Whether you’re heading to the gym, working from home, or attending a formal event, finding the perfect updo can transform your entire look while keeping your hair perfectly in place.
The beauty of updo hairstyles lies in their versatility and practicality, offering solutions for every hair type, length, and occasion.
From quick five-minute fixes to elegant evening styles, 30 Easy Updo Hairstyles to Keep Hair Out of Your Face presents a comprehensive collection of techniques that will revolutionize your hair routine.
This article explores classic buns, trendy twists, braided updos, and modern variations that require minimal tools and maximum impact.
You’ll discover step-by-step guidance for creating professional-looking styles at home, along with tips for making each updo last throughout your busiest days.
Get ready to master these timeless and contemporary techniques that will keep you looking polished and put-together, no matter what your schedule demands.
1. Classic High Bun
The classic high bun remains the ultimate go-to updo for its simplicity and timeless elegance.
This versatile style works equally well for casual outings, professional settings, and formal events.
Perfect for all hair types, the high bun can be sleek and polished or messy and relaxed depending on your preference.
- Brush hair straight back and secure with an elastic band at the crown of your head
- Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base to form a bun shape
- Secure with bobby pins, tucking the ends under the bun
- Spray with hairspray for extra hold and smooth any flyaways
- For a messier look, gently pull at the bun to create volume and texture
2. Low Chignon
The low chignon epitomizes sophistication and works beautifully for formal occasions or professional environments.
This French-inspired style sits elegantly at the nape of the neck and complements various face shapes. T
he chignon can be adapted from sleek and minimal to textured and romantic.
- Create a low ponytail at the nape of your neck with a clear elastic
- Twist the ponytail loosely and fold it up toward the base
- Pin the twisted hair in place using bobby pins that match your hair color
- Smooth the front sections back and secure any loose pieces
- Finish with a light mist of flexible hold hairspray
3. Messy Top Knot
The messy top knot combines effortless style with practicality, making it perfect for casual days and relaxed settin.
This undone look appears naturally tousled while keeping hair securely off your face.
The beauty of this style lies in its imperfection and ease of creation.
- Gather hair loosely at the very top of your head without brushing
- Secure with an elastic, leaving the ends of the ponytail loose
- Twist the loose ends around the base and pin randomly with bobby pins
- Gently pull at sections of the bun to create volume and texture
- Allow small pieces to fall naturally around your face for a soft effect
4. Braided Crown Updo
The braided crown updo transforms ordinary braids into a regal, sophisticated style that works for special occasions and everyday elegance.
This technique combines the charm of braiding with the practicality of an updo.
The style works particularly well on medium to long hair and can be customized with different braid patterns.
- Create a deep side part and begin a Dutch braid along your hairline
- Continue braiding around your head, incorporating hair as you go
- Secure the braid end with a clear elastic when you reach the starting point
- Gather remaining loose hair into a low bun at the nape
- Pin the braid and bun securely, hiding all elastic bands under hair
5. Twisted Side Updo
The twisted side updo offers an asymmetrical elegance that flatters most face shapes while maintaining sophistication.
This style incorporates gentle twisting techniques that add visual interest without complexity.
Perfect for medium to long hair, this updo works well for both formal and semi-formal occasions.
- Create a deep side part and separate hair into two unequal sections
- Twist the larger section back loosely, securing with bobby pins along the way
- Gather the remaining hair with the twisted section into a low side bun
- Pin the bun securely at the lower side of your head
- Smooth any remaining flyaways and set with light hairspray
6. French Twist
The French twist embodies timeless sophistication and works beautifully for formal events, professional settings, and elegant evenings.
This classic updo creates a sleek vertical line that elongates the neck and provides a polished appearance.
While it appears complex, the French twist can be mastered with practice and the right technique.
- Brush hair straight back and gather loosely at the nape of your neck
- Lift the hair and begin rolling it inward toward your head
- Continue rolling until you create a vertical cylinder of hair
- Secure the roll with bobby pins inserted vertically along the seam
- Tuck the ends under and pin securely, then set with firm hold hairspray
7. Double Dutch Braid Buns
Double Dutch braid buns combine the security of braiding with the neat appearance of buns, creating a style that’s both functional and fashionable.
