20 Stunning Updo Hairstyles for Long Hair – Elegant & Easy Styles
When it comes to versatile hairstyles, updos for long hair remain a timeless favorite. Whether you’re heading to a wedding, planning a casual brunch, or simply looking to refresh your everyday look, updos offer a practical yet elegant solution.
From romantic braids to chic buns, there’s an updo for every occasion and personality. If you’re ready for some serious hair inspiration, this guide will walk you through 20 of the best updo ideas for long hair.
Why Updos are Perfect for Long Hair
Updos aren’t just about convenience—they’re a statement. They effortlessly combine style and practicality, keeping long locks out of your face while highlighting your features.
Use them to showcase hair color, experiment with texture, or achieve that polished finish for special occasions. With so many possibilities, long-haired enthusiasts can benefit immensely from mastering a few signature updos.
Here are 20 updo ideas to elevate your style game.
1. Rose-Shaped Braided Bun
For a soft and romantic look, the rose-shaped braided bun is a standout hairstyle that’s surprisingly easy to achieve. Begin by gathering your hair into a loose ponytail and braiding it gently.
Once the braid is complete, wrap it around itself at the base of the ponytail, forming a bun. Use your fingers to carefully tug at each section of the braid, creating a petal-like effect to mimic the look of a blooming rose.
Secure the bun with bobby pins, and finish with a spritz of hairspray for a floral-inspired style that’s perfect for weddings, dates, or special occasions.
2. Twisted Low Buns
Simple yet chic, twisted low buns are ideal for a stylish yet low-maintenance look. Start by parting your hair into two equal sections.
Take one section and twist it from the front of your head towards the nape of your neck, securing it into a small bun with bobby pins or an elastic. Repeat with the other section, creating a symmetrical look at the back of your head.
These blunt twists give off an effortlessly cute vibe that’s perfect for casual events, brunches, or even a relaxed office day. Pair with soft makeup for a polished yet simple finish.
3. Messy Twisted Chignon
This hairstyle blends boho charm with refined elegance, making it ideal for both formal and informal occasions. Begin by loosely twisting sections of your hair from either side of your head.
Gather the twists into a low bun at the nape of your neck, allowing a few strands to fall out for a carefree, messy look. Add a decorative accessory, such as a butterfly clip, pearl pin, or floral comb, to complete the ensemble.
The result is a playful yet sophisticated bun that’s versatile enough for weddings, parties, or even date nights.
4. Volumized Casual Messy Bun
If you’re looking for a quick and easy hairstyle that creates the illusion of thickness and volume, the volumized messy bun is your go-to. Start by pulling your hair into two small ponytails on the crown of your head, securing them with elastics.
Combine the two ponytails into a single, fluffy bun, leaving it slightly loose for a casual, carefree vibe. Use your fingers to gently tease the bun for extra volume. This style is perfect for busy mornings, casual outings, or even a coffee run, and works particularly well for thin or fine hair.
5. Pastel Braid & Low Bun
Add a whimsical touch to your hairstyle by incorporating a pastel shade into your updo. Begin by weaving a halo braid using a soft pastel color, such as light blue, lavender, or soft pink, either with extensions or temporary hair chalk.
Once the braid is complete, gather the remaining hair into a low, loopy bun at the nape of your neck.
The combination of the braid and bun creates a quirky yet elegant look that’s perfect for festivals, creative events, or even a themed party. Complete the style with a light mist of hairspray to lock it in place.
6. Asymmetrical French Twist
For a modern take on the classic French twist, try this elegant yet edgy asymmetrical style. Sweep all your hair to one side of your head, smoothing it down with a brush or fingers.
Begin twisting your hair upward, pinning it into place as you go, but instead of centering the twist, let it sit slightly off to one side for a dynamic, asymmetrical look.
This chic hairstyle works beautifully for formal occasions, such as weddings, galas, or business events, and pairs well with statement earrings or a bold necklace.
7. Twist-and-Flip Bun
The twist-and-flip bun is a quick and easy style that’s perfect for beginners or those short on time. Start by creating a simple ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Loosen the elastic slightly, then create a small hole just above it.
Flip the ponytail through the hole, creating a twist effect. Fan out the twist slightly to add width and texture, then wrap the remaining hair into a bun and secure with pins.
For a softer look, leave a few strands out to frame your face. This style is perfect for workdays, errands, or casual outings.
8. Loose Messy Updo for Thick Hair
Thick hair can be heavy, but the loose messy updo provides a light, airy style that’s ideal for all-day wear. Begin by loosely pinning up sections of your textured locks, allowing natural waves or curls to add dimension.
Incorporate a few small braids into the updo for added detail, and let a few strands fall freely around your face for a soft, relaxed finish.
