What Is a Man Bun?
The man bun is a men’s hairstyle where you gather longer hair and tie it into a rounded bun at the crown or back of your head. It looks sharp, works for casual and professional settings, and takes just minutes to style once you know how.
In 2026, the man bun is experiencing what stylists call a “refined comeback.” It’s bolder, cleaner, and more intentional than ever before. Whether you want a classic full bun, a sharp fade combination, or something edgy with an undercut, this guide covers every style you need to know.
You’ll learn which man bun suits your face shape and hair type, step-by-step tutorials for each style, exactly what to tell your barber, and how to maintain healthy hair for the perfect bun.
This hairstyle has deep roots. Samurai warriors in Japan wore a version called the chonmage for centuries. It became a major trend during the 2010s hipster movement. Now in 2026, it has evolved into a contemporary, polished style that works everywhere from the gym to the boardroom.
| Celebrity | Description |
|---|---|
| Chris Hemsworth | Celebrities helped make this look iconic. Chris Hemsworth rocks a refined man bun that shows how to pull it off with confidence. |
| Jason Momoa | Jason Momoa brings a rugged Viking energy to his. |
| Kit Harington | Kit Harington made the half-up style famous as Jon Snow. |
| Jared Leto | Other stars like Jared Leto have all worn variations of this versatile style. |
| Harry Styles | Other stars like Harry Styles have all worn variations of this versatile style. |
| Orlando Bloom | Other stars like Orlando Bloom have all worn variations of this versatile style. |
| Leonardo DiCaprio | Other stars like Leonardo DiCaprio have all worn variations of this versatile style. |
| Brad Pitt | Other stars like Brad Pitt have all worn variations of this versatile style. |
| Zayn Malik | Other stars like Zayn Malik have all worn variations of this versatile style. |
| David Beckham | Other stars like David Beckham have all worn variations of this versatile style. |
| Jake Gyllenhaal | Other stars like Jake Gyllenhaal have all worn variations of this versatile style. |
| Timothée Chalamet | Other stars like Timothée Chalamet have all worn variations of this versatile style. |
| Dev Patel | Other stars like Dev Patel have all worn variations of this versatile style. |
| Travis Fimmel | Other stars like Travis Fimmel have all worn variations of this versatile style. |
| Lewis Hamilton | Other stars like Lewis Hamilton have all worn variations of this versatile style. |
The beauty of the man bun? It works with straight, wavy, curly, or coily hair. It suits casual weekends and formal events. And once you learn the technique, styling takes just 3-5 minutes each day.
30+ Best Man Bun Haircut Styles
Now for what you came here for. Every man bun style you need to know, organized by category for easy browsing.
Classic Man Bun Styles
These foundational styles work for almost any occasion.
1. The Classic Full Man Bun
All your hair gathered into one rounded bun at the back or crown of your head. This is the style most people picture when they hear “man bun.”
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Everything. Casual days, work, weddings, dates. |
| Face shapes | All, especially oval and rectangle. |
| Hair length needed | 6+ inches minimum, 10+ inches ideal. |
| Maintenance level | Moderate. |
| Celebrity examples | Jared Leto, Orlando Bloom. |
The classic man bun is timeless. It looked great in 2015 and looks even better in 2026 with a more refined, intentional approach.
2. The High Man Bun
The bun sits at the top of your head, near the crown. It draws attention upward and adds height to your overall look.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Making a statement, elongating round faces. |
| Face shapes | Round, diamond, oval. |
| Hair length needed | 8+ inches. |
| Maintenance level | Moderate. |
| Celebrity example | Zayn Malik. |
This style commands attention. If you want people to notice your hair, position your bun high.
3. The Low Man Bun
The bun sits comfortably at the nape of your neck. It’s relaxed, understated, and incredibly easy to style.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Laid-back vibes, professional settings, everyday wear. |
| Face shapes | Rectangle, oblong. |
| Hair length needed | 6+ inches. |
| Maintenance level | Low. |
| Celebrity examples | Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt. |
This is the “effortlessly cool” bun. Perfect for guys who want style without trying too hard.
4. The Messy Man Bun
Loosely tied with strands falling out on purpose. It looks effortless and casual.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Weekends, creative jobs, casual hangouts. |
| Face shapes | All. |
| Hair length needed | 6+ inches. |
| Maintenance level | Low. |
| Celebrity example | Harry Styles. |
Styling tip: Tie your bun, then gently tug the loop to loosen it. Let some hair fall around your ears naturally. You want messy, not sloppy.
