An upside-down French braid is woven from the nape of the neck up toward the crown, so the plait shows off the back of the head while the loose hair gathers on top. That is what makes it such a good base for updos, and the looks collected here finish it in many different ways: a deconstructed braided bun, a large bridal bun with a small braid up the neck, a sleek zipper plait, a bow, three braids feeding a curly bun, a braid up a shaved-side mohawk, an upside-down fishtail into a relaxed or donut bun, festival-style double buns and a diagonal Dutch braid into a curly pony.
The technique works best on hair that reaches at least the shoulders, although braids up the back can be done on shorter cuts if the top is long enough to pin. Textured or second-day hair grips better than silky, just-washed lengths. Balayage and pastel shades look especially dimensional when the braid is pulled loose. If the back of your neck tends to have short, wispy hairs, start the braid slightly higher or smooth them first with a little gel.
1. Braided Updo with Curls
An upside-down plait leads into a deconstructed braided bun, keeping the updo simple yet full of character. Braiding loosely on balayage hair lets the different tones show through, giving the style more dimension. Pin the loose ends into the bun with U-shaped pins.
Inspiration: @annette_updo_artist
2. Formal Braided Bun Updo
Here the large, intricate bun takes center stage, while a small upside-down braid up the neck adds a subtle detail. A sparkly barrette coordinates with the braid, making the look suitable for brides and formal events.
Inspiration: @aurorabraids
3. Messy Flipped Braid and Bun
Criss-crossed sections and a loose, messy braid lead into a lazy ballerina bun. It looks barely braided at first glance, which gives it a relaxed summer feel that works anywhere. Leave a few pieces loose at the front.
Inspiration: @jenniekaybeauty
4. Zipper Plait with Small Bun
Tightly pulled-back hair forms a sleek zipper plait that ends in a small bun. It suits anyone comfortable wearing their hair without volume. A slightly imperfect twist adds personality, and the style is easy to copy.
Inspiration: @hairbyjessica_
5. Upside-Down Plait into Messy Bun
Braiding upward keeps the bulk of the hair on top of the head instead of on the sweaty nape, making this ideal for workouts. A loopy messy bun finishes it, and the style can stretch time between washes.
Inspiration: @missysueblog
6. Elegant Bow Braid
Instead of a bun, the upside-down braid finishes in a bow made from the remaining hair. The result is elegant, sweet and girly. Secure the loops of the bow with bobby pins and a light hairspray.
Inspiration: @n.starck
7. Braided Goddess Updo
Violet, turquoise and orange color makes this updo eye-catching even before you notice the three braids leading into a curly bun. It is a fancier option for anyone who enjoys intricate braid and bun combinations.
Inspiration: @davidsolis22
8. Braid to Messy Bun
Braid and bun make a great pair, and this tousled version is easy to create. Experiment with sleek or messy finishes, the number of braids and the size of the bun to suit the occasion.
Inspiration: @anniesforgetmeknots
9. Mohawk French Braid
Shaved sides don't limit you to one or two styles. A braid running up the center of the head works beautifully with an undercut. With less hair to manage, it is quick and simple to recreate on yourself.
Inspiration: @jbraidsandbows
10. Braid and Relaxed Bun
An upside-down fishtail braid leading to a relaxed bun is a picturesque choice for prom, weddings and other formal events. Wrapping a cuff or bracelet around the bun adds a striking finishing touch. Pull the fishtail apart slightly for a softer look.
Inspiration: @thegypsybazaar
11. Music Festival-Ready Double Buns
Double buns with braids running up from the nape have become a festival favorite, seen at events such as Coachella and Stagecoach. Divide the hair into two sections, braid each one upward and twist into buns for a glam punk look.
Inspiration: @thebraidsfactory
12. Asymmetrical Braid with Curly Pony
Rather than climbing straight up, this tight Dutch braid moves diagonally across the head into a curly ponytail. The asymmetry adds an unexpected twist. Curl the pony with a wand for a lively finish. Smooth the hairline with a little gel first.
Inspiration: @sweethearts_hair
13. Cotton Candy Updo
Soft and wispy, this messy updo is perfect for lazy beach days and shows off statement earrings or a necklace. It looks best on ombre or pastel hair, where the braid creates lovely dimension. Use a few pins to secure loose pieces.
Inspiration: @qtmobilehair
14. Braid into Sock Bun
A sock bun creates a big, rounded shape, and pairing it with an upside-down braid adds interest. For extra detail, wrap a few skinny braids around the donut. A rolled sock works if you don't have a donut.
Inspiration: @nicoledrege
15. Deconstructed Bun and Braid
A deconstructed bun and braid on curly hair is perfect for busy days. It looks undone but still polished enough for work or semi-formal settings. Use a curl cream to keep the texture defined. Pin the bun low for a polished finish.
Inspiration: @ermiranebihu
16. Casual Bun With Highlights
French braids have a youthful, timeless quality. Pairing one with a deliberately messy topknot updates the style. Leave a few strands loose so it doesn't look too perfect, and let highlights show through. Pin the knot securely at the crown.
Inspiration: @thebraidsfactory
17. Braids and Flowers
This braid runs sideways rather than straight up and is complemented by another braided element and fabric flowers. It is a pretty choice for garden parties or weddings. Pin the flowers securely between the plaits.
Inspiration: @r.h.braiding
18. Donut Bun with Braid Around
An upside-down fishtail extends into an oversized, puffy bun for an eye-catching updo. If you don't have enough hair for a big bun, use a donut to build the shape and wrap the lengths around it.
Inspiration: @wb_upstyles
19. Exotic Twisted Knot
A tight upside-down braid leads into an extra-high, multi-tiered knot. Extensions can help build the height if your natural hair isn't long enough. Keep the braid neat by smoothing the hairline with an edge gel.
Inspiration: @thehairqueen
How to braid upward without a mirror struggle
- Flip your head forward and brush all your hair toward the crown; working upside down makes tension easier to control.
- Take three small sections at the nape and cross them as for a normal French braid, adding hair from each side as you move up.
- For a Dutch (raised) effect, cross the strands under instead of over.
- Stop at the crown, secure with a clear elastic and gather the rest of the hair into your bun, knot or pony.
- Use a hand mirror facing the bathroom mirror to check the line, and loosen the outer loops gently for fullness.
Choosing the right finish
Sleek, tight braids suit workouts and formal events, because they stay neat for hours. Messy buns and pulled-apart plaits are more forgiving if your braiding is uneven. For extra-big buns on finer hair, wrap the lengths around a donut or a rolled-up sock and pin around the edge.