36 Best Man Bun and Top Knot Hairstyles for Men (2026 Guide)
Introduction
The man bun and the top knot have grown from a niche trend into two of the most reliable men's long hairstyles of the decade, and in 2026 they are more versatile than ever. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly or coiled, there is a version of the bun that suits your texture, your face shape and your lifestyle. A man bun keeps long hair out of the way while looking intentional and polished, and a top knot adds height, edge and attitude with the same simple idea: gather the hair up, secure it, and let the shape do the talking.
What makes these styles so popular is how easily they adapt. Pair a bun with an undercut or a low fade for a sharp, modern finish, wear it messy for a relaxed weekend look, or braid it back for something bolder. The same haircut can move from the gym to the office to a wedding simply by changing how tight you tie it and what you pair it with. In this guide you will find 36 man bun hairstyles for men and top knot ideas for every hair length, texture and occasion, along with practical advice on growing your hair out, choosing the right placement and keeping the style healthy.
Before you pick a favourite, it helps to know the basics. You need roughly six inches of hair on top for a small top knot and eight to ten inches for a full man bun, though half-up versions work with shorter lengths. Oval faces suit almost every placement, round faces benefit from height on top, square faces look great with softer, looser buns, and longer faces should avoid too much extra height. Use a snag-free hair tie, never pull the bun painfully tight every day, and keep the hair conditioned so the tie does not cause breakage. With those foundations in place, explore the 36 styles below and find the one that fits you.
1. Classic Man Bun
The classic man bun is the original, and it is still the most dependable of all men's hair bun styles. Hair is gathered at the crown or just behind it and secured into a neat, rounded bun, with the sides left at full length. It suits straight and slightly wavy hair best, and it works on oval, square and heart-shaped faces because the balanced placement neither adds too much height nor pulls the face too wide. This is the style to choose when you want long hair to look deliberate rather than accidental.
Styling the classic man bun takes less than a minute once your hair is long enough. Work a pea-sized amount of matte pomade or styling cream through damp hair, gather everything back with your fingers or a brush, and secure it with a snag-free elastic. Wrap the tie twice for hold and tuck in loose ends with a bobby pin if needed. For a cleaner finish, brush the hair back smoothly; for a softer look, leave a little natural texture at the front. Trim split ends every eight to ten weeks so the bun keeps its tidy shape.
2. Classic Top Knot
The classic top knot sits higher and tighter than a man bun, perched right on top of the head where it adds height and a bold silhouette. This top knot for men is the sharper, more statement-making cousin of the bun, and it looks best with hair at least six inches long on top. It flatters oval and round faces especially well, because the extra height lengthens the face, and it pairs naturally with short or faded sides that keep the focus on the knot itself.
To style a classic top knot, gather the top section of hair straight up and twist it into a small knot before wrapping the elastic around it twice. Keep the knot compact rather than sprawling, and smooth the sides back so the shape reads clean from every angle. A dab of strong-hold pomade tames flyaways, while a matte clay gives a more textured finish. Avoid pulling the knot too tight day after day, as constant tension can stress the hairline; loosen it slightly or switch to a low bun on rest days.
3. Undercut Man Bun
The undercut man bun is one of the most popular men's long hairstyles because it combines the drama of long hair with the crispness of a sharp cut. The top stays long and flows into the bun while the sides and back are clipped short to a single uniform length, creating a striking contrast that makes the bun stand out. It suits thick hair particularly well, since the undercut removes bulk from the sides, and it flatters oval, square and diamond face shapes.
Ask your barber for an undercut with the top left at least eight inches long, and decide whether you want a disconnected undercut with a hard line or a softer blended version. Styling is simple: gather the top into a bun at the crown and let the shaved sides speak for themselves. The undercut needs upkeep every three to four weeks to stay crisp, so book regular trims. Between cuts, a little sea salt spray adds texture to the top without weighing it down.
4. Low Fade Man Bun
A low fade man bun softens the undercut idea into something more subtle and office-friendly. The fade begins just above the ears and blends gradually into the longer hair on top, so the transition looks smooth rather than severe. This makes it one of the most wearable man bun hairstyles for men who want the style to work in professional settings as well as on weekends, and it suits straight, wavy and curly hair alike.