5. The Half-Up Man Bun
Only the top section of your hair goes into the bun. The bottom half flows freely.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Showing off hair length, rugged aesthetic. |
| Face shapes | Oval, heart, rectangle. |
| Hair length needed | 5+ inches on top. |
| Maintenance level | Low. |
| Celebrity examples | Kit Harington (Jon Snow), Chris Hemsworth. |
This style has serious Game of Thrones energy. It’s masculine, rugged, and highlights both your bun and your flowing locks.
Man Bun with Fade Styles
Pairing a man bun with a fade creates sharp contrast between the longer top and shorter sides. This is one of the most popular combinations right now.
6. Man Bun with Low Fade
The fade starts near your ears and gradually blends into the longer hair on top.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Clean, professional look with subtle contrast. |
| Face shapes | All. |
| Maintenance level | Moderate. |
| Fade needs touchups | every 2-3 weeks. |
What to tell your barber: “I want a low fade on the sides with enough length on top to tie a man bun. Keep at least 6 inches on top.”
7. Man Bun with Mid Fade
The fade starts at temple level. It’s the perfect middle ground between subtle and dramatic.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Balanced look that works anywhere. |
| Face shapes | All. |
| Maintenance level | Moderate. |
8. Man Bun with High Fade
The fade starts high on your head, creating maximum contrast between shaved sides and long top.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Bold, statement style. |
| Face shapes | Oval, diamond. |
| Maintenance level | Moderate to high. |
9. Man Bun with Skin Fade
The fade goes all the way down to the skin. This creates the sharpest, most dramatic contrast possible.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Modern, edgy look. |
| Face shapes | All. |
| Maintenance level | High. |
| Touchups needed | every 2-3 weeks. |
10. Man Bun with Taper Fade
More gradual than a skin fade. It’s cleaner than leaving sides natural but less dramatic than a full fade.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Professional settings, subtle style. |
| Face shapes | All. |
| Maintenance level | Moderate. |
11. Man Bun with Burst Fade
A curved fade shape around your ears. It creates a “burst” effect that’s trendy and eye-catching.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Guys who want something different. |
| Face shapes | Oval, round. |
| Maintenance level | Moderate to high. |
12. Man Bun with Temple Fade
The fade focuses on the temple area, creating a clean frame around your face.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Sharp, defined look. |
| Face shapes | All. |
| Maintenance level | Moderate. |
Man Bun with Undercut Styles
The undercut man bun features shaved or very short sides with longer hair on top. It’s edgy, modern, and creates a sharp disconnect.
13. Classic Undercut Man Bun
Short, buzzed sides with all the length on top gathered into a bun.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Edgy, modern look. |
| Face shapes | All. |
| Maintenance level | Moderate to high. |
| Undercut needs trimming | every 2-4 weeks. |
| Celebrity examples | Chris Hemsworth, Zayn Malik. |
This was one of the first man bun variations to go viral. It remains popular because it works so well.
14. Disconnected Undercut Man Bun
No blending between the undercut and top hair. There’s a hard line where short sides meet long top.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Maximum contrast, bold statement. |
| Face shapes | Oval, diamond. |
| Maintenance level | High. |
15. Low Undercut Man Bun
The undercut sits lower on your head, so more hair is visible before the cut.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | Less extreme look with undercut benefits. |
| Face shapes | All. |
| Maintenance level | Moderate. |
16. Man Bun with Shaved Sides
Sides fully shaved rather than faded. Maximum drama.
Best for: Alternative, edgy aesthetic.
Face shapes: Oval, diamond, square.
Maintenance level: High.
17. Diamondback Man Bun
A V-shape shaved at the back of your neckline, creating a diamond or arrow pattern.
Best for: Unique detail visible from behind.
Face shapes: All.
Maintenance level: Moderate to high.
Man Bun Styles by Hair Type
Your hair texture affects how your man bun looks. Here are styles optimized for different types.
18. Curly Man Bun
Natural curls gathered into a full, textured bun. The curls add volume and character.
Best for: Embracing natural texture.
Hair type: Curly, wavy.
Products needed: Curl cream, leave-in conditioner.
Celebrity examples: Timothée Chalamet, Dev Patel.
Pro tip: Don’t tie too tight. Let your curls show their natural volume and bounce.
