Women with red hair walking outside in nature. Women with red hair walking outside in nature.

Master the Messy Look

Looking your best doesn’t always mean having a polished, professional look. Sometimes you want just the opposite — a messy style that gives you a little extra edge. When it comes to your hair, messy can be the hippest way to go. Check out these tips on mastering the messy look — no matter what kind of hair you have.

Use the Right Products

Using the right products is crucial for achieving a stylishly messy hairstyle. Avoid squeaky-clean hair, as this can look too polished. Instead, opt for products that add texture and volume. Mousses and sea salt sprays work well for long or fine hair, providing lift without weighing it down. For medium to short hair, consider clays, putties, or gels to create texture and a more playful look. Hairspray can help hold the desired style in place.
Blonde woman whose hair is blowing in the wind outside

Keep It Loose

For long or medium hair, avoid sleek, tight hairstyles like buns, braids, or ponytails. The essence of the messy look is looseness. Opt for relaxed styles like a loosely gathered topknot or a casually tousled braid.

Get Piecey

Creating a piecey, separated texture is key to a successful messy look, regardless of hair length. For short hair, apply styling product to the roots and tousle with your fingers. With longer hair, allow some strands to fall loose from buns or ponytails. For added volume on fine hair, gently tease these loose tendrils.

Brunette woman who is pinning her hair up.

Don’t Follow Any Rules

The beauty of a messy hairstyle lies in its effortless imperfection. Forget rigid styling rules. Simply sweep your hair up, pin it back, or style it across your forehead—whatever feels natural and easy. Don't overthink it! While unwashed hair lends itself well to this style, products like mousses and sea salt sprays can help create the same effect on freshly washed hair.