Most people think of updos as something only for special occasions like weddings and proms, but there are so many events you could go to during the year that don’t involve formal wear or dressing up. It’s also easy to forget the confidence boost that updos can give you for any normal day like a Tuesday. Just last month, a nurse doing 12-hour shifts asked for an updo to keep her looking polished for her tenth hour. She ended up getting a loose twist and now she wears her hair up more than she wears it down. When you find an updo that suits your lifestyle and hair, updos can go from being something you do only every once in a while to something you do regularly, which makes it easier to incorporate more of them than just once or twice a year.
I’ve selected 28 of the most trendy styles and I document the process as if I am describing it to someone as I would do while working on their hair. With some styles I describe this is because I really like them and I could talk for a while, and in other cases, I may say that the hairstyle is pretty, but it might take more effort than you’d prefer. I know that not everyone will be able to wear each of these styles depending on the individual’s hair type and texture, and I will not pretend otherwise.
If you really want to grab an appointment and find some bobby pins to attempt a certain style, I can assure you that there will be an option available to you on the list.
#1: Low Twisted Updo with Soft Highlights
It may seem like this style took a long time to complete, but once you understand what you’re aiming for, it will take around 15 minutes. The low nape twist has highlights strewn around the hair which provide lovely movement to the style, even if some pieces are pinned up. The entire style is relaxed and polished. If you have finer hair, this will actually work in your favor because the twist will look more delicate instead of super bulky. The most forgiving part about this updo is the twist. It doesn’t have to be perfect for it to come across as intentional.
#2: Messy Waves Pulled Into a Loose Updo
There is the type of messy look that has the person looking as though they have just rolled out of bed, and then there is the messy look that is done with some sort of intention. The back twist gives the overall look structure and helps the whole thing look a bit more polished. What I love most about this style is that you have tamed the bedhead look, but you haven’t gone against the hair’s natural texture. It just looks brushed into place. To create this look absolutely no fighting against the hair is needed, just some organization. To finish this look if you have a natural bend in the hair a touch of texture spray, and a couple of pins will do the trick.
#3: Half-Up Bun with Loose Waves and Balayage
I guess if half-up styles are done incorrectly, they can look like you’re going for a mall teen look, but this style avoids that entirely. The bun is set high enough that it looks intentional, and is also a good size. Plus, the waves that fall below it help keep the look nice and soft. The loose balayaged pieces look so much better than a solid color and especially give the style more dimension when the sun is shining on it. This style is great for days when you want to have your hair mostly out of the way but don’t want to do an entire updo.
#4: High Twisted Bun with a Ribbon Woven Through
I mean, I would say hair ribbons can easily come off as costume-y, but this one is actually a lot better. Instead of being tied like a gift bow on the top, it is threaded through the twist, which is fine. The dark hair looks really nice as a backdrop and the loops in the twist look really nice. Of course, some length is really needed for this, and if your hair is fine make sure to tease the twist before pinning (if you don’t it will look way too thin). It is a commitment to put all of this together, but for the right event it is definitely worth the effort.
#5: Voluminous Red Updo with Curls and a Hair Accessory
I guess I’ll praise the color since it is doing the heaviest lifting here. That rich red is strong enough to make a simple bun striking, but the soft curls and the little accessory take it into occasion territory. Also, if you’re already a redhead, or contemplating going there, consider this a great reminder as to why red hair looks gorgeous in updos as it draws so much light. My advice is to use hot rollers to prep instead of a curling iron if you want your curls to last. Curls need to be set well to hold.
#6: Braided Low Updo with a Flower Tucked In
Stystylistically, it’s clearly for a wedding or some sort of special occasion, and it certainly works for that. The way the flowers are placed feels much more intentional and flowy as opposed to being just stuck there. I’d personally recommend this to medium, or even better, thick hair because the braid does require that amount of density to look this full. With fine hair, the look is definitely attainable, but you’d have to pancake the braid a lot more than you would have to with thick hair, so it might take more effort than what you’d want. My biggest recommendation is that with this level of detail in braided updos, it’s definitely advisable to have extra hands on deck, so don’t count on doing this one solo.
#7: Twisted Low Bun with Soft Highlights Framing the Face
This is very simple yet so effective and that is what I love most about it. The twist is so easy to do, but it gives the bun a bit more interest. The face framing pieces are super soft and they look like they aren’t curled to death. This is a really nice style for anyone who wants a polished look for a dinner or work event, but doesn’t want to be overdone. The only thing to watch out for is to make sure the twist is tight enough to hold through the evening, so a few bobby pins and a light spray of hairspray should do the trick.