19. Black Curly Hair Man Bun
Afro-textured hair creates a beautiful, full bun with natural coils and impressive volume.
Best for: Showcasing natural texture and coils.
Hair type: Coily, afro-textured.
Products needed: Edge control, moisturizing cream, satin-lined hair tie.
Styling variations:
- With taper fade for clean sides
- With lineup for sharp edges
- With twist-out texture for defined curls
- With color tips for added style
This style is seriously underrated. When done right, it looks absolutely stunning. The key is keeping your hair moisturized and using edge control for a polished finish.
20. Straight Hair Man Bun
Sleek, smooth bun with straight strands. This creates the most polished look.
Best for: Clean, refined appearance.
Hair type: Straight.
Products needed: Light pomade or styling cream.
21. Wavy Hair Man Bun
Natural waves add effortless texture to your bun.
Best for: Beach-inspired, relaxed look.
Hair type: Wavy.
Products needed: Sea salt spray, texturizing cream.
22. Thin Hair Man Bun
A lighter bun that works beautifully with fine hair.
Best for: Men with less density.
Hair type: Fine, thin.
Products needed: Volumizing mousse, light styling cream.
Pro tip: Use the pineapple bun technique. Gather hair higher on your head and let it fall forward slightly for a fuller appearance.
23. Thick Hair Man Bun
Dense, voluminous bun that makes a statement.
Best for: Men with lots of hair density.
Hair type: Thick.
Products needed: Texturizing cream, matte clay.
Braided Man Bun Styles
Adding braids takes your man bun to the next level. These styles require more time but deliver impressive results.
24. Braided Man Bun
One or more braids incorporated into your bun. The braid can run along the top, sides, or weave into the bun itself.
Best for: Detailed, fashion-forward look.
Hair length needed: 8+ inches.
Celebrity example: Jason Momoa.
25. French Braid Man Bun
A French braid runs along the top of your head and ends in a bun at the back.
Best for: Keeping flyaways secure, intricate styling.
Hair length needed: 10+ inches.
26. Double Side Braid Man Bun
Braids on each side of your head meet at the center to form a bun.
Best for: Viking warrior aesthetic.
Hair length needed: 8+ inches on sides.
27. Cornrow Man Bun
Multiple tight cornrow braids leading back into a gathered bun.
Best for: Protective styling, detailed patterns.
Hair types: Works especially well with coily and afro-textured hair.
28. Dreadlock Man Bun
Dreadlocks gathered into a bun. Only works if you have established locs.
Best for: Men with dreadlocks wanting a practical, stylish option.
Variations: With undercut, with fade, with colored tips.
2026 Trending Man Bun Styles
These styles are hot right now. They reflect the refined, intentional approach that defines man buns in 2026.
29. Top Knot
A small, tight knot positioned at the very top of your head. Different from a traditional man bun in size and position.
Best for: Samurai-inspired, minimal aesthetic.
Hair length needed: 4+ inches on top (works with undercut).
Celebrity examples: David Beckham, Jake Gyllenhaal.
Don’t confuse this with a man bun. The top knot is compact and sits at the crown. A man bun is fuller and can be positioned anywhere.
30. Low-Slung Samurai Knot
A 2026 trending variation. The bun sits lower than a top knot, creating a modern take on the traditional Japanese samurai style.
Best for: Cultural appreciation, refined aesthetic.
Face shapes: Oval, rectangle.
Hair length needed: 6+ inches.
31. Textured Top Knot with Sharp Undercut
Combines textured, slightly messy top hair with a precise, sharp undercut. The contrast is striking.
Best for: Modern edge with polish.
Face shapes: All.
Maintenance level: High.
32. Sculptural Wet-Look Bun
Hair is slicked back with gel or pomade before being tied into a tight, sculptural bun. It looks refined and intentional.
Best for: Formal events, fashion-forward occasions.
Products needed: Strong hold gel, pomade.
33. The Viking Bun
A rugged bun often paired with an undercut and a full beard. It screams masculine energy.
Best for: Warrior-inspired, rugged look.
Celebrity example: Travis Fimmel (Vikings).
34. The Lumberjack (Man Bun with Beard)
A full man bun paired with a full, groomed beard. This combination is iconic.
Best for: Rugged, masculine aesthetic.
Beard tip: Keep your beard groomed so it complements the bun rather than competes with it.
