What the Machine Gun Kelly manbun is and why it matters
The term Machine Gun Kelly manbun refers to the signature high, gathered hairstyle popularized by the American rapper and actor Colson Baker, known professionally as Machine Gun Kelly. A manbun is typically created by pulling hair back from the front and sides, then securing it at the crown or lower back of the head with a hair tie. For Machine Gun Kelly, the style often appears sleeker and more pronounced, contributing to his rock-meets-urban aesthetic. This look helped bring the manbun into mainstream visibility, particularly among men in the music, film, and fashion spaces, while also prompting broader conversations about gender norms in hairstyling.
Defining the manbun and how it works
Key characteristics and variations
At its core, a manbun is a practical, low-maintenance style that bundles longer hair into a single tied point. Variations include the high manbun (sited at the top of the head), the low manbun (near the nape of the neck), and the messy or textured manbun, which incorporates loose strands for a relaxed effect. Machine Gun Kelly’s iteration tends toward the high, often with slight texturization and sheen, which can make the style appear more deliberate and sculpted. The style works best for people with enough length at the back and sides to gather without causing tension on the scalp.
How to style a manbun safely
- Start with clean, towel-dried hair to reduce friction and breakage.
- Use a detangling brush or wide-tooth comb to remove knots before tying.
- Gather hair smoothly back and secure with a soft-covered elastic to minimize damage.
- For a sleek finish, apply a light serum or pomade; for texture, use sea salt spray or matte paste.
- Avoid tying too tightly to prevent traction alopecia and scalp strain.
Origins and cultural context of the manbun
Long before it appeared in Western celebrity culture, similar gathered hairstyles existed in various cultures and subcultures, often linked to practicality, identity, or spiritual practice. In the West, the modern manbun gained momentum in the 2010s, intersecting with indie fashion, rock, and hip-hop. As artists like Machine Gun Kelly embraced the look, it shifted from niche to normalized, demonstrating how hairstyle can function as an expressive extension of personal brand. The style’s rise also reflects evolving conversations about masculinity, encouraging men to experiment with length and grooming without strict adherence to traditional norms.
Machine Gun Kelly’s look and grooming routine
Products and tools he reportedly uses
| Product or tool | Typical use | Source type |
|---|---|---|
| Light-hold styling paste or pomade | Adds texture and sheen while keeping the bun in place | Industry reports and stylist recommendations |
| Sea salt spray | Delivers matte, piecey definition for a more undone look | Public styling breakdowns and interviews |
| Soft-covered hair ties | Secures the bun with reduced friction and crease marks | General best practices for hair health |
| Heat protectant spray | Shields hair when using flat irons or blow dryers for sleek finishes | Professional hair care guidelines |
| Detangling brush or wide-tooth comb | Prepares hair for styling and minimizes breakage | Haircare fundamentals |
Routine highlights
Machine Gun Kelly has described a straightforward approach to maintaining his hair: he often washes every few days, uses a lightweight styling product for structure, and occasionally air-dries or blow-dries depending on the desired finish. To protect hair health, he emphasizes conditioning and limiting excessive heat. Regular trims help keep split ends at bay and ensure the manbun remains polished rather than frizzy or thin. This combination of simple products and measured routine makes the style repeatable for fans looking to emulate the look.
Impact on men’s hair trends and fashion
The Machine Gun Kelly manbun played a notable role in accelerating mainstream acceptance of longer hair on men. By pairing the style with tattoos, earrings, and tailored streetwear, he presented a cohesive image that blurred lines between rock, hip-hop, and high fashion. Brands responded by expanding men’s grooming lines, and salons saw increased demand for textured, low-maintenance styles that still felt edgy. The look also opened dialogue around workplace appropriateness and personal expression, highlighting how hair policies can evolve as visible role models grow more common. While trends shift, the core appeal of the manbun—convenience, versatility, and individuality—remains durable.
Common misconceptions and realistic expectations
Several myths persist about the manbun, including the idea that it requires permanent bleaching, daily washing, or that it is inherently unprofessional. In reality, the style can be achieved with natural hair texture, and many people wear it casually or formally depending on how it’s styled and maintained. Another misconception is that only certain hair types can grow enough length; in truth, with proper care and patience, a range of textures can reach the necessary length. Setting realistic expectations around growth time, scalp comfort, and styling effort helps people adopt the look in a sustainable way.
Caring for longer hair and avoiding damage
Frequent gathering of hair in one spot can increase mechanical stress, so proactive care is important. Using gentle hair ties, avoiding backcombing, and incorporating deep conditioning treatments can reduce the risk of breakage. Periodic trims, sun protection for hair, and balanced nutrition support overall hair health. For those considering growing out hair for a manbun, incremental changes are often more manageable than sudden shifts. Consulting a professional stylist can also provide personalized guidance on length goals, layering, and maintenance frequency.
Frequently asked questions
| Question | Answer | Source type |
|---|---|---|
| Does the manbun require long hair? | Yes, typically at least several inches in the back and sides to gather without tension. | Haircare and styling guides |
| Can short-haired men attempt a manbun? | They may achieve a looser or half-up variation, but full manbun requires more length. | Stylist recommendations |
| Is a manbun considered professional? | Acceptance varies by workplace and industry; tidiness and grooming matter. | Fashion and workplace norms analysis |
| How often should I wash my hair if I wear a manbun? | Every 2–3 days for most people; adjust based on oiliness and activity level. | Haircare best practices |
| Can a manbun cause hair loss? | Tight styles may contribute to traction alopecia; gentle tying and rotation of styles help prevent it. | Dermatology guidance |
Quick comparison: high vs. low manbun
- High manbun: sits at the crown, more visible, often sleek and fashion-forward; best for medium to long hair with volume at the top.
- Low manbun: positioned near the nape, tends to look more relaxed; works well with longer hair and textured finishes.
- Both styles can be adapted with layers, fades, or braids to suit face shape and personal comfort.
Final takeaways
The Machine Gun Kelly manbun represents more than a single hairstyle; it reflects broader shifts in how men approach grooming, identity, and style. With the right length, technique, and care, the manbun can be a practical and expressive choice. By understanding the fundamentals—styling methods, product use, and scalp health—readers can make informed decisions about incorporating this look into their routine in a way that suits their long-term hair goals and lifestyle.
tags: hair, manbun, Machine Gun Kelly, hairstyle, men’s grooming