38 Perfectly Imperfect Messy Hairstyles for All Lengths

Untamed tousled hairstyles always seem so irresistibly charming and effortless that you simply can’t turn down their overwhelming appeal. There’s something extremely sexy and free of any constraint in tousled ‘dos, whether it’s an updo style, boyish pixie...

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38 Perfectly Imperfect Messy Hairstyles for All Lengths

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Untamed tousled hairstyles always seem so irresistibly charming and effortless that you simply can’t turn down their overwhelming appeal. There’s something extremely sexy and free of any constraint in tousled ‘dos, whether it’s an updo style, boyish pixie with sticking out feathers or fun loose curls. A messy style looks great on any length and type of hair – short or long, straight or curly, thick and flexible or fine and wispy.

With the right approach you can create so many gorgeous and versatile looks with messy hair. Let some of them be stylish and extravagant, while others can remain on a more romantic side. Here are 38 ideas of envy-worthy hairstyles with messed up locks for short, medium-length and long hair.

How to Create Messy Locks?

“Maybe they simply stopped combing their hair?”, someone may think, contemplating some of the trendiest messy ‘dos at the biggest fashion shows. Well, messy hair often looks like an absolutely natural style but we know that certain manipulations do stand behind these perfectly imperfect looks. Normally for medium-length and long hair they include the following.

  1. Blow-drying and running your fingers through hair without combing.
  2. Upside down blowdrying or blowdrying in the opposite direction to the hair growth for added volume and layer enhancement.
  3. Haphazard curling for some locks with a flat iron.
  4. Applying texturizing/thickening spray or curl enhancing product all through the locks and squeezing them in your palms with optional light teasing at the roots to boost volume.
  5. A few final minutes of blowdry to fix the effect and a bit of hair spray as the last touch for the extra hold.

Best Messy Hairstyles

If your hair is short, a cute chaos can be easily organized with some wax or light pomade. Apply the product to wet hair and blow dry, pulling separate sections in different directions. Add a little bit more wax to the ends for a more distinct look.

Besides loose messy curls and chaotic straight tresses for longer hair you can experiment with a whole bunch of messy updos and downdos, including messy buns, knots, fishtails, half up and half down messy ‘dos, French twists and others. Here are some cute ideas to embrace.

1. Short and Layered

Messy Shaggy Tousled Bob Of course, short messy hairstyles are lovely too. Many of today’s layered cuts are actually shaped to look messy – that’s how popular this laid back trend has become. For women, layered hair that is shoulder length will look feminine without being a huge maintenance hassle.

2. Sassy Curly Shag with Bangs

Who says medium-length hair needs elaborate styling to make a statement? A well-known hairstylist, Yuki, showcases all the benefits of messy hairstyles with this chic yet low-maintenance shaggy cut. We reckon this looks more than persuasive!

Micro Bangs for Shaggy Wavy Hair@yukistylist

3. Long Textured Bob for Brunettes

Whether you’re going for polished elegance or relaxed bohemian vibes, this style has got you covered. A side part makes this tousled, layered bob perfect for women with heart-shaped faces wishing to cover a big forehead and create a flattering silhouette.

Black Tousled Layered Hair Style@nevilleromanzammit

4. Medium Hair with Piece-y Layers

The ‘just rolled out of bed’ aesthetic of this mid-length choppy haircut is not only effortlessly gorgeous but also super simple to achieve. Perfect for those who prefer low-maintenance glam without sacrificing style.

Shoulder Length Choppy Haircut@hairbyelvisp

5. Cute and Messy Hairdo

This messy updo is the perfect fusion of elegance and nonchalance, ensuring you turn heads with every tousled strand. Paired with curtain bangs and a few locks flowing freely around your face, this hairdo will add a whimsical charm to your style.

Textured Updo with Framing Bangs@teryn.tucker.hair

6. Careless Side-Swept Bob

Two-toned hair adds an extra dimension of allure to this already fabulous choppy bob style. For a playful twist, consider styling your hair to the side, emphasizing its asymmetrical shape and adding a touch of whimsy to your look.

Side Parted Asymmetrical Short Cut@nikcabral

7. Tousled Waves and Highlights

Let your locks speak for themselves with this textured layered cut, embodying lazy-chic elegance. For a touch of sophistication, spice up your brown locks with highlights in a shade that complements your skin.

Highlighted Messy Wavy Hairstyle@hairbyelvisp

8. Flawless Messy Bridal Updo

Elevate your updo game with a touch of sophistication and a dash of messy charm. Take your textured locks and transform them into a fabulous formal shape, crafting a high bun with effortless finesse.

