Space buns have this way of instantly making any outfit feel a little more fun. They are playful, easy to recreate, and somehow work for both a casual day out and a night at a festival. What started as a niche throwback style has turned into one of the most searched hairstyles online, and it is easy to see why once you try it yourself.
This post is going to walk you through 25 space bun hairstyles, ranging from the simplest version you can throw together in minutes to more detailed takes that add extra texture and personality.
Why Space Buns Have Become So Popular Again
Space buns work because they are unexpected. They add height, symmetry, and a little bit of attitude to an otherwise simple hairstyle. They also happen to be incredibly practical, since they keep hair fully off your neck and face, making them a great choice for warmer days or busy activities. On top of that, they photograph really well, which is a big reason they keep showing up all over social media.
Tips for Making Your Space Buns Look Their Best
A few small adjustments can take this style from average to genuinely eye catching.
- Section your hair evenly down the middle so both buns end up symmetrical.
- Add texture with a salt spray before styling, since smooth hair can slip out of place faster.
- Use two elastics of the same size and color for a balanced, polished result.
- Backcomb slightly at the base of each section for buns that hold their shape and look fuller.
- Finish with a light hairspray to keep loose pieces under control without stiffness.
Now let’s get into the styles.
1. Classic Space Buns
The original version everyone knows. Split your hair evenly, secure each half into a ponytail, then twist and pin each one into a simple round bun.
2. High Space Buns
Positioned closer to the crown, this version feels a little more polished and works especially well for dressier occasions.
3. Low Space Buns
Placed lower on the head, this softer take feels more relaxed and pairs nicely with casual outfits.
4. Braided Space Buns
Braid each ponytail before twisting it into a bun for extra texture and a slightly more detailed finished look.
5. Messy Space Buns
Instead of smooth, tightly wound buns, leave a bit of texture and let a few pieces fall loose for an effortless, undone feel.
6. Sleek Space Buns
For a cleaner, more polished version, smooth each section completely with gel before twisting into place.
7. Curly Space Buns
Curly hair adds so much natural volume to this style. Simply gather each section without brushing out your curl pattern for a soft, full result.
8. Space Buns with Bangs
If you have bangs, leave them out while creating your buns for a softer, more face flattering finish.
9. Half Up Space Buns
Instead of using all your hair, only pull the top sections into small buns while the rest of your hair falls naturally underneath.
10. Twisted Space Buns
Twist each ponytail like a rope before wrapping it into a bun for a slightly more structured, unique shape.
11. Space Buns with Front Twists
Small twisted pieces near the hairline, pulled back into each bun, add detail without needing to braid the entire section.
12. Bubble Space Buns
Add small elastics along each ponytail before forming the bun for a fun, layered bubble effect.
13. Space Buns with a Bandana
Wrapping a small bandana or scarf around the base of each bun adds a playful, personalized touch that stands out.
14. Space Buns with Ribbons
Tying a ribbon around the base of each bun instantly adds a sweet, feminine detail perfect for parties or events.
15. Space Buns with Face Framing Curls
Curling a few pieces around your face while the rest is pulled into buns softens the entire look for a slightly more romantic finish.
16. Space Buns with Claw Clips
Instead of twisting and pinning, use two small claw clips to create instant buns in just a few seconds.
17. Textured Space Buns
Adding texture spray before styling gives each bun more grip and a slightly fuller, more natural finished shape.
18. Space Buns with Headband
Pairing a thin headband with space buns adds structure and works especially well for keeping shorter face framing pieces in place.
19. Space Buns with Beads or Charms
Threading a few small beads onto sections before forming the buns adds a playful, personalized detail popular for festivals and creative looks.
20. Voluminous Space Buns
Backcombing each section before twisting creates fuller, more dramatic buns with noticeably more height and presence.
21. Space Buns with Slicked Baby Hairs
Using a bit of gel to smooth down edges and baby hairs around the hairline creates a sharp, polished contrast against the playful bun shape.
22. Space Buns with Side Part
Switching to a side part rather than the classic middle part gives this familiar style a slightly different, more asymmetrical look.
23. Double Braided Space Buns
Two thin braids on each side, twisted into buns at the ends, combine texture and structure for a more detailed finished style.
24. Space Buns with Loose Curls Underneath
Leave a section of hair down and curl it while the rest is pulled into buns for added dimension and a bit more drama.
25. Festival Style Space Buns
Combine several of the smaller details from this list, twists, beads, and a bandana wrap, for a fully styled, festival ready version of the classic look.
How to Choose the Right Space Bun Style for You
If your hair is fine or thin, backcombing or adding texture spray before forming your buns will help create the illusion of more volume. If your hair is naturally curly, letting your texture stay intact rather than smoothing it out tends to look more natural and full. Longer hair can handle almost any version on this list, while shorter hair works best with smaller, tighter buns closer to the crown.
Common Mistakes That Ruin Space Buns
Uneven sectioning is one of the most common issues, leading to buns that look mismatched in size or placement. Using elastics that are too weak can also cause one or both buns to loosen throughout the day, especially with thicker hair. Pulling each section too tightly at the base can create unnecessary tension and discomfort, so aim for secure but comfortable hold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are space buns good for thin hair? Yes, especially with a little backcombing or texture spray beforehand, which helps create fuller looking buns despite finer strands.
Can I do space buns with short hair? Definitely. Shorter hair actually works well for smaller, tighter space buns positioned closer to the crown.
How long do space buns typically last throughout the day? With a strong elastic and a bit of texture product, space buns can easily hold their shape for a full day of activities.
Do space buns work for curly hair? Absolutely. Curly hair adds beautiful natural volume to this style, often looking fuller than straight hair without any extra effort.
Final Thoughts
Space buns continue to prove that a hairstyle does not need to be complicated to feel fun and expressive. With 25 different versions to choose from, there is a style here for every mood, occasion, and hair type. Try a few of these looks, see which details feel most like you, and you will likely find a new favorite that brings a little extra playfulness to your everyday routine.