The low fade is also forgiving as it grows out, which means fewer emergency barber visits than a high skin fade demands. Ask for a low taper or low skin fade with the top kept long enough to gather into a bun, usually eight inches or more. Style the bun at the crown or slightly back, and use a light styling cream to keep the top smooth. A low fade man bun pairs beautifully with a short boxed beard, because the fade and the beard lines echo each other and frame the face neatly.
5. High Fade Top Knot
The high fade top knot is bold, clean and unmistakably modern. The fade climbs high up the sides and back, sometimes to a skin finish, leaving a strong contrast with the long hair pulled into a knot on top. This top knot fade combination draws all attention upward, which makes it a great choice for men with round or square faces who want extra height and definition. It reads confident and sharp, and it photographs beautifully.
Maintenance is the trade-off: a high skin fade starts to look grown out after about two weeks, so plan on regular barber visits or learn to tidy the edges yourself. When styling, keep the knot small and tight so it balances the clean sides, and use a firm-hold product to control flyaways. This style works best on straight to wavy hair, since very curly hair can make the knot look bulky against the faded sides. Pair it with a clean shave or a short stubble for the sharpest result.
6. Messy Man Bun
The messy man bun proves that a bun does not have to be perfect to look great. Hair is loosely gathered with fingers instead of a brush, leaving texture, volume and a few strands free around the face. This relaxed version of the man bun is ideal for weekends, holidays and creative workplaces, and it suits wavy and thick hair best because the natural texture does the styling work for you. It also flatters square and angular faces by softening hard lines.
To get the messy look without looking unkempt, start with dry hair and a little texturising powder or sea salt spray at the roots. Gather the hair loosely, twist it once, and secure it with a single loop of the elastic so the bun stays soft rather than tight. Pull out two or three face-framing strands deliberately, and leave the crown slightly voluminous instead of scraping it flat. The secret is controlled mess: the bun should look effortless, not accidental, so keep the rest of your grooming tidy.
7. Textured Top Knot
The textured top knot adds movement and volume to the classic knot by keeping the hair choppy and piecey instead of slicked smooth. It is made for men with wavy or layered hair, where the natural texture creates a knot that looks full and interesting rather than flat. This style suits oval and heart-shaped faces well, and it works in both casual and smart-casual settings because the texture keeps it from looking too severe.
Ask your barber for point-cut layers on top so the hair has built-in movement, and keep the sides short but not necessarily faded. To style, apply a matte clay or texture paste to damp hair, blow-dry with your fingers while lifting at the roots, then gather the hair up and twist it into a knot. Do not brush it smooth: the point is to keep the pieces separated and airy. A light mist of sea salt spray before tying adds extra grip and definition that lasts all day.
8. Braided Man Bun
The braided man bun is the most detailed style in this list, and it turns a simple bun into a real statement. A French or Dutch braid runs from the front hairline back along the crown and finishes in a bun, adding pattern and texture that ordinary buns cannot match. It suits long, straight or wavy hair best, needs at least ten inches of length, and flatters oval and square faces because the braid pulls the eye backward and lengthens the face.
Braiding takes practice, so start by learning a basic three-strand French braid on the top section, adding hair as you move back, and secure the braid into a bun once you reach the crown. Keep the braid fairly tight near the front so it holds its shape, and use a little styling cream to control flyaways before you begin. This braided man bun is a great choice for festivals, holidays and special occasions, and it also keeps hair completely secure during sport. Let the braid out at night so the hair can rest.
9. Half-Up Man Bun
The half-up man bun, sometimes called the half bun, takes only the top half of the hair into a bun and leaves the rest flowing loose. It is the perfect entry point into men's long hairstyles if your hair is still growing out, because it works with as little as five or six inches on top. It suits wavy, curly and straight hair alike, and it flatters most face shapes since the loose hair softens the jawline while the bun adds height.
To style it, section off the hair from temple to temple, gather that top section into a small bun at the crown, and let the bottom half fall naturally. A little leave-in conditioner keeps the loose hair smooth and prevents frizz, while a texturising spray adds volume to the bun. This half up man bun is a favourite for men who want the practicality of a bun without hiding all their length, and it transitions easily from day to night with a quick re-tie.
10. Half-Up Top Knot
The half-up top knot is the smaller, higher cousin of the half-up bun, and it brings a sharper, more playful energy. Only a small section of hair from the very top is knotted, while the rest stays down, which makes it ideal for medium-length hair that is not yet long enough for a full bun. It suits younger men and creative styles best, and it works particularly well on thick hair where the small knot still looks substantial.
