25 Updo Hairstyles Ideas That’ll Instantly Elevate Your Look

Let’s be honest—some mornings, your hair just refuses to cooperate.

You’ve tried straightening, curling, spraying, praying… and somehow, it still looks like you wrestled a hairdryer. That’s when an updo swoops in like the superhero of hairstyles.

Updo hairstyles aren’t just for fancy events or weddings anymore. They’re for real life—running late for work, brunch with friends, date nights, or even when you just want to pretend you have your life together. 🙂

So, if your hair has been feeling a little “meh” lately, I’ve got your back. Here are 25 updo hairstyles ideas that’ll make you look effortlessly polished—without spending an hour in front of the mirror.

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1. The Messy Bun (aka The Classic Life-Saver)

Let’s start with the obvious MVP. The messy bun has saved more bad hair days than I can count.

Here’s the secret: don’t overthink it. Twist your hair, pin it, pull out a few face-framing pieces, and done. The less perfect it looks, the better. Honestly, it’s like magic—you can go from “I woke up like this (and not in a good way)” to “effortless chic” in under two minutes.

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2. Low Sleek Bun

When you want something that says, I have it together, go sleek.
A low bun at the nape of your neck looks timeless, elegant, and perfect for formal occasions—or just pretending you’re the CEO of your life.

Pro tip: smooth flyaways with a touch of hair gel or serum for that red-carpet finish.

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3. Braided Crown

You know those fairy-tale braids that look like they took hours? Spoiler: they’re not that hard.
The braided crown is basically a halo braid wrapped around your head, and it’s pure romantic energy. Perfect for weddings, picnics, or when you’re feeling a little extra.

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4. Twisted Updo

If braiding isn’t your thing, twisting works just as well.
Divide your hair into sections, twist each one, and pin them up loosely. The result? A soft, elegant updo that looks more complicated than it is.

It’s my go-to for lazy days when I still want to look like I put effort in (even though I absolutely didn’t).

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5. French Twist

The French twist screams sophistication. It’s polished, timeless, and gives that old Hollywood vibe.
It might take a few bobby pins (okay, maybe a dozen), but once you master it, it’s perfect for dinner parties or job interviews.

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6. Dutch Braid Updo

Want a style that stays put all day? Go for a Dutch braid updo.
It’s basically an inside-out braid pinned into a bun or twist. It’s sturdy enough for active days but still looks feminine and chic.

And the best part? Even when it gets messy, it still looks intentional.

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7. The Top Knot

The top knot is the messy bun’s stylish cousin.
Pull your hair high, twist, secure, and boom—instant lift. It gives your face definition and works great when you’re running errands or hitting the gym but still want to look somewhat put-together.

IMO, this is the ultimate “I don’t care, but I actually do” hairstyle.

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8. Low Chignon

A chignon is just a fancy word for a low bun, but it’s way classier.
Roll your hair into a neat coil at the base of your neck and pin it tight. Add a sparkly clip or pearl pin for an instant glow-up.

Perfect for formal events, weddings, or anytime you want that I could be in a Jane Austen novel vibe.

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9. Bubble Ponytail Updo

If you love ponytails but want something new, try the bubble ponytail.
Tie your hair into a high pony, then add more hair ties every few inches. Gently pull at each section to create little “bubbles.”

It’s playful, modern, and ridiculously easy.

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10. The Gibson Tuck

Ever wanted a vintage look that’s not too “costumey”? Try the Gibson tuck.
Just roll your hair inward and secure it with bobby pins. Add a small decorative comb, and suddenly you’re giving major retro-chic energy.

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11. Double Braided Bun

If one braid looks cute, two look stunning.
Braid two pigtails, twist them into buns, and pin them together. You get volume, texture, and a look that holds all day.

It’s great for summer days when you need your hair out of the way but still Instagram-worthy.

