Creating Elegant Wedding Updos: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding updos are a timeless and elegant hairstyle option for brides. They are also practical, keeping hair in place and photo-ready throughout the day. There are endless options for wedding updos, from simple and low-maintenance looks to more intricate and detailed styles. Wedding updos can be paired with various accessories, such as bridal tiaras, sparkly pins, hair vines, and fresh or faux flowers. They are also a good choice for warm weather, as they keep the hair off the neck and shoulders.

When deciding on a wedding updo, it is important to consider the personal aesthetic of the bride, the theme of the wedding, and the type of gown being worn. Wedding updos pair beautifully with strapless dresses and gowns with unique necklines or back details. For a more relaxed and free-spirited vibe, loose and flowing hair may be a better option than an updo. It is also a good idea to do a trial run with a stylist to finalize the perfect look.

Wedding updos for long hair

The Low Bun

A low bun is a classic and timeless choice for brides. It can be sleek and elegant or loose and relaxed, depending on your preference. To create this look, simply gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic. You can add some volume at the crown or leave some face-framing strands loose for a softer, romantic vibe. If you want to make it more intricate, consider adding a French braid at the front or some pearl accessories for a touch of glamour.

The High Bun

For a more fashion-forward look, opt for a high bun. This style offers plenty of height and can be paired with a trendy topknot or a braided bun for added interest. It's a great choice if you want to show off your earrings or a statement necklace.

The Ponytail

Ponytails are a playful and sophisticated choice for brides. A high ponytail is easy to achieve and can be curled for added volume. For a low-maintenance option, go for a low ponytail with some soft waves or loose curls. Add some face-framing pieces to define your features.

Braids

Braids are a whimsical and romantic alternative to buns. You can go for a classic French braid, a boho-inspired milkmaid braid, or try something more complex like a fishtail braid. Add some fresh flowers or hair accessories to dress up this look.

The Chignon

A Chignon is an elegant and sophisticated updo. It can be loose and curly or sleek and structured, depending on your hair type and preference. This style is perfect for showing off your neck and shoulders and can be paired with a veil for a truly bridal look.

The French Twist

The French twist is a classic and elegant updo, perfect for a chateau wedding or a formal affair. It adds volume and can be a stunning base for a cascading veil.

Accessories

Don't be afraid to add some accessories to your updo! Flowers, hairpins, tiaras, and headpieces can all add a touch of glamour or a personal twist to your chosen style.

Remember, when creating your wedding updo, it's important to start with clean, frizz-free hair. Use products to tame flyaways and add some hold to your style. You can also add volume with a blowout or curling iron to create big, loose curls.

Wedding updos for medium hair

Wedding updos for medium-length hair are both stylish and versatile. Whether you're the bride, a bridesmaid, or a guest, there are many options to choose from that will complement your wedding dress, face shape, and overall theme of the wedding. Here are some ideas for wedding updos for medium hair:

Chignon

A chignon is a classic and elegant choice for a wedding updo, suitable for various wedding themes such as traditional, chic, destination, coastal, beach, rustic, or garden-inspired weddings. It can be paired with a range of accessories, including headpieces, hair clips, flower accessories, veils, and bird cages. Chignons can also be adapted to suit your personal style, with options to add volume, messiness, braids, or curls.

Half Updo

Half updos are timeless and chic, working well for formal, casual, and outdoor weddings. For an edgy look, try an upside-down half updo with braided edges. If you're wearing a backless, armless, or criss-cross back dress, opt for a loose, voluminous half updo held in place with fashionable barrettes. For a bohemian wedding, add volume to your half updo and accessorize with flowers. A Grecian-inspired half updo with bouncy volume and shine is perfect for a beach wedding, while a garden-inspired wedding calls for fringes or a tousled look, accessorized with headbands, statement clips, or florals.

Low Updo

Low updos are perfect for formal weddings but can also be dressed down for a more casual look. Consider a low braid updo or soft swept twists for a romantic look. A messy bun with soft waves framing the face is another option for an effortless, romantic style. Like the chignon, low updos can be accessorized with headpieces, clips, veils, and floral accessories. They also accommodate a wide range of accessories, from pins and tiaras to headbands, crowns, and combs.