Section a modest amount of hair from the crown, twist it into a tight little knot and secure it with a small elastic. Keep the knot compact so it does not overwhelm the loose hair underneath, and smooth the front with a little pomade for a clean finish. The rest of the hair can be left natural or given a light wave with sea salt spray. This style is quick to do in the morning, comfortable to wear all day, and easy to refresh with a single re-tie.
11. Slicked-Back Man Bun
The slicked-back man bun is the most polished version of the style, and it is the one to choose for formal events, important meetings and evenings out. Every strand is combed smoothly back from the face into a neat bun, with no loose pieces and no visible texture, creating a clean, sculpted silhouette. It suits straight and fine hair best, since smooth hair slicks most easily, and it flatters oval and square faces by showing the bone structure clearly.
Achieving the slick finish starts with damp hair and a strong-hold gel or pomade worked evenly from roots to ends. Comb the hair straight back with a fine-tooth comb, gather it at the crown, and secure it tightly. A light mist of hairspray locks everything in place and adds shine. This style demands healthy, well-conditioned hair, because slicking exposes every dry end and flyaway, so use a weekly hair mask. Pair it with a tailored outfit and the effect is quietly powerful.
12. Curly Man Bun
The curly man bun celebrates natural texture instead of fighting it, gathering curls into a full, voluminous bun that looks rich and distinctive. Curly hair gives the bun natural body that straight hair cannot match, and the result suits round and oval faces beautifully because the volume balances the features. Men with naturally curly or wavy hair often find the bun is the easiest way to manage their length while still showing off their texture.
Keep curls healthy with a sulphate-free shampoo and a generous leave-in conditioner, since dry curls frizz and lose definition. To style, gather the curls loosely at the crown with your fingers rather than a brush, and secure the bun with a soft fabric elastic that will not snag. Let a few curls escape around the temples for a natural frame. Avoid pulling the bun too tight, which stretches the curl pattern and causes breakage at the hairline over time.
13. Wavy Top Knot
The wavy top knot is made for men whose hair has a natural bend, and it uses that wave to create a knot with soft movement and effortless volume. Unlike the sleek straight top knot, this version looks relaxed and lived-in, which makes it perfect for everyday wear, weekends and casual dates. It suits oval, square and heart-shaped faces, and it works with medium to long hair, usually seven inches or more on top.
Enhance the wave with a sea salt spray applied to damp hair, then let it air dry or diffuse it on a low heat setting. Gather the hair into a loose knot on top, keeping some of the natural wave visible around the edges rather than scraping everything flat. A matte styling cream gives light hold without killing the movement. Because wavy hair can frizz in humidity, a drop of hair oil smoothed over the surface keeps the knot looking intentional all day.
14. Long Hair Man Bun
The long hair man bun is the fullest expression of the style, made possible only once the hair reaches shoulder length or beyond. With ten to fourteen inches of hair, the bun becomes large, heavy and dramatic, and the sheer length gives it a presence that shorter buns cannot match. It suits men who have committed to growing their hair out for a year or more, and it flatters oval and square faces best, where the volume of the bun balances strong features.
Long hair needs more care than shorter styles. Wash two to three times a week with a gentle shampoo, condition every wash, and detangle with a wide-tooth comb while the hair is damp. When tying the bun, gather the hair at the crown and wrap the elastic around it twice, making sure the weight is evenly distributed so it does not pull on one side. A wooden comb and a silk pillowcase reduce breakage, and regular trims every ten weeks keep the ends healthy without losing length.
15. Samurai Top Knot
The samurai top knot takes its inspiration from the traditional Japanese chonmage, with the hair pulled high and tight into a knot above shaved or very short sides. This samurai hairstyle for men is bold, historical and strikingly clean, and it suits men who like a strong, minimalist look with a story behind it. It works best on straight, thick hair that holds a tight knot, and it flatters oval and square faces.
Ask your barber for closely faded or shaved sides with the top left at least seven inches long. To style, pull the top section straight up, twist it into a compact knot and secure it firmly, then smooth the sides with a little pomade. The contrast between the shaved sides and the high knot is the whole point, so keep the sides freshly trimmed every two to three weeks. This is a high-commitment style, but for the right person it is unforgettable.
16. Viking Braided Man Bun
The Viking braided man bun is the most rugged style on this list, combining tight side braids with a bun at the back for a look that feels both ancient and modern. Multiple small braids run along the sides and crown before joining into the bun, creating texture and detail from every angle. It needs long, thick hair, usually ten inches or more, and it suits square and oval faces with strong jawlines.