35. Man Bun with Bangs
Your bun is tied back, but front fringe stays out and frames your face.
Best for: Softer look, face framing, hiding forehead.
Face shapes: Heart, oblong.
36. Slicked Back Man Bun
Hair smoothed back tightly with product before being tied into a sleek bun.
Best for: Formal events, professional settings, red carpets.
Products needed: Pomade, strong hold gel.
Celebrity example: Leonardo DiCaprio.
37. Color-Tipped Man Bun
Your bun features dyed tips in a contrasting color. The color shows when your hair is bunned up.
Best for: Creative expression, standing out.
Trending colors in 2026: Platinum tips, copper, deep burgundy.
38. Mullet Man Bun
A hybrid of the mullet cut with bun capability. Business in front, party in back. And you can tie that party up.
Best for: Trendy 2026 aesthetic.
Face shapes: Oval, rectangle.
39. Man Bun Ponytail Hybrid
A looser bun that’s halfway between a bun and a ponytail. Quick to style with a casual vibe.
Best for: Fast styling, everyday wear.
Hair Requirements for a Man Bun
Before you start, let’s make sure you have what you need.
How Long Does Your Hair Need to Be?
Here’s the truth. Six inches is the absolute minimum for a man bun. Anything shorter and your bun will fall apart or look awkward.
For the best results, aim for 10 to 16 inches of length. This gives you full styling freedom. You can do high buns, low buns, messy buns, braided buns, or any variation you want.
Hair Growth Timeline:
| Months | Length | What You Can Style |
| 1-3 | 1.5-3 inches | Nothing yet — awkward stage begins |
| 4-6 | 3-4.5 inches | Small top knot with undercut |
| 6-9 | 4.5-6.5 inches | Half-up man bun, mini bun |
| 10-12 | 7.5-9 inches | Basic full man bun |
| 12-18 | 9-13.5 inches | Full styling versatility |
Hair grows about 0.5 inches per month on average. Expect 10 to 18 months from a short haircut to reach ideal man bun length.
What Hair Types Work Best?
Good news. Every hair type can rock a man bun.
Straight hair is the easiest to manage. It creates a sleek, polished bun with minimal fuss.
Wavy hair adds natural texture and character. Your bun looks effortlessly styled.
Curly hair creates a fuller, more textured bun. The natural volume looks incredible when done right.
Coily and afro-textured hair makes beautiful, voluminous buns. Use moisturizing products and satin-lined ties for best results.
Thick hair creates impressive volume but may need texturizing cream to reduce bulk.
Thin or fine hair works well too. The pineapple bun technique adds fullness to your style.
Best Face Shapes for Man Bun
The man bun flatters most face shapes. Some styles work better than others depending on your features.
| Face Shape | Compatibility | Best Man Bun Styles |
| Oval | Excellent | Any style works perfectly |
| Rectangle | Excellent | Low bun, half-up bun, messy bun |
| Diamond | Excellent | High bun, top knot, fade combinations |
| Square | Good | Messy bun, undercut man bun |
| Round | Good | High bun adds length to face |
| Heart | Good | Half-up style, low bun |
| Oblong | Good | Low bun adds width |
Positioning matters. Keep your bun at the crown of your head for most styles. Not too high like a topknot. Not too low like a traditional samurai bun. The crown creates the most balanced, flattering look.
How to Do a Man Bun: Step-by-Step Tutorials
Now let’s learn how to actually tie these styles. It’s easier than you think.
Tools and Products You Need
| Tool/Product | What It Does | Essential? |
| Snag-free hair ties | Holds bun without breaking hair | Yes |
| Wide-tooth comb | Detangles without damage | Yes |
| Boar bristle brush | Smooths hair, distributes oils | Helpful |
| Texturizing cream | Reduces frizz, adds grip | For thick/frizzy hair |
| Matte styling cream | Light hold, natural finish | Optional |
| Pomade | Sleek hold, adds shine | For slicked styles |
| Bobby pins | Secures shorter pieces | For shorter hair |
| Edge control | Smooths hairline | For textured hair |
| Curl cream | Defines curls, reduces frizz | For curly hair |
| Sea salt spray | Adds texture and grip | For wavy hair |
| Dry shampoo | Absorbs oil between washes | For oily hair |
Basic Man Bun Tutorial (Full Bun)
This is the foundation. Master this technique, and every other style becomes easy.