This technique works exceptionally well for active lifestyles and longer hair.
The symmetrical design provides excellent hold while looking intentionally styled.
- Part hair down the center from forehead to nape
- Create Dutch braids on each side, starting at the hairline
- Continue braiding until you reach the ends, then secure with elastics
- Wrap each braid into a bun shape at the base of your neck
- Pin both buns securely and smooth any loose pieces around your face
8. Gibson Tuck
The Gibson Tuck offers vintage-inspired elegance with modern practicality, perfect for those seeking a romantic updo with historical charm.
This style works beautifully on medium to long hair and provides excellent hold throughout the day.
The inward-rolling technique creates a sophisticated silhouette that complements formal attire.
- Create a low ponytail with a loose elastic band
- Make a small opening above the elastic and flip the ponytail through
- Continue tucking and rolling the hair under until it forms a neat roll
- Pin the rolled hair securely along the nape of your neck
- Adjust the front sections for volume and set with flexible hairspray
9. Sock Bun Method
The sock bun method creates perfectly round, voluminous buns using a simple hair accessory made from an old sock.
This technique ensures consistent shape and impressive volume while maintaining security throughout wear.
Ideal for formal events and professional settings where a polished appearance is essential.
- Cut the toe off a clean sock and roll it into a donut shape
- Create a high ponytail and thread it through the sock donut
- Spread hair evenly around the sock, covering it completely
- Secure with another elastic band over the covered sock
- Wrap remaining hair around the base and pin with bobby pins
10. Waterfall Braid Updo
The waterfall braid updo combines the romantic appeal of cascading braids with the practicality of secured hair.
This style creates beautiful movement and texture while keeping hair off your face and neck. Perfect for special occasions and romantic settings, this updo works best on longer hair.
- Begin a waterfall braid at one temple, dropping strands as you braid across
- Continue the waterfall braid to the opposite side of your head
- Gather all loose hair, including dropped strands, into a low bun
- Secure the bun with bobby pins and adjust the braid for even spacing
- Finish with texturizing spray for enhanced definition and hold
11. Half-Up Space Buns
Half-up space buns bring a playful, youthful energy to updo styling while maintaining face-framing benefits.
This trendy style keeps the top section of hair secured while allowing length to flow freely.
Perfect for festivals, casual outings, and creative expression, space buns work well on various hair textures.
- Section the top half of your hair from ear to ear
- Divide this section into two equal parts along your center part
- Create high ponytails on each side above your ears
- Twist each ponytail and wrap into small bun shapes
- Secure with bobby pins and leave the bottom section of hair flowing freely
12. Rolled Updo
The rolled updo creates elegant curves and sophisticated lines that work beautifully for formal occasions.
This technique involves rolling sections of hair inward to create dimensional layers within the style. The rolled elements add visual interest while maintaining the practical benefits of an updo.
- Divide hair into three horizontal sections: top, middle, and bottom
- Roll each section inward toward your head, starting with the bottom layer
- Pin each rolled section securely with bobby pins
- Layer the rolls on top of each other, creating a graduated effect
- Smooth the top layer and secure any loose ends with additional pins
13. Fishtail Braid Bun
The fishtail braid bun combines intricate braiding techniques with neat updo styling for a look that’s both detailed and practical.
This style showcases the beautiful texture of fishtail braiding while keeping hair completely secured. Works exceptionally well for medium to long hair and formal occasions.
- Create a low ponytail and divide it into two equal sections
- Take a small piece from the outside of the left section and cross it over to the right
- Repeat on the opposite side, continuing this pattern down the length
- Secure the completed fishtail braid with a clear elastic
- Wrap the braid around its base to form a bun and pin securely
14. Twisted Rope Bun
The twisted rope bun offers a unique texture that stands out from traditional bun styles while maintaining simplicity in creation.
This technique involves twisting hair into rope-like sections before forming the bun.
The result is a dimensional updo with interesting visual appeal that works for both casual and dressy occasions.