Creating the style takes time, so set aside fifteen minutes and work in sections. Braid the sides tightly toward the back, then gather all the braids and the remaining hair into a bun and secure it firmly. A little styling cream keeps the braids neat, and a light hairspray holds the shape. This is a statement style for festivals, themed events and bold everyday wear, and it pairs naturally with a full beard. Take the braids out before bed and brush the hair through to prevent matting.
17. Man Bun with Full Beard
The man bun with beard is a classic pairing, and the full beard version is the most masculine combination of all. Long hair tied into a bun on top and a thick, well-groomed beard below create a balanced frame for the whole face, with the two features echoing each other in length and weight. It suits oval, round and square faces, and it works best when the beard is kept shaped rather than left wild, so the look stays intentional.
Keep the beard groomed with a regular trim to define the cheek and neck lines, and use beard oil daily to keep it soft and healthy. The bun itself can be neat or slightly messy depending on the occasion, but the beard should always look deliberate. Wash both hair and beard with gentle products, and brush the beard daily to train it to grow in the right direction. Together, the bun and the beard create one of the most recognisable men's long hairstyles, and it suits men who enjoy a strong, confident look.
18. Top Knot with Beard Fade
The top knot with beard fade is a barber's showcase, blending the hair, the sideburns and the beard into one seamless gradient. The knot sits high on top, the sides fade down, and the fade continues into the beard so there is no harsh line anywhere on the head. This refined version of the man bun with beard look suits men who love sharp, technical haircuts, and it flatters square and oval faces by defining the jawline beautifully.
This style lives or dies on the barber's skill, so find someone experienced with fades and beard shaping. Ask for a mid or high fade that blends into the beard, with the top kept long for the knot. At home, keep the knot small and tidy, and use a beard trimmer to maintain the fade lines between visits. A little beard balm keeps the beard neat and adds a subtle shine. The result is clean, modern and polished enough for any setting.
19. Man Bun with Shaved Line Design
The man bun with a shaved line design adds an artistic edge to the classic bun, with one or two sharp lines carved into the faded sides. The design can be a single clean line, parallel lines or a geometric pattern, and it turns the haircut into a personal statement. It suits men who like to stand out, works best with thick straight hair on top, and flatters oval and square faces where the lines add structure.
Ask your barber for a fade with a razor line design, and agree on the pattern before the clippers come out, since the design is hard to undo. Keep the bun neat and positioned at the crown so the lines stay visible from the side. The design grows out quickly, usually within one to two weeks, so this style needs frequent barber visits to stay sharp. It is a great choice for a fresh look before an event, a holiday or a photoshoot.
20. Loose Low Man Bun
The loose low man bun sits at the nape of the neck instead of the crown, and it is the most relaxed and understated bun of all. Hair is gathered low and secured loosely, with soft volume at the top and a few strands free, creating a look that feels effortless and slightly romantic. It suits longer faces especially well, since it adds no extra height, and it works on straight, wavy and fine hair.
To style it, brush the hair back gently, gather it at the nape and secure it with a single loop of a soft elastic, letting the bun stay loose rather than tight. A little texturising spray at the roots stops the top from looking flat, and a few face-framing strands soften the result. This is an excellent choice for men who find high buns uncomfortable or who want a quieter style for work, and it is also kind to the hairline because it puts very little tension on the roots.
21. High Tight Top Knot
The high tight top knot is the most disciplined version of the knot, pulled up high and wrapped firmly into a small, compact shape. It has a clean, almost architectural silhouette that suits men who like sharp, controlled styles. The height flatters round faces by lengthening them, and the tightness keeps the style secure through long days, workouts and windy weather. It works best on straight to wavy hair that can be pulled smooth.
Style it by brushing the hair straight up from all sides, twisting it once and wrapping the elastic tightly around the base. Smooth any bumps with a fine-tooth comb and a dab of strong-hold pomade. Because this knot puts real tension on the hairline, do not wear it tight every single day; alternate with a looser low bun to protect the roots. When done well, the high tight top knot looks precise, confident and completely intentional.
22. Man Bun with Taper Fade
The man bun with taper fade is the gentle middle ground between a full undercut and a completely natural bun. The sides taper gradually from longer at the top to shorter at the neckline, without ever reaching skin, so the blend looks soft and natural. It is one of the most versatile men's hair bun styles, working for the office, the gym and the weekend, and it suits every hair texture from straight to curly.
