39 Space Buns & Double Bun Hairstyles for a Cute, Playful Look
Introduction
Space buns are one of those hairstyles that never really go out of style. Two buns, worn high on either side of the head, instantly make any look feel playful, youthful and full of personality. They work for festivals and parties, for school and work, for weddings and lazy weekends, and they suit almost every hair length and texture. The best part is how flexible they are — you can wear them sleek and polished, messy and relaxed, braided, twisted, curled or coloured, and the whole mood of the look changes.
In this guide you will find 39 space buns and double bun hairstyles, each with its own original photo and easy styling notes. Whether you have short hair, long hair, curly hair or straight hair, there is a version here for you. Read through the ideas, pick the ones that fit your hair and your plans, and try them with a few simple tools: hair ties, bobby pins, a brush and a little texturising spray. Most of these styles take less than ten minutes once you know the steps, and they hold up beautifully all day.
1. Classic Space Buns
The classic space bun is the look that started it all: two neat, round buns placed high on either side of a centre parting. It is symmetrical, clean and instantly recognisable, which is why it photographs so well and works for almost any casual occasion. Smooth the hair first, part it neatly down the middle, and gather each side into a high ponytail before twisting it into a bun and pinning it in place.
This style suits straight and slightly wavy hair best, because the smooth surface shows off the shape of the buns. Add a light mist of hairspray to keep flyaways under control, and keep the buns the same size by checking them in the mirror from the front. It is a brilliant everyday choice when you want something cute without spending ages in front of the mirror.
2. Messy Space Buns
Messy space buns are the relaxed, lived-in version of the classic, and they are perfect when you want a carefree, effortless feel. Instead of smoothing every strand, you let a few wisps escape and leave the buns slightly loose and textured. The result looks soft and natural rather than stiff, and it is wonderfully forgiving if your hair is not perfectly behaved that day.
To get this look, add a little texturising spray or dry shampoo first, then twist each side into a bun without pulling it too tight. Gently tug at the buns to make them fuller, and leave a couple of face-framing strands out. Messy space buns are ideal for weekends, holidays and casual days out, and they look even better as the day goes on.
3. Sleek High Space Buns
Sleek high space buns are all about polish. The hair is brushed smooth, the parting is sharp, and the buns sit high and tight with a glossy, controlled finish. This version feels more grown-up and put-together than the messy style, so it works beautifully for parties, evenings out and occasions when you want to look deliberately styled.
Start with a smoothing serum or gel on damp hair, brush it back firmly, and secure each ponytail high on the head. Twist tightly, wrap the bun neatly, and pin it flat so there are no bumps. A shine spray at the end adds that glossy finish. Pair this look with bold makeup or statement earrings and it instantly becomes a going-out hairstyle.
4. Low Space Buns
Low space buns sit at the nape of the neck instead of on top of the head, giving the same double-bun idea a softer, quieter feel. They are understated and elegant, which makes them a lovely choice for work, for formal events, or for anyone who finds high buns uncomfortable. The low placement also suits longer hair, because the weight of the hair sits naturally.
Part the hair down the middle, gather each side low behind the ears, and twist into small, neat buns. Keep them close to the head and secure with pins so they do not droop. This style pairs beautifully with a side parting or a few loose strands at the front, and it works just as well under a hat or with a scarf in colder weather.
5. Half-Up Space Buns
Half-up space buns give you the best of both worlds: two cute buns on top and the rest of your hair left down. It is one of the most popular ways to wear space buns, because it keeps the playful shape while showing off your hair's length and texture. It works with straight, wavy and curly hair alike.
Take the top half of your hair, split it down the middle, and make a small bun on each side, leaving the bottom half loose. Add gentle waves to the loose hair for a soft finish, or keep it straight for a cleaner look. This style is perfect for festivals, days out and dates, and it is quick enough to do before school or work.
