20 Chic Updo Hairstyles with Bangs for a Stylish Look
Updos and bangs are a match made in hairstyling heaven. Together, they effortlessly combine elegance with a hint of playfulness, offering the perfect look for any occasion—from casual brunches to upscale cocktail parties.
If you’re looking for a fresh way to elevate your style, these updo hairstyles will inspire you to try something new. Bangs can add softness to your face and highlight your features, while updos bring that polished aesthetic we all love.
Whether you’re rocking curtain bangs, side-swept bangs, or blunt bangs, there’s an updo style here for everyone. Keep reading to discover 20 chic hairstyle ideas and everything you need to master them!
The Perfect Pairing: Bangs & Updos
Bangs can be a hairstyling powerhouse, as they frame your face and add depth to your overall look. When paired with an updo, they take things to the next level by striking the perfect balance between polished and effortless.
But not all bangs are created equal—different bang styles create different vibes. Here are a few options to consider:
Types of Bangs That Work With Updos
Curtain Bangs
Effortless and trendy, curtain bangs gently part down the middle and sweep to the sides, creating a soft, face-framing effect that flatters most face shapes.
They work beautifully with a variety of updos, from messy buns to sleek chignons, adding a relaxed yet polished look. Whether you’re dressing up for a casual brunch or a formal event, curtain bangs make any updo feel modern and stylish.
Blunt Bangs
For a bold and edgy vibe, blunt bangs are a perfect choice. Cut straight across the forehead, they deliver a dramatic, high-fashion look that instantly elevates your style.
Pair them with softer, voluminous updos for a striking contrast, or opt for a sleek bun to amplify their sharp, chic appeal. Blunt bangs are ideal for anyone looking to make a statement while keeping their hair up and out of the way.
Side-Swept Bangs
Universally flattering and endlessly versatile, side-swept bangs add a touch of elegance to updos. Whether worn with a low bun, a twisted updo, or a braided crown, these bangs create a soft, romantic effect that works for both casual outings and formal occasions.
Their angled shape frames the face beautifully, making them a favorite choice for weddings and special events.
Wispy Bangs
If you’re going for a romantic or delicate look, wispy bangs are the way to go. These soft, feathered bangs bring a light, airy feel to any hairstyle. They pair beautifully with braided or loose updos, creating a whimsical and feminine vibe that’s perfect for date nights, garden parties, or summer gatherings.
Wispy bangs are also great for softening angular features, adding a subtle charm to your overall look.
Baby Bangs
Short and chic, baby bangs are a bold choice that exudes retro flair. These micro-length bangs draw attention to your eyes and eyebrows, giving your look a playful yet edgy twist.
They work particularly well with statement updos like faux hawks, high buns, or even textured twists, making them perfect for those who want to embrace a unique and fashion-forward style. Baby bangs may be daring, but they deliver a big impact when paired with the right updo.
Now that we’ve covered the types of bangs, let’s explore the updos that make them truly shine. Whether you’re seeking a formal, casual, or avant-garde style, there’s an updo-and-bangs combo to match your vision.
20 Updo Hairstyles with Bangs to Try
These styles prove just how versatile updos can be when paired with bangs:
1. Sleek Low Bun with Curtain Bangs
A polished low bun paired with curtain bangs exudes an effortlessly chic vibe that works for any occasion, from professional settings to social gatherings. This classic style offers a clean and elegant look that’s both timeless and modern.
It’s perfect for work meetings, weddings, or formal events, and can easily be achieved with a smoothing serum and hairpins. The addition of curtain bangs frames the face beautifully, giving it a soft and flattering touch.
2. Messy High Bun with Wispy Bangs
A relaxed high bun combined with light, wispy bangs creates that casual, carefree aesthetic that’s become a go-to for many. This hairstyle balances effortlessness with style, making it ideal for brunch dates or lazy Sundays when you still want to look put together.
The messy texture of the bun adds volume and dimension, while the delicate, feathered bangs soften the overall look, making it perfect for both lounging at home and casual outings.
3. French Twist and Side-Swept Bangs
Timeless and sophisticated, a French twist paired with elegant side-swept bangs is the definition of refined beauty. This hairstyle is perfect for high-profile events like weddings, galas, or formal dinners.
The sleek twist at the back adds a structured and polished element, while the side-swept bangs bring softness and a hint of romance to the style. It’s an effortlessly classy look that never goes out of style and always makes a statement.
4. Loose Braided Updo with Blunt Bangs
Pairing a loose, textured braided bun with bold blunt bangs is the perfect way to fuse romantic charm with a touch of edginess. The soft braids create texture and movement, while the blunt bangs bring a bold, modern twist to the look.
This hairstyle is ideal for date nights, outdoor events, or even creative photoshoots, offering a unique blend of softness and structure. A touch of hairspray will keep the braids in place while maintaining the relaxed vibe.
