20 Space Bun Hairstyles That’ll Make You Look Amazing (Easy Tutorial Inside)
Let me tell you something – I’ve been obsessed with space bun hairstyles ever since I saw them make a comeback from the ’90s. And honestly? They’re not going anywhere. Whether you’re heading to a festival, running errands, or just want to feel cute on a random Tuesday, space buns are that perfect mix of fun and practical.
Now here’s where it gets interesting. Most people think space bun hairstyles are complicated or only work on certain hair types. That’s just not true. I’ve tried these on my own hair (which is fine and has zero natural volume) and helped friends with thick, curly hair create gorgeous buns. The secret is knowing a few basic tricks.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about space bun hairstyles – from the absolute basics to 20 creative variations that’ll make you look Instagram-ready. No fancy salon skills required, I promise.
What Are Space Bun Hairstyles?
Space bun hairstyles are basically two buns positioned symmetrically on either side of your head. Think Princess Leia, but make it modern. The name comes from their futuristic, out-of-this-world vibe that became huge in the ’90s rave scene.
What I love about this style is how versatile it is. You can wear your space buns high on your head for a playful look, position them lower for something more sophisticated, or go half-up for a casual vibe. They work for literally any occasion if you style them right.
The Basic Space Bun Tutorial (Start Here!)
Before we dive into the fancy variations, let’s nail the foundation. You might be wondering why I’m spending time on basics – it’s because most tutorials skip this part and assume you already know. Trust me, getting this right makes everything else easier.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 hair elastics (preferably clear or matching your hair color)
- Bobby pins (at least 6-8)
- Hair brush or comb
- Texturizing spray or dry shampoo (optional but helpful)
- Hair gel or pomade for flyaways
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Start with day-old hair. In my experience, freshly washed hair is too slippery for space buns to hold properly. If you just washed your hair, spray some dry shampoo at the roots for grip.
Step 2: Create a center part from your forehead to the nape of your neck. Use the end of a comb for a clean, straight line. Don’t stress if it’s not perfect – slightly messy parts actually look more natural.
Step 3: Brush each section thoroughly to remove tangles. Here’s a tip: if you want sleek buns, brush straight up. For messy buns, leave some texture.
Step 4: Gather one section into a high ponytail. The positioning matters – too high looks childish, too low isn’t really a space bun. Aim for just above and slightly behind your ear.
Step 5: Twist the ponytail. This is crucial. Keep twisting until the hair naturally wants to coil on itself.
Step 6: Wrap the twisted hair around the base of your ponytail. Circle it around and around, creating that bun shape.
Step 7: Secure with bobby pins. I use at least 3-4 pins per bun, inserting them in different directions to really lock everything down.
Step 8: Repeat on the other side. Try to match the height and size, but honestly, slightly asymmetrical buns look cooler anyway.
Step 9: Smooth any flyaways with gel or hairspray on your fingertips.
There you go! You’ve just created basic space bun hairstyles. Now let’s make them interesting.
Space Bun Hairstyles: Difficulty Guide
Not all space bun hairstyles are created equal. Here’s a table I put together to help you choose based on your skill level:
| Style | Difficulty Level | Best Hair Type | Time Needed | Occasion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Space Buns | Beginner | All types | 5-10 min | Everyday, casual |
| Half-Up Space Buns | Beginner | Medium to long | 8-12 min | Date night, brunch |
| Messy Space Buns | Beginner | All types | 5 min | Lazy days, festivals |
| Space Buns with Braids | Intermediate | Medium to long | 15-20 min | Special events |
| French Braid Space Buns | Advanced | Medium to long | 20-30 min | Weddings, formal |
| Space Buns with Twists | Intermediate | All types | 12-15 min | Work, school |
| Glittery Space Buns | Beginner | All types | 10 min | Parties, festivals |
| Low Space Buns | Beginner | All types | 8-10 min | Professional, elegant |
This should help you pick which space bun hairstyle to try first. I always recommend starting with the classics before moving to more complex variations.
20 Creative Space Bun Hairstyles You Need to Try
1. Classic Space Buns
Let’s start with the OG. Classic space buns are positioned high on your head with a clean center part. Follow the tutorial above, and you’re golden.
What makes these timeless is their simplicity. I wear this style when I’m working from home and want my hair out of my face but still want to look put-together on video calls. Add some sparkly hair clips if you’re feeling fancy.
2. Half-Up Half-Down Space Buns
Now here’s where it gets fun. Half-up space bun hairstyles give you the best of both worlds – buns on top, flowing hair below.
Section off just the top half of your hair (from temple to temple). Create your buns with this section only. The bottom half can be straight, wavy, or curly. In my experience, adding some loose waves to the bottom section makes this style look more polished. Use a curling wand on medium heat for soft waves.
This is my go-to for date nights. It’s flirty without trying too hard.
