19 Updo Hairstyles Braids Ideas That’ll Instantly Level Up Your Look

Let’s be honest—when you think about updo hairstyles with braids, you probably picture some Pinterest-worthy creation that looks impossible to recreate without a glam squad.

But here’s the truth: you can totally pull these off at home. Whether you’re going for something casual, romantic, or red-carpet fancy, braided updos can transform your look faster than you can say “bobby pins everywhere.”

I’ve tried my fair share of braid updos—from those messy Sunday buns to “I spent two hours but it looks effortless” styles.

And trust me, once you figure out the right technique, these styles are total game changers. Ready to add a few to your rotation? Let’s get into 19 updo braid ideas that’ll make your hair look amazing no matter the occasion.

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1. The Classic Braided Bun

You can’t go wrong with a braided bun. It’s elegant, quick, and perfect for days when you need your hair to behave.

Here’s what I love: you can make it look polished for work or loosen it up for a romantic vibe. Just braid your ponytail, twist it into a bun, and pin it in place. Boom—instant glam with zero drama.

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2. The Crown Braid Updo

Want to feel like royalty for a day? Go for the crown braid. It literally wraps around your head like a halo.

It’s great for summer weddings, garden parties, or honestly, when you just want people to ask, “Wait, did you do that yourself?” Spoiler: yes, you did.

Pro tip: Leave a few face-framing strands for a softer, fairy-tale finish.

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3. The Messy Braided Bun (a.k.a. the “Effortless” One)

You know that perfectly undone bun that looks like you didn’t try—but you totally did? That’s this one.

Loosely braid sections of your hair, twist them together, and pin randomly. Don’t overthink it; the messier, the better. It’s the ideal mix of boho and boss.

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4. Dutch Braid Updo

The Dutch braid is like the cool cousin of the French braid—it stands out more because the braid pops outward.

Braid from your crown down, twist the end into a bun, and you’ve got a look that screams “put together” without trying too hard. It’s perfect for gym-to-brunch days (you know the ones).

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5. French Braided Chignon

If you want a timeless, classy updo, try the French braided chignon. It’s a low bun paired with a sleek French braid that runs down your head.

It works for literally any event—office meetings, weddings, or date nights when you want to look like you spent hours (even if you didn’t).

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6. Braided Top Knot

Top knots are fun, but add a braid, and suddenly it’s fashion.

Flip your head over, create a small braid from the nape of your neck to the top, and twist the rest into a bun. The result? A subtle but striking detail that turns a basic bun into a total head-turner.

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7. Fishtail Braid Updo

Fishtail braids always look fancy—like you hired a stylist—but they’re actually super simple.

Once you master the over-under pattern, you can wrap your fishtail into a low bun or coil it around for a fuller updo. It’s textured, romantic, and perfect for any hair length past the shoulders.

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8. Side Braided Updo

For when you’re in a rush but still want to look like you tried—side braids save the day.

Part your hair to one side, braid the thicker section, then twist it into a bun near your ear. It’s asymmetrical, flirty, and looks amazing with statement earrings.

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9. Double Braided Bun

Why settle for one braid when you can have two?

Create two separate braids—either French or Dutch—then twist them together into a bun. It adds texture and volume, especially if you have fine hair. It’s one of my favorite “I need to impress someone but don’t want to look too extra” styles.

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10. Rope Braid Updo

Here’s one that doesn’t even require traditional braiding skills. The rope braid is just twisting two strands around each other.

Twist, pin, and done. It’s sleek, simple, and gives major ballerina energy. Bonus: It holds up surprisingly well, even in humidity.

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11. Braided Ponytail Bun

If you can’t decide between a ponytail and an updo, meet in the middle.

Braid your ponytail first, then twist it into a bun. This trick works best for medium to long hair, and you can adjust how tight or loose you want it. Want volume? Loosen the braid a little for that full, fluffy look.

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12. Boho Braided Updo

This one’s a personal favorite because it’s perfectly imperfect. Combine multiple small braids and twist them into a loose updo. Let a few strands fall naturally—it gives that effortless, “I woke up like this” vibe (even if you didn’t).

Add flowers, clips, or pins for a more whimsical finish. Because why not?

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13. French Rope Braided Crown

This one sounds fancy—and honestly, it looks it—but it’s surprisingly doable.

Start by making a rope braid along your hairline, wrapping it around like a crown. Secure it with bobby pins, and gently tug sections to make it fuller. It’s a total showstopper for events or special occasions.

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14. Braided Low Twist

If you’re into minimalist hairstyles, the braided low twist will be your go-to.

Create two braids on each side of your head, bring them together at the nape, and twist into a small bun. It’s sleek, subtle, and super easy to do before your morning coffee.

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15. Waterfall Braid Updo

The waterfall braid gives major goddess vibes. It lets pieces of your hair flow through the braid like, well, a waterfall.

Gather those cascading sections and pin them into a bun or chignon for a soft, romantic finish. Perfect for weddings, proms, or honestly, a brunch date that calls for extra effort.

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16. Braided Mohawk Updo

Now we’re talking bold. If you want something edgy, the braided mohawk is pure confidence.

Braid a thick section down the center of your head, leaving the sides sleek or braided tightly. Pin the end into a bun or tuck it under. It’s fierce, creative, and surprisingly wearable.

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17. Halo Braid Bun

This one’s similar to the crown braid but with a softer, more rounded shape. It’s the ultimate blend of angelic and confident.

Wrap the braid around your head and pin it low near your nape instead of across your crown. It’s ideal for formal occasions or lazy Sundays when you still want to look put-together.

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18. Boxer Braid Updo

Boxer braids aren’t just for the gym anymore. Twist your double Dutch braids into buns at the back for a sporty yet chic updo.

They stay put all day—so if you’re running errands, dancing, or surviving a summer wedding, you’re covered. IMO, this one’s criminally underrated.

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19. Twisted Braid Bun with Accessories

And for the grand finale: a twisted braid bun dressed up with cute accessories.

Once you’ve pinned your braided bun, add hair cuffs, beads, or pearl pins for a little sparkle. Even a simple scarf woven through the braid looks stunning. It’s the easiest way to make an ordinary updo look runway-ready.

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How to Make Any Braided Updo Last Longer

Because let’s be honest—some updos look amazing for about five minutes before gravity ruins everything.

Here are a few pro tips to make your style stay put:

• Start with slightly dirty hair. Clean hair is slippery. Second-day hair holds better.
• Use texturizing spray before braiding for grip and volume.
• Secure with strong bobby pins. Cheap ones bend faster than your willpower on a Friday night.
• Lock it with hairspray. Light misting is key—no helmet head required.

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Choosing the Right Braided Updo for You

The beauty of braided updos is that there’s something for every hair type and occasion.

• Fine hair? Go for multi-braid styles like double buns to add fullness.
• Thick hair? Opt for bigger, looser braids that show off your volume.
• Curly hair? Embrace it! Curly braids look amazing when tucked into updos.

And don’t get hung up on perfection. Some of the best styles come from happy accidents—aka, “It fell apart halfway through, but now it’s cute.”

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Final Thoughts: Braids + Updos = Magic

If you ask me, braided updos are the best of both worlds. They’re practical (your hair’s out of your face), they look stunning, and they can work for literally any event—from a casual coffee run to a black-tie wedding.

So next time your hair’s being stubborn, grab some pins, a mirror, and a little patience. Try one of these styles and see how much confidence it adds. Trust me—once you pull off your first perfect braid updo, you’ll start looking for excuses to wear another one.

And hey, if it doesn’t turn out perfect the first time, remember—messy is still a style