Elevate your bridal look with 42 stunning updo wedding hairstyles. From classic to modern, find inspiration for your perfect wedding day hairstyle.
From the moment you excitedly say “yes,” you have many decisions to make about your wedding day. Do you choose violet or navy color palette? A DJ or a band? While the details of the day whirl around in your mind, there is one in particular that stands out most—how you’ll look when you say “I do!”
Looking good translates to feeling good. And while you may have already said “yes” to your significant other and the dress, choosing how you’ll wear your hair is one of the decisions that follow. We’ve compiled a list of 42 bridal updo hairstyles for your wedding day to help you pick the perfect hairstyle to match your dress and wedding theme.
1. Low Ballerina Bun Updo
A ballerina bun is the traditional go-to hairstyle for dancers. It’s sleek, simple, and has a reputation for holding up well throughout the evening—perfect for dancing the night away!
Style your ballerina bun your way—you have options. You can ask your stylist to part your hair on the side, in the middle, or opt for no part. Pair your low ballerina bun with drop earrings and an understated smokey eye.
2. Classic Chignon Updo
The bride going for classic beauty can’t go wrong with a classic chignon updo. Inspired by the French phrase “chignon du cou,” which translates to “nape of the neck,” this updo features the hair swept into a lower bun, typically with a twist.
A classic chignon updo is known for its recognizable look. Wear a wedding gown with an exposed back, flowery hairpiece, delicate earrings, and a simple necklace to pull it all together.
3. Twisted Hair Updo
A twisted hair updo is a simple twist on a standard bun. This hairstyle adds texture to the look and provides just the right amount of tousle. To keep it chic, pair this look with a mid-century modern wedding dress and a string of pearls.
4. Braided Hair Updo
A braided hair updo works well for both formal and informal weddings, especially for a spring or summer wedding. Get creative with your stylist to highlight the braid in various ways.
Complement this updo with a flower crown or ribbons and a veil to feel like a princess bride. We recommend studded earrings and a red lip for a bold look.
5. Chic Updo
A chic updo emphasizes high cheekbones and sophistication. Feel unstoppable wearing a chic updo that features hair pulled back with every strand in place. This hairstyle works well with a mermaid-style dress with drop earrings and glam makeup—work with your artist to determine what's best!
6. Low Bun Updo
Accentuate your back with an open-back wedding dress and a low bun updo. Your stylist can use hair accessories like daisies, pearls, or metal barrettes to add some eye-catching detail.
7. Curly Updo
Curls are to bridal hair like popping champagne is to “I do.” To try this style, invert your curls, tease them, twist them into a bun or pony, and finish it off with face-framing strands. There are endless opportunities to make your curly-haired updo your own.
Curls also pair beautifully with just about any style of wedding dress you choose and can elevate the elegance of your veil.
8. Sleek Updo
A sleek updo is perfect for the vintage-loving bride. Channel your inner ‘70s Cher by rocking a sleek updo that wows the crowd on your big day. Take it a step further and add large hoop earrings and glittery eyeshadow to complete the look.
9. Messy Updo
Messy updos bring that sultry look to any bride. Ask your stylist to tease your hair to build volume before pulling your hair into an updo, complete with untucked wisps of hair to add to the tousled vibe. The goal of the messy updo is for your hair to look less put together and more sensual.
10. Beachy Updo
The beachy updo is perfect for a seaside wedding. This hairstyle may appear complex, but we assure you that it isn't. The attraction to this style is in the relaxed, carefree appearance, so don't worry if your beachy updo isn't perfect—in fact, that's the draw!
Opt for sun-kissed skin and natural makeup to pull it all together.
11. High Ballerina Bun Updo
While we touched on the practicality of a low ballerina bun, a high ballerina bun follows suit. Put on your dancing shoes because the style of a high ballerina bun ensures your hair stays put. Having your hair placed high on your head makes you look taller, too, similar to the effect of wearing high heels.
