12 Romantic Updos Perfect for Weddings and Parties
Imagine stepping into the celebration soft music fading into laughter, the scent of flowers lingering in the air and knowing every head turns when you enter.
A well-chosen updo doesn’t just “go with” your outfit; it complements your personality, tells your story, and becomes part of your memories in every candid photo.
Whether you’re the bride, part of the bridal party, or the guest who loves to dress for the occasion, these 12 timeless yet modern updos will keep you confidently beautiful through happy tears, whirlwind dancing, and tender embraces.
Each style comes with a step-by-step visual in words, accessory pairings, and pro tips so you know exactly how it will look, feel, and hold long after the champagne has been poured.
1. Textured Low Chignon
Why it’s loved: The low chignon is a bridal classic, but adding texture ensures it feels modern, airy, and effortless instead of stiff or overworked.
How to create it:
- Start with soft, loose waves—achievable with a large-barrel curling wand or by braiding slightly damp hair overnight.
- Create a gentle middle or side part, then lightly backcomb at the crown for subtle lift.
- Sweep hair back loosely, gathering it at the nape of your neck. Twist into a bun and secure with pins, using the twist’s natural looseness to create volume.
- Pull a few strands around the temples and nape for softness.
Accessory tips: Nestle pearl pins or a delicate comb on one side of the bun. This frames the face and photographs beautifully—especially next to a veil or chandelier earrings.
Pro stylist secret: Use a flexible-hold hairspray over a working spray—this keeps movement without the crunch. The chignon should feel touchable, not shellacked.
2. Classic French Twist
Why it’s loved: Utter sophistication and a nod to mid-century glamour, the French twist compliments sleek gowns and vintage silhouettes.
How to create it:
- Brush hair to one side at the back, smoothing with serum for shine.
- Gather the length and start twisting upward, tucking the ends inside as you go.
- Pin vertically along the seam with strong bobby pins, alternating directions for grip.
- Loosen subtly at the crown for volume if desired.
Accessory ideas: A vintage comb, crystal barrette, or gold hair stick brings this style into couture territory.
Pro stylist secret: Curl any face-framing strands separately with a 1-inch wand and spray with shine mist—they’ll break up the severity and flatter cheekbones.
3. Loose Boho Braid Bun
Why it’s loved: It’s a dream for outdoor weddings, rustic parties, and free-spirited brides. It works beautifully with both structured dresses and flowy gowns.
How to create it:
- Begin a loose French or fishtail braid starting behind one ear, braiding toward the opposite side.
- Pancake the braid by gently pulling apart sections for a wide, flattened look.
- Coil the braid into a bun at your nape and pin, leaving textured tendrils loose.
Accessory ideas: Tiny real blooms, silk flowers, or leafy combs tucked sporadically mimic the look of a meadow crown without the weight.
Pro stylist secret: For extra fullness, braid with hair extensions that match your shade—it keeps the braid fluffy without falling flat mid-event.
4. Messy Bun with Face-Framing Pieces
Why it’s loved: Casual romance embodied—perfect when you want something forgiving, photogenic, and comfortable.
How to create it:
- Use your fingers to gather hair loosely at the mid-back of your head.
- Twist into a chunky bun, letting random strands fall naturally.
- Curl these free pieces toward your face for softness.
Accessory ideas: A single delicate pin, pearl scatter clips, or even a velvet ribbon tied around the bun base look timeless.
Pro stylist secret: Skip sleek perfection—this is a look that loves imperfection. Spritz texturizing spray before gathering for extra grip and volume.
5. Sleek High Bun
Why it’s loved: High buns lift the face, accentuate necklines, and stay photo-perfect from ceremony to dance floor.
How to create it:
- Apply smoothing serum and brush hair upward into a high pony.
- Twist tightly into a bun, securing with pins in an “X” pattern for hold.
- Wrap a strand around the bun base to hide the elastic.
Accessory ideas: Crown with a tiara, vine headpiece, or crystal halo for bridal drama.
Pro stylist secret: Use a fine-tooth comb to tame flyaways with a touch of hairspray, not gel—this keeps the bun sleek without looking damp.
6. Braided Crown Updo
Why it’s loved: Regal yet approachable—ideal for outdoor weddings, vineyard venues, or whimsical receptions.
How to create it:
- Braid a medium-thick section from above each ear.
- Cross them over the crown, pinning ends discreetly behind the opposite ear.
- Gather remaining hair into a loosened bun.
Accessory ideas: Tuck in tiny gems, mini roses, or star pins for a celestial vibe.
Pro stylist secret: Loosen the crown braid slightly after pinning—it adds volume and a softer silhouette on camera.
7. Twisted Halo Updo
Why it’s loved: This updo whispers romance with its simple, goddess-like draping.
How to create it:
- Divide hair into two front sections.
- Twist each toward the back, meeting in the center.
- Secure into a low bun or knot, leaving curled tendrils loose around the face.
Accessory ideas: Weave a thin vine headband or dainty crystal chain through each twist for shimmer.
Pro stylist secret: Twist loosely rather than tightly for a softer, more organic halo look.
8. Hollywood-Inspired Waves Updo
Why it’s loved: Combines vintage glamour with the security of an updo perfect for formal black-tie weddings.
How to create it:
- Prep with large, smooth waves using a curling tong and brushing out for polish.
- Sweep waves into a low side bun while keeping sculptural curl shapes at the temples.
Accessory ideas: Oversized crystal clip at the bun or metallic wave combs to enhance movement.
Pro stylist secret: Set waves with clamps before gathering into the bun to lock in their iconic “S” shape.
9. Romantic Bubble Pony Bun
Why it’s loved: Playful structure meets updo security—a modern, airy take on bridal hair.
How to create it:
- Create a low ponytail and place small elastics at intervals.
- Gently tug each section to form “bubbles.”
- Coil the length into a bun and secure from the inside.
Accessory ideas: Minimalist gold rings between bubbles or decorative elastics for subtle glamour.
Pro stylist secret: Match elastic colors to your hair for a seamless effect unless going for a statement.
10. Double Twisting Low Bun
Why it’s loved: Mirror symmetry from each side makes this modern but deeply romantic.
How to create it:
- Part hair at the center.
- Twist each side toward the nape, gathering ends together.
- Coil into a bun and pin securely.
Accessory ideas: Matching crystal clips on each twist or one dramatic comb at the join.
Pro stylist secret: Works best on softly waved hair—pin twists loosely so highlights show through.
Styling & Longevity Tips
- Prep is everything: Use a light texturizing spray to give hair grip before styling, especially if it’s fine or freshly washed.
- Accessories make the mood: Fresh blooms for garden weddings, crystals for evening glamour, vintage combs for heritage venues.
- Balance: If the hair is dramatic, keep jewelry simple, and vice versa.
- Comfort first: Test your updo in advance jump, dance, and see how it holds before the big day.
