Hairstyles

21 Chic Updo Hairstyles

Chic Updo Hairstyles are perfect when you want a polished look without fuss. Chic Updo Hairstyles mix sleek lines, playful texture, and pretty details that make them feel modern and wearable for warm days or chilly nights.

They flatter round, oval, and long faces by drawing attention to the neck and cheekbones while keeping hair neatly styled.

Whether your hair is fine, thick, straight, or curly, Chic Updo Hairstyles offer easy takes and more dressed-up versions for work, dates, or celebrations. A few pins, a lightweight spray, and a pretty accessory are all you need to switch the mood.

Sleek Low Bun With Middle Part

Sleek Low Bun With Middle Part

This polished low bun is all about clean lines and glossy finish. Start with straightened or blow-dried hair and create a precise middle part. Gather hair at the nape and twist into a tight low bun, tucking ends for a seamless look. It’s perfect for formal events, interviews, or days you want a refined vibe without too much fuss. The middle part keeps the face balanced while the low placement highlights the neckline, creating an elegant profile that complements collarbones and structured outfits.

Styling Tips

  • Apply smoothing serum before styling for shine.
  • Use a fine-tooth comb to set a perfect center part.
  • Hide the elastic with a wrapped strand and secure with bobby pins.

Messy Top Knot With Face Framing Strands

Messy Top Knot With Face Framing Strands

The messy top knot is carefree with a chic edge, ideal for casual days or last-minute plans. Loosely gather hair toward the crown, secure with an elastic, and twist into a relaxed knot that leaves volume at the roots. Pull out a few face-framing strands to soften the look and add movement. This updo flatters round and heart-shaped faces by elongating the silhouette and drawing attention upward. It works beautifully with textured or slightly waved hair for lived-in charm that still reads stylish.

Styling Tips

  • Use dry shampoo at the roots for instant grip and lift.
  • Loosen the knot gently with fingers for a relaxed feel.
  • Finish with flexible-hold spray to tame flyaways without stiffness.

Braided Crown Updo For Romantic Events

Braided Crown Updo For Romantic Events

This braided crown wraps hair around the head for a soft, romantic finish that pairs beautifully with floral accents. Begin with two braids along each side or create a single halo braid, then pin around the crown and tug gently to broaden the braid for a fuller look. It flatters oval and long faces by opening the forehead and highlighting cheekbones. Ideal for garden parties, date nights, or intimate celebrations, the braided crown reads dreamy while holding hair away from the face in a feminine, polished way.

Styling Tips

  • Pancake the braid by pulling edges to add width and texture.
  • Add small fresh flowers or metallic pins along the braid for charm.
  • Use light-hold spray so the braid keeps shape but feels soft.

Twisted Low Chignon With Soft Volume

Twisted Low Chignon With Soft Volume

The twisted low chignon is a timeless option with a modern twist. Create a bit of lift at the crown, then twist sections from each side toward the nape and pin into a low chignon. Leave a few wisps loose for softness and to frame the face. This approach flatters square and oval faces, balancing angles with gentle curves. Wear it for office meetings, rehearsal dinners, or an elegant brunch—its beautiful silhouette pairs well with high necklines and statement earrings for a refined yet approachable finish.

Also Read:  21 Easy DIY Braided Hairstyles

Styling Tips

  • Add a root-lifting product before blow-drying for natural volume.
  • Twist loosely to maintain softness rather than a stiff roll.
  • Secure with U-pins and finish with flexible-hold spray.

Romantic Loose Bun With Delicate Tendrils

Romantic Loose Bun With Delicate Tendrils

This relaxed bun hugs the nape with effortless romance. Pull hair back loosely and secure into a low bun that allows movement and gentle imperfections. Pull out delicate tendrils around the temples and nape to frame the face and add a whimsical touch. It’s flattering on soft jawlines and round faces, offering a balance between structure and ease. Perfect for weddings, date nights, or when you want a soft, feminine vibe, the loose bun reads intimate and approachable while still feeling polished and picture-ready.