5. Top Knot and Curtain Bangs
A high top knot paired with curtain bangs is flattering, trendy, and incredibly easy to style—especially perfect for second-day hair or when you’re in a rush. This versatile look works well for anything from casual errands to quick, no-fuss glam moments.
The top knot adds height and drama, while the curtain bangs frame your face, creating a soft and stylish finish. It’s a great option for when you want a pulled-together look without spending too much time.
6. Voluminous Low Chignon with Side-Swept Bangs
Go full glam with a voluminous chignon paired with soft, side-swept bangs. This hairstyle is perfect for evening events, upscale dinners, or red-carpet moments, giving you an old-Hollywood vibe that is both glamorous and timeless.
The low chignon adds an element of sophistication and texture, while the side-swept bangs create a soft, romantic edge. Add a sparkling hairpin or accessory to elevate the look further and turn heads wherever you go.
7. Twisted Updo and Wispy Bangs
Add a whimsical touch to your look with a soft twisted updo and delicate wispy bangs. This playful yet sophisticated hairstyle is great for garden weddings, cocktail parties, or any event where you want to feel effortlessly elegant.
The twisted detail at the back adds a creative and textured element, while the wispy bangs bring a light and airy feel to the style. This look is ideal for achieving a balance of polished and carefree charm.
8. Halo Braid with Curtain Bangs
Create a crown-like effect by wrapping a halo braid around your head and pairing it with loose, flowy curtain bangs for a boho-inspired style. This romantic and whimsical hairstyle is ideal for festivals, outdoor picnics, or casual summer weddings.
The halo braid adds a unique and intricate touch, while the curtain bangs soften the face and give the look a relaxed, effortless vibe. Perfect for when you want to channel your inner free spirit and embrace bohemian elegance.
9. Sleek Ponytail Updo and Blunt Bangs
Transform a sleek ponytail into an updo with a sophisticated twist, and pair it with bold blunt bangs for a dramatic and edgy look. This hairstyle is ideal for late-night parties, fashion-forward events, or moments when you want to showcase a bold, confident style.
The sleekness of the ponytail makes it modern and clean, while the blunt bangs add a sharp and striking contrast. It’s a powerful look that’s sure to make you stand out.
10. Double Dutch Braids into a Low Bun
Keep it playful and youthful with double Dutch braids that transition seamlessly into a neat low bun. Complemented by wispy bangs, this hairstyle combines practicality with charm, making it perfect for workouts, casual hangouts, or even adventurous outdoor activities.
The braids add a fun and sporty element, while the low bun keeps the look polished and secure. The addition of wispy bangs adds a soft, delicate touch, tying the whole style together effortlessly.
11. Bouffant Updo with Side-Swept Bangs
Channel vintage vibes with a voluminous bouffant updo that exudes retro glamour and timeless sophistication. This style creates height at the crown, adding drama and elegance to your overall look.
Pair it with side-swept bangs that softly frame your face, creating a balanced and flattering effect. Perfect for formal events, weddings, or a fun retro-themed night out, this hairstyle is a surefire way to make a statement.
12. Low Twisted Bun with Curtain Bangs
For understated elegance, a low twisted bun is a timeless choice that works for any occasion. The bun sits gracefully at the nape of your neck, offering a sleek yet natural appearance.
Add curtain bangs to softly frame your features, enhancing the overall charm of this look. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a work event, or even a casual outing, this hairstyle is an easy go-to for a polished and refined look.
13. Faux Hawk Updo with Baby Bangs
Shake things up with an edgy faux hawk updo that stands out from the crowd. This daring style involves teasing and pinning sections of hair to create height and texture down the center of your head, mimicking the bold shape of a mohawk.
It pairs perfectly with retro-inspired baby bangs, which add a touch of vintage chic to the bold, fashion-forward statement. Ideal for concerts, parties, or when you simply want to turn heads with your unique style.
14. Crown Braid with Wispy Bangs
For a romantic and ethereal look, weave a braid around your crown to create a stunning halo effect. This hairstyle not only adds texture and dimension but also keeps your hair neatly in place.
Keep wispy bangs loose in the front to add a touch of softness and charm, framing your face in a delicate manner. Ideal for garden parties, outdoor weddings, or any special occasion where you want to feel elegant and whimsical.
15. Braided Low Ponytail with Side Bangs
Transform a simple low ponytail into an elegant updo by incorporating intricate braids that wrap around the base of the ponytail. This style elevates the classic ponytail, making it both stylish and versatile.
Pair it with soft side bangs that gently frame your face, enhancing your features and adding a touch of subtle charm. This look is perfect for everything from casual days to more formal settings, striking the right balance between relaxed and refined.
16. Textured Top Knot with Curtain Bangs
Add dimension and flair to a classic top knot by sectioning and texturizing your hair before twisting it into a high, messy knot. This creates a voluminous, layered effect that adds interest to the style.
Curtain bangs in the front complete the look, softly framing your face and lending an effortlessly chic vibe. Whether you’re heading to brunch, running errands, or attending a stylish event, this look offers the perfect mix of practicality and sophistication.