Ask your barber for a low or mid taper with the top left long, and explain that you are growing the top out for a bun. The taper grows out gracefully, so you can stretch barber visits to four or five weeks without the style falling apart. At home, gather the hair into a bun at the crown and use a light cream to smooth the top. This is the best choice if you want a fade effect without the high maintenance of a skin fade.
23. Double Man Bun
The double man bun, sometimes called space buns for men, splits the hair into two small buns side by side on top of the head. It is the boldest and most playful style on this list, and it works best on thick, long hair where both buns still look substantial. It suits festivals, parties and creative settings, and it flatters oval and round faces because the two buns add width and balance to the top of the head.
Part the hair down the middle, gather each half into its own bun and secure both at the same height so the look stays symmetrical. Use small elastics and tuck in any loose ends. A little texture powder helps the buns hold their shape. This is not an everyday office style, but it is a fun way to show personality, and it photographs brilliantly. If one bun is bigger than the other, redistribute the hair and try again until they match.
24. Man Bun with Blonde Highlights
The man bun with blonde highlights adds colour and dimension to the bun, with sun-kissed strands woven through darker hair. Highlights catch the light and make the bun look fuller and more textured, which is especially effective on thick or wavy hair. This style suits men with dark brown or black hair who want a change without committing to a full colour, and it flatters warm skin tones beautifully.
Ask your colourist for balayage or freehand highlights through the top layers, keeping the colour soft and natural rather than stripey. The highlights should be concentrated where the bun sits so the colour shows when the hair is tied up. Maintain the colour with a colour-safe shampoo and a weekly conditioning mask, since lightened hair dries out faster. Refresh the highlights every eight to twelve weeks, and protect the hair from sun damage with a leave-in product containing UV filters.
25. Top Knot with Buzzed Sides
The top knot with buzzed sides is the most extreme contrast in this guide, pairing a long knot on top with sides clipped down to a uniform buzz. The effect is bold, graphic and low maintenance on the sides, which makes it popular with men who like a strong statement haircut. It suits oval and square faces, and it works best on straight or slightly wavy hair where the knot stays tidy against the short sides.
Ask your barber for a number one or two buzz on the sides and back with the top left at least seven inches long. The buzz needs a refresh every two to three weeks to keep its crisp edge, though many men learn to maintain it at home with clippers. Style the knot small and tight so it balances the severe sides, and use a firm pomade to control flyaways. This is a confident, edgy look that pairs well with tattoos, a short beard or a clean shave.
26. Man Bun for Thick Hair
Thick hair makes the fullest, most impressive man buns, and this style is designed to show off that volume. The bun is large and weighty, with real presence, and it holds its shape all day without collapsing. Men with thick hair often struggle with bulk, but the bun turns that density into an advantage, especially on oval and square faces where the volume balances strong features.
Thick hair needs thinning at the barber to keep the bun manageable; ask for internal layers or light texturising rather than blunt bulk removal. Use a strong elastic or two to secure the bun, since a single thin tie will slip under the weight. A lightweight styling cream controls the surface without adding heaviness, and a wide-tooth comb is essential for detangling. Wash less often than fine hair needs, since thick hair dries out more slowly, and always condition the lengths.
27. Man Bun for Fine Hair
Fine hair can absolutely wear a man bun, and the trick is to create the illusion of fullness rather than fighting the texture. A smaller, sleeker bun looks elegant on fine hair, and with the right products it can look just as intentional as a thick-hair bun. This style suits oval and heart-shaped faces, and it is a great option for men whose hair is fine but long enough to gather.
Build volume with a volumising mousse or texture powder at the roots before tying the bun, and backcomb the crown very gently for extra lift. Gather the hair loosely and secure it with a small elastic, then pinch the bun slightly to fatten it up. Avoid heavy oils and waxes, which flatten fine hair instantly, and use a light-hold hairspray instead. A layered cut on top also helps, since layers create movement that makes fine hair look thicker.
28. Coiled Man Bun for Afro Hair
The coiled man bun for afro hair celebrates tight coils and natural texture, gathering them into a rounded, sculptural bun with incredible shape. Afro-textured hair holds a bun beautifully without much product, and the natural volume creates a silhouette that no other hair type can match. It suits round, oval and square faces, and it is a proud, distinctive style that works in every setting from the office to a celebration.
