12 Top Knot Styles for Every Hair Type

For many of us, the top knot is the trusty hair style we turn to when we’re three days post hair wash. Sleek, sophisticated and seriously easy to do, it’s a look that we’ve loved for years.

As quick and convenient up-dos have become the most sought-after lockdown and work-from-home hair style, we wanted to round up 12 top knot styles for every hair type so that everyone can get involved.

1. Curly Top Knot

Unruly strands, fierce frizz and tight curls can sometimes sabotage the tight, slicked back look we’re trying to achieve. But fear not, as the top knot style complements curly hair too. Loose front curls effortlessly highlight facial features while the top bun adds texture and volume to your hair.

2. Sleek Top Knot

Make the most of unwashed hair and give yourself a natural face lift with this incredible scraped back look. Whether you choose to pull out strands or slick every baby hair off your face, you can rest assured that this hair style will be nothing short of a sleek statement.

3. Half Up, Half Down Top Knot

Alternatively, you can take a more relaxed approach to the top knot style with a half up, half down look. Perfect for lazy days, this intentionally messy hair style shows off your jawline in a casual manner.

4. Low Top Knot

The low knot with loose curls gives us total Meghan Markle vibes. Classy and minimalistic, it’s an elegant take on the top knot that will suit every occasion, from weddings to dates, evening dinners and Bohemian summer looks.

5. Braided Top Knot

Not only are braids a great protective hairstyle but they’re also one sure-fire way to make a statement top knot that’s dripping with detail. Whether it’s French braids, box braids or twists, you can rest assured that you’ll be sporting an enviable bun.

6. Space Top Knots

Space bun top knots are the super easy and super cute up-do that everyone can get involved with. Simply part your hair straight down the middle and create two classic top knots to really enhance the symmetry of your facial features.

7. Pastel Top Knot

Pop your way to the top with a knot that boasts colour. From pastel to neon, there’s no other style that will be as head-turning. We love this super girly pastel pink top knot and the long fringe that shapes the face.

8. Petite Top Knot

Calling all short-haired boys and girls: we know getting your hair up into a bun can be a challenge but it’s time to grab all the bobby pins you can find and embrace little tufts, as we make small top knots cool this season.

9. Front Top Knot

The front-facing top knot is a style for the souls that want to be noticed. With a lot of serum and forward brushing, you can achieve this sleek and dramatic fashion statement in no time.

10. Top Knot Mohawk

We’ve seen this look all over the runway so it’s only right we included it in our top knot haul. Inspired by the bantu knots, this knot hawk is one way to get creative with your hair. Great for curly, afro, wavy and straight hair, we think this would make an epic summer hairdo.

11. Messy Top Knot

So, it might not look as neat and uniformed as every other top knot but that’s what we love about the messy bun. This scruffy top knot has flyway hairs and loose strands that delicately lace the face and neckline for a flawless, barely-there look.

12. Men's Top Knot

We did say the top knot was a style that everyone could get involved with. Although the man bun has been around for a while now, you can stay on trend by keeping the sides of your hair short and the top long. Then simply tie it all up for a top knot that totally pops.

The best products to achieve a top knot:

It's pretty hard to get sick of the top knot style, especially now that you have endless inspiration. But, if you do want to give your hair a break from the bun, check out our guide to '6 Lazy Day Hairstyles'.