This hairstyle works well for casual events or even summer days, as it keeps thick hair off your neck while maintaining a stylish, effortless appearance.
9. Two Braids and a Bun
Take your basic bun to the next level by adding two loose braids for extra dimension. Begin by parting your hair and creating two braids—one on each side of your head. Keep the braids loose for a softer, more romantic look.
Once the braids are complete, pull the rest of your hair back into a bun, incorporating the braids as you go.
This style is especially great for showing off highlights or balayage, as the braids add texture and make the colors pop. Great for date nights, casual parties, or even outdoor gatherings.
10. Twisted Fishtail Bun
Combine the intricate beauty of a fishtail braid with the simplicity of a bun in this elegant updo. Start by tying your hair into a ponytail, then braid the tail into a fishtail braid.
Secure the end with an elastic, then twist the braid into a bun at your desired height. For a softer look, gently loosen the braid and allow smaller strands to fall free.
This high bun style is ideal for showcasing contrasting highlights or balayage and works well for formal events or when you want an elevated everyday look. Add a decorative pin for extra flair.
11. Feminine Braided Chignon
Wrap sections of your hair into a chic chignon using a headband as the foundation.
This creates a secure base for your style, ensuring it stays in place all day. Add accent braids to elevate the look, giving it a romantic yet polished vibe that works beautifully for weddings, parties, or a classy evening out.
12. Low Bun with Twists
Upgrade the classic low bun by incorporating elegant twists on each side of your head. Start by sectioning your hair and twisting each side toward the nape, then gather everything into a low bun.
Keep it casual with a few loose strands framing your face for a soft, effortless look, or go sleek by pinning everything tightly for a more professional, polished appearance.
13. Angelic Fishtail Crown Braid
Create a halo-like effect by weaving your hair into a fishtail braid and wrapping it around your head like a crown. This stunning style highlights balayage or dimensional coloring, making it perfect for showing off multi-tonal hair.
It works beautifully for formal occasions, romantic photoshoots, or any time you want to feel angelic and ethereal.
14. Boho Messy Chignon
Messy yet charming, the boho chignon combines a tousled texture with the timeless elegance of a low bun.
Start by loosely gathering your hair and pinning it at the nape of your neck. For extra flair, weave in a fishtail braid as an accent or leave a few face-framing strands to complete the relaxed, bohemian vibe.
This style is perfect for music festivals, casual weddings, or laid-back outdoor events.
15. Crimped and Braided Updo
For a bold retro vibe, start by crimping your hair to add texture and volume. Then, create small braids throughout and pin them into an intricate updo.
This style will stand out with its playful, voluminous edge and is ideal for themed parties, edgy fashion statements, or any time you want to channel a little ’80s nostalgia.
16. Bubble Gum Dutch Braid Bun
Bright colors like bubblegum pink or pastel hues truly pop in this playful style. Begin with a Dutch braid that runs along the back or side of your head, then gather the braid and the rest of your hair into a loose, low bun.
The combination of the braid and bun makes this style quirky, fun, and completely Instagram-worthy, perfect for vibrant personalities or creative events.
17. Waterfall of Curls
For formal events or romantic occasions, a cascade of soft curls flowing into a low updo guarantees a showstopping look. Begin by curling your hair into gentle waves, then pin them into a gathered low bun.
Leave a few side curls loose to create a soft, feminine touch that exudes elegance and charm. This style is a go-to for proms, weddings, or black-tie affairs.
18. Romantic Twisted Bangs
Keep your look tender and soft by twisting your bangs and pinning them into a side bun or low updo.
This style is perfect for garden parties, outdoor weddings, or any occasion where you want a natural, romantic aesthetic. You can enhance the look with floral accessories or subtle sparkles to make it extra special.
19. Mohawk-Inspired Bun
This edgy, modern option focuses on pinned curls concentrated at the center of your head, creating a mohawk-like effect. Start by curling your hair and pinning the curls in vertical sections along the crown.
The result is a trendy, bold look perfect for unconventional brides, daring style enthusiasts, or anyone seeking to stand out with a unique updo.
20. High Ponytail Updo
Combine casual and chic by braiding one side of your hair and gathering everything into a sleek high ponytail.
To finish, twist the ponytail into a knot and secure it with pins for a clean, impactful updo.
This versatile style is ideal for everything from a casual day out to an evening event where you want to keep your look stylish yet simple.
Endless Creativity with Updos
Whether you’re attending an elegant soirée or just looking for ideas to keep your hair out of the way on a busy day, these updo styles have you covered. The beauty of updos lies in their ability to elevate any look—be it fancy or casual, bold or understated.
Try these styles out for yourself, and don’t forget to add your own twist (literally!). We’d love to hear your updo stories or see your fabulous creations. Share your looks on Instagram using #UpdoLove, or ask your hairstyling questions in the comments below.