Styling Tips

  • Use a curl iron to add soft waves to the tendrils for definition.
  • Loosen the bun with fingers for natural texture and movement.
  • Pin any stray pieces discreetly and mist with light-hold spray.

High Volume Pompadour Updo For Statement Looks

High Volume Pompadour Updo For Statement Looks

This pompadour updo adds height and drama while staying classy. Backcomb or use volumizing powder at the roots, then smooth the top section and sweep hair back into a secure updo. The lifted front balances thin faces and brings a bold, editorial feel to any outfit. Pair with minimal jewelry to let the hair shine, or add a single statement earring for contrast. Great for nights out or events where you want to make an entrance, the pompadour reads modern and confident without being fussy.

Styling Tips

  • Tease the crown section gently for structured lift.
  • Smooth the top layer with a paddle brush for a clean finish.
  • Use strong-hold spray and pins to lock the height in place.

Textured French Twist With Modern Edge

Textured French Twist With Modern Edge

The French twist gets an updated feel when texture is encouraged rather than flattened. Prep hair with a salt spray or texturizing mist, gather to one side, and roll upward into a classic twist, securing with pins. Let a few textured strands peek out for attitude and movement. This version suits square and oval faces, offering a chic alternative to a standard bun. Wear it to cocktail parties or gallery openings when you want a refined silhouette that reads contemporary and slightly undone for an effortlessly cool look.

Styling Tips

  • Use texturizing spray before styling for grip and body.
  • Insert pins vertically to hold the twist securely without flattening it.
  • Finish with medium-hold spray to keep texture alive.

Knotted Mini Bun For Shorter Hair Days

Knotted Mini Bun For Shorter Hair Days

Shorter hair can rock an updo too—enter the knotted mini bun. Create a small ponytail at the crown or nape, knot the hair, and tuck the ends into the base for a compact, chic knot. This style works well on shoulder-length or lob cuts and flatters round and petite faces by keeping proportions balanced. It’s ideal for casual meetups, offices with a relaxed vibe, or mornings when you want a polished look in minutes. The knotted shape reads modern and playful without extra fuss.

Styling Tips

  • Use a texturizing paste to add hold and sculpting power.
  • Secure with small bobby pins that match your hair color.
  • Spritz with flexible-hold spray to maintain shape without residue.

Low Side Bun With Pearl Accessories

Low Side Bun With Pearl Accessories

The low side bun gets instant charm when paired with pearl pins. Sweep hair to one side and twist into a loose bun just behind the ear, then tuck in pearl pins for a romantic accent. This placement flatters heart and oval faces and looks lovely with off-the-shoulder dresses or soft knits. It reads timeless with a modern twist, perfect for daytime gatherings or evening dinners. The pearls elevate a simple bun into something special without overdoing the look, keeping it refined and wearable for many occasions.

Also Read:  21 Five Minute Everyday Hairstyles

Styling Tips

  • Loosen strands gently for a softer, more natural shape.
  • Insert pearl pins after the bun is secure to keep them visible.
  • Apply light-hold spray to set the style while keeping movement.

Vintage Inspired Rolled Updo With Soft Waves

Vintage Inspired Rolled Updo With Soft Waves

This rolled updo channels old Hollywood with a modern softness. Begin with loose waves, then roll sections into a low or mid-height updo, pinning rolls to create a sculpted silhouette. Let a few waves frame the face for softness and movement. It flatters long and oval faces, adding glamour to formal dresses and vintage-inspired looks. Perfect for special nights, theater outings, or any time you want a refined retro feel, the rolled updo combines structured styling with gentle curves for an elegant, camera-ready finish.

Styling Tips

  • Create defined waves with a medium-barrel iron before styling.
  • Pin rolls tightly at first, then ease them for a relaxed vintage feel.
  • Use a shine spray to give the waves a polished look.

Sleek Braided Pony Turned Chic Bun

Sleek Braided Pony Turned Chic Bun

This hybrid look blends a sleek braid with a tidy bun for a modern finish. Smooth the top into a low ponytail, braid the tail tightly, then wrap the braid into a compact bun and pin. The sleek top contrasts nicely with braided texture, flattering sharper jawlines and creating a streamlined profile. It’s a great choice for workdays, rehearsals, or evenings when you want a tidy but interesting updo. The braid adds visual interest while the bun keeps things neat and camera-friendly from every angle.

