Formal updos look intricate, but most are built from a handful of basic moves: twisting, braiding, rolling and pinning. This gallery breaks twenty of them down, from quick options like a twisted low chignon and a spiral bun that take minutes, to more involved styles such as merged fishtails swept to the crown, a romantic twisted ponytail and a wedding updo that combines a pony, braid and bun.
Hair type shapes the result. Fine or thin hair suits textured French twists and teased crowns, which build volume, while very thick hair may need a doughnut base to hold bulk neatly and a strong setting spray to stop heavy curls from dropping. Straight hair looks polished in sleek chignons; naturally curly or hot-rolled hair is perfect for loose, tousled updos with a headband braid.
Most of these need hair at least shoulder length. If yours is shorter, look at the braided styles, which tuck short layers in more easily, or use clip-in extensions for extra volume.
1. Merged Braids
Fishtail braids are made in the top section, crossed over one another and gathered with the loose lengths at the crown. Pin wherever the style needs support, and leave a few front pieces free to soften the curly updo for a wedding or formal party.
2. Romantic Twist Hair Formal Updo
This twisted ponytail looks complicated but follows a simple pattern. Brush hair back, twist a top section and pin it above one ear, then twist a section from beneath and pin above the other. Repeat down the head, leaving the final ends loose.
3. Elegant Bun
A sophisticated low bun built from a simple twist takes only minutes. Pull the hair back, twist it, wrap it into a coil and pin it in place. It is an ideal last-minute choice when you need to look polished quickly.
4. Plaited Formal Updo
Braid the hair to one side, then tuck and pin the plait underneath for a low knot that suits warm weather. For a dressier version, use a French braid instead of a standard plait so the weave starts higher on the head.
5. Textured French Twist
A textured French twist is excellent for thin hair and works on any length past the shoulders. It looks elegant but modern and shows off highlights well. Tease lightly and add texture spray before twisting to build volume.
6. Braid Wrapped Bun Formal Updo
Gather everything into a low side ponytail, then form a bun, using a doughnut if you want this much volume. Finish by wrapping a thin braid around the base of the bun to hide the elastic and add detail.
7. French Braid Bun
French braid the hair down the back, then twist the end into a bun at the nape. Keep it messy for a relaxed version or smooth and full, as here, for a more formal finish suited to weddings and dinners.
8. Low Tousled Formal Updo
A tousled low updo is perfect for brides or a special event. Curl the hair with a small-barrel iron, then gather, tuck and pin loosely. Add one or two embellishments, and use plenty of setting spray if your hair is thick and heavy.
9. Double Rope Braid Bun
Part to the side, leaving any bangs out, and split the hair into two low ponytails. Twist each one into a rope, then wrap them around each other clockwise to create a bun. Secure with pins for an elegant, textured finish.
10. Fishtail Chignon Formal Updo
A fishtail braid is coiled into a low chignon that resembles a seashell, making it a pretty choice for summer weddings. Braid the lengths, loosen the fishtail slightly for width, then roll it up at the nape and pin it securely.
11. Wedding Updo
This wedding updo combines elements of a ponytail, a braid and a bun into one design. It takes a little patience and plenty of pins, but the result is unique and holds well through a long celebration.
12. Braided Formal Updo
Two lace braids are made along the sides, and the middle section is rolled with a bun maker. The braid ends are folded and secured at the nape above the roll. It looks charming and refined while being easier than it seems.
13. Wedding Chignon
Long, straight hair is brushed back and teased at the crown for volume before being gathered into an elegant chignon. It is a simple but special option for brides with sleek hair who want a timeless shape.
14. Dutch Braid and Double Bun Formal Updo
A Dutch braid, essentially an inside-out French braid, is woven slightly to one side towards the nape. The ends are twisted into a bun, looped and tucked. Fluff the buns once pinned and finish with a good setting spray.
15. Spiral Bun
Divide the hair into three sections, keeping the largest in the centre. Make a low ponytail from the middle, twist it into a bun, then wrap strands from the side sections around it in turn. It is fast, sleek and formal.
16. Twisted Chignon Formal Updo
Make a low ponytail, open a small gap above the elastic and flip the pony through it. Then roll the length into a chignon and pin where needed. This twisted low bun is quick, tidy and suits most hair types.
17. Braid-Wrapped Low Bun
Tease the crown first for height, then pull hair into a ponytail, braid it and twist it into a low bun before pinning. Sparkling or iridescent pins add the finishing touch for a party or wedding.
18. Easy Elegance Hair Bun Formal Updo
A sleek, classic bun works for everyday wear as well as formal occasions. Straighten the hair first if needed, since a smoother surface makes the bun look neater and more elegant. A shine serum and a few U-pins keep it neat all day.
19. Rope Braided Side Bun
Start with curled hair, brush out the curls and part to the side. Smooth with a styling product, then rope braid along one side and twist the end into a side bun. A hair flower adds a romantic accent.
20. Braided Curly Formal Updo
Natural or hot-rolled curls are loosened, and a narrow section at one temple is braided along the side; a Dutch braid gives a smooth finish. Pin up the remaining curls and leave soft wisps around the face for a festive look.
Prepping hair for a formal updo
Updos hold best on hair washed the day before, as freshly cleaned strands are slippery. If you must wash on the day, add dry shampoo or a texturising spray at the roots. Curl the lengths with a medium iron even if the final style is sleek; the bend gives pins something to grip.
Tools that make the difference
- Bobby pins and U-pins: use pins close to your hair colour, and U-pins for buns, as they hold without flattening volume.
- Doughnut or bun maker: adds size to buns on fine or shorter hair.
- Clear elastics: secure braid ends discreetly.
- Setting spray: a firm, brushable hairspray locks the shape without crunch.
Do a full practice run a week or two before the event, ideally with your accessories, to check how long it takes and whether it stays comfortable for several hours.