Moisture is the key to healthy coiled hair, so use a leave-in conditioner and a natural oil such as shea butter or jojoba oil regularly. Gather the coils gently with your fingers, never a fine comb, and secure the bun with a soft satin scrunchie or a snag-free tie to avoid breakage. A pick can lift the roots for extra volume around the bun. Protect the style at night with a satin durag or bonnet, and keep the hair well moisturised so the coils stay defined and the bun keeps its shape.
29. Top Knot for Straight Hair
Straight hair makes the cleanest, smoothest top knots, with a sleek finish that shows off the shape of the knot perfectly. There is no frizz or flyaway texture to fight, so the knot looks sharp and precise with minimal effort. This style suits oval and square faces, and it is ideal for men who want a tidy, professional version of the top knot that still has personality.
The challenge with straight hair is grip, since smooth strands slip easily. Apply a little texture powder or matte clay to damp hair before tying, and use a strong elastic wrapped twice around the knot. A fine-tooth comb helps smooth the sides before gathering, and a light hairspray keeps everything in place. Because straight hair shows every imperfection, keep the parting clean and the knot centred. Regular trims stop the ends from looking wispy as the hair grows.
30. Messy Top Knot with Face-Framing Strands
The messy top knot with face-framing strands is the softest version of the knot, with loose pieces falling beside the face to soften the whole look. It is relaxed, romantic and a little undone, which makes it perfect for dates, holidays and creative workplaces. The strands flatter square and angular faces especially well, since they break up strong lines, and the style works on wavy and straight hair alike.
To style it, gather the hair into a loose knot on top without brushing it smooth, then deliberately pull out two or three strands at the front and let them fall naturally. A little sea salt spray gives the strands texture so they do not look limp, and a light curl with a styling tool can shape them if your hair is very straight. Keep the knot soft and slightly off-centre for a natural feel. This is one of the easiest top knots to wear, because a little imperfection is exactly the point.
31. Man Bun with Bandana
The man bun with a bandana adds a practical accessory that also brings personality to the style. A folded bandana worn as a headband keeps sweat and loose hair out of the face while adding colour and pattern, which makes this a favourite for workouts, festivals, beach days and summer travel. It suits every face shape and hair texture, and it works with both neat and messy buns.
Choose a bandana in a colour that complements your outfit, fold it into a wide strip and tie it at the back or side, just in front of the bun. Tie the bun first, then place the bandana so it sits flat and secure. Cotton bandanas grip best and absorb sweat, while silk versions look smarter for evenings out. This is also a clever trick for second-day hair, since the bandana hides a less-than-fresh hairline while the bun keeps everything tidy.
32. Formal Wedding Man Bun
The formal wedding man bun is the most elegant version of the style, designed for grooms, groomsmen and wedding guests who want long hair to look immaculate. The bun is smooth, polished and perfectly placed, with every strand in position and a subtle shine that photographs beautifully. It suits oval and square faces, and it pairs naturally with a tailored suit, a bow tie or a traditional outfit.
Preparation matters more than the tying itself. Wash and condition the hair the night before, and visit your barber in the week of the wedding for a tidy-up of the sides and neckline. On the day, apply a strong-hold pomade to damp hair, comb it smoothly back and secure the bun at the crown, then finish with a light hairspray for hold and shine. A clean shave or a neatly shaped beard completes the look. If you are the groom, do a trial run with your barber a few weeks before the day.
33. Sporty Gym Man Bun
The sporty gym man bun is built for performance, keeping long hair completely secure through workouts, runs and training sessions. The bun is tied high and tight so it does not bounce or loosen, and the hair is kept fully off the neck to stay cool. It suits every face shape and hair type, and it is the most practical way for active men with long hair to train without distraction.
Use a strong, snag-free elastic and wrap it three times for a secure hold, or double up with two ties for very thick hair. A sweat-wicking headband worn in front of the bun adds extra security and keeps sweat out of the eyes. After training, let the hair down, rinse out the sweat and allow it to dry fully before retying, since damp hair tied up for hours can develop odour and breakage. Wash with a clarifying shampoo once a week if you train daily.
34. Half Bun Half Down
The half bun half down style splits the hair horizontally, tying the top into a bun while the bottom half hangs loose down the back. It is the longest version of the half-up family, showing off full length while keeping the face clear, and it suits men with shoulder-length hair or longer. It flatters oval and heart-shaped faces, and it works beautifully on wavy and curly hair where the loose lengths add movement.
