Braided updos are a smart choice for textured hair because they keep ends tucked away, reduce daily manipulation and still look polished enough for work, church or a night out. This collection features ten distinct ideas: two French braids wrapped like a headband around a low side bun, a front-braided updo for Senegalese twists or box braids, a crown braid framing a natural puff, a micro braid half-pulled bun, an Elvis-inspired Marley hair fauxhawk, a twisted pompadour braided upward from the nape, a Grecian double braid, goddess braids with buns, a micro braided mohawk and Ghana braids twisted into a side bun.
Some styles are worked on your own natural hair, which suits medium to long lengths, while others use extensions to add length and volume to short hair. If you already wear box braids, micro braids or twists, several of these updos can be created at home in minutes.
Always check tension: tight braids around the hairline can cause breakage, so ask for or create firm but comfortable braids.
1. Double Braided Hairstyle for Black Hair
Two French braids wrap around the head from ear to ear like a headband, and the remaining hair is gathered into a low side bun. It offers the reliability of braids with a fresh, original shape.
2. Black Braided Updo For Twists Or Box Braids
Senegalese twists or box braids give the best result for this updo, though it can work with other textures. Braid the front section, tie it back with the rest and tuck in stray ends for an easy evening look.
3. Braided Headband Updo
A crown braid paired with a natural puff replaces a plastic headband, avoiding the headaches, damage and dents headbands can cause. It is a cute, gentle option for natural hair. Moisturise the puff before styling and keep the braid snug but comfortable.
4. Fun Black Braided Updo For Micro Braids
Micro braids are pulled back as if into a ponytail but stopped halfway, so the hair forms a bun inside the elastic. Shape the bun as you like and tuck away any stray ends for a neat finish.
5. Marley Hair Updo Hairstyle
Voluminous Marley hair forms an Elvis-inspired fauxhawk that gives braided updos a modern twist. It is a fun, flirty choice for after-work drinks or a night out dancing. Use pins and a little edge control to secure the sides so the height stays put all night.
6. Twisted Pompadour Black Braided Updo
Instead of braiding the front, this twisted pompadour is French braided upward from the nape. The reverse technique takes some practice, but the result is a unique, standout updo. Section the hair cleanly and keep the braid snug along the nape for the neatest finish.
7. Grecian Inspired Updo
A Grecian-inspired double braid is a protective style that helps prevent moisture loss outdoors. Added braids give short natural hair the length needed, gathered into a small pony at the nape and pinned securely. A satin scarf at night keeps it neat.
8. Goddess Braids Black Braided Updo
Goddess braids with buns create a refined style that can last for days and keeps hair under control. Hoop earrings and winged eyeliner complete this confident, glamorous look. Keep the scalp moisturised with a light oil so the braids stay fresh for the full length of wear.
9. Micro Braided Mohawk
A micro braided mohawk turns heads and needs little upkeep through a long night. It is also ideal for festival weekends; just carry a little oil to refresh the curls. Keep the sides smooth with a light edge control for a cleaner silhouette.
10. Ghana Black Braided Updo
Ghana braids twisted into a large side bun offer an elegant option for family gatherings or Sunday church. Once the braids are in place, the updo itself takes only a few minutes. Pin the bun securely so the braids stay neat.
Protecting your edges in braided updos
Updos place extra pull on the front hairline, particularly when heavy extensions are gathered high. Keep braids snug rather than tight, avoid re-pinning the same spot every day and give your edges a break between installs. If you feel tenderness, small bumps or a headache after styling, loosen the updo right away.
Keeping braided styles fresh
- Moisturise the scalp and the lengths of your natural hair every few days with a light leave-in spray, then seal with a little oil.
- Sleep on a satin pillowcase or wrap your updo in a satin scarf to reduce frizz and preserve the shape.
- Use a soft-hold edge control rather than heavy gels, which can flake and dry the hairline.
- Refresh frizzy braids with a mousse wrapped under a scarf for twenty minutes.
- Remove extension styles after six to eight weeks to prevent matting at the roots.