Styling Tips

  • Use a smoothing balm to tame the hairline before braiding.
  • Braid tightly for durability, then wrap and pin the braid into place.
  • Add a glossy finishing spray for a polished appearance.

Bubble Bun Playful Updo For Weekend Brunch

Bubble Bun Playful Updo For Weekend Brunch

The bubble bun is youthful and playful, perfect for brunch dates or casual outings. Create a high ponytail, then add small elastics down the length to form rounded sections; gently tug each bubble for fullness. Fold the ponytail into a bun or leave a few bubbles loose for texture. The shape flatters round faces by adding height and elongation. It’s fun to accessorize with scarves or colorful clips, and the bouncy silhouette makes this updo feel fresh and energetic for sunny days and relaxed gatherings.

Styling Tips

  • Use lightweight elastics to create evenly spaced bubbles.
  • Backcomb each section slightly for extra volume before pinching.
  • Add a playful scarf or clip at the base for personality.

Fishtail Halo Updo For Boho Vibes

Fishtail Halo Updo For Boho Vibes

The fishtail halo wraps a delicate fishtail braid around the head for a boho-inspired updo. Create a long fishtail braid and curve it across the crown, pinning the ends under for a seamless loop. Pull at the braid’s edges to widen it and reveal the intricate weaving. This style flatters oval and heart-shaped faces by keeping the face framed and open. It’s lovely for outdoor events, music festivals, or weddings with a relaxed theme, offering a handcrafted, romantic look that feels both whimsical and intentional.

Styling Tips

  • Loosen the braid edges to make the fishtail appear fuller.
  • Use small pins to anchor the braid discreetly under the crown.
  • Add tiny floral pins for a soft, bohemian touch.

Twisted Halo With Micro Braids Accent

Twisted Halo With Micro Braids Accent

The twisted halo with micro braids adds texture and interest while keeping hair swept back. Create small micro braids near the hairline, then twist larger sections of hair into a halo shape and pin. The micro braids peek through for a handcrafted detail that elevates the look. This updo flatters broader foreheads and round faces by creating soft volume across the crown. It’s a great choice for creative events or days you want a stylish twist on classic updos, offering dimension and a personal touch without being fussy.

Styling Tips

  • Create a few thin micro braids at the front for subtle detail.
  • Twist sections loosely to keep the halo airy and soft.
  • Secure with small pins and finish with flexible-hold spray.

Sock Bun Sleek Finish For Workdays

Sock Bun Sleek Finish For Workdays

The sock bun delivers a perfect round shape and neat finish that’s ideal for professional settings. Slip a bun maker or rolled sock over a high ponytail, smooth the hair over it, and secure with pins for a clean silhouette. This look flatters long faces by balancing proportions and drawing the eye upward. It pairs well with blazers and crisp collars for meetings or presentations, offering a no-fuss updo that stays put all day. The sleek appearance keeps things polished while still feeling approachable.

Also Read:  21 Quick Heatless Overnight Hairstyles

Styling Tips

  • Use a smoothing brush to remove bumps before wrapping the bun maker.
  • Secure with a mix of pins and small clear elastics for stability.
  • Finish with a light mist of anti-frizz spray to tame flyaways.

Messy Curly Chignon For Natural Texture

Messy Curly Chignon For Natural Texture

Curly hair shines in a messy chignon that celebrates texture. Gather curls loosely at the nape, twisting and pinning sections to form a soft chignon that allows volume and curl pattern to show. Leave a few ringlets loose around the face for softness and movement. This approach flatters oval and triangular faces, highlighting natural texture instead of masking it. Ideal for brunches, daytime weddings, or casual evenings, the messy curly chignon reads relaxed yet intentional, perfect when you want an updo that feels personal and lively.