6. Space Buns with Bangs
Space buns with bangs are a match made in heaven. A straight fringe across the forehead balances the height of the buns and frames the face beautifully, giving the whole look a sweet, doll-like quality. This combination is especially popular with shorter hair and with Y2K-inspired styling.
Keep the fringe smooth and blunt, or soften it slightly with a round brush, and place the buns high so the fringe stays the focus at the front. If your bangs are growing out, sweep them to the sides and let them blend into the buns. This is a charming choice for parties, photos and anyone who loves a cute, retro feel.
7. Curly Space Buns
Curly hair makes space buns look wonderfully full and bouncy. The natural volume of curls fills out each bun, so you get big, soft shapes without needing any padding or backcombing. Curly space buns celebrate texture, and they look joyful and full of life.
Work with your curls rather than against them: moisturise first, then gather each side gently so you do not crush the curl pattern. Twist loosely and pin, letting a few curls spring free around the edges. A little curl cream keeps frizz down without flattening the volume. This is a gorgeous everyday style for anyone with natural curls.
8. Braided Space Buns
Braided space buns add detail and craft to the classic shape. Each bun is made from a braid, or braids run into the buns from the front or the back, giving the style a textured, intricate finish. It takes a little more time, but the result looks far more elaborate than the effort suggests.
Braid each side loosely before wrapping it into a bun, or add a small French braid along the parting first. Pull the braid edges gently to make them look fuller, then pin everything securely. Braided space buns are wonderful for weddings, festivals and special occasions, and they hold up well through a long day.
9. Space Buns with Loose Waves
Space buns with loose waves are a soft, romantic take on the half-up style. The buns sit on top while loose waves fall around the shoulders, creating a balance between playful and pretty. It is a lovely choice for dates, parties and holidays, when you want to look styled but not overdone.
Create the waves first with a curling wand or by braiding damp hair overnight, then make two small buns from the top sections. Keep the buns small so the waves stay the star of the look. A little sea-salt spray adds texture to the waves, and a few pins will keep the buns secure without flattening them.
10. Festival Glitter Space Buns
Festival glitter space buns are made for standing out. Bright colour, glitter, gems and fun accessories turn the simple double bun into a full festival look. This is the style to choose for concerts, music festivals and fancy-dress parties, where more is definitely more.
Start with your usual space buns, then add glitter gel along the parting, stick-on gems around the buns, or colourful hair chalk through the lengths. Temporary colour sprays wash out easily, so you can go bold for one day only. Keep the buns secure with strong ties, because you will be dancing, and carry a few extra pins in your bag.
11. Space Buns with Face-Framing Strands
Leaving a few face-framing strands loose softens space buns instantly and makes them flattering for almost every face shape. The strands draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones, and they stop the style from looking too severe or pulled back. It is a small detail that makes a big difference.
After making the buns, pull out two thin sections at the front on each side and let them fall naturally. You can leave them straight, curl them lightly, or tuck them behind your ears for a tidier finish. This detail works with every version of space buns, from sleek to messy, and it is especially helpful if you are trying the style for the first time.
12. Mini Space Buns
Mini space buns are tiny, dainty buns that sit high on the head and give a sweet, youthful look. Because they use only a small amount of hair, they are perfect for short hair, fine hair, or for a half-up style where the rest of the hair stays down. They are also adorable on children.
Gather two small sections near the crown, twist them into little buns and pin them in place. Do not worry about making them perfectly round — a slightly uneven shape looks charming at this size. Mini buns work beautifully with ribbons, small clips or colourful ties, and they take only a couple of minutes to create.
13. Space Buns for Short Hair
Short hair can absolutely wear space buns — you just need to adapt the technique. With bob-length hair, the buns will be smaller and closer to the head, which gives a neat, compact look that is full of charm. A little texture and grip make all the difference, so start with dry shampoo or texturising spray.
