When considering how to bring your style up a notch for an event or party, the updo is the way to go. An elegant and timeless hairstyle, the updo has been around for centuries and updated with the changing times. Here, we breakdown the different types of updos perfect for any occasion, from wedding receptions to black-tie galas. Whether you prefer intricate braids or something more streamlined, these fanciful and fashionable updos will make you the center of attention.

1. Upping the Ante: Updos Fit for Every Occasion

You’ve heard of casually tousled locks, but it’s time to up your hairstyle game. Updos are the perfect way of making a grand entrance, no matter the occasion. Whether you’re prepping for an official gathering, a wedding, or a dinner date, there’s likely an updo to match.

!. The Ballerina Bun – This classic bun looks vintage and classy, perfect for more formal events. Secure your hair with bobby pins or wrap a decorative barrette around it, and you’re good to go.

• Start by spraying your hair with a heat protectant and use a ¼ in. curling iron to add a few loose waves. Gather your hair into a ponytail, and fasten with an elastic.
• Twist the ponytail until it is tightly wound around itself. Wrap the bun shape and secure with bobby pins.
• Finish the look by spraying with a light holding hairspray and accessorize with jewels, glitter, and fabric.

2. The Side Chignon – This style is lovely and slightly messy, great for those informal occasions. Wrapping a beautiful ribbon or piece of fabric around it would make the style more chic and dressy.

• Gather your hair to one side, leaving out some face-framing layers if desired.
• Curl your tresses with a curling iron if desired.
• Gently twist and secure the hair with pins and an elastic. Tuck and pin the ends of the hair to the base of the bun.
• Reshape and neaten the hairstyle with your hands. Secure with a spritz of hairspray.

3. The Curly Updo – Impressive in its grandeur, this is the hairstyle of choice for weddings and proms. It’s time to get creative with your fingers!

• Using a wide-barreled curling iron, curl large sections of hair until the entire head is lightly curled.
• Gather and twist the back sections and pin them to the head.
• Create a few loose curls and tuck them in, encircling the base of the bun.
• Secure the look with hairspray and a pretty accessory.

2. Crafting the Perfect Updo: Tips and Tricks

Bobby Pins and Hairspray are Your Best Friends

Creating an updo can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. All you need are the right tools and basics steps to give yourself the perfect updo.

Before you start styling, make sure your hair is freshly washed and free of tangles. Ready to start? Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bobby pins
• Hairbrush
• Hairspray
• Hair accessories

Start by brushing your hair so it’s smooth and free of knots. Pull it back in sections and secure each one with a bobby pin. Once your updo is complete, give it a spritz of hairspray to keep it in place. If you want to add a touch of glamour, slide in a few decorative hair accessories to complete the look.

Creating updos can be lots of fun and the possibilities are endless. With some patience and practice, you’ll be an updo master in no time.

3. Elegant Hairstyles to Complement Your Look

Braids and waves

If you’re looking for an elegant hairstyle that’s versatile and has the potential to be as sophisticated or casual as you want, look no further than braids and waves. They can take many forms, from voluminous and thick fishtail braids to soft, loose waves. Each will add a touch of class to your look. Whether you’re attending a formal event or a casual occasion, a well-crafted braided or wavy hairstyle will set you apart.

Loose bun

The loose bun is the perfect way to spruce up any outfit. It attracts attention and adds an air of sophistication to your look. The style is flexible enough to work for both formal and casual events, making it a great option if you’re looking for something suitable for all occasions. To get the traditional bun look, tie your hair into a low ponytail before twisting it into a bun shape. You’ll have an elegant finish that will add a touch of class to your look.

Short and sleek

When it comes to finding an elegant hairstyle, a short and sleek style often does the trick. It works best for those with naturally straight and sleek hair but can be styled to suit those with curly hair as well. The short and sleek look will give you a sophisticated aura and is perfect for both day-time and night-time occasions.

