Braided updos sit somewhere between practical and romantic: they keep hair out of the way all day yet look intricate enough for a wedding. This collection covers twenty-nine styles, including an asymmetric Dutch fishtail updo, a crossed chignon, a flower crown braid with silk blooms, a seashell braid that spirals from thick to thin and a sporty bubble ponytail.
Hair length is the first filter. Long, thick hair is needed for the maiden braids, seashell braid and fishtail updo, while shoulder-length hair can manage the messy braided pony, the knotted braid and the ribbon halo. Fine hair tends to work best in looser, messier updos where the wisps add softness, and thick hair benefits from styles that distribute weight, like a low braided bun.
Skill matters too. Many of these build on a basic French or Dutch braid, so if you can do one, you can manage most of the list. Others, such as the upside-down French braid bun, take practice and plenty of pins. Second-day hair or a texturising spray will make every one of these easier to grip and hold.
1. Dutch Fishtail Asymmetrical Updo
A fishtail, a side braid and a bun combine into one loose, asymmetric updo. Long, thick hair works best, and the first attempt needs patience and plenty of pins. The finished shape is elegant enough for formal events.
2. Crossed Chignon Braided Updo
A thick side braid and a thinner one are wrapped together into a soft, low chignon. The crossed effect adds interest without looking overdone. It is a lovely choice for weddings or dinners. Pin the chignon low at the nape so it sits comfortably against a chair back.
3. Flower Crown Braid
Silk flowers transform simple Heidi braids into a romantic, grown-up crown. Two low braids are wrapped over the top of the head and pinned in place, leaving room between them for the blooms. Choose flowers that complement your outfit.
4. Gorgeous Braided Updo For Curly Hair
If you can French braid, this updo is within reach. One side is braided and then wrapped into a bun at the nape. Curly hair adds natural texture and softness to the finished style. Secure the bun with U-shaped pins, which hold curly hair better than flat clips.
5. Super Cute Maiden Braids
Inspired by medieval maiden styles, these braids are simple and pretty, especially with bangs. Long hair is required. Backcomb the back section before braiding for the body seen here. A light texturising spray beforehand gives the braids better grip and helps them last the whole day.
6. Double Dutch Braided Bun
Two Dutch braids joined at the nape into a tight or loose bun make one of the easiest braided updos once you master the technique. A centre parting keeps it neat. It works for casual days with a polished touch.
7. Loose Updo With Waterfall Braids
Waterfall braids frame a loose, romantic updo for long hair. The cascading strands give movement and softness. It is a great alternative to a standard twist or ponytail. Curl the loose lengths first so the waterfall strands fall in soft, even waves that frame the face.
8. Bubble Ponytail “Braided” Updo
A bubble ponytail needs at least shoulder-length hair and several elastics. Sections are gathered into ponytails down the head and then tugged outward to form the bubbles. It is quick and ideal for sports. Use small clear elastics for a neat finish.
9. Upside Down French Braid Bun
French braiding upwards from the nape and gathering the hair into a top bun creates this updo. Leaving the bun unbraided adds volume. It builds on skills you already have. Flip your head forward while braiding so the plait stays tight at the nape and the bun sits neatly.
10. Braided Updo for Long, Thick Hair
Long, thick hair can be hard to keep up, but this braided bun handles the weight while softening the overall look. Keep hairspray and bobby pins nearby. The braid helps distribute the hair evenly. Splitting the hair into two braids before pinning spreads the weight further.
11. Kawaii Mini Top Hat Inspired Updo
A braid and bun combination styled into a mini top-hat shape is playful and unique. A black and white bow finishes it. It holds well in windy conditions and suits formal events too. Use a strong-hold spray to keep the shape in place on busy days.
12. “Knot” Your Average Braid
A messy mix of braiding and knotted buns makes a romantic updo for shoulder-length hair and longer. Because it doesn’t rely on perfect strands, it is easy to pull off for casual or formal occasions.
13. Jessica Alba-Inspired Updo
Jessica Alba wore this low bun with a braid on the red carpet. A thin side braid is paired with a looped, messy low bun. It is simple to recreate and looks effortlessly polished. Pull a few pieces loose around the face to keep it soft.
14. Braid Wrapped Bun
A braid started above the ear is twisted into a bun and pinned securely. Long hair stays neatly up and out of the way. A light hairspray keeps flyaways down. Try it on slightly textured, second-day hair for the best grip and less slipping.