Gather what you can on each side, twist it up and pin it firmly, using bobby pins crossed over each other for extra hold. If a few shorter layers escape at the nape, that is fine — it adds to the relaxed feel. Short-hair space buns are great for everyday wear, and they show off earrings and necklines beautifully.
14. Space Buns for Long Hair
Long hair gives you the fullest, most dramatic space buns, because there is plenty of hair to wrap into big, round shapes. You can make the buns as large as you like, or split the hair so the buns sit high and proud. The weight of long hair also helps the buns hold their shape.
Divide the hair evenly, twist each side firmly, and wrap it around itself until you have a full bun. Pin in several places to spread the weight, and use strong hair ties so the buns do not slip. Long-hair space buns look stunning with a few loose waves left out, and they are a brilliant way to keep long hair tidy on hot days.
15. Space Buns with Scrunchies
Scrunchies and space buns are a perfect pair. A soft fabric scrunchie around the base of each bun adds colour, texture and a retro touch, while also being gentler on the hair than a tight elastic. Choose scrunchies that match your outfit for a coordinated look, or pick contrasting colours for a fun pop.
Make your buns as usual, then slide a scrunchie over each one so it sits at the base. Velvet scrunchies feel dressy, satin ones look sleek, and bright patterned ones are perfect for festivals. This is an easy way to refresh a simple style without any extra styling skill, and it is kind to hair that breaks easily.
16. Space Buns with Ribbons
Ribbons turn space buns into something sweet and romantic. A bow tied at the base of each bun, or ribbons woven through the hair, adds a soft, feminine detail that suits parties, weddings and spring days. It is a simple accessory with a big visual payoff.
Tie a ribbon around each bun after pinning it, and let the ends fall loose, or make a neat bow and trim the ends at an angle. Satin ribbons look elegant, while grosgrain or velvet ribbons feel more casual. Match the ribbon to your dress or your lipstick for a pulled-together finish that looks like you tried much harder than you did.
17. Double Dutch Braid Space Buns
Double Dutch braid space buns combine two favourite techniques: Dutch braids running up the head into two buns at the top. The braids add a bold, sporty texture, and the finished style looks intricate and impressive. It is a great choice for active days, because the braids keep everything secure.
Start braiding from the nape on each side, working upwards in a Dutch braid, and gather the remaining hair into a bun at the end of each braid. Keep the braids neat but not too tight, and pancake them slightly for fullness. This style takes practice, but once you can Dutch braid, it becomes a reliable favourite.
18. Space Buns with Colour
Coloured hair and space buns are a natural match, because the buns show off the colour in a bold, graphic way. Bright reds, blues, pinks or greens all look striking in this shape, and the parting creates a neat line that frames the colour. Even a single streak of colour through the buns makes a statement.
If you use temporary colour, apply it before styling so the buns catch the colour evenly. For permanent colour, keep the hair healthy with a colour-safe conditioner so the shade stays vivid. Coloured space buns are perfect for festivals, photos and anyone who likes their hair to do the talking.
19. Pastel Space Buns
Pastel space buns are the softer side of coloured hair: gentle pinks, lavenders, mint greens and baby blues that look dreamy rather than loud. The pale colours catch the light beautifully in a bun shape, and the overall effect is sweet, whimsical and very photogenic.
Pastel shades work best on lightened hair, so use a toner or temporary pastel dye and a purple shampoo to keep the colour from turning brassy. Style the buns loosely so the colour blends softly, and add a shine spray for a glossy finish. Pastel space buns are lovely for spring, for festivals and for anyone who loves a fairytale feel.
20. Space Buns with Accessories
Hair accessories can completely change the character of space buns. Decorative clips, pins, beads, stars and cuffs add sparkle and personality, and they let you match the style to an outfit or an occasion. It is the easiest way to dress up a simple bun without restyling it.
Place accessories around the base of each bun, along the parting, or scattered through the buns themselves. Pearl pins feel elegant, star clips feel playful, and gold cuffs feel glamorous. Keep the accessories balanced on both sides so the look stays symmetrical, and make sure they are secure before you head out.
