Updo styles offer a refined way to keep long lengths styled while drawing attention to the face and neckline.
These looks rely on thoughtful structure, balanced shaping, and a secure hold that lasts through extended events, whether the finish is sleek or softly textured.
These styles range from low and minimal to more detailed and voluminous options, each creating a different overall look and level of formality. They can complement a wide range of outfits and occasions depending on the finish and placement. Without further ado, let’s get into the hairstyle ideas below.
Classic Low Chignon
A classic low chignon is timeless, polished, and endlessly versatile for long hair. It gathers length neatly at the nape, creating a smooth silhouette that works for formal events or everyday wear. This updo highlights the neckline and shoulders while keeping hair controlled and refined. It works especially well for straight or slightly wavy textures and adapts easily to fine or thick hair. Add soft face framing pieces or keep it sleek, depending on the mood and occasion.
Loose Romantic Updo
Soft texture defines this loose romantic updo, making it perfect for long hair that needs movement. Hair is gently pinned back with intentional looseness, allowing waves to fall naturally. The style feels relaxed yet thoughtful, offering balance between structure and softness. It flatters most face shapes and works beautifully for outdoor events or casual celebrations. Light teasing at the crown adds subtle lift, while a few tendrils around the face keep the look approachable and effortless.
Sleek High Bun
A sleek high bun brings instant lift and drama to long hair without feeling overdone. Pulled upward and smoothed close to the scalp, this updo emphasizes facial features and elongates the neck. It works best on straight or well smoothed hair and holds up well throughout long days. This style suits both professional settings and evening plans, especially when paired with bold earrings. A light styling cream helps maintain shine and control flyaways.
Textured Twisted Updo
This textured twisted updo adds interest through layered sections and subtle dimension. Long hair is twisted in small sections, then pinned together to create depth without heaviness. The result feels intentional yet relaxed, making it suitable for both formal and semi casual occasions. It works particularly well on wavy or lightly curled hair, enhancing natural texture. Gentle volume at the crown prevents the style from looking flat while keeping everything balanced.
Low Messy Bun
A low messy bun offers a relaxed approach to styling long hair while still looking put together. Hair is gathered loosely at the nape, allowing natural texture to shine through. This updo works well for busy days when you want something easy yet flattering. It suits thick and fine hair alike, especially with light layering. Soft pull through pieces around the face keep the look casual, while minimal styling keeps maintenance low and manageable.
Braided Crown Updo
A braided crown updo creates a graceful frame around the head while keeping long hair fully secured. Sections are braided and wrapped along the crown, giving the style a balanced, elevated feel. It works beautifully for long hair with natural texture or added waves. This updo highlights facial features without pulling everything too tight. The look feels thoughtful and soft, making it suitable for special occasions or daytime events where you want detail without heaviness.
Twisted Low Knot
The twisted low knot is simple, refined, and easy to wear with long hair. Hair is divided into sections, gently twisted, then secured into a compact knot at the nape. This approach adds texture without looking busy. It works well for straight and slightly wavy hair types and holds shape throughout the day. The style keeps hair off the face while still feeling soft. A light hold spray helps maintain definition without stiffness.
Voluminous High Updo
This voluminous high updo focuses on lift and fullness, making long hair feel lighter and more dynamic. Hair is gathered high with gentle teasing at the crown to build structure before pinning. The result adds height without appearing overly styled. It flatters round and oval face shapes especially well. Loose strands are carefully controlled to avoid frizz while keeping movement. This updo transitions easily from daytime wear to evening plans.
Low Braided Bun
A low braided bun combines structure and texture for a balanced updo on long hair. The braid adds visual interest, while the bun keeps everything neat and contained. This style works well for thicker hair, helping manage length without bulk. It feels secure yet soft, making it a reliable option for long days. Face framing pieces can be adjusted to personalize the look, keeping it comfortable and flattering from every angle.
Half Up Knot Updo
The half up knot updo offers a fresh way to style long hair while keeping some length visible. The top section is gathered into a knot, adding lift and focus at the crown. The remaining hair flows freely, balancing structure with ease. This style suits casual settings but can be refined with smooth styling. It works well on straight or wavy hair and adds dimension without feeling heavy or overly styled.
Elegant French Twist
An elegant French twist is a classic choice that keeps long hair smooth and controlled. Hair is swept upward, folded inward, and pinned securely for a clean finish. This updo highlights the jawline and neck, creating a refined profile that suits formal settings well. It works best on straight or lightly waved hair with some grip. A touch of volume at the crown prevents the style from looking flat, while light hairspray ensures lasting hold.
Soft Low Rolled Updo
The soft low rolled updo focuses on gentle curves and subtle movement. Long hair is rolled inward at the nape and pinned loosely to maintain a relaxed shape. This style feels polished without looking stiff, making it easy to wear for extended periods. It works beautifully on medium to thick hair and adapts well to natural texture. Loose sections around the face soften the overall look and add an effortless finish.