Time needed: 3-5 minutes
Step 1:
Start with clean, detangled hair. The style works best right after showering or with day-old hair.
Step 2:
If you have thick or frizzy hair, work a small amount of texturizing cream through your strands. This makes styling easier.
Step 3:
Put an elastic band on your wrist like a bracelet. This hack makes the next steps much smoother.
Step 4:
Tilt your head back slightly. Run your fingers through your hair from front to back, gathering everything at the back of your head. Use both hands.
Step 5:
Check for strays. Use a mirror to spot any loose pieces at the back, sides, or near your ears. Gather them into your handful.
Step 6:
Hold the gathered hair firmly with one hand. Use your other hand to slide the elastic band from your wrist onto the hair.
Step 7:
Twist the band once to tighten.
Step 8:
Make one more loop with the elastic. But this time, only pull your hair halfway through. Don’t let it go all the way. This creates the bun shape.
Step 9:
Release the band and adjust. Tug gently on the bun for your desired tightness and shape.
Done. You now have a classic man bun.
How to Do a Messy Man Bun
Follow the basic tutorial above, then add these steps:
Step 10:
Gently tug on different parts of the bun loop to loosen and expand it.
Step 11:
Pull a few strands free around your ears and temples.
Step 12:
Don’t smooth flyaways. Let them add to the casual vibe.
The key is intentional imperfection. You want it to look effortless, not sloppy.
How to Do a Half-Up Man Bun
Step 1:
Brush all your hair to remove tangles.
Step 2:
Use your thumbs to create a line from ear to ear across the top of your head.
Step 3:
Gather only the hair above this line. Leave everything below loose.
Step 4:
Pull the top section back toward your crown.
Step 5:
Secure with an elastic, looping it twice.
Step 6:
On the final loop, pull hair only halfway through to create the bun.
Step 7:
Let the bottom hair flow naturally.
This style works best with hair at least 5 inches long on top.
How to Do a Man Bun with Short Hair
Shorter hair requires adjustments:
Step 1:
Apply texturizing cream or light pomade for better grip.
Step 2:
Only gather the hair on top of your head. Ignore the sides if they’re too short.
Step 3:
Position the bun higher on your head where hair is longest.
Step 4:
Loop the elastic multiple times for a tighter hold.
Step 5:
Use bobby pins to secure any pieces that escape.
Pro tip: If you have short sides, consider getting an undercut. It makes short-hair man buns look intentional rather than struggling.
How to Do a High Man Bun
Follow the basic tutorial, but change your gathering technique:
Step 4 (modified): Instead of gathering at the back, pull all your hair straight up toward the top of your crown.
Step 5 (modified): Secure the bun as high as comfortable.
This creates height and elongates your face.
How to Do a Low Man Bun
Follow the basic tutorial, but change your positioning:
Step 4 (modified): Gather your hair at the nape of your neck instead of the crown.
Step 5 (optional): Create a center part or side part before gathering for added style.
How to Do a Slicked Back Man Bun
Step 1:
Start with damp hair.
Step 2:
Apply pomade or gel evenly through your hair from front to back.
Step 3:
Use a fine-tooth comb to slick hair back smoothly.
Step 4:
Gather at your desired position.
Step 5:
Create a tight, neat bun.
Step 6:
Apply a small amount of pomade over the finished bun for extra sleekness.
What to Tell Your Barber
Walking into a barbershop can feel intimidating. Here are exact scripts you can use for different styles.
For Man Bun with Fade
“I want to keep enough length on top for a man bun — at least 6 inches, ideally more. On the sides, give me a [low/mid/high/skin] fade that blends into the top. Keep the back long enough to reach the bun.”
For Man Bun with Undercut
“I’d like a disconnected undercut. Use a #1 or #2 guard on the sides. Keep all the length on top so I can wear it in a man bun. Don’t blend the undercut into the top.”
For Man Bun with Taper
“I want a taper on the sides that’s subtle but clean. Keep the top long for a man bun. Just clean up the neckline and around the ears.”
For Maintenance Trims (Growing Your Hair)
“I’m growing my hair out for a man bun. Just clean up the split ends and shape the back. Don’t take any length off the top. I need to keep the length.”
