Topknot Meaning & Hair Trend 2026 | Style, History & Culture

From red carpets to morning workouts, the topknot hair trend has become a symbol of effortless style.

But the topknot meaning isn’t just about a trendy bun it has deep roots in history, culture, and even animal names!

Whether you’ve seen it on a samurai, at a salon, or on TikTok, the topknot continues to evolve with every era.

Let’s explore what a topknot really means, where it came from, and why it’s still making headlines in 2026.

Table of Contents

What Does “Topknot” Mean? (Definition & Basic Use)

The word topknot refers to a hairstyle where the hair is tied or twisted into a knot at the top of the head. It’s popular among both men and women, making the top knot women trend especially strong on social media.

💡 Interestingly, “Watch your top knot” is a slang expression that means be alert or stay sharp similar in vibe to “keep your head up.”

Unlike the top-notch meaning, which refers to something excellent or high quality, topknot is all about physical style though both share the “top” idea of being above the rest.

Etymology: How “Topknot” Came from “Top + Knot”

The term comes from a simple mix of “top” (the upper part) and “knot” (a tied section of hair). It first appeared in the 1600s, referring to hair tied high above the head.

Over time, this phrase also spread to describe other things like the topknot fish (a small, flat fish found near the coasts of Europe) and even some dog breeds like the Topknot dog, known for their cute puff of fur on the head.

Topknot in History & Culture (Samurai, Korean Sangtu, etc.)

The topknot samurai style is one of the most iconic historical looks symbolizing bravery and discipline in Japan. Similarly, the Korean sangtu hairstyle marked manhood and respect.

In many cultures, the topknot wasn’t just about beauty it was about identity and honor. From warriors to monks, the style told stories of loyalty, strength, and status.

Modern Uses: Topknot Hairstyle Trends in 2026

The topknot hair trend is thriving in 2026, with influencers, gym-goers, and celebrities all embracing the look. At your local topknot salon, you’ll see endless variations from sleek buns to messy knots.

Modern topknots include:

💇‍♀️ Top knot women styles with accessories or scrunchies.

👦 Man topknots inspired by samurai energy.

💁 Half-up topknots for a fun, relaxed vibe.

This hairstyle has become a blend of style, comfort, and confidence a true reflection of individuality.

How to Style a Topknot: Step-by-Step Guide?

Brush and detangle your hair.

Gather it high on your head.

Twist and wrap into a tight or loose bun.

Secure with pins or ties.

(Optional) Add volume or curls for flair.

Whether you’re going for a top-notch office look or a casual weekend style, this guide works for all hair types.

Topknot vs Bun vs Man-Bun: What’s the Difference?

Hairstyle	Position	Gender	Style Type	Vibe
Topknot	High on head	Unisex	Tight or messy	Modern, casual
Bun	Mid or low	Unisex	Rounded	Elegant, classic
Man-Bun	Mid to low	Male	Looser	Rugged, stylish

The topknot sits higher and is more playful, while the bun tends to be smoother and more formal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Watch your top knot” mean?

It’s a reminder to stay sharp or be aware of your surroundings.

Is “top-notch” related to “topknot”?

No “top-notch” means excellent, while “topknot” refers to a hairstyle.

Can pets really have topknots?

Yes! The Topknot dog (like the Maltese or Shih Tzu) often sports a mini bun on their head.

Is the topknot still trendy in 2026?

Definitely especially in fashion and fitness circles.

Final Thoughts: Why the Topknot Remains Popular

From the ancient topknot samurai to modern-day influencers, the topknot meaning keeps evolving representing both cultural pride and creative self-expression.

Whether you’re rocking it at a topknot salon or tying it up for convenience, this hairstyle remains one of the most top-notch trends of all time.

Johnny

readpuns@gmail.com – Web

Johny is the creative mind behind readpuns.com, where he blends humor, wit, and wordplay into every line. From clever puns to viral captions, he’s dedicated to making your content stand out and your followers smile. When he’s not crafting punchy posts, you’ll find him chasing new trends and turning everyday moments into laugh-worthy lines.