Braided Side Updo
A braided side updo brings asymmetry and interest to long hair. Hair is braided along one side, then gathered and pinned into a low updo near the shoulder. This placement draws attention to facial features while keeping the style balanced. It works especially well for wavy or textured hair and holds comfortably throughout the day. The braid adds structure, while the loose finish keeps the look approachable and versatile.
High Textured Bun
The high textured bun adds volume and movement to long hair while staying secure. Hair is gathered high and gently teased before shaping the bun, creating fullness without stiffness. This style works well for thicker hair but can be adapted for finer textures with light teasing. It keeps hair off the neck, making it practical and stylish. Soft flyaways add character, while styling cream helps define texture and control frizz.
Twisted Side Bun
A twisted side bun offers a softer alternative to centered updos for long hair. Hair is parted and twisted toward one side, then pinned into a low bun near the ear. This creates a flattering shape that frames the face naturally. It suits many face shapes and works well for both straight and wavy hair. The side placement adds interest, while the smooth finish keeps the look intentional and well balanced.
Classic Ballet Bun
The classic ballet bun delivers a clean, graceful look that keeps long hair perfectly controlled. Hair is pulled back smoothly and secured into a tight, rounded bun, creating a polished finish. This updo highlights facial features and works especially well for formal occasions or professional settings. It suits straight hair best but can be achieved on most textures with smoothing products. The simplicity makes it reliable, while strong pins ensure the style stays neat throughout the day.
Loose Braided Updo
A loose braided updo blends softness with structure, making long hair feel light and wearable. Hair is braided loosely, then pinned into an updo that allows texture to remain visible. This approach keeps the style relaxed rather than overly styled. It works beautifully on wavy or lightly curled hair and adapts well to thicker lengths. Gentle volume through the crown adds balance, while face framing pieces keep the look natural and inviting.
Twisted Crown Updo
The twisted crown updo wraps long hair around the head in a soft, flattering shape. Sections are twisted rather than braided, creating a smoother, more subtle texture. This style keeps hair off the face while still feeling airy and comfortable. It works well for medium to thick hair and holds nicely with minimal product. The crown placement draws attention upward, adding elegance without feeling heavy or overly structured.
Low Sleek Knot
A low sleek knot offers a modern, understated take on updos for long hair. Hair is parted cleanly and gathered into a smooth knot at the nape. The finish feels intentional and refined, making it suitable for work or evening events. This style works best on straight or well smoothed hair and pairs nicely with minimal accessories. A shine enhancing product helps maintain the sleek look while preventing flyaways.
Textured Ponytail Updo
This textured ponytail updo combines the ease of a ponytail with the polish of an updo. Long hair is gathered high or mid level, then twisted or pinned to add structure. The result feels fresh and practical while still styled. It works well for active days or casual outings. Light teasing adds fullness, while loose sections keep the look relaxed and comfortable rather than overly tight.
Braided Low Chignon
A braided low chignon blends classic structure with subtle texture, making it a reliable option for long hair. The braid adds interest before the hair is shaped into a chignon at the nape. This keeps the style secure while avoiding a flat finish. It works especially well for medium to thick hair and holds comfortably throughout the day. Soft volume at the crown balances the look, while gentle face framing pieces keep it relaxed and wearable.
Soft Tucked Updo
The soft tucked updo focuses on smooth sections folded inward for a clean yet flexible shape. Long hair is gently tucked and pinned, creating a refined silhouette without stiffness. This style works well for straight or lightly wavy hair and feels comfortable for extended wear. It highlights the neck while keeping everything controlled. A light styling cream adds polish and reduces flyaways, helping the updo maintain its shape without looking overly styled.
High Braided Bun
A high braided bun adds structure and lift, making long hair feel lighter and more dynamic. Hair is braided first, then wrapped into a bun positioned high on the head. This creates visual interest while keeping the style secure. It works well for thick hair that needs control and balance. The height draws attention upward, flattering many face shapes. Light hold spray helps keep the braid defined without making it feel stiff.
Side Swept Low Updo
The side swept low updo creates a soft, flattering shape by guiding long hair toward one side. Hair is gathered low and pinned with gentle movement, avoiding sharp lines. This placement frames the face naturally and works well for both straight and wavy textures. It feels polished but approachable, making it suitable for many occasions. Subtle volume at the crown prevents the style from looking flat while keeping it comfortable to wear.
Relaxed Knot Updo
A relaxed knot updo offers an easygoing finish that still looks intentional on long hair. Hair is loosely gathered and tied into a soft knot, then pinned for security. This style embraces natural texture, making it ideal for casual days or low key events. It works well for various hair types and lengths. A few loose strands add movement, while minimal product keeps the look light and comfortable throughout the day.