15. Low French Braid Updo
A side French braid tucked with bobby pins creates a low updo that is both nostalgic and elegant. It shows off lowlights or highlights beautifully. Pancake the braid for fullness. Mist the finished braid with a flexible spray so it keeps moving naturally all day long.
16. Ribbon Halo Braided Updo
A ribbon woven into a halo braid creates a sweet, creative updo for shoulder-length hair or longer. Pastel ribbons suit lighter hair, while earth tones work on darker hair. The ribbon should enhance rather than dominate.
17. Seashell Braid
Braids of varying thickness spiral from large to small in this intricate seashell updo. It looks complex but is easier than it appears. The formal finish suits weddings and galas. Practise the spiral on a relaxed day before attempting it for an event, and keep plenty of pins nearby.
18. Easy Braided Updo
A messy braided updo works especially well on fine hair, which naturally breaks into soft wisps when pinned up. It takes only a few minutes. A texturising spray adds grip. Pull out a few soft pieces at the front and around the nape for an easy, romantic finish.
19. The Twisty Braid
A twisty braid and side bun can be completed in five steps, making it a quick alternative to a ponytail. Thick, straight hair suits it best, though other textures work too. Secure with pins and a light spray.
20. Ballerina Braided Updo
A smooth side braid at the front leads into a neat bun at the back, reminiscent of a ballerina’s style. French braiding skills help here. It is polished and graceful. A shine spray gives the smooth bun a refined, polished finish for formal occasions and photos.
21. Double Braid Into a Bun
Thin double braids wrapped around a messy bun add elegance on long hair. Tucking the braid ends around the bun adds intricacy. It is simple to create yet looks refined. Secure the braid ends with pins tucked under the bun so they disappear neatly.
22. Easy Low Knot Braided Updo
Two low braids tied together in a knot and pinned make an incredibly fast updo. Part the hair, braid, knot and secure. It is perfect for busy mornings. It works on medium or long hair and holds well for a full day of errands, school runs or travel.
23. Messy Braided Pony for Shorter Hair
A messy braided pony finally gives shorter hair an updo option. The tousled style works for formal events, the office or the beach, and stays put because it doesn’t rely on smooth lines. A little texturising spray helps short layers stay in.
24. Monday Work Wear Hair
Hair several inches past the shoulders is pulled into a high ponytail, braided upside down and pinned to the side. It is a smart option for workdays. Adjust the direction of the braid to suit you.
25. Braided Bun
A textured braided bun shows off multi-dimensional colour. It looks great with a ball gown or a casual T-shirt, which explains its popularity. Pancake the braid for extra texture. Secure the bun with crossed pins so it stays firm for hours, even while dancing.
26. Braided Low Bun
Teasing the middle section adds a grown-up feel to this low braided bun. It looks intricate yet stays secure for dancing or a yoga class. A flexible hairspray finishes it. Pull a few strands loose around the face for softness and a less formal finish.
27. Braided Top Bun
A creative parting, a high braided ponytail and plenty of bobby pins create a scholarly top bun with a hipster edge. It is effortless and quick. Wrap the braid around itself and pin. Leave a few loose wisps at the nape for an easy, undone feel.
28. Maiden Braided Updo
Very long hair is needed for this maiden braided updo with straight bangs. The thicker the hair, the fuller and more impressive it looks. Straighten the hair first for a smooth finish. Pin the braids securely at the crown so their weight does not pull the style down during the day.
29. Side Braid Messy Bun
A side braid rolled into a messy bun suits anyone with a fringe. Leaving plenty of tendrils keeps it soft. It is easy to recreate in minutes. Pin the bun just behind one ear to balance a side-swept fringe and keep the shape asymmetric.
Prepping hair for braided updos
- Work on hair that is not freshly washed, or add dry shampoo and texturising spray for grip.
- Backcomb lightly at the crown before braiding for extra height and to stop flat, sleek roots.
- Gently pull at the edges of each braid, called pancaking, to make it look fuller.
- Use bobby pins that match your hair colour, sliding them in with the wavy side down.
Making an updo last through an event
Secure the heaviest sections first, crossing pins in an X for extra hold. Mist with a flexible hairspray as you work rather than only at the end. For long, heavy hair, a hidden elastic at the base of the bun prevents it from sagging. If adding flowers or ribbons, pin them in after the hairspray so they don’t get stiff or discoloured.