How to Create a Messy Bun with a Hair Claw: Quick and Easy Tutorial

The messy bun is a timeless hairstyle that balances effortless elegance with practicality. Whether you're rushing to a morning meeting, heading to brunch with friends, or just want to keep your hair off your face on a busy day, a messy bun is your go-to. But achieving that perfectly imperfect look can be tricky—too tight and it looks stiff, too loose and it falls apart. Enter the hair claw: the secret weapon for a secure, voluminous, and effortlessly stylish messy bun. In this tutorial, we'll show you how to create a messy bun with a hair claw in just a few simple steps, plus tips to customize it for your hair type.

Hair claws are having a major moment in 2025, and for good reason. They provide a strong hold without the damage of elastic bands, and they add a touch of sophistication to any casual updo. With the right technique and a beautiful claw clip, you can transform your everyday messy bun into a standout look. Let's dive into the step-by-step process, from prepping your hair to securing the perfect bun.

Why Use a Hair Claw for a Messy Bun?

Hair claws offer several advantages over traditional hair ties when creating a messy bun. First, they distribute tension more evenly across your hair, reducing the risk of breakage and creases. This is especially important for fine or fragile hair, where elastic bands can cause damage over time. Second, claws allow you to adjust the volume and shape of your bun easily—you can pull strands loose for a messier look or tighten the clip for a sleeker finish. Finally, a hair claw adds a decorative element to your updo, turning a simple bun into a fashion statement.

The key to a successful messy bun with a hair claw is choosing the right clip size and style. For medium to long hair, a large or extra-large claw works best to hold all the hair securely. If you have shorter or thinner hair, a medium claw may suffice. Brands like Tort Hair Accessories offer a wide range of claw clips in various sizes, colors, and patterns, making it easy to find one that complements your personal style. For example, the LORA XL clip in Ivory Tortoiseshell is a popular choice for its generous size and elegant tortoiseshell pattern, perfect for a voluminous messy bun.

• Less hair damage compared to elastic bands
• Easy to adjust volume and shape
• Adds a stylish accessory to your look

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Messy Bun with a Hair Claw

Start with clean, dry hair. If your hair is freshly washed, add a bit of texture spray or dry shampoo to give it grip—this helps the bun hold its shape. Gather your hair into a high or mid ponytail, but don't pull it all the way through the last loop of your hair tie. Instead, leave a loop of hair to form the base of your bun. This creates a loose, voluminous shape that's perfect for a messy look. Alternatively, you can skip the hair tie entirely and use the claw clip directly, which is quicker and reduces steps.

Next, twist the loop of hair loosely around itself to form a bun shape. Don't worry about making it perfect—the messier, the better. Hold the bun in place with one hand, and with the other hand, open your hair claw and slide it over the bun, clamping down on both the bun and the base of your hair. Make sure the claw is positioned securely, with the teeth gripping the hair underneath the bun. Gently tug on a few strands around your face and the crown of your head to add softness and that effortless messy vibe. For extra hold, you can use a few bobby pins to secure any loose pieces.

• Tip: For a more textured look, tease the crown of your hair before gathering it into a ponytail.
• Tip: If your hair is very long, twist the ponytail into a rope before wrapping it into a bun for a more defined shape.

Best Hair Claws for a Messy Bun

The right hair claw can make all the difference in achieving a secure and stylish messy bun. Look for claws with strong, flexible teeth that won't slip, and a size that matches your hair volume. Tort Hair Accessories offers several excellent options. The JOAN clip in Lavender Lemonade is a medium-sized claw with a playful pastel hue, ideal for those with shoulder-length or medium-thickness hair. Its unique shape provides a firm grip while adding a pop of color to your updo. For longer or thicker hair, the LORA clip in Taffy Tortoiseshell is a fantastic choice—its large size and classic tortoiseshell pattern ensure your bun stays put all day.

If you prefer a more understated look, the DEMI clip in Bronze Tortoiseshell offers a sleek, metallic finish that pairs beautifully with both casual and formal outfits. Its compact design is perfect for a low messy bun or half-up style. Remember to consider your hair type: fine hair may benefit from a claw with smaller, closer-set teeth, while thick or curly hair needs a larger clip with wider teeth. Experiment with different styles to find your perfect match.

• Large claws (e.g., LORA clip) for thick or long hair
• Medium claws (e.g., JOAN clip) for shoulder-length or fine hair
• Metallic or patterned claws for added style

Tips for Different Hair Types and Textures

Fine hair: To prevent your messy bun from looking flat, start by backcombing the crown area to add volume. Use a medium-sized claw like the JOAN clip in Lavender Matcha, which has a secure grip without being too heavy. Avoid pulling the bun too tight—looseness is key for a messy look. You can also spritz a bit of texturizing spray before styling to give your hair more body.

Curly or coily hair: Embrace your natural texture! Work a small amount of curl cream or gel into damp hair, then let it air-dry or diffuse until fully set. Gather your curls into a loose ponytail, twist gently, and secure with a large claw like the YARA clip in Lime Spritz. This claw's vibrant color will stand out beautifully against your curls. Avoid brushing your curls before styling to maintain definition and reduce frizz.

Thick hair: You'll need a heavy-duty claw that can handle the volume. The LORA XL clip in Ivory Tortoiseshell is ideal—it's extra-large and has strong teeth that won't snap. Create a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and clamp the claw over the entire bun. For extra security, use two claws crossing each other. This ensures your bun stays intact even during active days.

• Fine hair: Use texturizing spray and a medium claw
• Curly hair: Work with your natural curls and a large colorful claw
• Thick hair: Opt for an extra-large claw and consider using two for hold

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most common mistakes when creating a messy bun with a hair claw is using a clip that's too small for your hair volume. This can cause the bun to sag or fall apart within minutes. Always choose a claw that can comfortably enclose all your hair without straining. Another mistake is pulling the bun too tight, which defeats the purpose of a 'messy' look and can cause tension headaches. Instead, keep the bun loose and airy, and use the claw to hold the structure in place.

Additionally, avoid placing the claw directly on top of the bun without catching any hair underneath. The teeth need to grip the base of the bun and some scalp hair to stay secure. Finally, don't skip the step of pulling out face-framing strands—this softens the look and adds that effortless, lived-in feel. With a little practice, you'll master the messy bun in no time.

• Using a claw that's too small
• Pulling the bun too tight
• Not securing the claw to the base of the hair

Creating a messy bun with a hair claw is a quick and versatile styling technique that suits any occasion. With the right clip and a few simple steps, you can achieve a chic, effortless look that stays in place all day. Whether you prefer a bold pop of color like the JOAN clip in Lavender Punch or a classic tortoiseshell like the LORA clip in Taffy Tortoiseshell, Tort Hair Accessories has the perfect claw for your messy bun. Experiment with different sizes and styles to find your favorite, and enjoy the ease of a stylish updo in minutes.