Effortlessly Cool: Messy Hairstyles & Matte Clays for That 'Undone' Look

It’s the hair you double-take at. Not too neat. Not too styled. Just right.
These are the messy, textured styles that say “I woke up like this” – but better. Whether it’s a tousled bob, a gritty bun, or piecey layers with edge, one thing’s essential: matte clay.

Here’s how to master the cool-girl texture trend using Hair Gang’s best matte styling products.

1. The Tousled Bob

The look: Effortless bends, a bit of volume, and a matte finish that holds shape all day.
How to style: Use a flat iron to add soft bends to dry hair. Rub a small amount of matte clay between your hands and work through mid-lengths and ends to define, piece out, and give touchable texture.

Your go-to product:
🖤 Reuzel Matte Styling Paste – gives that undone finish with all-day hold, without the shine.

2. The Lived-In Pixie

The look: Short, sharp, sculpted—but never stiff.
How to style: On dry hair, use your fingertips to apply clay, lifting and shaping as you go. Focus on the crown and front to create volume and movement.

Try this:
🖤 ELEVEN Australia Matte Texture Styling Paste – delivers definition and hold while keeping hair reworkable.

3. The Textured Low Bun or Pony

The look: Low, loose, full of character. Perfect for day-old hair.
How to style: Warm a bit of clay in your palms, run through your roots and lengths, then gather hair into a low bun or ponytail. Leave out face-framing strands and loosen it with your fingers for that messy-but-intentional vibe.

Hair Gang favourite:
🖤 Reuzel Extreme Hold Matte Pomade – strong, matte hold that keeps your style in place while still looking undone.

4. The Modern Shag

The look: Layers, curtain bangs, and a whole lot of texture.
How to style: Let your natural shape shine, then work clay through dry hair to bring out movement and separation. Great for those with a shag or grown-out layers.

Best pick:
🖤 O&M Clay – gives a gritty, beachy feel with zero crunch and a true matte finish.

Why Matte Clay is the Secret Weapon

• It adds edge – Glossy finishes can look too polished. Matte says cool, casual, unbothered.

• It gives grip & control – Especially good for soft, slippery hair that struggles to hold shape.

• It’s versatile – Works on bobs, layers, buns, short crops, even long hair needing a refresh.

Final Thoughts: Cool-Girl Hair is All About Texture

You don’t need hours in front of the mirror. Just the right matte clay, a good flick of the wrist, and a little attitude. These styles are perfect for workdays, weekends, or whenever you want to look like you didn’t try too hard—but still nailed it.

Browse the full range of matte clays & texture pastes at Hair Gang now.