12. Wavy Chignon
Picture this: it’s a 62-degree autumn day, and your partner has just locked eyes with yours. You’re walking down the aisle, feeling poised and graceful. You’ve chosen a wavy chignon updo for your special day, paired with lace Mary Janes and diamond drop earrings. A wavy chignon is a perfect updo to complement this classic style.
13. Ponytail Updo
Ponytails aren’t reserved for casual styles—they're also suitable for weddings. Both modern and sophisticated, a ponytail with short bangs is a great option for stylish and trendy brides. From simple high-puff ponytails to low ponytails, there are various ways to enhance a typical pony for your wedding day.
14. Side Bun Updo
The side bun is one of those hairstyles that’s universally flattering—it’s a playful, flirtatious, and adaptable updo that makes you feel put together without appearing excessive. You can add hair clips and flowers to elevate the look. Additionally, your makeup artist can work with any vibe you’re going for to match this updo.
15. Dutch Braid Updo
The Dutch braid is a popular bridal hairstyle. You’ll look stunning wearing a Dutch braid updo with a ball gown wedding dress. Ask your stylist to wrap the braid into a cute bun or create a gorgeous Dutch braid headband with a side braid.
16. French Braid Updo
Create a romantic updo that will stand out by adding a French braid to your hair for a contemporary touch. Although it might seem intricate, a French braid updo doesn't look too overstated—it’s ideal for lovers of a chic and modern style.
17. Fishtail Braid Updo
A fishtail braid updo is a playful way to incorporate a braid into your wedding hair. This quirky plait radiates an air of carefree charm. We recommend peachy cheeks and a light glitter around the eyes. Add a crystal headband to make it a bit more formal.
18. Inverted Bun Updo
An inverted bun is just the hairstyle for the bride short on time. An inverted bun is one of those beginner easy updo hairstyles. It can take less than 10 minutes from start to finish. Although it comes together quickly, a bride sacrifices nothing if she chooses this ‘do for her special day.
19. Classic Low Curly Updo
A classic low curly updo is the perfect style for those with shorter locks. Hair can be pinned up with strands dangling over the ears and cheeks. Almost any hair type can accommodate this updo and look fabulous on your magical day.
20. Beachy Bouffant Updo
Even when hair is exposed to seaside breezes, a beachy bouffant bun will keep it in place. Let loose strands escape to create that truly beachy look and dazzle the crowd with a glittery tiara or chandelier earrings. Feeling so beautiful while you walk down the aisle may just make you shed happy tears!
21. Sleek High Ponytail Updo
For those with straight hair, pulling it tightly out of your face in a sleek high ponytail is a great option. This updo encourages more defined cheekbones. Consider a baked look with extra contour and illuminator for a bronzed look.
22. Tousled Updo With Front Strands
For a style that stands out and is easy to maintain through your ceremony and reception, a tousled updo with two loose front strands is your ticket to effortless beauty. The ‘90s-inspired updo balances edginess with grace when matched with dangly earrings and a smokey eye.
23. Inverted French Braid Bun
Inverted French braids are a unique take on a popular hairstyle. The braid starts at the base of the head and continues upward into a bun. This updo will create a classy and polished look when you say “I do.”
24. Braided Halo Updo
Halo braids are flirtatious and have a bohemian vibe—ideal for a beautiful summer wedding. All eyes will stay on you without compromising the charm of a classic bridal look.
25. Side Afro Puff Updo
A wonderful way to spice up a well-known Afro hairstyle is to pull your puff to the side. Pulling your hair to the side gives you more freedom and flexibility when adding your preferred bridal hair accessory. It's essentially a new take on an old favorite.
26. Updo for Short Hair With Hairpiece
Short locks don’t prevent you from achieving a beautiful updo on your wedding day. As long as your stylist can pull your hair back, you can complement the style with an accessory like a flower hair comb or diamond vine.
27. Bohemian Updo
Unleash your free spirit with a bohemian updo. Twirl your hair into a loose bouffant and couple your style with a flower crown. A sleeved wedding dress and natural makeup with a pop of lip gloss truly elevate this bridal style.