#8: Floral Low Updo with Pearls and Detailed Twists
This is bridal and beautiful but let’s be realistic here. The pearls, flowers, layered twists, and other details require lots of time and skill. If you’re showing this to your stylist, make sure you have enough time in mind for a trial and that your stylist knows what she’s doing. When done right, it really does look amazing, and pearls and flowers give a romantic, vintage look that is stunning in photos. Just a heads up.
#9: Sleek Low Chignon with Side-Swept Bangs
I particularly love chignons since they are timeless. This particular one is quite elegant as well, the simplicity works here, with everything pulled back and most of the bulk resting at the nape, while the side bangs add some softness to the overall style. It is suitable for job interviews, funerals and gallery openings, I know that’s not a very sentimental thing to say, but it’s meant as a compliment. For frizzy hair and a lot of flyaways, make sure to use a smoothing cream to control the frizz so that the sleek look lasts.
#10: High Knotted Updo with Soft Pieces Around the Face
The difference between this style and a classic high bun is the knot detail at the crown. It gives the style a nice bit of architecture without overdoing it. The loose tendrils are the softening touch and complete the look. The knot is tidier and more structured with straight hair, whereas with textured or curly hair, this style can look more relaxed and looser. That can be a good thing, depending on what you’re going for.
#11: Relaxed Textured Updo with Loose Curls
This style of updo is supposed to look effortless, but of course, it takes some time to get the look just right. The most crucial part of achieving this style is the right texture. The hair actually needs to have some grip to it so that the sections don’t move and stay in the position you arranged them. The most important thing to achieve this is to use dry texture spray the night before. I also prefer curls that are a bit uneven. It makes it look less like a prom hairstyle. If your hair is naturally wavy or curly, you have an advantage, as it will look better with this updo.
#12: Textured Low Updo with Pearls Scattered Through
The pearls make an average low twist special. The way they are placed feels more organic than if they were in a straight line. The waves and twists are loose, which is nice, because it prevents the style from feeling too fussy. This style is versatile; for a more relaxed look, you can remove some pearls, or you can add more for a wedding. If you want to try pearl pins, choose ones that are not super bright white, since they will be more blended and discreet with most hair colors.
#13: Textured Low Bun in Auburn with Soft Highlights
I want to focus on the color. That warm auburn with lighter strands is so beautiful and even shows up nicely when the hair is pinned back, which is not the case with all highlights. The bun is simple and a bit undone which complements the warmth of the color. It’s really effortless. If you wear a lot of earth or jewel tones, then auburn is the perfect option as this shade will elevate everything in your wardrobe.
#14: Twisted Low Bun with Wispy Tendrils for a Polished Finish
Reliable and straightforward. The twist is tidy but not excessive, plus the tendrils around the face take it away from being too ‘ballet bun’. I suggest this for someone wanting a more flexible updo that can be adapted for multiple occasions, as it is formal enough for an event but also not too much for a nice brunch. If the hair twisting technique seems like it won’t work out, applying a light mousse to damp hair before blow drying will provide the requisite hold.
#15: High Textured Updo with Loose Tendrils at the Back
I love how the height gives some character, but doesn’t give an ‘updo’ vibe. The twisting in the back adds depth and dimension, and the loose pieces that fall down do not date the style. They update it. I think the secret to making high updo styles work as an everyday look is to not make them too polished, and this captures that perfectly. I think bobby pin work would be helpful if you’re planning to move a lot, because styles like this do tend to fall due to the pull of gravity.
#16: Sleek Low Twisted Bun with Highlighted Dimension
I respect the smoothness and control in this style. The highlights give just the right amount of contrast to avoid the look of the bun being too one-dimensional. The twist is tidy and professional as well. I would suggest this style to anyone wanting to keep a polished look without going overboard. The only downside is humidity. If you live somewhere with high moisture in the air, I would suggest preparing it with a smoothing serum and finishing it with a strong hold spray. This type of style will show every flyaway and can be quite unforgiving.
#17: High Textured Updo with Soft Volume at the Crown
The crown volume aids in stretching everything, making the entire style elegant. The soft waves in the updo also stop it from looking like a big hairball on top of your head which is always the risk with high volume styles. If you have finer hair, you’ll want to back comb at the roots before pinning up to get this much volume. If you have thicker hair, you might actually need to thin out the hair a bit too so that the shape is kept sophisticated instead of bulky.
#18: Curly Romantic Updo with Small Floral Pieces
This is really nice! It works with your natural hair texture. Many updos are inspired by straight hair with added touches of curls which show a completely different starting place. Here, the natural curls combined with a loose updo help the curls shine. These flowers are adorable for a wedding or any formal occasion but honestly the hairstyle is great even without them. Just a heads up – in my experience, natural curls drop after a while. It’s a good idea to use a curl refresher spray to help them keep their shape before pinning them up.