High Updo

High wedding updos add height and texture to your look, giving a classic, elegant, or contemporary vibe. Messy high buns with a few loose pieces falling out are a popular choice for brides. For a touch of sparkle, try a rolled-up bun with crystals, or add some vintage glam with a touch of pearls. If you're looking for a show-stopping style, accessorize your high braided halo with flowers and ribbons on statement clips.

Side Swept Updo

Side-swept wedding updos are chic, elegant, and effortless, making them a great choice for minimalist and sophisticated brides. This style works well for rustic, coastal, beach, and industrial-chic weddings. To create this look, gather your medium hair at the nape of your neck and pin it to the side, leaving some hair to frame your face for a traditional touch. If your wedding dress has a mermaid silhouette or off-shoulder sleeves, natural waves that fall on your back will complement the look beautifully.

Relaxed Loose Updo

If you love messy and carefree updos, a relaxed loose updo could be a perfect choice. Opt for natural, lush curls that spill decadently, especially for a bohemian wedding. For a polished look, choose an asymmetric bun that appears undone, letting the curls trail down your back. A vintage-inspired bride might prefer a relaxed loose bun accessorized with crystals or a show-stopping headpiece. And if you want to add a touch of whimsy, a ribboned coif is a fun option for a messy updo.

Wedding updos for short hair

Wedding updos can be a great hairstyle option for brides, drawing attention to the dress, jewellery, and other accessories. Even if you have short hair, there are plenty of options to choose from that will ensure you look and feel amazing on your big day. Here are some ideas for wedding updos for short hair:

Classic Updos

If you're going for a classic bridal look, you can't go wrong with a side-swept bang hairstyle, paired with an oversized flower crown for a bubbly feel. For a more structural look, try an asymmetrical twisted updo.

Elegant Updos

For a touch of glamour, consider an updo that incorporates texture, accessories, and intricate details. A chic and refined option is to go for a low bun, which can be dressed up with hair accessories and curls to add volume.

Romantic Hairstyles

If you're after a romantic look, try a half-up, half-down style. Curl the tips of your hair into dropping ringlets and add some flowers or hairpins for a dreamy, whimsical style.

Glamorous Wedding Hairstyles

Messy buns are a great option for a big-day updo, giving a formal elegance with a bohemian and whimsical undertone. You can also try a chignon bun, which can be adorned with headpieces, veils, flowers, or hair clips.

Vintage Short Bridal Hairstyles

For a vintage-themed wedding, combine an updo with loose finger waves to wow your guests. If you have a pixie cut, you can style it into finger waves for a casual yet glam look.

Braided Updos

Braided wedding updos are a popular choice for rustic and bohemian weddings. Go for a braided halo, a side braid, or even a double braid. Other ideas include a braided low bun, top knot, or French braids.

Easy Wedding Updos

If you're looking for something simple and low-maintenance, try a messy updo. Give your hair volume with dry shampoo, secure it with bobby pins, and pull out a few strands to frame your face. You can also split your hair into two parts, twist it backward, and roll both twists into an updo at the nape of your neck. Decorate with flowers or accessories.

There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to wedding updos for short hair. With a bit of creativity and some practice, you can achieve a beautiful bridal look that complements your personal style.

Wedding updos for thin hair

Low buns

A low bun is a classic and versatile option that suits any wedding theme, from a traditional country club wedding to a modern rooftop celebration. It is also one of the simplest updos to create. To achieve this look, start by blow-drying or straightening your hair to achieve a sleek finish. Then, gather your hair into a ponytail and use a tail comb or boar bristle brush to smooth out the hair, taming any flyaways with a styling product. Finally, twist the ponytail clockwise and secure it with an elastic band.

Natural, side-swept low bun

If you want to embrace your natural hair texture, you can opt for a side-swept low bun. This style eliminates the need for heated tools, making the hairstyling process more efficient. It is also a great choice if you want a more effortless and relaxed look that will stay polished throughout the festivities.

