bangs keep it modern and flattering, while the undone bun adds that casual, cozy vibe everyone loves during the holidays.

Start with slightly wavy or textured hair. Pull your hair back loosely, leaving the curtain bangs and a few side strands out. Twist your hair into a low bun and secure it with bobby pins, keeping it light and fluffy instead of tight.

If your bangs are long, gently curl them inward with a flat iron to create that flowy, natural look. Add a few drops of lightweight hair oil to the ends for shine without weighing your hair down.

This hairstyle looks amazing with chunky knitwear or a turtleneck. You can even add a soft satin ribbon for a feminine touch. It’s quick to style, easy to maintain through dinner, and perfect for casual-chic Thanksgiving photos.

22. Messy Bun with Mini Claw Clips

Claw clips are back — and they make messy buns even cuter! The messy bun with mini claw clips is simple yet stylish, giving your hair personality without much effort.

To create this look, twist your hair into a loose bun and secure sections using small claw clips instead of traditional pins or elastics. Mix and match clip sizes and colors for a fun, modern effect. Gold, tortoiseshell, or neutral shades work best for Thanksgiving since they match the cozy fall tones.

If your hair is thick, use a few medium clips to hold it in place. For thinner hair, teasing the crown before styling can add more volume. Let some strands fall naturally around your neck and ears to keep it relaxed.

This look is especially great if you plan on taking your bun down later it won’t leave harsh dents. Pair it with statement earrings and a soft cashmere top for a balanced, effortless holiday look.

23. Side Swept Messy Bun

For an elegant twist on a casual favorite, try the side-swept messy bun. It’s the perfect balance between dressy and laid-back, making it ideal for a festive dinner or family photos.

Start by parting your hair deeply to one side. Pull it toward the opposite ear, twist gently, and secure into a low, off-center bun. Use bobby pins instead of elastics to keep it soft and romantic. Let a few strands fall naturally to frame your face.

If you want a little more polish, curl the loose strands slightly with a wand. Add a touch of shine serum or hair gloss spray for that subtle glow that looks great under warm candlelight.

This hairstyle looks especially flattering with asymmetrical necklines or one-shoulder dresses. It’s chic without trying too hard the kind of style that makes you feel confident and camera-ready without a trip to the salon.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving hairstyles should feel easy, warm, and full of personality just like the day itself. These cute messy bun ideas let you stay comfortable while still looking stylish for dinner, photos, and cozy family moments.

From ribbons and bangs to braids and side buns, each idea adds a little seasonal charm without the stress. Try one that fits your outfit and vibe and enjoy feeling beautiful while you celebrate with the people who matter most.