Styling Tips

  • Refresh curls with a curl cream before pinning for definition.
  • Pin in sections to keep curls visible and lively.
  • Use a humidity-resistant spray to keep shape without crunch.

Braided Low Chignon With Ribbon Detail

Braided Low Chignon With Ribbon Detail

This low chignon gets a pretty update when braided accents meet a ribbon. Braid a small section from one side or create two braids and wrap them into a low chignon. Tie a satin ribbon around the base or weave it through the braid for an elegant hint of color. The style flatters soft jawlines and oval faces, pairing nicely with floral dresses or romantic blouses. It’s a lovely pick for daytime celebrations or when you want a feminine finish that reads graceful without being overly ornate.

Styling Tips

  • Choose a ribbon that complements your outfit for a cohesive look.
  • Braid loosely so the weave reads soft and textured.
  • Secure ribbon ends discreetly with pins under the bun.

Sleek High Bun With Curtain Bangs

Sleek High Bun With Curtain Bangs

The sleek high bun pairs beautifully with curtain bangs for a mix of edge and softness. Smooth hair into a high pony, twist into a tidy bun, and let the bangs fall loosely to frame the face. The contrast between the neat bun and airy bangs flatters round and heart-shaped faces by creating vertical balance. It’s versatile enough for a polished office look or an elevated casual outfit. Keep the top smooth but allow the bangs to breathe for a stylish finish that feels current and easy to wear.

Styling Tips

  • Style curtain bangs with a round brush for natural bend.
  • Smooth the ponytail base with a boar-bristle brush for polish.
  • Apply light-hold spray to keep the bun tidy and bangs soft.

Glam Twisted Updo With Sparkly Pins

Glam Twisted Updo With Sparkly Pins

This glam twisted updo is perfect when you want dazzle. Twist sections into a low or mid-height updo and tuck sparkly pins or rhinestone clips along the twists for eye-catching detail. The shimmer lifts a classic silhouette, flattering evening gowns and cocktail attire alike. It suits oval and long faces especially well, creating a focal point that reads luxe without feeling overdone. Ideal for celebrations and holiday parties, the sparkly pins add instant festivity and photograph beautifully under event lighting for a polished, glamorous result.

Styling Tips

  • Pin sparkly accessories where they’ll catch the light most.
  • Twist hair with a little texture spray for grip and hold.
  • Seal with medium-hold spray to preserve shine and placement.

Faux Hawk Braided Updo For Edge

Faux Hawk Braided Updo For Edge

This braided faux hawk turns heads with attitude and form. Braid or twist tightly along the center strip from hairline to crown, leaving sides smoother or slightly lifted, then gather and pin the braid into a sculpted updo. The structure adds vertical interest and flatters longer faces by breaking up length. It’s great for concerts, nights out, or days you want a fashion-forward statement. The look balances toughness and polish, pairing well with leather jackets or bold accessories for an edgy yet intentional vibe.

Styling Tips

  • Start with a center section and braid tightly for definition.
  • Use pins to create a raised faux hawk silhouette.
  • Finish with a matte spray for a textured edge.

Half Up Knot Into Low Bun Elegance

Half Up Knot Into Low Bun Elegance

This half-up knot flows into a low bun for a balanced, elegant silhouette. Gather the top half into a small knot at the back, then combine with the lower sections and twist into a loose low bun. The mixed approach keeps hair off the face while letting length breathe, flattering oval and heart shapes by softening the jawline. It works well for daytime events or casual evenings, offering a polished look that still feels relaxed. Add small pins or a decorative clip where the knot meets the bun for added interest.

Styling Tips

  • Backcomb the crown slightly for volume before creating the knot.
  • Secure knot and bun together with long pins for stability.
  • Add a decorative clip where the knot joins the bun for a focal point.

Eleanor Hayes

Hi! I'm Eleanor Hayes, the founder of DifferBtw.

At DifferBtw.com, we celebrate love, weddings, and the beautiful moments that make your special day truly unforgettable. From expert planning tips to unique wedding inspirations, we're here to guide you every step of the way.

Join us as we explore creative ideas, expert advice, and everything you need to make your wedding as unique as your love story.

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