21. Sleek Double Buns for Work
Double buns can be work-appropriate when they are sleek, low and tidy. This version keeps the playful shape but tones it down: smooth hair, neat buns placed lower on the head, and no loose strands or glitter. It is practical, professional and comfortable for a full day at a desk.
Brush the hair smooth with a little gel, part it neatly, and make two compact buns that sit close to the head. Pin them flat and finish with hairspray so nothing escapes. This style keeps hair completely out of your face, which is ideal for busy days, and it still feels more interesting than a single bun.
22. Space Buns for Weddings
Space buns for a wedding sound unexpected, but done softly they are romantic and memorable. The key is to keep them loose and low, add delicate flowers or pearl pins, and let soft curls frame the face. It is a wonderful choice for a boho wedding, a garden ceremony or a bride who wants something different.
Ask your stylist to create soft, textured buns rather than tight ones, and tuck in small fresh flowers or dried blooms to match your bouquet. A veil can be pinned below the buns if you want one. For bridesmaids, the same style in a neater form looks cohesive and joyful in photos.
23. Space Buns for Parties
Party space buns are bigger, bolder and more glamorous than the everyday version. Think volume, shine and a little sparkle: backcombed roots, glossy buns and statement accessories that catch the light. This is the style for birthdays, nights out and celebrations.
Add volume at the roots with a little backcombing, then make full, high buns and secure them firmly. A touch of glitter spray or a sparkly clip adds party shine. Because the buns are high, they pair beautifully with an updo-friendly outfit like an off-shoulder top, and they will hold up through hours of dancing.
24. Space Buns for School
Space buns for school need to be quick, neat and comfortable enough to last all day. Two tidy buns keep hair out of the face for lessons and sport, and they look cute without breaking any school rules. The trick is to make them secure in the morning so you do not need to fix them later.
Use strong hair ties and plenty of pins, and keep the buns close to the head so they do not bounce around. A simple centre parting and smooth finish look tidy, while a small scrunchie or plain clip adds a touch of personality. This style works for all hair lengths, and it is easy enough to do on a busy school morning.
25. Space Buns for Summer
Summer space buns are light, airy and practical. They lift the hair off your neck, which keeps you cool, and they survive heat, humidity and sea breeze better than most styles. A slightly messy finish suits the relaxed mood of summer perfectly.
Make the buns loosely so air can circulate, and use a light texturising spray rather than heavy products that can feel sticky in the heat. A sun hat can sit neatly between the buns, or you can add a colourful scarf for a holiday look. This is the ideal hairstyle for beach days, picnics and summer festivals.
26. Space Buns with Straight Hair
Straight hair gives space buns a clean, graphic shape. The smooth surface shows off the roundness of each bun, and the parting looks sharp and precise. This version feels modern and minimal, and it is a great choice if you love a polished, put-together look.
Straighten the hair first if needed, then brush it smooth and divide it evenly. Twist each side tightly so the bun is compact, and pin it neatly with no stray ends. A shine serum adds a sleek finish. Straight-hair space buns suit oval and heart-shaped faces particularly well, because the clean lines frame the face.
27. Voluminous Space Buns
Voluminous space buns are all about size. Big, fluffy buns make a bold statement and give the style a dramatic, glamorous feel. They are perfect for parties, photos and anyone who loves a high-impact look, and they work best on thick or long hair.
Backcomb the hair lightly before twisting it into buns, or use a bun maker or hair donut to add fullness. Gently pull at the buns to make them wider, and pin them in several places to support the weight. A strong-hold hairspray will keep the volume in place, and a few loose curls at the front soften the drama.
28. Space Buns with Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs and space buns are a trendy, flattering combination. The bangs fall in soft, face-framing curtains on either side of the forehead, balancing the height of the buns and giving the style a relaxed, 1970s-inspired feel. It is one of the most popular pairings on social media right now.
