How to Do Bun Hairstyles for Short Hair 

Okay, let’s be real for a second doing bun hairstyles when you’ve got short hair feels a little like trying to tie a ribbon around a beach ball. The hair slips out, bobby pins fly like confetti, and suddenly you’re questioning all your life choices. Sound familiar? 

But trust me, you can absolutely rock bun styles with short hair. It’s not just possible it’s freaking adorable. You just need the right hacks, a little patience, and maybe a tiny army of bobby pins (no shame in that game).

Let’s get into the how, shall we?

The Basics: Can You Even Bun with Short Hair?

Short answer? Heck yes.

You don’t need waist-length hair to create a killer bun. In fact, short hair buns often look cooler and more effortless like you just woke up chic. The key is working with your hair length, not against it.

So what counts as “short” hair here?
We’re talking anything between pixie-length and just above the shoulders. If your hair grazes your collarbone or even hits your chin, you’ve got more styling room than you think.

Tools You’ll Need in Your Bun Arsenal

Let’s not get all fancy you probably already have this stuff in your bathroom drawer. But just in case, here’s what I swear by:

• Mini elastic bands (great for sectioning or “cheating” length)
• Bobby pins (like, a lot)
• Dry shampoo or texturizing spray (for grip and volume)
• Hair donut (small size) or mesh bun maker
• A tail comb (for parting and teasing if you’re feeling wild)
• Hair spray (optional but clutch for flyaways)

Pro Tip: Spray your bobby pins with a little hairspray before using them. They’ll grip better and won’t slip out by lunchtime. Game-changer.

1. The Classic Mini Bun

Perfect for: Chin-length or longer
Vibe: Chic, no-fuss, “I totally woke up like this”

How to Do It:

1. Gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
2. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around itself into a tiny bun.
3. Secure with bobby pins, sneakily tucked underneath.
4. Finish with a spritz of texturizing spray to keep things messy chic.

Feeling fancy: Leave a few face-framing pieces out for that French-girl vibe.

2. The Half Up Bun (aka The Hun)

Perfect for: Super short hair that won’t fit in a full bun
Vibe: Trendy, playful, low-commitment

How to Do It:

1. Grab the top half of your hair (from temple to crown).
2. Twist it into a mini bun on top of your head or slightly back.
3. Pin it securely and tease the rest of your hair for volume.

This one’s a lifesaver on lazy days. It takes two minutes and makes you look like you actually tried. Win-win.

3. The Double Mini Buns (Space Buns, Baby!)

Perfect for: Short bobs or layered cuts
Vibe: Playful, a little retro, very Instagram

How to Do It:

1. Part your hair down the middle (dead center).
2. Create two mini ponytails one on each side.
3. Twist and pin each into a bun, keeping them high or low depending on your mood.
4. Lock it all down with hairspray.

Bonus points if you rock this look with bold eyeliner or funky earrings. Just saying. 

4. The Faux Bun Trick

Perfect for: When your hair really won’t bun
Vibe: Sleek and sneaky

Here’s how the magic happens:

1. Section your hair into 2-3 mini ponytails at the back of your head.
2. Twist and pin each one flat, overlapping to fake a full bun shape.
3. Smooth out the top layer with your fingers and pin any flyaways.

Honestly: it looks like a full bun, but it’s totally smoke and mirrors. And no one needs to know.

5. The Messy Textured Bun

Perfect for: Short layered hair that’s hard to tame
Vibe: Boho, cool-girl, “I don’t try, but I still slay”

Step-by-step:

1. Spritz dry shampoo or texture spray all over. Go wild.
2. Pull hair into a loose, low ponytail don’t fight the messiness.
3. Twist loosely into a bun, letting layers stick out naturally.
4. Secure with pins and add volume by tugging gently at the crown.

This one’s all about embracing the chaos. IMO: the more random pieces stick out, the better.

Quick Tips for Bun Success (Short-Hair Edition)

Let me save you some trial and error:

• Don’t overthink it. Perfection is boring. A little mess makes it modern.
• Work with your natural texture. Straight hair? Add a little wave. Wavy hair? Leave it alone!
• Mini elastics are lifesavers. Use them to “fake” longer sections by tying and tucking.
• Volume is your bestie. Tease, spray, fluff whatever it takes to make it look fuller.

Ever Wondered Why These Tricks Actually Work?

It’s because you’re not forcing your hair to do something it physically can’t. You’re using illusion, texture, and strategic pinning to cheat your way into a bun life. And honestly? That’s kinda genius. 

Final Thoughts: Bun Life, Even with Short Hair

So, next time you hear someone say, “You need long hair to wear a bun,” feel free to laugh (or roll your eyes dramatically your call). You can absolutely slay a bun with short hair, and now you’ve got the hacks to prove it.

Try them out, mix and match, experiment with different vibes. Hair is supposed to be fun, not frustrating. 

And hey if a bobby pin falls out in public, just act like it’s part of your aesthetic. We’ve all been there.