Top knots are sleek, stylish, and effortless, making them a go-to hairstyle for casual days, work, workouts, and even special events. Whether you prefer a sleek ballerina bun or a messy, effortless updo, top knots are versatile and flattering for all hair types and lengths.
Here are 10 stunning top knot hairstyles to try for any occasion!
1. Sleek High Top Knot – Polished & Elegant
✔ Best for: Work, formal events, and professional settings
Why It Works:
- Keeps hair neat and polished all day
- Works well for medium to long hair
- Looks sophisticated with or without accessories
How to Style:
1️⃣ Brush hair into a high ponytail and secure it tightly.
2️⃣ Twist the ponytail into a smooth, sleek bun and pin it in place.
3️⃣ Use a small amount of gel or hairspray to tame flyaways.
✔ Bonus: Try a center or deep side part before styling for a sleek effect!
2. Messy Top Knot – Effortlessly Chic
✔ Best for: Casual days, brunch, or running errands
Why It Works:
- Gives a relaxed, lived-in vibe
- Works for all hair types and lengths
- Adds volume and texture for a fuller look
How to Style:
1️⃣ Gather hair into a high ponytail without brushing too much.
2️⃣ Loosely twist the ponytail and wrap it into a messy bun.
3️⃣ Pull out a few face-framing strands for a relaxed effect.
✔ Bonus: Perfect with oversized sunglasses and gold hoops!
3. Half-Up Top Knot – Cute & Playful
✔ Best for: Medium to long hair, casual or trendy outfits
Why It Works:
- Keeps hair out of your face while showing off length
- Works well with straight, wavy, or curly textures
- Looks youthful and effortlessly stylish
How to Style:
1️⃣ Take the top half of your hair and pull it into a high ponytail.
2️⃣ Twist it into a small, messy or sleek bun and pin it in place.
3️⃣ Leave the bottom half loose for a balanced look.
✔ Bonus: Try soft waves in the bottom section for a relaxed feel!
4. Braided Top Knot – Textured & Trendy
✔ Best for: Festivals, vacations, or unique everyday looks
Why It Works:
- Adds dimension and creativity to a simple bun
- Works well for thicker or long hair
- Keeps hair secure and stylish all day
How to Style:
1️⃣ Tie hair into a high ponytail.
2️⃣ Braid the ponytail into a simple or fishtail braid.
3️⃣ Wrap the braid around into a top knot and secure it with pins.
✔ Bonus: Add hair rings or pearl pins for extra style!
5. Space Buns – Fun & Festival-Ready
✔ Best for: Festivals, concerts, or trendy casual looks
Why It Works:
- Looks playful and youthful
- Works for short, medium, or long hair
- Can be styled with glitter, braids, or hair accessories
How to Style:
1️⃣ Part hair into two equal sections.
2️⃣ Tie each section into a high ponytail.
3️⃣ Twist each ponytail into a small top knot bun and pin in place.
✔ Bonus: Add glitter roots or tiny braids for an extra fun look!
6. Top Knot with Curtain Bangs – Soft & Romantic
✔ Best for: Date nights, casual chic looks, or trendy styling
Why It Works:
- Wispy bangs soften the face while the bun adds height
- Works with sleek or messy buns
- Looks great on medium to long hair
How to Style:
1️⃣ Gather hair into a top knot (sleek or messy, depending on preference).
2️⃣ Blow-dry curtain bangs for a soft, face-framing effect.
3️⃣ Apply light-hold hairspray for a natural finish.
✔ Bonus: Pairs beautifully with gold jewelry and neutral makeup!
7. Low Top Knot (Knotted Bun) – Understated & Elegant
✔ Best for: Weddings, evening events, or work settings
Why It Works:
- Gives a refined, polished look
- Works well for medium to long hair
- Keeps hair secure and neat
How to Style:
1️⃣ Create a low ponytail and twist it into a sleek bun.
2️⃣ Secure it with pins and finishing spray.
3️⃣ Use a boar bristle brush to smooth flyaways.
✔ Bonus: Perfect with statement earrings and bold lipstick!
8. Twisted Top Knot – Quick & Chic
✔ Best for: Work, school, or casual everyday wear
Why It Works:
- Looks intricate but is easy to create
- Adds a touch of elegance to a simple bun
- Works for all hair textures
How to Style:
1️⃣ Divide hair into two sections before tying a high ponytail.
2️⃣ Twist the sections separately, then wrap them around each other into a bun.
3️⃣ Secure with pins and light hairspray.
✔ Bonus: Works great for formal or casual outfits!
9. Voluminous Top Knot – Bold & Statement-Making
✔ Best for: Special events, glam nights, or bold looks
Why It Works:
- Adds height and drama to any look
- Works well for thick or long hair
- Looks stunning with sleek makeup and statement accessories
How to Style:
1️⃣ Tie hair into a high ponytail.
2️⃣ Backcomb the ponytail for extra volume before twisting it into a bun.
3️⃣ Secure with pins and strong-hold hairspray.
✔ Bonus: Try a center-parted slicked-down front for a high-fashion look!
10. Knotted Top Bun with Accessories – Trendy & Fashion-Forward
✔ Best for: Weddings, date nights, or creative styles
Why It Works:
- Looks polished with a unique touch
- Can be dressed up or down depending on accessories
- Works best for medium to long hair
How to Style:
1️⃣ Gather hair into a high ponytail.
2️⃣ Divide the ponytail into two, tie them in a loose knot, and secure it.
3️⃣ Add a silk scarf, pearl pins, or jeweled comb for extra elegance.
✔ Bonus: Try a velvet scrunchie for a modern 90s vibe!
✨ Final Tips for Perfect Top Knots
✔ Use dry shampoo – Adds volume and prevents slick, greasy roots.
✔ Match the bun to the occasion – Sleek for formal events, messy for casual days.
✔ Add hair accessories – Clips, scrunchies, or pearls elevate any style.
✔ Experiment with placement – A high top knot lifts the face, a lower bun looks chic.
✔ Secure properly – Bobby pins and strong elastics keep buns in place all day.
With these trendy and versatile top knot hairstyles, you can effortlessly upgrade your look for any occasion! Which one will you try first? Let me know! ✨💁♀️💕