Style the curtain bangs with a round brush so they sweep outwards, then place the buns high on the head. Keep the rest of the hair smooth or slightly wavy. This look suits most face shapes, because the bangs soften the forehead and the buns add height, creating a lovely sense of balance.
29. Boho Space Buns
Boho space buns are relaxed, textured and free-spirited. They are looser than the classic, with waves, braids or twists mixed in, and a few strands left free to move. The whole look feels effortless and earthy, which makes it perfect for outdoor events, markets and holidays.
Add waves with a curling wand, then make the buns loosely and pull out a few pieces around the face. A small braid on one side or a flower tucked into a bun adds to the boho feel. Keep the finish soft rather than polished — the charm of this style is that it looks like it happened naturally.
30. Space Buns with Twists
Twisted space buns use rope twists instead of braids or plain wraps, giving the buns a neat, swirled texture. Twists are quicker than braids and easier to learn, but they still look detailed and intentional. This is a great middle ground between a simple bun and a braided one.
Split each side into two sections, twist them around each other, then coil the twist into a bun and pin it. The twist pattern shows beautifully on the outside of the bun, especially on highlighted or multi-tonal hair. Twisted buns hold well, so they are a good choice for long days and active plans.
31. Space Buns for Kids
Space buns are a favourite for children because they are cute, practical and comfortable. Two small buns keep hair out of a child's face for play, school and parties, and they look adorable with colourful ties or bows. The style is gentle on young hair when you keep it loose.
Use soft, snag-free hair ties and do not pull the hair too tight. Make the buns small and light, and let your child choose the scrunchies or clips so they feel part of the fun. For special occasions, add a ribbon or a flower clip. Keep the whole process quick and playful, and the style will last happily all day.
32. Space Buns for Teens
Teen space buns are all about personal style. Teens can take the classic shape and make it their own with colour, accessories, loose strands or a messy finish. It is a versatile look that works for school, parties, concerts and photos with friends.
Encourage teens to experiment: try half-up buns, add butterfly clips, or pair the buns with curtain bangs. The style is forgiving, so it is a good first updo to learn, and it can be redone quickly if it does not work the first time. A little dry shampoo adds grip and makes styling easier on fine teen hair.
33. Space Buns with Highlights
Highlights add dimension to space buns, because the lighter strands catch the light as the hair wraps around each bun. Caramel, honey or blonde highlights through brown hair look especially beautiful in this shape, giving the buns a warm, sun-kissed glow.
The key is to let the highlights show: twist the hair so the lighter pieces sit on the outside of the bun, and avoid pulling everything too smooth. A shine spray enhances the colour contrast. Highlighted space buns are a lovely way to show off a fresh colour appointment, and they look great in photos.
34. Space Buns with Ombre Hair
Ombre hair, with dark roots fading into lighter ends, looks stunning in space buns. The gradient shows clearly as the hair coils, with the lighter ends forming the outer edge of each bun. It is a built-in colour effect that needs no extra accessories.
Style the buns so the lighter ends are visible, and keep the finish smooth enough that the colour transition reads clearly. Ombre space buns suit long and medium hair best, because the length shows off the full fade. A colour-protecting shampoo will keep the gradient looking fresh for longer.
35. Y2K Space Buns
Y2K space buns bring back the early 2000s with butterfly clips, coloured ties and a playful, nostalgic energy. This is the style of pop stars and teen magazines from that era, updated for today. It is fun, bold and unapologetically cute.
Add butterfly clips along the parting, use bright scrunchies, and keep the buns high and bouncy. A little lip gloss and a crop top complete the throwback mood, but the hair alone carries the look. Y2K space buns are perfect for themed parties, festivals and anyone who loves retro styling.
36. Space Buns with Headband
A headband adds polish and structure to space buns. It keeps the front hair smooth, frames the face, and gives the style a finished, put-together feel. A padded headband looks chic, a thin one looks delicate, and a patterned one adds personality.