High ponytail

A high ponytail is a stylish and effortless updo, perfect for brides seeking a glossy and sophisticated look. To achieve this style, straighten your hair using a blow dryer or flat iron, and then gather all your hair on top of your head, securing it with an elastic band. You can even curl the ends of your hair for added volume. This updo is particularly flattering for brides with long hair and a mock neck dress featuring intricate embellishments.

Braids

Braids are a whimsical and romantic alternative to buns. If you're skilled at styling your own hair, you can try a fishtail braid. To create this look, divide your hair into two sections and take a thin strand from the left section, wrapping it underneath the right section. Repeat this process on the other side, alternating until you've braided all your hair. Finally, secure the braid with an elastic band.

Pearl-studded topknot

A high bun, or topknot, offers a fashion-forward look. To create this style, arrange your hair into a bun at the crown of your head, and add pearl adornments for extra glamour. This updo is perfect for micro weddings or courthouse ceremonies, complementing blazer dresses or jumpsuits.

French braided low bun

For a more intricate design, you can add a French braid to your low bun. Start by braiding the front section of your hair, beginning at your part and continuing until you reach the ends. Then, gather all your hair into a ponytail and create a low bun, securing the braided section with bobby pins. This sophisticated updo will add a touch of French sophistication to your bridal look.

Sock bun

If you're looking for more volume, try a sock bun. The difference between a regular bun and a sock bun is that you wrap your hair around padding to create a fuller effect. This style is especially flattering for brides with long, thin hair. If your hair is on the shorter side, you can add extensions to achieve this look.

Low ponytail with Hollywood waves

A low ponytail is a seamless and fashionable option that you can easily create yourself. To add a touch of glamour, style your hair with old Hollywood-style waves and complete the look with a beaded headband. This updo is perfect for a regal and sophisticated wedding celebration.

Low bun with natural texture

If you want to showcase your natural hair texture, opt for a low bun without straightening your strands. Simply pile your hair on top of your head and secure it with an elastic band. This effortless style will take only a few minutes to create, allowing you to stick to your wedding day schedule. You can even add a floral hair accessory that coordinates with your wedding dress and theme.

Braided low bun with pearl pins

Another variation of the braided updo is to position the braid down the back of your head instead of the side. Pull out a few strands for a slightly undone look, and then decorate your braid with pearl-studded pins. This style is both dreamy and romantic, adding a touch of elegance to your bridal ensemble.

These wedding updos for thin hair will surely make you look and feel beautiful on your special day!

Wedding updos for black hair

There are many wedding updo options for black hair that will ensure you look and feel amazing on your big day. Here are some ideas for different hair lengths and textures:

Long Hair

A loose, low bun is a romantic and soft style, perfect for a wedding. To achieve this look, secure your hair in a bun at the back of your head and pull out some loose hairs around your face. If you want to add some extra glamour to your look, try a big, sleek wave. This style can be achieved with extensions or curls if you don't have natural volume. For a unique look, try a big braid wrapped around the top of your head, covering the hair tie and keeping your bun in place all day.

Medium Hair

If you're looking for a chic and sophisticated updo, a twisted or braided hairstyle could be perfect. These styles add texture and dimension to medium-length hair. A low bun or chignon is another classic option, which can be dressed up or down depending on the style of your wedding. For a fun and flirty look, try a half-up, half-down style with soft waves or curls.

Short Hair

If your hair is short and afro-textured, why not embrace your natural texture on your wedding day? Use a detailed headband to smooth your hair back from your face, keeping the focus on you. For a simple, chic look, try a sock bun. This timeless hairstyle will ensure you look elegant all day.

Natural Hair

For a natural, textured look, a voluminous afro is a stunning choice. If you want to try an updo, a twisted or braided bun or chignon is a beautiful option. This style can be adorned with hair accessories like flowers or hairpins. Braided updos, such as cornrows or twists, are another popular choice for natural black hair.

Weave/Extensions

If you're planning to wear a weave or extensions for your wedding, a stacked bun with cornrows is a glamorous option. For a unique and memorable look, try forming six small to medium buns on top of your head, leaving out two long braids to frame your face.

Remember, it's essential to work with a hairstylist experienced with black hair to ensure your hair is treated with the care it deserves.

Frequently asked questions