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12. Half-Up Twisted Bun

When you can’t decide between leaving your hair down or tying it up—half-up twisted buns are your middle ground.
Twist two sections from the front, tie them in a bun, and let the rest flow freely.

It’s casual yet polished, and it looks great with wavy or textured hair.

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13. Side Braid Bun

The side braid bun is as romantic as it sounds.
Start with a loose side braid, then wrap it into a bun behind one ear. Pull a few strands loose for that soft, boho touch.

This one’s perfect for date nights or outdoor events when you want that effortless beauty look.

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14. Faux Hawk Updo

Feeling bold? Go for a faux hawk updo.
It’s edgy, fun, and perfect if you love standing out. Braid or twist sections along the center of your head, then pin them up for volume.

You’ll feel like a rockstar without needing to shave the sides (unless you want to—no judgment).

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15. Rolled Headband Updo

Grab a stretchy headband, place it over your hair, and start tucking sections into it until everything’s rolled up.
That’s the rolled headband updo, and it’s as simple as it sounds. It’s a lazy girl’s dream—quick, easy, and surprisingly chic.

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16. High Pony Twist

Take your basic high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it.
That’s it. That’s the whole updo. But it somehow manages to look intentional and glam—especially if you wrap a small strand of hair around the elastic to hide it.

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17. Braided Low Pony Updo

This one’s perfect for long hair.
Start with a low ponytail, braid it, then coil it into a bun. It’s classic, tidy, and perfect for busy mornings when you need to look professional.

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18. Space Buns

Who says updos have to be serious?
Space buns are fun, youthful, and always a conversation starter. Part your hair down the middle, twist two high buns, and you’re done.

Add braids or glitter for festivals, or keep them clean for a playful everyday look.

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19. Knotted Bun

Instead of a twist, make actual knots!
Tie sections of your hair together and pin them at the back. The knotted bun has a cool, textured look without needing braids or curls.

It’s low-maintenance but looks creative—perfect combo if you ask me.

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20. French Braid Bun

The French braid bun combines two classics into one power move.
Braid from the nape of your neck upward, then twist the remaining hair into a bun at the top. It’s secure, elegant, and adds instant volume.

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21. Loose Romantic Updo

This one’s for when you want to look effortlessly beautiful.
Curl your hair loosely, then pin random sections into a soft, undone bun. Leave a few tendrils out in front for that “I just came from a romantic picnic” look.

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22. The Bow Bun

Yes, you can literally make your hair look like a bow.
It’s a little extra—but in the best way. Pull your hair into a high ponytail, loop it into two “bow” halves, and pin the middle section across.

It’s flirty, fun, and surprisingly easy once you get the hang of it.

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23. Fishtail Braid Updo

Want something intricate that’ll make people ask, “How long did that take you?”
Try a fishtail braid updo. It looks complicated, but once you master the pattern, it’s straightforward. Wrap it into a bun for that soft, mermaid-princess vibe.

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24. Low Twisted Pony Bun

If you’re all about minimal effort, this one’s your new favorite.
Make a low ponytail, part it just above the elastic, and flip the pony through. Then twist the ends into a bun and secure. Done in under two minutes, yet it looks salon-worthy.

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25. The Updo with Hair Accessories

Sometimes, the accessory makes the updo.
Add pearls, pins, scarves, or clips to any of the styles above for instant glam. A plain bun turns wedding-worthy, and a simple twist feels red-carpet-ready.

Accessories are your shortcut to transforming any hairstyle from “everyday” to “extra.”

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Final Thoughts: Your Hair, Your Rules

At the end of the day, updo hairstyles are about freedom—freedom to experiment, mix styles, and show off your personality.

Some days you’ll nail it; other days, your bun will look like it’s surviving a windstorm. Either way, own it. Updos aren’t about perfection—they’re about confidence, practicality, and a little bit of creativity.

So next time you’re staring at your hair wondering what to do with it, pick one of these 25 ideas and give it a try. You might just surprise yourself (and everyone else).