Place the headband just in front of the buns, after styling them, and make sure it sits comfortably without pushing the buns out of place. You can also use the headband to hide a grown-out fringe or to keep baby hairs tidy. This is a smart choice for work, for weddings and for days when you want to look polished with minimal effort.
37. Space Buns for Gym & Workouts
Space buns are one of the best workout hairstyles, because they keep every strand off your face and neck. Two tight, secure buns will survive running, yoga, dance and gym sessions without coming loose, and they look cute enough to wear straight from the gym to coffee.
Make the buns tight and close to the head, using strong ties and plenty of pins, and add a sweat-wicking headband if you like. Avoid heavy products that can feel sticky when you sweat — a light gel is enough. After your workout, you can loosen the buns slightly for a relaxed, post-gym look.
38. Elegant Double Buns
Elegant double buns are the formal version of space buns: smooth, symmetrical and refined. The buns are neat and compact, the parting is clean, and the finish is glossy rather than messy. This style suits weddings, formal dinners and any occasion that calls for a polished updo with personality.
Smooth the hair with serum, create a precise centre parting, and wrap each bun tightly and evenly. Pin the buns flat and finish with a strong-hold spray and a shine mist. A pair of pearl or crystal pins adds just enough sparkle. Elegant double buns prove that a playful shape can still look completely grown-up.
39. Space Buns with Loose Curls
Space buns with loose curls are soft, romantic and effortlessly pretty. Small buns on top are paired with loose curls falling around the face and shoulders, creating a look that is both playful and feminine. It is a beautiful choice for dates, parties and special occasions.
Curl the hair first with a large-barrel wand, leaving the ends soft, then make two small buns from the top sections. Keep the buns small so the curls stay the focus, and let a few curls fall in front of the ears. A light-hold spray keeps the curls bouncy without making them stiff, and the finished look photographs beautifully.
Conclusion
Space buns and double buns are far more versatile than their playful reputation suggests. From the neat classic and the sleek high version to braided, curly, coloured and festival styles, there is a double bun for every hair type, every length and every occasion. The 39 ideas in this guide show how one simple shape can be adapted again and again, just by changing the texture, the placement or a few accessories.
The best way to find your favourite is to try a few. Start with the classic or the messy version, then experiment with bangs, braids, twists or colour when you feel confident. Keep a few hair ties, pins and a texturising spray in your bag, and remember that space buns do not need to be perfect to look wonderful — a little looseness is part of their charm. Pick your favourite from this list, give it a try, and enjoy a hairstyle that is cute, practical and full of personality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are space buns suitable for short hair?
Yes, space buns work well on short hair, including bob-length hair. The buns will be smaller and closer to the head, which looks neat and charming. Use texturising spray or dry shampoo for grip, gather what you can on each side, and secure the buns with crossed bobby pins so they hold all day.
How do I make space buns stay in place all day?
Start with hair that has some grip — second-day hair or hair with dry shampoo works best. Use strong hair ties, twist the buns firmly, and pin them in several places with bobby pins. Finish with a light mist of hairspray, and carry a few extra pins in your bag for quick touch-ups.
Can I wear space buns to work?
Yes, if you keep them sleek, low and tidy. Smooth the hair, make compact buns close to the head, and skip glitter, bright accessories and loose messy strands. The sleek double bun version in this guide is designed for work, and it keeps hair neatly out of your face all day.
What is the difference between space buns and double buns?
The two terms describe the same basic style: two buns worn on either side of the head. Space buns usually sit high on the head and feel playful, while double buns is a broader term that also covers low, sleek and elegant versions. In this guide the two names are used for the same family of hairstyles.
How long do space buns take to do?
Most space buns take five to ten minutes once you know the steps. The classic, messy and mini versions are the quickest, while braided, Dutch braid and twisted versions take a little longer. Practise the basic version first, and the more detailed styles will get faster each time you try them.