If you’re feeling daring, you can also choose to adorn the cut with some hair accessories for a bit of sparkle. Experiment with clips, hairbands and jewels to take your look to the next level.

4. Boutique Updos for the Perfect Party ‘Do

Need an impressive style that’s sure to turn heads at the next party you’re attending? From minimalist knots to silver-flecked curls, here are four boutique updos that will have you looking your best

• Braided Top Knot – A braided top knot is eclectic yet effortlessly regal, perfect for the girl who loves to stand out from the crowd. Braid the hair to the top of your head and secure it with a butterfly clip for all night-long staying power.
• Twisted Updo – Give your classic updo a twist with volume, texture, and shape. After curling the ends of your hair with a curling iron, twist it up and fasten it with pins.
• Metallic Updo – For a more dramatic look, braid your hair in dramatic silver hoop curls before forming them into a secured top knot. Adorn with a single flower to add a touch of feminine flair.
• Slick Ponytail – Take your everyday ponytail to the next level with a sleek, polished twist. Pull the hair into a low ponytail and use hairspray or serum to add texture and hold. Finish it off with a sleek black ribbon to keep it looking polished.

No matter which look you decide to rock, all four of these boutique updos are sure to give you a showstopping style that will make you the envy of the party. So put your hair in a top knot and own the night!

5. Go Big and Go Home: Glam Updos for Special Events

For that special occasion you should go big and home in style with an unforgettable updo. For every event, formal or otherwise, there’s a fitting hairdo to glam up your look. Whether you’re aiming for a timeless classic, cutting edge chic, or just some special extra volume, an updo can make all the difference.

You can begin by looking into the various classic classic updos:

• A French roll will add a sophisticated style for day to day events.
• A low chignon is perfect if you are looking to up the elegance factor.
• A fishtail braid can add an urban yet elegant look for a night out.

Take it to the extreme when you want to really stand out. For example:

• An edgy topknot bun is totally on-trend, and can give a daringly- different look.
• Try long, cascading curls for a modern take on vintage style.
• Wearing a waterfall braid is a great way to make a statement.

Going for an updo at your next special occasion is a great way to make a statement and let your originality shine through. No matter the event, you can rock it in style with the perfect hairdo!

6. Updos from Around the Globe: Hairstyles with Cultural Influence

The classic updo has been around for centuries! As hairstyles and cultural influences have changed over time, so too have the updated looks of the classic updo. Let’s explore the world and highlight a few of the most popular updo hairstyles that have been inspired by countries and cultures around the globe.

• The French Chignon: The French Chignon is one of the most sophisticated and classic updos. It is typically a low, tight bun that is usually secured with two or three pins at the nape of the neck. This style is most popular in France, but has been adopted by many countries including Japan as a go-to formal look.
• The African Braided Bun: This style has a long history in African culture and is still popular today. African braided buns can be as simple as a French braid with a high bun or as intricate and ornate as desired. Many of the braids are styled with beads, metal rings, and even threaded with colorful ribbon or fabric.
• The Mexican Half Up: This style has recently become a go-to for an effortless and casual look. It is usually achieved by putting the front half of the hair up on the crown of the head. This look is ideal for the summer months, as it can be a great way to keep the hair off of the face and neck in the heat.
• The Dutch Braid: This style has been popular for many years in Europe, originating from the Netherlands. It is created by sectioning the hair, alternating the sections by adding them underneath each other instead of over while braiding. This look can be dressed up, worn in an updo, or left as is for a more casual look.

No matter what culture you are from, there is a classic updo to fit your style! Whether you’re looking for a simple or intricate look, there is something for everyone. Have fun exploring which updo best reflects your individual style.

Searching for the perfect hairstyle for a special event or party can be a daunting task, but this article showed you that up-dos can be an easy and elegant choice. Whether you go with a timeless classic or something more creative, with this article on Updos for Every Occasion you’ll never be under-dressed for an event again.