3. Space Buns with Braids
Want to level up? Add some braids to your space bun hairstyles. Before creating each bun, braid the ponytail section instead of just twisting it. You can do a simple three-strand braid or get fancy with fishtail braids.
What I love about this variation is how it adds texture and visual interest. The braids also help the buns hold their shape better, especially if you have slippery hair. It takes a bit longer – maybe 15 minutes total – but the result is worth it.
4. Space Buns with Bows
Sweet and playful, space buns with bows are perfect for anyone who loves that kawaii aesthetic. Create your standard buns, then tie a ribbon or attach a bow clip at the base of each bun.
Choose velvet bows for fall and winter, satin for spring and summer. I have about six different colored bows that I match to my outfits. It’s a simple addition that makes a huge impact.
5. Glittery Space Buns
Festival season? Glittery space buns are calling your name. After creating your buns, apply hair gel to your part and the top of your head. While it’s still wet, sprinkle cosmetic glitter over it.
Pro tip: put some newspaper or a towel on your shoulders first. Glitter gets everywhere. Also, use hair-safe glitter, not craft glitter. Trust me on this one – I learned the hard way.
6. Space Buns with Scrunchies
Everything old is new again. Space buns with scrunchies bring back that ’90s vibe in the best way possible. Instead of regular elastics, use scrunchies to secure your buns.
The great thing about scrunchies is they’re gentler on your hair and they add instant color and texture. I’m obsessed with velvet scrunchies right now – they look expensive but cost like three dollars.
7. Space Buns with Ribbon Ties
Similar to bows but more elegant, ribbon-tied space buns work beautifully for special occasions. Wrap satin or silk ribbon around the base of each bun and tie it in a bow.
This style photographs amazingly well. I wore this to my friend’s garden wedding last summer, and I got so many compliments. The ribbon catches the light and just looks really romantic.
8. Messy Space Buns
Not feeling perfectionist vibes? Messy space bun hairstyles are your friend. Create your buns as usual, but don’t worry about smoothness. Pull out a few face-framing pieces. Let some flyaways do their thing.
In my experience, messy buns actually look better when you don’t overthink them. I literally do these in under five minutes when I’m running late. The key is confidence – rock them like you meant for them to look this way.
9. Space Buns with Bangs
If you have bangs, you’re in luck. Space buns with bangs create this really flattering frame around your face. Leave your bangs out when you create your buns, whether they’re blunt, side-swept, or curtain bangs.
Style your bangs however you normally would – I use a small round brush and blow dryer for mine. The buns draw attention upward, making your eyes really pop.
10. Space Buns with Curly Hair
Curly-haired friends, listen up. Space bun hairstyles for curly hair are absolutely gorgeous. Don’t fight your texture – embrace it.
Create your buns with your natural curls. They’ll be bigger and more voluminous than straight-haired buns, and that’s the point. If you have loose hair hanging down, define those curls with some curl cream or mousse. Your natural texture is what makes these buns special.
11. Space Buns with Temporary Hair Color
Feeling bold? Space buns with temporary color are festival-ready and commitment-free. Use temporary hair chalk or spray-on color before creating your buns.
I love doing this for concerts or parties. Pink, blue, purple – go wild. The color washes out completely, so you can experiment without worry. Just make sure to do this over a sink or outside because temporary color can transfer.
12. Space Buns with Twists
Twisted space bun hairstyles are like braided buns’ easier cousin. Instead of braiding your ponytails, split each one into two sections and twist them around each other before wrapping into a bun.
This creates a rope-like texture that’s really pretty and holds well. It’s easier than braiding but still gives you that interesting detail. Perfect middle-ground option.
13. Space Buns with Double Poof
Here’s a variation I don’t see talked about enough. Space buns with volume at the crown create this amazing silhouette. Before creating your buns, tease the front section of each side to create a poof, then secure it and make your bun behind it.
This adds height and drama without being over-the-top. You might be wondering if it’s hard – it’s not. Just backcomb a bit at the roots and smooth the top layer.
14. Space Buns with Flower Accessories
Nothing says spring and summer like space buns with flowers. Tuck small fresh or silk flowers around your buns using bobby pins.
I wore this to an outdoor bridal shower, and it was perfect. Daisies, baby’s breath, or small roses work great. Just make sure they’re securely pinned – you don’t want flowers falling into your drink.
15. Space Buns with Scarf Wrap
Boho vibes incoming. Space buns wrapped with scarves are so effortlessly cool. Create your buns first, then wrap a patterned scarf around your head, either tying it at the nape or the top.
This is great for bad hair days or when you need to dress up simple buns. I use vintage silk scarves I find at thrift stores. The more patterns and colors, the better.
16. Space Buns with French Braids
French braid space bun hairstyles are advanced-level gorgeous. Start with a French braid on each side of your head, beginning at your hairline and braiding back. Once you reach where you want your buns positioned, gather the remaining hair and twist into buns.
