20 Easy Updos for Short Hair | Quick & Stylish Hairstyles
Short hair, don’t care? Not quite! While rocking a fresh bob or chic pixie cut gives you endless flair, styling short hair can sometimes feel limiting—especially when it comes to updos.
But fear not! Whether you’re prepping for a wedding, heading to the office, or simply elevating your everyday look, short hair updos are surprisingly versatile and chic.
This guide will show you 20 easy updos for short hair that require minimal effort but deliver maximum style points. From elegant twists to playful braids and everything in between, these ideas will have you experimenting with updos in no time!
Why Updos Are Perfect for Short Hair
Even though short hair has less length to work with, updos can:
- Add variety to your styling routine
- Keep hair off your face on busy days
- Instantly elevate your look for formal or casual occasions
- Minimize the need for heat styling
- Provide creative ways to use accessories like pins, clips, and scarves
Don’t believe us? Keep scrolling to discover 20 stunning updo ideas for every vibe, from effortless and modern to classic and romantic.
20 Easy Updos for Short Hair
1. Side Braid Bun
Elevate your short hair with a sophisticated and romantic updo. Start by creating a loose side braid beginning at one temple, weaving it gently toward the back of your head.
Once the braid is secured with a hairpin or elastic, twist the remaining hair into a small bun at the nape and secure it with pins. This look is perfect for casual dates, garden parties, or even a brunch outing. If you have face-framing layers, let them fall naturally for a breezy, effortless effect that softens the look.
2. Slicked-Back Ponytail
Think short hair can’t pull off a sleek ponytail? Think again! Use a styling cream or gel to smooth your hair back, and a flat brush to gather it tightly towards the back of your head.
Secure with a small elastic band. Instead of tucking the ends neatly, leave them loose for a textured, undone finish that gives the style a modern twist. For extra flair, spray some volumizing product to add dimension and personality. This is a bold, polished look that works for everything from work meetings to nights out.
3. Criss-Cross Half-Up
If a full updo isn’t an option, the criss-cross half-up hairstyle is here to save the day! Take small diagonal sections of hair from each side, cross them over each other at the back, and pin them securely.
Repeat the pattern to create a simple yet chic faux-braid effect. This elegant yet casual style is perfect for coffee dates, casual outings, or any day when you want your hair off your face without too much effort.
4. Pompadour Twist
Ideal for pixie cuts or extremely short hair, the pompadour twist is a bold and edgy style that emphasizes volume on top. Start by teasing the hair at the crown to create height, then gently smooth the surface with a comb for a polished finish.
Twist and pin the teased section back, leaving the sides sleek and neat. This daring look is perfect for a night out, a concert, or any event where you want to make a statement.
5. Low Bridal Bun
Short hair can look stunningly elegant with a classic low bridal bun. Gather your hair near the nape of your neck, twist it into a neat knot, and secure it with pins. This style is timeless and works beautifully for weddings, formal dinners, or black-tie events.
To enhance the look, leave a few soft, wispy strands loose around your face for a romantic, effortless vibe. Add delicate accessories like a comb or small flowers for extra charm.
6. Piecey Messy Bun
Achieve a laid-back yet stylish look with the piecey messy bun. Start by loosely gathering your hair into a low bun at the back of your head, allowing a few strands to fall out naturally.
Secure the bun with pins or a hair tie, and adjust the loose pieces for a carefree, bohemian vibe. Add delicate accessories like pearl pins or flower clips to elevate the look for a more polished occasion. This style is perfect for casual outings or relaxed events.
7. Claw Clip Magic
In a rush? The claw clip has your back! Gather your hair at the back, twist it upward, and secure it with a cute claw clip. Let the ends fan out for a casual, effortless vibe.
This low-maintenance style is ideal for everything from running errands to hopping on a last-minute Zoom call. Experiment with fun claw clip designs, like metallic or pastel shades, to add a playful touch to your look.
8. Low Knot Bun
For a playful yet structured style, try the low knot bun. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck, twist it into small knots, and then secure the knots together into a bun.
This adds texture and visual interest to the hairstyle, making it look elegant yet unique. Pair this look with statement earrings or a bold lipstick for a polished finish that’s perfect for date nights or semi-formal events.
9. Boho Braided Bun
Channel your inner free spirit with the boho braided bun. Start by creating two or three small braids throughout your hair, leaving some sections unbraided for a relaxed look. Gather all your hair into a bun at the back of your head, incorporating the braids for texture and detail.
Secure with pins, and let a few loose strands fall naturally around your face. This intricate-looking style is surprisingly easy to achieve and works well for festivals, casual weddings, or outdoor events.