28. Twist and Roll Updo
Try this flawless wedding day updo ideal for those with short hair. A twist and roll updo creates a simple yet classy look that makes for a minimalistic style. Add a headband for a pop of white if you have darker hair color.
29. Low Looped Updo
Looking for easy updos? A looped updo is a great way to paint a striking image for your wedding. With a few well-placed accessories, this updo is adaptable and can suit a boho or rustic wedding feel.
30. Loose Curl Updo
Curls are whimsical and add to the magic of wedding days. Opting for a loose curl updo gives your hair the freedom to bounce and build volume. In addition, you can wear a string of pearls, a diamond necklace, or drop earrings to tie the look together. Feel free to go all out for wedding glam or rock a near-bare face to match this updo.
31. High-Volume Updo
It's fun to layer curls and twists into long and medium-length hair. The swanky appeal of high-volume updos emphasizes femininity and charm. This style is a perfect match for those with thick hair. Use hairspray generously to keep your updo in place.
32. High Bun Updo With Hairpiece
A high bun coupled with a hairpiece is a perfect choice if your style leans more traditional. This updo continues to impress due to its versatility.
33. Sleek Chignon With Middle Part Updo
A sleek chignon is a classy updo for lovers of timeless styles. A middle part exudes a confident and polished vibe. Long white gloves and diamond earrings heighten the romantic look.
34. Cornrows and Bun Updo
For natural or relaxed hair, cornrows are a lovely and low-maintenance hairstyle. Ask your hairdresser to twist them up into a tight bun for an instant bridal look. Not only will this updo complement any makeup of your choice, but it will also complement your choice of accessories.
35. Shaggy Low Bun
If you consider yourself more casual, opt for a shaggy low bun. This updo is perfect for those who exude a wild and joyful vibe but don't always want to maintain a flawless, put-together look. Wear a tiara to elevate the hairstyle and add formality.
36. French Twist Updo
You’ll feel like the diamond of the season with one of the most timeless updos—the French twist. You can wear it sleek and beautifully primped or soft and disheveled, with a bridal headpiece or veil, depending on your wedding style and other accessories.
37. Pinned Curls Updo
A voluminous curly bun is a gorgeous choice if you wish to wear your hair curly for your wedding. Curly updos look beautiful on all hair types. Create a pretty princess updo with a romantic flair by pinning your curls at the nape of your neck. This updo looks incredibly elegant and classy when accompanied by pearls and flowers.
38. Sleek, Low Puffed Ponytail
A sleek, low puffy ponytail is a good option for your big day. If you're the type who has your mind set on doing your own hair, this style is simple to do. With or without extensions, this look can be accomplished on relaxed or natural hair.
39. Sisterlocks Updo
Sisterlocks are taken to the next level when woven together and fashioned into a stunning updo for your wedding day. With a little imagination, your Sisterlocks can turn into whatever you wish. Twist your locs into an adorable bun or hang them into a pony. Your stylist can help bring your wedding hair dreams to life. Pair with a pearly hairpiece or flowers.
40. Faux Hawk With Curls Updo
Rocking a trendy faux hawk is one of the most unexpected wedding updos for curly hair that attracts attention. This hairstyle is a charming way to accentuate your curls and flaunt bare shoulders. This ‘do is for those who radiate charisma, style, and playfulness.
41. Bun With Side-Swept Bangs Updo
Those with longer faces and more prominent foreheads look gorgeous with a bun updo featuring side-swept bangs. However, anyone can let their bangs free on their wedding day and look stunning. Bangs suggest a youthful appearance that will complement any wedding gown.
42. Finger Waves Updo
Although finger waves are often associated with 1920s culture, this dramatic texture is becoming increasingly popular in more contemporary weddings. This updo pairs lovely with an A-line wedding dress and diamond drop earrings. Complete the look with a bold red lip.
We hope our list of wedding updos for long hair, short hair, and any hair type has inspired you! While you plan your perfect wedding day, you should not sacrifice quality for a lower price. Search reputable stylists, florists, and other vendors in your area to inquire about what’s left on your checklist.
