16 Bun Hairstyles for Men for a Cool Updo Look

The man bun has transcended trend status. It is now a staple of modern masculine grooming. This versatile updo offers a clean, sophisticated look for every hair type.

Whether you are heading to the gym or a formal gala, a well-executed bun works. It manages long locks while highlighting your facial features and strong jawline.

Ready to elevate your style? Explore these top-tier options to find your next signature look. Here are 16 bun hairstyles for men for a cool updo look.

1. The Classic Top Knot

The classic top knot is the gold standard for men’s updos. It sits right at the crown of the head, providing a balanced silhouette that works for most face shapes.

To achieve this look, pull your hair back tightly and secure it with a durable elastic. It works best for men with medium-to-long hair who want a functional, everyday style.

This version is particularly effective for highlighting a well-groomed beard. The contrast between the sleek hair on top and the facial hair below creates a rugged, masculine aesthetic.

2. The Messy Man Bun

The messy man bun is the epitome of “effortless cool.” It is designed to look unstudied, making it perfect for weekend outings or casual social gatherings where you want a relaxed vibe.

Instead of smoothing every strand, allow some Flyaways to frame your face. Use your fingers rather than a comb to gather the hair to maintain natural texture and volume.

This style is ideal for men with wavy or thick hair. It embraces the natural movement of your locks while keeping them out of your eyes during your daily activities.

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3. The Undercut Man Bun

If you want a sharper edge, the undercut man bun is the way to go. It features buzzed sides and a long top that is gathered into a tight knot.

The high contrast between the shaved skin and the long hair creates a modern, aggressive profile. It is a favorite among younger men and those in creative professional fields.

Maintenance is key for this look, as the undercut needs regular trims to stay crisp. It is a fantastic way to manage thick hair by removing bulk from the sides.

4. The Low Profile Bun

The low profile bun sits at the nape of the neck rather than the crown. This placement offers a more conservative and understated appearance that is perfect for formal settings.

It provides a sophisticated alternative to the high knot. This style is often preferred by men who want to keep their hair managed without making a loud fashion statement.

Pair this with a tailored suit for a polished finish. It keeps the hair secure and neat, ensuring you look professional throughout a long workday or evening event.

5. The Half-Up Half-Down Bun

The half-up half-down bun offers the best of both worlds. You get the functionality of an updo while still showing off the length and health of your hair.

To style this, section off the top half of your hair and secure it into a small bun. Leave the bottom half flowing freely over your shoulders for a relaxed, bohemian look.

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This is a great transitional style for men who are still growing their hair out. It works exceptionally well for those with shoulder-length locks or naturally beachy waves.

6. The Braided Man Bun

Adding braids to your bun introduces an element of intricate detail and craftsmanship. You can opt for a single French braid down the center or multiple cornrows leading into the knot.

This style is not only visually striking but also highly practical. Braids keep the hair extremely secure, making it a top choice for athletes or men with active lifestyles.

It works across various hair textures, from straight to highly textured. Braiding can also help protect your hair from breakage by reducing the tension on individual strands.

7. The Dreadlock Bun

For men with locs, the dreadlock bun is a powerful and iconic look. Gathering thick locs into a large, high-volume bun creates a commanding presence and a clean profile.

This style allows you to manage the weight of your locs comfortably. It is a practical solution for keeping hair away from the face while showcasing the beauty of the matured locks.

Secure the bun with a heavy-duty hair tie or even one of the locs themselves. This look is deeply rooted in cultural heritage and offers a timeless, dignified appearance.

8. The Curly Hair Bun

Men with natural curls often struggle with frizz, but a bun is the perfect solution. The curly hair bun uses the hair’s natural volume to create a full, textured shape.

Don’t pull the hair too tight; let the curls provide a soft, rounded silhouette. The natural ringlets add a unique dimension that straight hair simply cannot replicate.

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Apply a small amount of curl cream before tying it up to define the shape. This style is excellent for men who want to look put-together while embracing their natural hair texture.

9. The Slicked Back Professional Bun

The slicked-back professional bun is designed for the boardroom. It uses a high-shine pomade or gel to ensure every hair is perfectly in place for a mirror-like finish.

This look exudes confidence and authority. It is the ultimate choice for the modern businessman who wants to maintain long hair without sacrificing a sharp, professional edge.

Use a fine-tooth comb to distribute the product evenly from the forehead to the base of the bun. This ensures a sleek, uniform appearance that stays secure all day.

