12 Stylish Updos For Long Hair With Step-By-Step Tutorials

Aayush Dubey August 3, 2023August 5, 2023 0 Comments

Before You Get Started

Before diving into the world of updos, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your styling process goes smoothly. These tips will help you achieve the best results and make your updo experience more enjoyable.

Allocate enough time: Updos can be more intricate and time-consuming than your regular hairstyles. Be prepared to invest a bit more time, especially if you’re new to creating updos. Practice makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries to master a particular style.
Use the right products: To achieve the desired look and ensure your updo stays in place, have styling, texturizing, and volumizing hair products handy. These products will help you create the perfect texture and hold for your updo. Experiment with different products to find what works best for your hair type.
Invest in the right tools: A wide-toothed wooden comb is the ideal tool for updo styling. It’s gentle on the hair and helps prevent breakage. Unless instructed otherwise in the tutorials, opt for a wooden comb over plastic or metal ones.
Practice patience: Updos can be a learning curve, especially if you’re new to styling your hair in this way. Be patient with yourself and give yourself enough time to practice before the day you actually need to wear the updo. The more you practice, the more confident and skilled you’ll become.

Now that you’re armed with these essential tips, let’s dive into the step-by-step tutorials for 12 stylish updos for long hair.

1. Fishtail Bun

The fishtail bun combines the elegance of a bun with the intricacy of a fishtail braid. This updo is perfect for formal occasions, weddings, or parties. Follow these steps to achieve this stunning hairstyle:

Start by brushing your long hair to detangle any knots.
Gather all of your hair at the back to create a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic band.
Begin weaving a fishtail braid by dividing the ponytail into two equal sections. Take a small strand of hair from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the other section. Repeat this process, alternating sides, until you reach the end of the braid.
Once you’ve completed the fishtail braid, gently pull on the strands to volumize it.
Twist the braided ponytail and wrap it around the base of the ponytail to create a bun.
Secure the bun with hair pins, making sure it feels secure.
Finish off the look by spritzing some hair spray to ensure your updo stays in place throughout the day or night.

2. Retro Chignon Bun

The retro chignon bun is a timeless and elegant updo suitable for any face shape and event. This hairstyle puts a twist on the classic French bun and adds a touch of sophistication to your look. Follow these steps to achieve this chic updo:

Begin by brushing your hair to remove any knots.
Section your hair into three parts: two side sections and a middle section. Secure one of the side sections with claw hair clips to keep it out of the way.
Take the middle section of your hair and tie it into a high ponytail. Place a donut bun under the base of the ponytail.
Cover the donut bun with the ponytail hair and secure it with an elastic band, creating a puffed ponytail look.
Take the loose hair from the side sections and wrap them around the donut bun, securing them with U-pins.
Repeat the process on the other side, wrapping the hair around the bun and securing it with U-pins.
Take a small section of hair from the front and gently twist it. Wrap it around the bun and tuck the ends with U-pins or bobby pins.
To add a touch of elegance, accessorize the bun with a pearl string or other hair accessory of your choice.

3. Lace Braid Updo

The lace braid updo is a versatile style that looks amazing on people with any face shape. This hairstyle accentuates the eyes and mouth, making it a great choice for those with a weak jawline. Follow these steps to achieve this ethereal updo:

Divide your hair into two halves, starting from the center of your forehead and extending to the nape of your neck. Allow the front sections of your hair to fall loose and frame your face.
Start braiding one section of your hair, beginning at the ear and extending all the way down to your neck. As you braid, add more hair into the braid with each subsequent stitch, making sure to keep the braid loose.
Tie the end of the braid with an elastic band.
Repeat the same process with the other section of hair.
Take one braid and pin it up on the opposite side, behind your ear.
Position the second braid over the first braid and pin it up behind your ear on the opposite side.
The loose hair below the braids creates a soft and feminine look. This effect is achieved by weaving your hair loosely as you add more hair to the braid.
To keep the nape clean and neat, use hairspray while braiding.

4. The Dutch Braid Bun Updo

The Dutch braid bun updo adds a unique twist to the traditional braid by reversing the direction of the braid. This style is also known as an inverted French braid. Follow these steps to achieve this eye-catching updo:

Start by combing your hair to remove any knots and tangles.
Pick up a small section of hair from where you want the braid to start and divide it into three equal sections.
Weave your hair in a Dutch braid by crossing the outer sections over the middle section. Unlike a regular braid, where the middle section goes under the side sections, in a Dutch braid, the middle section goes over the side sections.
After two stitches of the braid, add some hair from outside the braid to the side sections. Continue weaving the hair in two stitches, adding more hair to the sides each time.
Keep braiding until you reach the end of your hair and tie it with an elastic band.
Roll the bottom half of the Dutch braid into a bun. For medium-length hair, a flat bun will accentuate the braid. If you have long hair, a full bun will create a stunning look.

5. The Beehive Bun Updo

The beehive bun updo is a classic hairstyle that exudes elegance and sophistication. It’s perfect for formal events or when you want to add a touch of glamour to your look. Follow these steps to achieve this stunning updo:

Start by combing your hair to detangle it. Part your hair on one side for a more polished look.
Brush all of your hair to one side and hold it in place with hair pins.
Create a bouffant at the top by holding your hair as you would for a high ponytail and pushing it up. If needed, pin it to ensure it stays in place.
Twist the high ponytail into a French twist and pin it in place.
Take the side sections of your hair and pin them under the French twist bun.
For a more romantic and whimsical look, you can leave some side strands loose to frame your face and add some extra flair.