Section the hair from ear to ear, gather the top half into a bun at the crown and secure it firmly, then let the bottom half fall naturally. A leave-in conditioner keeps the loose hair smooth, and a little hair oil on the ends prevents them from looking dry. This style is versatile enough for casual days and smart enough for evenings out, and it is a great way to enjoy long hair without it falling into your face all day.
35. Low Top Knot
The low top knot sits further back on the crown than the classic top knot, closer to a traditional bun placement but smaller and tighter. It is understated, mature and quietly stylish, which makes it a great choice for men who like the top knot idea but want something subtler for work or formal settings. It suits longer faces well, since it adds very little height, and it works on straight, wavy and fine hair.
Gather the hair at the back of the crown rather than the very top, twist it into a small knot and secure it with a single elastic. Keep the front smooth with a little styling cream, and avoid pulling the hair too tightly so the knot stays comfortable all day. The low top knot is also a good transitional style while growing hair out, since it needs less length than a high knot. Pair it with a smart shirt and it looks effortlessly refined.
36. Man Bun with Middle Part
The man bun with a middle part is the most symmetrical style in this collection, with the hair parted neatly down the centre and swept back evenly into a bun. The centre part frames the face on both sides and gives the style a balanced, almost editorial finish that stands out from the usual swept-back bun. It suits oval and symmetrical faces best, and it works on straight and slightly wavy hair where the part stays clean.
Create the part with a fine-tooth comb while the hair is damp, starting at the front hairline and running straight back to the crown. Smooth each side back evenly, gather the hair into a bun and secure it, then check in the mirror that the part is still straight. A little pomade keeps the part defined all day. This is a refined, fashion-forward take on the man bun, and it pairs beautifully with minimalist outfits and clean grooming.
Conclusion
Man bun and top knot hairstyles for men offer something for every hair type, face shape and lifestyle, from the clean classic bun to the bold Viking braid and the polished wedding bun. The key to wearing any of them well is matching the style to your hair texture and your daily life: choose a fade or undercut if you love sharp lines, a messy or half-up version if you prefer a relaxed feel, and a braided or formal style when the occasion calls for something special. Grow your hair patiently, protect it with the right products, and never wear a bun so tight that it hurts.
Use this guide as your starting point. Save the styles you love, show the photo to your barber, and experiment with placement, tightness and texture until you find your version. Whether you wear a top knot every day or save your man bun for weekends, these 36 styles prove that long hair on men is not just a trend but a versatile, timeless way to express personal style. Pick your favourite, tie it up, and wear it with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does hair need to be for a man bun?
You need at least six inches of hair on top for a small top knot and around eight to ten inches for a full man bun. Half-up buns and top knots work with shorter lengths of five to six inches, since only the top section is tied up. Growing from a short cut to bun length usually takes eight to twelve months, depending on how fast your hair grows.
Is a man bun or top knot better for round faces?
A top knot is usually better for round faces because the height on top lengthens the face and adds balance. A high tight top knot or a high fade top knot works especially well. If you prefer a man bun, place it higher on the crown and keep some volume on top rather than wearing a flat, low bun, which can make a round face look wider.
Does wearing a man bun cause hair loss?
A man bun does not cause hair loss when worn sensibly, but wearing it very tight every day can lead to traction alopecia, a form of hair loss caused by constant pulling on the roots. To protect your hair, vary the position of the bun, avoid pulling it painfully tight, use snag-free ties, and let your hair down at night. If you notice thinning around the hairline, switch to looser styles and give your hair regular breaks.
What is the difference between a man bun and a top knot?
A man bun gathers all the hair into a bun at the crown or the back of the head, while a top knot uses only the hair on the top of the head, often with shorter or faded sides. The top knot sits higher, looks smaller and more compact, and usually adds more height. The man bun is fuller and more relaxed, while the top knot is sharper and more statement-making.
How do I keep a man bun looking neat all day?
Start with clean, slightly damp hair and apply a styling cream or pomade before tying the bun, which controls flyaways from the start. Use a strong snag-free elastic wrapped twice, and smooth the surface with a little product after tying. Carry a spare tie and a small comb for quick fixes, and finish with a light mist of hairspray on formal days. For active days, choose a tighter knot or add a headband for extra hold.
