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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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.
- Blow-drying and running your fingers through hair without combing.
- Upside down blowdrying or blowdrying in the opposite direction to the hair growth for added volume and layer enhancement.
- Haphazard curling for some locks with a flat iron.
- 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.
- 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
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!
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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!
@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!
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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.
@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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