6. The French Twist Updo

The French twist updo is a versatile hairstyle that suits all face shapes. It can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion, making it a perfect choice for both formal events and everyday wear. Follow these steps to achieve this chic and sophisticated updo:

Start by detangling your hair with a comb. If you have fine textured hair, applying some dry shampoo can add volume.
Gather your hair at the center of your head.
Begin twisting your hair inward, towards your head. Continue twisting until all of your hair is wrapped up.
Once your hair is fully twisted, pin the bun in place.
Allow some loose strands of hair to frame your face, giving the hairstyle a boho vibe.

7. The Puffy Ponytail

The puffy ponytail is a simple yet stylish updo that’s perfect for the working woman. It’s quick to do and adds a touch of sophistication to any look. Follow these steps to achieve this effortlessly chic hairstyle:

Start by combing your hair to remove any knots and tangles.
Spritz some hairspray or dry shampoo to add texture and volume to your hair.
Part your hair on one side for a sleek and polished look.
Back-comb the hair on the crown of your head and pin it in the center at the back of your head. This creates a half ponytail while leaving the front sections of your hair loose.
Apply some hairspray to the half ponytail to ensure it stays in place.
Use a curler to curl the ends of your hair for added flair.
Gather your hair to tie a high ponytail, and you’ll notice that the half ponytail creates a bouffant. Tie the ponytail securely with an elastic band, and for a puffier look, gently tug on the hair to add volume.

8. The Messy Bun Updo

The messy bun is a versatile hairstyle that works for almost any occasion and face shape. It adds volume to your hair and frames your face beautifully with loose strands. Follow these steps to achieve this effortless and chic updo:

Begin by tying your hair in a high ponytail.
As you twist the elastic band for the last time, pull your hair only halfway through to create a bun shape.
Twist the ends of your hair and wrap them around the base of the bun. Use hair pins to secure them in place.

Pro Tip: For a more casual look, try making a loop bun and leave some hair strands loose.

9. The Braided Bun Updo

The braided bun updo is a stunning hairstyle that looks particularly impressive on people with oval faces. By adding a thick blunt bang or a deep part, you can frame your face beautifully. Follow these steps to achieve this elegant and romantic updo:

Detangle your hair with a comb to ensure smooth braiding.
Split your hair into two sections, starting from the hairline to the nape of your neck, leaving out your bangs.
Weave each section into a braid, making sure to pancake the braid for a loose and boho feel. Pancaking involves gently tugging on the braid to make it appear larger and more voluminous.
Wrap the braids around each other to form a bun and secure them in place with hair pins.

10. The Korean Bun Updo

The Korean bun updo is an incredibly stylish hairstyle that suits all face shapes. By adding curled loose side strands, you can enhance the beauty of this updo and create a romantic and whimsical look. Follow these steps to achieve this stunning updo:

Comb your hair to detangle it.
Start by braiding your hair into a French braid. Weave about five stitches of the braid and tie it with an elastic band.
Tie all of your hair into a ponytail.
Take the end of your ponytail and wrap it upwards and around itself until you reach the top of your head. To prevent the ends from unraveling, tie them together with an elastic band after one wrap and continue wrapping the hair over itself.
Once you reach the top, pin the hair up on the sides, forming a beautiful downward French twist.

11. The Elegant Bun Updo

The elegant bun updo is a sophisticated hairstyle that exudes confidence and elegance. It’s perfect for the office or any formal event where you want to make a strong impression. Follow these steps to achieve this boss-lady look:

Comb your hair to detangle it.
Divide your hair into two sections: the first section starts at the beginning of one ear and ends at the beginning of the other ear, and the second section is the rest of your hair. Tie the second section up in a ponytail.
Part the first section down the middle and backcomb it to create volume.
Take a donut bun band and insert it at the base of your ponytail. Slide it to the end, arrange the hair around it, and fold it outwards while moving it towards your head. Secure it in place with another elastic band.
If your hair is very long, not all of it will fit into the donut bun. That’s okay. Tie an elastic band around the donut bun to secure it, and allow the ends of your hair to hang down. Twist the ends and wrap them around the base of the bun.
Neatly comb the first section of hair backward and pin it up around the bun. The backcombing will create a slight puff in front, adding to the elegance of the updo.

12. The Back Braided Bun

The back braided bun is an easy-to-create hairstyle that looks gorgeous and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer a simple braided bun or want to incorporate additional twists, this updo is sure to turn heads. Follow these steps to achieve this stunning and unique updo:

Comb your hair to remove any knots.
Divide your hair into two sections and tie them into ponytails.
Weave each ponytail into a braid.
Take one braid, roll it into a bun, and pin it to your head.
Repeat the same process with the other braid, positioning it over the first braid.
Finish off the look by securing the bun with hair pins.
To ensure your updo stays in place, finish with a spritz of hairspray.

Congratulations! You are now equipped with 12 stylish updo hairstyles for long hair. Whether you’re attending a special event or simply want to elevate your everyday look, these stunning updos are sure to impress. Practice these hairstyles, experiment with different accessories, and make them your own. With a little patience and creativity, you’ll become a master of updos in no time.