10. Top Knot Mini Bun
Short hair doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the top knot trend! Gather the top section of your hair, leaving the sides and back alone, and twist it into a small bun at your crown. Secure with an elastic band or pins.
This edgy, playful style is perfect for casual days when you want to keep things simple yet stylish. Pair it with oversized sunglasses or hoop earrings for an Instagram-worthy vibe.
11. Futuristic Sleek Ponytail
Combine a sleek, tightly pulled-back crown with loose, swishy ends for a modern, eye-catching updo. Use a smoothing serum or gel to ensure a flawless, polished look with zero flyaways.
Pair this style with statement earrings or sharp, graphic eyeliner to really channel those futuristic vibes. Perfect for events where you want to stand out with a bold yet sophisticated aesthetic.
12. Braid Crown
If a full bun feels like too much, a braid crown is a charming alternative that adds elegance to any look. Take the hair closest to your hairline, braid it into a chunky, detailed pattern, and secure it with hidden pins for a seamless finish.
You can wear this with loose waves for a softer, romantic vibe or pair it with bold makeup for a more dramatic, regal effect.
13. Bubble Ponytail
This trending updo works for all hair lengths, even short hair! Start by creating a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, then tie elastics at intervals along the length to form “bubble” sections.
To add texture and fullness, gently tease or pull apart each section. You can make it sleek for a modern edge or go messy for a fun, playful look. Perfect for casual outings or even creative events.
14. Twisted Updo
Gather small sections of your hair, twist them gently, and pin them at the back of your head for a polished, elegant look.
This style is versatile—it can be kept tight and sleek for formal occasions or loosened for a more relaxed, romantic vibe. Add decorative hairpins or accessories to elevate the style for a special night out.
15. Half-Up Space Buns
Take your short hair to the next level with this fun, adventurous look! Section off the top half of your hair, create two small buns, and secure them with elastics or pins.
Leave the rest of your hair down for a playful, edgy vibe. It’s bold, Instagram-worthy, and perfect for music festivals or casual hangouts where you want to stand out.
16. Chic Fishtail
A fishtail braid is a stylish choice for formal events and adds gorgeous texture to short hair. Even if your hair isn’t long enough for a full braid, you can create the illusion of length by pinning the ends or incorporating extensions.
For a softer look, pull out a few face-framing strands, or keep it tight for a clean, elegant finish. Either way, it’s sure to turn heads.
17. Knotted Ponytail
This simple yet stylish look is perfect for last-minute plans or when you’re short on time. Take two small sections of hair from each side of your head, tie them into a knot, and pin them securely at the back.
You can leave the rest of your hair loose or pull it into a low ponytail for a more put-together vibe. It’s quick, easy, and undeniably cute.
18. Vintage Waves
Vintage waves give off serious Old Hollywood charm and are perfect for when you want to add a touch of glamour to your look. While not a full updo, you can pin sections of the waves to create a retro-inspired style.
Use a curling iron to form soft, defined waves, then secure with bobby pins and finish with hairspray to keep everything in place all night. Ideal for weddings, galas, or any formal occasion where you want to stand out.
19. Twisted Low Bun
This elegant hairstyle is both easy to create and incredibly chic. Separate your hair into three sections and twist each one loosely, then pin them together into a low bun at the nape of your neck.
This style is perfect for weddings, date nights, or office parties, as it offers a timeless sophistication. Add a sparkly hair accessory or flowers for a more decorative touch, and use a strong hold hairspray to keep it secure for hours.
20. Mini French Roll
Short hair doesn’t mean missing out on classic styles! A mini French roll is a sleek, elegant choice that works beautifully even with shorter locks. Twist your hair to one side, roll it inward toward your scalp, and secure it with plenty of pins.
Finish with hairspray for a polished, sophisticated look. This hairstyle is perfect for formal events, business meetings, or any occasion where you want to exude elegance and confidence.
How to Make the Most of Your Short Hair Updos
Now that you’re armed with these 20 styles, here are a few tips to perfect your looks:
- Tools to Invest In: Stock up on bobby pins, mini elastics, lightweight hairspray, and a teasing comb for maximum versatility.
- Experiment with Accessories: Add personality to your updos with accessories like claw clips, barrettes, headbands, or flowers.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Updos can take a few tries to master—don’t stress if they look messy the first time.
Rock Short Hair Like a Pro
Short hair doesn’t mean bland hair. With these 20 easy updos, you’ll never run out of creative ways to style your hair—whether you’re heading to a wedding, a meeting, or just brunch with your friends.
The best part? Short hair updos are often quicker than their longer counterparts, giving you effortlessly stylish results with minimal fuss.