Trim Schedule by Style
| Your Style | How Often to Trim |
| Full man bun (no fade) | Every 8-12 weeks for ends |
| Undercut man bun | Every 2-4 weeks for sides |
| Fade man bun | Every 2-3 weeks for fade |
| Taper man bun | Every 3-4 weeks |
| Growing phase | Every 10-12 weeks for shaping only |
Man Bun Maintenance and Care
A great man bun requires healthy hair. Here’s how to keep yours in excellent condition.
Daily Styling Routine
Morning routine (5 minutes):
- Brush or comb to remove tangles and distribute natural oils
- Apply light product if needed (based on your hair type)
- Style your bun
- Quick mirror check for strays
Important: Never tie your bun too tight. Tight buns cause traction alopecia — hair loss from constant tension on your follicles. Keep it secure but comfortable.
Washing Schedule
Don’t over-wash your hair. Two to three times per week is enough for most guys.
Shampoo strips your hair’s natural oils. Daily washing leads to dry, brittle hair that’s harder to style and more prone to breakage.
Between washes: Use dry shampoo. It absorbs excess oil at your roots and keeps your hair looking fresh without stripping those healthy natural oils.
Product Recommendations by Hair Type
| Hair Type | Primary Products | Optional Extras |
| Straight | Light pomade, styling cream | Shine spray |
| Wavy | Sea salt spray, texturizing cream | Light oil |
| Curly | Curl cream, leave-in conditioner | Edge control, diffuser |
| Coily/Afro | Moisturizing cream, edge control | Satin hair ties, oil treatment |
| Thick | Texturizing cream, matte clay | Heat protectant |
| Thin/Fine | Volumizing mousse, light cream | Dry shampoo, root lifter |
Weekly Hair Care Routine
Once per week:
- Deep conditioning treatment or hair mask
- Scalp massage to stimulate blood flow
- Check for split ends
Once per month:
- Trim split ends (or visit barber)
- Clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup
Preventing Hair Damage
Your man bun can damage your hair if you’re careless. Here’s how to keep your hair healthy:
| Tip | What to Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Use the Right Hair Ties | Use snag-free elastic ties only. Avoid rubber bands completely. | Rubber bands rip and break hair, causing unnecessary damage. |
| Vary Your Bun Position | Don’t tie your bun in the same spot every day. | Prevents constant stress on one area of the scalp and reduces breakage. |
| Don’t Tie Too Tight | Keep your bun secure but not painful. | Tight buns can cause traction alopecia over time. |
| Let Your Hair Down at Night | Leave hair loose while sleeping, or use a loose, low ponytail if needed. | Gives your scalp a break and reduces tension-related damage. |
| Deep Condition Weekly | Apply a deep conditioning hair mask once a week. | Adds moisture, strengthens strands, and prevents breakage. |
| Trim Split Ends Regularly | Get regular trims to remove split ends. | Prevents splits from traveling up the hair shaft and causing more damage. |
| Protect from Heat | Always apply heat protectant spray before blow drying. | Reduces heat damage and keeps hair healthier long term. |
How to Grow Your Hair for a Man Bun
Starting from short hair? Here’s your complete growth roadmap.
Month 1-3: The Awkward Stage Begins
Your hair is too short to tie but too long to look neat. This is the hardest phase. Push through it.
Survival tips:
- Wear hats, beanies, or headbands
- Use styling products to control wild pieces
- Get occasional trims to shape growth (not remove length)
- Bobby pins are your friend
Month 4-6: Small Top Knot Territory
If you have an undercut, you can now tie a small top knot with the longer top hair.
Month 6-9: Half-Up Bun Possible
Your top hair is long enough for a proper half-up man bun. The bottom stays down.
Month 10-12: Basic Man Bun Achieved
You can now tie a full man bun. It might be small, but it works.
Month 12-18: Full Versatility
All styles are available to you. High, low, messy, braided — whatever you want.
Key growth tips:
- Take biotin supplements (consult your doctor first)
- Eat protein-rich foods
- Massage your scalp regularly
- Minimize heat styling
- Be patient — it’s worth the wait
Man Bun FAQs
Is the man bun still in style in 2026?
Absolutely. The man bun is experiencing what stylists call a “refined comeback” in 2026. It’s positioned as a contemporary, intentional style that’s bolder and cleaner than previous iterations.
The key difference? Today’s man buns look deliberate, not accidental. Keep it well-maintained, pair it with clean sides (fade or undercut), and style it with intention.
Chris Hemsworth’s refined man bun shows exactly how to do it right in 2026.