17. Slicked-Back Low Bun with Blunt Bangs
Opt for a sleek and polished look with a slicked-back low bun that tucks neatly at the nape of your neck. This minimalist hairstyle exudes modern elegance and offers a clean, professional finish.
Pair it with bold, straight-across blunt bangs to create a striking contrast that draws attention to your eyes and cheekbones. This high-fashion look is perfect for formal events, contemporary work settings, or when you want to achieve a chic, runway-inspired aesthetic.
18. Twisted Crown Updo with Wispy Bangs
Elevate your everyday hairstyle with a simple yet stunning twisted crown updo. By twisting sections of hair and pinning them around your head, you create a soft, halo-like effect that is both elegant and practical.
The addition of soft, wispy bangs enhances the romantic, delicate feel of the style, softly framing your face. This look is ideal for casual outings or semi-formal events, offering a balance between relaxed charm and understated sophistication.
19. Braided Space Buns with Baby Bangs
For a quirky, playful hairstyle, go for braided space buns that exude fun and creativity. This style involves braiding sections of hair before twisting them into two high buns, creating a unique and youthful look.
Pair them with bold baby bangs to add a retro flair, giving your overall style a distinctive edge. Perfect for festivals, costume parties, or any occasion where you want to show off your fun and adventurous side, this hairstyle is sure to turn heads.
20. Messy Low Bun with Curtain Bangs
Casual yet sophisticated, the messy low bun is effortlessly stylish and adaptable to various occasions. This hairstyle involves loosely gathering your hair at the nape of your neck, creating a soft, undone look that feels both relaxed and elegant.
Soft curtain bangs gently frame your face, adding a touch of femininity and enhancing your features. Whether you’re heading to a coffee date, a casual outing, or even an outdoor wedding, this look blends comfort with timeless elegance.
Styling Tips for Updos with Bangs
Updos can be incredibly versatile, and when paired with bangs, they add a unique twist to your overall look.
Choosing the right updo for your bangs is just the beginning. Here are some pro tips to help you perfect your style and make the most of your hairdo:
1. Consider Your Face Shape
Your face shape plays a big role in determining which updo will be the most flattering:
- Round faces benefit from updos that create height, like bouffants or top knots, to elongate the appearance and add balance. Side-swept bangs also help frame the face while creating a slimming effect.
- Oval faces are the most versatile, allowing you to experiment with nearly any updo style. Whether sleek and polished or messy and relaxed, oval face shapes can confidently pull off a variety of looks—lucky you!
- Square faces look striking when paired with softer, tousled updos that help balance sharp angles. Loose curls and wispy bangs are great additions to soften the overall effect.
2. Match the Look to the Occasion
Your updo doesn’t just depend on your face shape—it’s also important to think about where you’re going and the vibe you want to create:
- For formal events, opt for polished buns, French twists, or elegant chignons. These timeless styles pair beautifully with sleek, side-parted bangs or curtain bangs for a sophisticated look.
- For casual outings, go for relaxed styles like messy buns, braided updos, or half-up, half-down looks. Soft, wispy bangs or fringe can add a playful, carefree touch, perfect for a boho or laid-back vibe.
3. Use the Right Products
The right products can make or break your updo, so be sure to stock up on essentials:
- For sleek styles, smoothing serums, anti-frizz sprays, and gels are a must to keep flyaways in check and maintain a polished finish. A spritz of shine spray at the end can add extra gloss.
- For textured or tousled styles, dry shampoo, texturizing sprays, or sea salt sprays can create natural volume and grip. These products are especially useful if your hair is freshly washed and needs a bit of texture to hold the updo in place.
4. Experiment with Accessories
Accessories can elevate any updo and give it a more personalized touch:
- Add hairpins, clips, or barrettes for a subtle, chic statement. Pearl-studded or gem-encrusted pins are perfect for weddings or formal occasions.
- Use headbands, scarves, or even floral crowns to enhance a casual or boho-inspired look. Accessories not only add style but can also help secure the updo in place.
5. Practice Makes Perfect
Don’t wait until the last minute to try a new updo—practice is key!
- If you’re prepping for a big event, take some time a few days in advance to test out the style. This allows you to adjust the technique, experiment with product choices, and ensure it complements your bangs perfectly.
- YouTube tutorials and hairstyling guides can also be valuable resources if you’re trying a more complex look. With a little patience, you’ll gain confidence and make the process easier each time.
Remember, styling updos with bangs is all about finding the combination that works best for your unique features and personal style. Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles, play with textures, and accessorize to create a look that’s truly your own!
Transform Your Look with These Trendy Styles
Updo hairstyles with bangs are the ultimate combination of style and versatility, offering a variety of ways to enhance your overall look. Whether you’re dressing up for a special event or keeping it casual, there’s an updo for every mood and occasion. Experiment with the styles above and take your everyday hair game to the next level!
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