#19: Curly High Bun with Beautifully Defined Texture
This bun will have people asking you where you got your curls. The remarkable height and definition of the bun speaks for itself. It creates eye-catching elegance. Those who have medium to thick curly hair will find this updo supremely easy as your hair texture does the most. All you need to do is collect and pin it. The side tendril is great to soften it. The most common error people make with curly buns is pulling too tight on the front, so keep the hairline soft and it will look a lot better.
#20 Clean High Bun with Soft Strands Left Out Around the Face
Creating a high bun may seem simple enough but it can be a great style when executed correctly. It works due to the way proportions are combined, and the framing pieces are spot on. The subtle volume at the roots adds more style so that it doesn’t look like a topknot you just threw together in the parking lot. I wouldn’t think about it too much, if you have medium length straight hair, or slightly wavy hair, you can accomplish this in five minutes.
#21 Braided Updo with Highlighted Pieces Woven Through
Many people don’t know how much highlights bring a hairstyle to life. Braided hair uses every tonal shift that a colored job has. With your hair down a lot of that subtle coloring look is lost. The softness of this braid adds to the romantic vibe without feeling tight. Also this style is best on hair that was washed the day before. Hair that was freshly washed is often way too slippery, so a little grit holds the braid better.
#22 Curly Low Updo with Wispy Face-Framing Pieces
Your hair’s natural movement and softness is a wonderful starting point for this style! The curls are super gentle and elegant, and this isn’t a look where you need to show off. Curls that look ringlet-like won’t be as suitable, so try to use a larger barrel curling iron and remove some of the definition by brushing them to make it look more wavy. The way the face-framing bits look so smooth that they naturally fell there is great, and the softness of the hair is vital!
#23 Textured Updo with Loosely Pinned Curls and Soft Framing
Best in the best way possible, is this supposed to look like you spent zero effort and just twisted it up haphazardly? Not saying that’s a bad thing – in fact, the more casual the better. And if it’s relaxed and natural like this, then the volume up top is only going to enhance the look from every angle. This style will certainly work for anyone who’s tired of the same old low bun and wants to do something more modern, but without tons of work involved. The great thing is that you definitely don’t need to have long hair for this. Medium length is more than enough for this style.
#24 Softly Twisted Chignon with Pieces Left Around the Face
Chignons are typically seen as too mother-of-the-bride but the softer approach works. The twist has some looseness to it, and the face framing tendrils break up the formality. I’d consider this one of those styles that will improve with age over the course of an evening. I mean, this will actually start to look better a few hours in once everything has relaxed a bit. That’s the kind of thing you want from an updo especially if you’re going to an event where you’ll more likely be photographed at the start and end of the night.
#25 Curly Pinned Updo with Defined Pieces at the Cheekbones
The curls are pinned to allow some movement in the overall shape, and the cheekbone pieces direct attention to your desired focus. It looks effortless, but it is intentional. The framing pieces are like highlights, so if your bone structure is strong, I think it’s super nice. If you’re doing this on second-day hair, you’ll have to redo the curls, but other than that, it’s pretty easy to do once your curl pattern is set.
#26 High Textured Updo with Curls Falling Around the Face
There is a lot of body at the crown and the curls at the face which creates a striking appearance. It’s not a subtle look, and that’s what I like. If you’re going to an event and want your hair to stand out, then this is a great option. People with thicker hair tend to achieve this volume more easily, but if you have finer hair, you can still get close to this by using salt spray on damp hair and blow drying it. Just be ready to use a lot of pins because the volume is going to want to move.
#27 Braided Updo with Subtle Highlights and a Soft Finish
This updo is a braided hairstyle that pretty much does everything it needs to do and keeps true to the style. The moderate number of braids frame the face nicely, with a couple of highlights woven in for some added interest. There aren’t too many braids, so if you’re someone that likes braided styles, but doesn’t want something too elaborately complicated or heavy, this is a great option. The finishing is more soft, modern and sophisticated than a shellacked look. If your hair is fine, loosely braid it and then gently pull the ends of the braid out to create larger sections. This will create the look of more hair without actually adding anything.
#28 Soft Wavy Updo with Loose Pieces for a Relaxed Feel
This hairstyle is not meant to last all day, and that is OK. Ideally, you would wear it for a limited time, and look soft, romantic, and perhaps a bit undone. The waves and loose film strands create a more casual vibe. If you have fine hair, this style is great as the looseness draws less attention to the thinness. Instead, it creates an overall fuller look. I would suggest staying away from any sort of strong hold product and keeping things as natural as possible.
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