10. The High Fade Bun

The high fade bun blends the world of traditional barbering with long-hair styling. It features a skin fade that starts high on the head, transitioning into long hair.

The result is a very clean and aerodynamic look. The fade draws the eye upward toward the bun, making it the focal point of your entire grooming routine.

This style is particularly flattering for men with square or diamond face shapes. It emphasizes the bone structure while providing a modern, athletic vibe that is easy to wear.

11. The Samurai Bun (Chonmage)

Inspired by traditional Japanese warriors, the Samurai bun is a precise and artistic updo. It usually involves a small, tight knot with the ends of the hair left poking out.

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This style requires a certain level of hair length and a lot of attitude. It is a bold choice that speaks to a sense of discipline and historical appreciation.

The Samurai bun looks best when the hair is straight and the edges are clean. It is a minimalist yet powerful way to style an updo for a sharp, striking look.

12. The Salt and Pepper Bun

Age is no barrier to the man bun. The salt and pepper bun celebrates the natural graying process, offering a distinguished and sophisticated look for the mature man.

The variation in hair color adds natural highlights and depth to the bun. It shows that you are comfortable with your style and confident in your evolving appearance.

Keep the bun neat and the beard well-trimmed to complete this “silver fox” aesthetic. It is a refined way to manage longer hair as you move into a new stage of life.

13. The Viking Double Bun

For a more rugged and adventurous look, the double bun—or “space buns” for men—is an excellent choice. This involves stacking two buns vertically along the center of the head.

This style takes inspiration from Norse aesthetics and fantasy settings. It is a high-impact look that is perfect for festivals, creative events, or those who enjoy a bold style.

You can combine this with shaved sides or braids to enhance the warrior-like feel. It is a unique way to distribute the weight of very long, thick hair.

14. The Taper Fade Man Bun

The taper fade man bun is a more subtle version of the undercut. Instead of a harsh line, the hair gradually shortens toward the ears and the back of the neck.

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This creates a seamless transition that looks very natural. It is a great middle-ground for men who want a clean hairline without the intensity of a full skin fade.

The taper fade keeps the edges looking fresh even as the hair grows out. It is a versatile choice that works well with both casual and formal attire.

15. The Textured Waves Bun

The textured waves bun focuses on movement. Using a sea salt spray or texturizing powder, you can create a bun that looks like you just stepped off a surfboard.

The goal here is to avoid a flat look. The added texture gives the bun more volume and prevents it from looking too thin or sparse on top of the head.

This is a fantastic option for men with fine hair who want to create the illusion of thickness. It provides a relaxed, outdoorsy aesthetic that is incredibly popular.

16. The Side-Shaved Creative Bun

The side-shaved creative bun is for the man who wants to stand out. It often involves asymmetrical shaving or even “hair tattoos” (designs buzzed into the short sections).

By shaving only one side or creating unique patterns, you turn your hairstyle into a piece of art. The bun on top acts as the anchor for the entire creative look.

This requires a skilled barber and regular touch-ups to keep the designs looking sharp. It is the ultimate expression of individuality and modern male grooming.

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How long does my hair need to be for a man bun?

Your hair generally needs to be at least 6 to 10 inches long to tie a proper bun. This length ensures that the hair from the front can reach the back and be secured without falling out.

Does wearing a man bun cause hair loss?

If you tie your bun too tightly, it can lead to a condition called traction alopecia. To prevent this, avoid excessive tension on the hairline and give your hair breaks by wearing it down occasionally.

How do I keep my man bun from looking frizzy?

Using a small amount of lightweight oil or leave-in conditioner can help tame flyaways. For a sleeker look, a medium-hold pomade will keep the hair in place without making it feel stiff or crunchy.

Is the man bun appropriate for a job interview?

Yes, provided it is styled neatly. Opt for a low-profile bun or a slicked-back version and ensure all stray hairs are managed with a light gel to present a professional and polished image.

What is the difference between a man bun and a top knot?

A man bun usually involves all the hair on the head being pulled back into a knot. A top knot typically refers to a style where the sides are shaved or faded, and only the hair on top is tied up.

How often should I wash my hair if I wear it in a bun?

You should wash your hair 2-3 times a week depending on your activity level. Over-washing can strip natural oils, while under-washing can lead to product buildup that makes the bun look greasy and flat.