How long does hair need to be for a man bun?
Minimum: 6 inches for a basic bun. Ideal: 10-16 inches for full styling versatility.
This typically requires 10-18 months of growth from a short haircut. Hair grows approximately 0.5 inches per month on average.
What kind of guy wears a man bun?
All kinds. Athletes, executives, artists, developers, teachers, construction workers. The man bun has become completely mainstream.
It’s no longer associated with any specific “type.” Any man who wants a practical, stylish way to manage longer hair can rock a man bun successfully.
Are man buns professional?
Yes, when styled appropriately. A slicked back man bun or low man bun with clean, faded sides works in most professional environments.
Keep these elements in check:
- Sides faded or neatly trimmed
- Bun tidy, not messy
- No flyaways or strays
- Hair clean and well-maintained
Many corporate settings now accept well-groomed man buns without issue.
Can I get a man bun with curly hair?
Absolutely. Curly hair creates a fuller, more textured bun that many people find even more attractive than straight-hair buns.
Use curl-specific products:
- Leave-in conditioner for moisture
- Curl cream for definition
- Edge control for a polished hairline
Don’t fight your natural texture. Embrace it.
What about black curly hair?
Black curly hair and afro-textured hair make beautiful man buns. The natural volume and texture create impressive, full buns.
Essential products:
- Moisturizing cream to keep hair healthy
- Edge control for a clean hairline
- Satin-lined hair ties to prevent breakage
Popular variations:
- With taper fade for clean sides
- With sharp lineup for defined edges
- With twist-out for defined curl pattern
How do I keep my man bun in place all day?
Use quality hair ties. Snag-free elastics that loop 2-3 times provide secure hold without damage.
Apply product before tying. Light styling cream or texturizing product gives your hair grip.
Use edge control for flyaways. Smooth down any pieces that escape around your hairline.
Carry a spare tie. Elastics break or loosen. Keep a backup in your pocket.
Avoid over-tightening. A death-grip bun loosens faster than a comfortable one.
What’s the difference between a man bun and a top knot?
Man bun: A fuller, rounded bun that can sit high, mid, or low on your head. Uses most or all of your hair.
Top knot: A smaller, tighter knot that sits specifically at the very top of your crown. Often paired with an undercut.
They’re related styles but not the same thing.
How do I stop my man bun from causing hair loss?
Traction alopecia happens when constant tension pulls on hair follicles. Prevent it by:
- Not tying your bun too tight
- Varying your bun position daily
- Taking breaks with hair down
- Using snag-free ties only
- Avoiding sleeping with a tight bun
If you notice hair thinning where you tie your bun, loosen it immediately and give your hair rest days.
What face shape looks best with a man bun?
All face shapes can wear man buns. But certain styles flatter certain shapes better:
Oval: Any style works. You’re lucky. Round: High buns elongate your face. Square: Messy, textured buns soften angular features. Rectangle: Low buns add width and balance. Diamond: High buns and top knots highlight cheekbones.
Do I need to keep the sides short?
Not necessarily. You have two main options:
Full man bun: All hair long, including sides. The entire length gathers into your bun.
Man bun with fade/undercut: Shorter sides with long top. Creates contrast and a sharper look.
Both work great. It depends on your personal style preference and how much maintenance you want.
Quick Reference: Man Bun Styles at a Glance
| Style | Best Face Shapes | Hair Length | Maintenance |
| Classic Full Bun | All | 10+ inches | Moderate |
| High Man Bun | Round, Diamond | 8+ inches | Moderate |
| Low Man Bun | Rectangle, Oblong | 6+ inches | Low |
| Messy Man Bun | All | 6+ inches | Low |
| Half-Up Bun | Oval, Heart | 5+ inches top | Low |
| Man Bun + Low Fade | All | 6+ inches | Moderate |
| Man Bun + Skin Fade | All | 6+ inches | High |
| Undercut Man Bun | All | 6+ inches | Moderate-High |
| Curly Man Bun | All | 8+ inches | Moderate |
| Braided Man Bun | All | 10+ inches | High |
| Top Knot | Square, Diamond | 4+ inches | Moderate |
| Viking Bun | Oval, Square | 8+ inches | Moderate |
| Slicked Back Bun | All | 8+ inches | Moderate |
Found your perfect man bun style? Save this guide and show it to your barber at your next appointment. A picture is worth a thousand words when you’re in that chair.