Creating A Timeless Wedding Updo: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding updos are a versatile and timeless hairstyle that suits every bride's personal style and wedding aesthetic. From low buns to high ponytails, this hairdo is practical and elegant, drawing attention to the attire and accessories. It is also a great option for brides who want to style their hair themselves, as many updos can be achieved with simple tools and products. This makes it a low-maintenance and cost-effective option. Updos can be customised to suit any hair type and length, and can be made more intricate with braids, twists, and accessories such as flowers, veils, or hairpieces. Whether you're aiming for a sleek and sophisticated look or a romantic and bohemian vibe, a wedding updo is a classic choice that will ensure you feel special on your big day.

Bridal updos for thin hair

If you have thin hair and are looking for a bridal updo, there are several options to choose from that will make your hair look full and elegant. Here are some ideas and tips to achieve the perfect bridal updo for thin hair:

Braided Updos:

Braids are a great way to add texture and volume to thin hair. You can go for a soft and romantic braided updo or something more intricate and complex, such as a fishtail braid. If you're looking for a bohemian vibe, try incorporating flowers or braids into your updo. For short hair, you can create softly swept hairstyles with braids and twists.

Low and Loose Updos:

A low and loose updo is a flattering choice for thin hair as it creates the illusion of more hair. Avoid pulling your hair back too tightly, as this can emphasise thinning. Instead, opt for softly pulled-back sections that allow for some natural movement. This style is perfect for a relaxed and effortless look.

Strategic Layering:

Ask your stylist to add layers to your updo. Layering can create the illusion of thickness and make your hair look dynamic, especially when combined with curls or waves.

Volumising Products:

When it comes to styling thin hair, the choice of products is crucial. Use lightweight volumising mousses or sprays to lift the roots without weighing down your hair. Texturising sprays can also provide grip and make it easier to style and hold the updo in place.

Sleek and Elegant Updos:

A sleek and elegant updo, such as a low chignon or a slicked-back bun, can be a sophisticated choice for thin hair. This style pairs well with a variety of wedding themes, from traditional to modern. It is also a great option to showcase statement earrings or a necklace.

Half-Up, Half-Down Styles:

If you're not ready to commit to a full updo, a half-up, half-down style is a perfect compromise. This look is easy to achieve and can be customised to your personal style. You can go for a sleek and straight look or add some waves or curls for a romantic touch.

Accessories:

Adding accessories is a great way to elevate your bridal updo. Fresh flowers, delicate hairpins, tiaras, veils, or headbands can enhance your hairstyle and make it more unique and special.

Wedding updos for medium hair

Wedding updos for medium-length hair can be stylish, versatile, and suitable for different wedding themes, dresses, and faces. Here are some ideas for chic and sophisticated updos for your special day:

Wedding Chignon

Chignons are one of the oldest bridal hair choices and strike a balance between elegance and modernity. They are suitable for traditional, chic, destination, coastal, beach, rustic, and garden-inspired weddings. This style is also flexible and can accommodate a little volume, mess, braids, curls, and more. You can also add accessories like headpieces, hair clips, flower accessories, veils, and bird cages.

Half Updo

Half updos are timeless and chic and work for formal, casual, and outdoor weddings. For an edgy look, try an upside-down half updo with the edges bordered by a braid. Alternatively, opt for loose, voluminous hair with fashionable barrettes if you're wearing a backless, armless, or criss-cross back dress. If you're having a bohemian wedding, add volume and accessorize with blooms. For a beach wedding, go for bouncy volume and shine, and for a garden-inspired wedding, try fringes or a tousled look with headbands, statement-making clips, or florals.

Low Updos

Low updos are perfect for formal weddings but can also be casual. Try a low braid or soft-swept twists for a romantic look. Alternatively, go for a messy bun with soft waves to frame the face, or a chignon with headpieces, clips, veils, and floral accessories. Low updos are versatile and can be accessorized with pins, tiaras, headbands, crowns, and combs.

High Wedding Updo

High updos add height and texture, giving a classic, elegant, or contemporary look. Try a messy high bun with a few loose pieces falling out, or a rolled-up bun with crystals for some sparkle. For a timeless, vintage, yet fashion-forward look, add a touch of pearls. Accessorize your high braided halo with statement clips, flowers, and ribbons to nail your style.

Side-Swept Updo

Side-swept updos are chic, elegant, and effortless, and are great for minimalist and sophisticated brides. Wear this style for your rustic, coastal, beach, or industrial-chic wedding. Complement the look with natural waves that fall on your back, especially if you're wearing a mermaid silhouette or off-shoulder dress. Match this hairstyle with a pair of drop earrings. Leave some wispy curls to frame your face for a feminine touch, especially if you're wearing a wedding pantsuit.