Not gonna lie, this takes practice. The first time I tried it, my arms were tired and one braid was way tighter than the other. But once you get it? Chef’s kiss. This style holds ALL day.
17. Space Buns with Highlights
If you have highlights or balayage, space buns show them off beautifully. The buns create dimension that really highlights different tones in your hair.
I got blonde highlights specifically because I loved how they looked in buns. When your hair is twisted and wrapped, you see all those different colors weaving together. It’s like a hair commercial in real life.
18. Space Buns with Tendrils
Soft and romantic, space buns with face-framing tendrils are absolutely lovely. Create your buns but intentionally leave out a few small pieces around your face and ears.
Curl these pieces slightly with a small curling iron. They soften the whole look and are super flattering. This is my favorite variation for photos – it photographs like a dream.
19. Space Buns with Undercut
Edgy meets cute with space buns and an undercut. If you have shaved sides or a hidden undercut, space buns show it off perfectly.
This is bold, there’s no doubt about it. But if you have an undercut, why not display it? The contrast between the cute buns and edgy shave is really striking.
20. Low Space Buns at the Nape
Low space bun hairstyles positioned at the nape of your neck are sophisticated and unique. Instead of high placement, create your center part and make buns at the base of your skull.
This variation is way more office-appropriate than high buns. I wear these to work sometimes when I want to switch things up from my usual ponytail. They’re elegant without being boring.
Troubleshooting Your Space Bun Hairstyles
Let’s talk about common problems, because they happen to everyone.
Problem: My buns won’t stay up In my experience, this usually means you need more bobby pins or your hair is too clean. Try using pins in an X-pattern, and spray your hair with dry shampoo or texturizing spray first.
Problem: One bun is bigger than the other Welcome to the club. It’s actually pretty normal. If it really bothers you, pull some hair out of the bigger bun to even them out. But honestly? Slight size differences aren’t noticeable to anyone but you.
Problem: My hair is too short Space bun hairstyles for short hair are totally doable. Your buns will just be smaller. That’s not a bad thing – mini buns are adorable. You might need more bobby pins to secure everything.
Problem: My hair is too thick Lucky you! Thick hair makes the most voluminous buns. You might need to use two elastics per bun instead of one, and definitely use more bobby pins. Don’t try to make tiny, tight buns – embrace the volume.
Problem: My hair is too thin Same here. I tease my hair at the roots before making buns, and I use a volumizing powder. Also, making your buns slightly messy and pulling them apart a little creates the illusion of more volume.
Problem: Flyaways everywhere Keep a small amount of gel or pomade on hand. Smooth it over flyaways with your fingertips or an old toothbrush. Setting spray also helps.
Best Products for Space Bun Hairstyles
You don’t need a ton of products, but having the right ones makes everything easier.
For Hold: I swear by a good texturizing spray. It gives your hair grip without making it crunchy. Dry shampoo works too if you don’t want to buy something separate.
For Smoothness: If you want sleek space buns, you’ll need a smoothing serum or light hair oil. Just a tiny bit on your palms, run through your hair before creating buns.
For Volume: Volumizing powder or mousse at the roots works wonders. I use powder because it doesn’t make my hair feel sticky.
For Accessories: Invest in good bobby pins that match your hair color. The cheap ones slide right out. Also grab some cute elastics, ribbons, or clips to switch up your look.
When to Wear Space Bun Hairstyles
You might be wondering what occasions work for space bun hairstyles. Honestly? Almost any.
Casual everyday: Classic or messy space buns Work/professional: Low space buns or half-up styles Festivals/concerts: Glittery buns, buns with braids, colorful additions Dates: Half-up buns with curls, buns with tendrils Weddings/formal events: French braid buns, buns with ribbons or flowers Gym/workout: Simple tight buns that stay put Bad hair days: Messy buns are your savior
The versatility is what makes this style so great. I’ve worn space buns to job interviews (low ones), music festivals (high messy ones), and lazy Sundays (thrown together in 30 seconds).
Final Thoughts on Space Bun Hairstyles
Here’s the thing about space bun hairstyles – they’re way more approachable than they look. Once you master the basic technique, all these variations become easy to experiment with.
Don’t be intimidated if your first attempt looks wonky. Mine definitely did. I couldn’t get my buns the same size, and one kept sliding down. But I kept practicing, and now I can do them without even looking in a mirror.
What I love most about space buns is how they make me feel. There’s something about this hairstyle that’s just fun. It doesn’t take itself too seriously. You can dress it up, dress it down, make it edgy, make it sweet – it works for every vibe.
Start with the classic version. Get comfortable with the basics. Then branch out and try the variations that appeal to you. Add your own creative touches. Make them uniquely yours.
And remember – the best space bun hairstyle is the one that makes you feel confident and happy. So grab your hair ties, give it a shot, and rock those buns like you own them. Because you absolutely do.
