Thanks to the invention of social media, many hairstyles are trending like the topknot. But did you know this messy yet chic hairstyle has been around for a long time? Apart from being a sign of spiritual leadership, the top knot can be seen in many eras and cultures. In South China, married women sported a bun to signify their marital status. To ensure uniformity in ballet, dancers had to wear a bun atop their head which is carried on even now. The Regency Era in England, around the 1800s, boasts of a trendsetting high-bun paired with tight curls or braids. During the Victorian era, the loose Gibson Girl bun was a sign of feminine beauty. So how can you achieve a hairstyle that has captured the hearts of so many decades? Scroll down to learn!

12 Easy DIY Top Knot Tutorials

Top knots are quick and easy, but hasty or careless styling can be damaging. Casey Simmons, curly hair expert and owner of Royal Locks Curl Care gives a pro tip, “If your hair is fine or thinning you will want to be cautious when wearing a top knot. Hair can break and be stressed when wearing any style that tugs your scalp and strands and uses elastics. Wear a top knot for short periods of time (not around the house) and use a hair friendly elastic or better yet, a clip at the bottom.” With that word of caution out there, let’s check out these cool top knot hairstyles.

1. Voluminous Crimped Donut Bun

Comb Hair donut Bobby pins Elastic bands Crimper

2. Faux Bang Top Knot

Comb U-pins Elastic bands Straightener

How To Do

3. Loose Messy Top Knot

Dry shampoo Brush Elastic band

4. Messy Half Top Knot

Dry shampoo Brush Elastic band Bobby pins

5. 5-Minute Perfect Bun

Two elastic bands

6. Easy Top Knot

Hair brush Elastic band Bobby pins

7. Messy Top Knot

Dry shampoo Elastic band

8. Perfect Top Knot

2 elastic bands Hair brush

9. Bubble Top Knot

Hair brush 2 elastic bands Hairspray Bobby pins

10. Sleek Top Knot

Hair brush Mousse Hairspray Elastic bands Bobby pins

11. Small Elegant Top Knot

Round brush Hairspray Elastic band Bobby Pins

12. Vintage Top Knot

Dry shampoo Texturizing spray Elastic band Bobby pins

How long does your hair have to be for a top knot? Check out the infographic below for quick formal hairstyle ideas for long hair. You must have medium-length to long hair to have a big top knot. You can tie short hair in a top knot, but the bun will be small. However, you can use extensions to make your hair look longer. Does a top knot damage hair? Tight top knots may cause traction alopecia. Tight hairstyles pull on the roots of your hair, leading to damage and hair loss. Why are top knots so popular? Most top knot styles are easily achieved and look chic and cool without putting in too much effort, making them very popular. Is a top knot appropriate for work? Yes. Sleek top knots are appropriate for work. You can style them with bobby pins, headbands, and barrettes for a casual yet chic look.