Twisted High Bun with Fringe Locks@diana_yona

9. Short Textured Bixie

Short, messy haircuts look flattering on women of all ages, especially those who don’t wish to spend much time on intricate styling. So, toss aside the styling tools and embrace the natural beauty of your locks because sometimes, less really is more.

Sassy Pixie Bob with Messy Layers@boaz_experience

10. Messy Blue and Purple Plait

Show off that gorgeous mermaid-like hair color by flipping it into multiple topsy-tails that are full and tousled. Your hair will look voluminous and vibrant.

Purple And Blue Balayage For Brown Hair@hairby_cheryllynn

11. Messy Mohawk Look

The cool, faux-hawk look is very in right now, but that doesn’t mean you have to run to the stylist to have your hair shaved down the sides. Try one of many plaited messy hairstyles. This time try a Dutch braid down the middle and a small fishtail right next to it to give your ‘do some edge.

Double Mohawk Braid For Long Hair@jaywesleyolson

12. Striking Black Shaggy Cut

This modern version of a classic shag strikes the perfect balance between casual chic and timeless elegance. What’s more, you can shape the haircut in a way that perfectly complements your facial features, enhancing your natural beauty with every tousled layer.

Short Messy Shag for Brunettes@hirohair

13. Charming Messy Ponytail

Elevate your look from rushed to ravishing with this effortless yet elegant hairstyle. Pull your hair to the back, twisting the curled layers for added texture, create a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, and wrap the section around the base to hide the elastic. Leave a few locks as a charming face-framing detail.

Tousled Low Ponytail for Curly Hair@laurakarasmakeupart

14. Soft Shaggy Cut for Natural Curls

For those who appreciate the beauty of simplicity, look no further than this delicate curly shag haircut. Featuring gracefully curled feathered layers and wispy bangs, this style will be suitable for any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal affairs.

Medium Curly Shag with Wispy Bangs@barbararabelo_

15. Long and Messy Half Bun

Sleep through your alarm? Put that bedhead look to good use by throwing it into a half-bun hairstyle. And don’t worry about making this hairdo too perfect. The messier the better!

Bun Half Updo For Long Hair@hairby_chrissy

16. Golden Rose Shaggy Bob

Step into the world of rebellious chic with a short shag — a style that infuses a hint of chaos into your look. The main accents of this hairstyle are a long, layered fringe and textured layers that effortlessly frame your face. A dreamy rose gold hair color is a cherry on top!

Thick textured Bob in Rose Gold Tones@jhair_stylist

17. Stylish Messy French Twist

It’s an easy transformation that ensures you step out the door looking nothing short of fabulous! Simply sweep all your hair to one side, securing it with bobby pins at the back of your head. Then, elegantly twist and tuck the loose strands to craft your desired French roll shape.

Messy Elegant French Roll@theupdodarling

18. Voluminous Layers and Curtain Bangs

Thick bangs, delicately parted in the middle to frame the face, make a bold statement, significantly boosting the texture and volume of your blonde shag. To further enhance your vibrant hair color, give your locks a subtle wavy shape, curling them towards and away from the face.

Mid Length Shag with Face Framing Bangs@hairtayloredtoyou

19. Practical and Modern Shaggy Bob

This low-maintenance style is perfect for those who want to look on-point without all the fuss. With tousled wavy layers and bangs framing the face and cascading in a carefree manner, you will become a pure embodiment of laid-back elegance.

Effortlessly Charming Short Shag@maykonsolis

20. Playful Curly Updo

Embrace your romantic side and let this enchanting updo elevate your look to new heights! Messy, free-flowing curls resembling the bangs will help you steal the spotlight with undeniable charm and playfulness.

Messy Textured Updo for Natural Curls@garageizmir

21. Medium Shaggy Cut with Highlights

This ingenious combination of shaggy layers and tousled crown adds volume and structure to even the finest of the hair. Moreover, it creates a dynamic, textured look that exudes effortless style and spices up your appearance.

Highlighted Shag for Thin Hair@josemontiel_hairsalon

22. Bobbed and Messy Hair

Tousled, layered long bobs (which are medium-length bobs) are low in maintenance but high in chicness. All you need is a bit of texturizing spray or powder, and you are good to go.

Layered Lob With Side Bangs@anhcotran

23. Chin-Length Messy Bob

Nothing is hotter than short messy hairstyles! Take a page from your favorite celebs and try a messy, cute, chin-length bob. Simply curl your hair with a straightener, leaving the ends untouched, then fluff up the hair and break up the curls with your fingers.

Side-Parted Messy Bob@johnnyramirez

24. Medium Shag with Soft Layers

Embrace the versatility of the classic layered cut, as it effortlessly complements all lengths and textures, allowing you to express your individuality freely. Plus, you won’t need to worry about regular cutting, as your locks will look just as beautiful when growing out.

