Messy bun with hair extensions – how to make a full messy bun in under a minute

A messy bun should look effortless, yet plenty of us struggle to make it full enough. With a hair extension scrunchie you get a big, tousled messy bun in under a minute, even if your own hair is fine or short. Here we show you step by step how to do it, which scrunchie to choose and how to make it stay put all day.

Which hair extension scrunchie should you choose?

Both of our messy bun favourites slip on like an ordinary hair tie and were developed by hairdressers:

• Tangled Scrunchie – a curly hair extension scrunchie in vegan synthetic fibre, 35 grams, in 20 shades. Gives a full, round messy bun and is our bestselling model.
• Tangled Wildbun – for a more relaxed, deliberately undone look, when your bun is allowed to be a little wild.

If you want a sleeker bun, Tangled Straight Scrunchie is the better fit. You'll find every model under hair extension scrunchies.

How to make a messy bun with hair extensions – step by step

1. Make a ponytail where you want your bun. High on your head for a statement messy bun, mid-height for everyday.
2. Twist your hair into a loose bun and secure it with a thin hair tie. It doesn't need to look neat, it just needs to hold.
3. Slip on the scrunchie around the bun like a regular scrunchie. If it feels loose, wrap it around once more.
4. Pull the hair apart with your fingers so the extension hair blends with your own. Tease out a little hair here and there for a messier shape.
5. Pull out a few strands around your face if you want a softer look.

Once you've done it a couple of times, the whole thing takes less than a minute.

Adapt it to your hair type

• Fine hair: twist the bun tightly and secure it with two crossed bobby pins. The extension hair adds the volume you're missing.
• Short hair: if your hair is long enough for a small ponytail, it's long enough for a messy bun. Pin up any pieces that don't reach.
• Thick hair: make a smaller bun from your own hair so the finished bun doesn't end up too big.
• Curly hair: the curly Tangled Scrunchie blends in best. Scrunch lightly with your fingers to mix the textures.

Common problems and solutions

• The bun slips: make the base bun tighter and push two bobby pins through the scrunchie.
• It looks too big: place the bun slightly lower, or double the scrunchie so it sits more compactly.
• Torn between two shades? Choose the lighter one for a beautiful ombre effect. If you have highlights, a mix shade works well. Not sure? Send us a photo via contact us.
• Still the wrong shade? You have a 14-day right of withdrawal on unused products, see cancel your purchase.

How to make your scrunchie last longer

• Detangle gently with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, never with a regular brush.
• Wash when needed with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo, and let it air dry.
• Store it in a bag and don't sleep with it on.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a messy bun with hair extensions stay in?

All day, as long as the base bun is secure. A couple of bobby pins keep it in place even when you work out.

Will it damage my hair?

No. The scrunchie sits around your own bun like a hair tie and puts no strain on your scalp.

Can I make a ponytail instead?

Yes, but then a ponytail extension is the better choice. Read our guide to ponytail extensions.

Want to know more about every type of hair extension scrunchie? Read our complete guide to hair extension scrunchies.