Wedding updos for short hair

Wedding updos can be a creative and stylish option for brides with short hair. Here are some ideas to elevate your look and make you feel confident on your big day:

Classic Chignon

The classic chignon is a timeless and elegant choice, inspired by the French phrase "chignon du cou," meaning "nape of the neck." This style features the hair swept into a lower bun, often with a twist, and pairs beautifully with an exposed back wedding gown, delicate earrings, and a simple necklace.

Braided Updo

Braids seamlessly incorporated into your hairstyle add a romantic touch to your overall look. You can go for a braided low bun, top knot, twisted or French braids, or even combine braids with waves and curls for a bohemian-inspired look.

Curly Short Hair with Extensions

If you want to add texture and create a whimsical and romantic aura, consider using curly hair extensions. They blend effortlessly with your natural curls, adding volume and a fuller appearance. Large, loose curls can be a glamorous and sophisticated choice, while smaller curls can be pinned up with strands dangling over the ears and cheeks for a cute, short updo.

Voluminous High Bun

A high bun, also known as a top knot, is a chic and stylish option for brides with short hair. Adding texture or accessories, such as a delicate hairpiece or a touch of sparkle, can take this updo to the next level of elegance.

Messy Updos

Messy updos bring a sultry and playful look to any bride. Tease your hair to build volume before pulling it into an updo, leaving some untucked wisps of hair to enhance the tousled vibe. This style is perfect for a beach wedding, as it exudes a relaxed and carefree appearance.

French Twist

The French twist is a timeless and polished updo that can be customized to suit your preferences. You can add texture, incorporate accessories, or leave out face-framing tendrils for a softer, more romantic effect.

Remember, a delicate hairpiece, floral accessories, or a touch of sparkle can enhance any updo and make it even more special for your wedding day.

Wedding updos for black hair

Wedding updos are a versatile hairstyle, suitable for brides of all ages and hair textures. For black hair, there are many gorgeous and unique styles to choose from. Here are some ideas for black wedding updos:

Braided Updo

Braids are a popular choice for black wedding hairstyles, and can be incorporated into a variety of different updos. For a more intricate look, try a fishtail braid or combine a half-up, half-down style with a long braid. If you're looking for something simpler, a braided crown or a few accent braids can be a beautiful touch.

Twisted Bun or Chignon

A twisted or braided updo adds texture and dimension to the hair. This style can be adorned with hair accessories like flowers or hairpins for a romantic, bohemian vibe.

Textured Afro

For a more natural look, a textured afro can be a stunning choice. This style celebrates the natural texture of black hair and can be accessorised with a statement headband or hair clips.

Cornrows and Curls

Cornrows are a popular hairstyle for black women and can be a beautiful component of a wedding updo. This style is versatile and can be adapted to complement a variety of wedding gowns.

Pompadour and Double Chignon

If you're looking for a statement hairstyle, consider an elaborate pompadour with a double chignon. This style is sure to turn heads and will make a unique impression.

Sleek Classic Chignon

Chignons are synonymous with vintage glamour and elegance. This style can be achieved on relaxed or natural hair and is a timeless choice for black wedding updos.

Remember, it's important to work with a hairstylist who has experience with black hair to ensure your hair is treated with the care it deserves.

Wedding updos for curly hair

Wedding updos are a versatile hairstyle that suits brides of all ages and hair textures. If you have naturally curly hair, there are several ways to create a romantic and elegant bridal look. Here are some ideas for wedding updos for curly hair:

Romantic Curly Wedding Updos

Curly hair has a natural bounce and volume that can add a touch of romance and elegance to any bridal look. For brides with more defined curls, consider an updo that highlights the volume and texture of your curls, such as a voluminous bun or a curly chignon. Brides with tight coils can opt for styles that showcase their natural volume, such as a crown of defined curls, or add braids or twists for added detail.

Loose Curls and Half-Up Hairstyles

If you have looser waves, a half-up, half-down style can be a great option to showcase the natural movement of your hair. This look is soft and feminine, perfect for boho or outdoor weddings. Finish the style with a flower crown for a whimsical, bohemian touch.

Curly Bridal Updo with Flower Crown

For an enchanting and uncomplicated look, pair your curly updo with a dainty and ultra-feminine flower headband. This style is perfect for brides who want their natural texture and overall look to shine.

Curly Ponytail with a Delicate Crystal Hairpiece

If you have long, thick hair, consider a dramatic curly ponytail paired with a delicate crystal hairpiece. This style will allow you to show off your curls while adding a touch of glamour.

Braided Curly Updo with Flowers

For a messy yet elegant look, try a curly bun with braids. This style is perfect for brides who want a natural and effortless look. Add some fresh flowers or stick to natural flowers to complete the look.

Bouncy Curl Updo

A voluminous curly bun is a charming and romantic option for brides with curly hair. Pinning soft, airy curls at the back of the head creates an elegant updo that will turn heads on your big day.

Frequently asked questions