Delicately Layered Short Shaggy Cut@alchemy_dry_cut_lounge

25. Messy Low Chignon

A low, undone side bun is messy hair at its finest. This look is about as classic as they come and looks amazing with everything from a formal gown to a sleek pant suit.

Low Messy Updo@allieliliokalani

26. Mid-Length Curly Shaggy Haircut

This cheeky layered haircut is a delightful twist on the traditional shag cut that’s sure to draw everyone’s attention. We recommend it for those with naturally curly hair, as shaggy layers will perfectly complement their texture.

Modern Shag for Medium Curly Locks@esther_hairtamer

27. Flippy French Bob

As dynamic as it is stunning, this haircut is tailored to enhance your natural beauty and leave you feeling confident and empowered. By incorporating a short fringe, you can balance the structure and softness of your hairstyle without compromising its charm.

French Bob with Flippy Layers@teryn.tucker.hair

28. Chic Updo with Framing Locks

Here’s a look that exudes modern sophistication with a touch of carefree charm. Gather your hair at the back of your head in a voluminous high bun, leaving plenty of strands playfully framing the face. Seal the deal with a spritz of high-hold hairspray to ensure your masterpiece stays put all day.

Sleek Messy High Bun@larissadaherhair

29. Inverted Layered Bob

The perfect pairing of shag hairstyles and curtain bangs can help you unlock enviable volume, necessary for your fine locks. Babylights can also add depth, intensity, and strategic points of light, achieving a multidimensional masterpiece.

Long Stacked Bob with Highlights@shmoakin_hair

30. Short Tousled Pony Hairstyle

For those hectic mornings when time is of the essence, yet the style cannot be compromised, there’s a go-to solution: a cute, textured ponytail. Begin by adding an extra oomph to the strands with a texturizing hair spray. Once your locks are perfectly tousled, gather them into a ponytail at your desired height.

Medium Messy High Ponytail@elle_thecollectivehq

31. Dimensional Layered Hairstyle

The feathered layers of this shoulder-length haircut will breathe new life into your locks, imparting a sense of airy lightness. Complement your hairstyle texture with a texturizing hair spray and incorporate more dimension to your natural color with subtle highlights.

Face Framing Layers and Babylights@jordanhairstyles

32. Airy Bob for Fine Thin Hair

If you’re looking for a way to boost bolume in thin short hair and showcase your unparalleled confidence, this messy short bob is a perfect idea to consider. While this haircut looks stunning with a middle part, you can give more body to your hair with this daring side-swept styling.

Side Swept Layered Bob Hairstyle@ruteboazhair

33. Perfect Messy Bun

Exuding sophistication and charm, this effortlessly charming updo showcases you are ready to conquer the day with confidence and style. We reckon this hairstyle will look truly stunning on brides and bridesmaids.

Charming Tousled Bun for Brides@sarasterczewska.hairstylist

34. Layered Cut for Thick Wavy Hair

Lots and lots of layers, cascading with an edgy flair and a heavy, eye-catching bang to top it off. It’s a look that exudes ’cool girl’ vibes, embodying the spirit of rebellion and individuality.

Messy Wavy Shag with Choppy Layers@theyoungamericansalon

35. Shaggy Bob with Flippy Layers

This innovative shaggy bob style injects a dash of originality and individuality into your look, ensuring you stand out from the crowd with effortless flair. What’s more, the shob’s versatility knows no bounds as it suits all face shapes perfectly.

Short Flippy Shag with Choppy Fringe@salonefirriolo

36. Messy Twisted Pony Updo

If you have highlighted hair, this curly ponytail with a twisted crown can become the perfect canvas for showcasing the spectrum of your hair’s beautiful colors. Perfect for everyday outings and special occasions.

Textured Twisted Crown Ponytail@begorgeousbylucie

37. Tousled Wavy Shag with Bangs

Make every day a runway moment with this stunning shaggy cut with tousled layers. Additionally, incorporate highlights and waves for an extra dose of texture and a sun-kissed glow.

Stylish Blonde Shaggy Haircut@joeltorresstyle

38. Fauxhawk Knots

A single knot might look a bit too casual and even banal these days, but two knots are a whole new story. Pull your shoulder length hair into two large knots at the back of the head for this easy updo that is inspired by the more formal top knot.

Messy Double Knot Updo@abbybowdenhairstylist

Getting every hair in its place can be pretty boring especially when you strive to avoid morning rush. Thanks God, nonchalant chic is not going to be out of fashion in the near future, so why not to incorporate a few of these great messy styles into your chic spring and summer looks?

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