- Gather hair into a ponytail at your desired height
- Divide the ponytail into two equal sections
- Twist each section in the same direction until they’re tight rope-like strands
- Wrap the twisted sections around each other and then around the base
- Secure with bobby pins, tucking ends under the bun
15. Infinity Bun
The infinity bun creates a figure-eight shape that’s both mathematically pleasing and practically secure.
This unique styling technique produces an interesting silhouette while providing excellent hold throughout wear.
Perfect for those seeking something different from traditional round buns, this style works well on medium to long hair.
- Create a ponytail and divide it into two equal sections
- Form one section into a loop and pin it to one side of the base
- Create a second loop with the remaining hair on the opposite side
- Cross the loops over each other to create the infinity shape
- Secure all crossing points with bobby pins and adjust for symmetry
16. Braided Chignon
The braided chignon elevates the classic chignon with intricate braiding details that add texture and visual interest.
This sophisticated style works beautifully for weddings, formal events, and professional settings.
The combination of braiding and twisting techniques creates a complex appearance while remaining secure and wearable.
- Create a loose braid with a section of hair from one side
- Gather remaining hair into a low ponytail at the nape
- Twist the ponytail and wrap it into a chignon shape
- Wrap the braid around the chignon, weaving it through for security
- Pin all elements securely and smooth any loose pieces
17. Victory Rolls Updo
Victory rolls updo brings vintage glamour with a modern twist, perfect for themed events, formal occasions, or anyone wanting to embrace retro styling.
This 1940s-inspired technique creates distinctive rolled sections that frame the face beautifully.
While it requires some practice, the result is undeniably striking and elegant.
- Section hair from temple to temple across the top of your head
- Create pin curls or hot roller curls in these front sections
- Roll each curled section forward an upward, forming the characteristic victory roll shape
- Secure each roll with bobby pins inserted invisibly into the curl
- Style remaining hair into a complementary updo at the back
18. Dutch Crown Braid Bun
The Dutch crown braid bun combines the security of a crown braid with the neat finishing of a bun.
This style keeps hair completely off the face and neck while creating beautiful braided detail around the hairline.
Excellent for active lifestyles, formal events, and anyone seeking a long-lasting updo with visual interest.
- Begin a Dutch braid at one ear, working along your hairline
- Continue braiding around your head, adding hair as you progress
- When you complete the circle, continue with a regular braid
- Wrap the braid end into a bun and secure with bobby pins
- Adjust the crown braid for even tension and smooth finish
19. Textured Low Bun
The textured low bun embraces natural hair movement while maintaining sophisticated appeal.
This style works particularly well for those with naturally wavy or curly hair, as it celebrates texture rather than fighting against it.
The relaxed approach creates an effortlessly elegant appearance perfect for various occasions.
- Apply texturizing product to damp hair and air dry for natural texture
- Loosely gather hair at the nape without smoothing completely
- Twist the gathered hair gently and wrap into a loose bun shape
- Pin the bun allowing some texture to show through
- Pull gently at the bun and surrounding hair to enhance the textured effect
20. Ribbon-Woven Updo
The ribbon-woven updo incorporates decorative ribbon for added elegance and color contrast.
This technique transforms a simple bun into something special for formal occasions, weddings, or festive events.
The ribbon adds both visual interest and additional security to the style.
- Choose a ribbon that complements your outfit and hair color
- Create a basic bun or chignon as your foundation
- Weave the ribbon through sections of the updo, creating gentle loops
- Secure ribbon ends discretely with bobby pins under the hair
- Adjust ribbon placement for even distribution and desired effect
21. Asymmetrical Side Bun
The asymmetrical side bun breaks traditional symmetry rules for a modern, artistic approach to updo styling.
This off-center placement creates visual interest while maintaining all the practical benefits of keeping hair secured.
Perfect for those who prefer contemporary styling with an edge.
- Create a deep side part that extends to behind one ear
- Gather hair to the lower side of your head, not centered
- Form a bun in this off-center position using your preferred technique
- Ensure the asymmetrical placement feels intentional and balanced
- Smooth hair from the opposite side to emphasize the asymmetrical design
22. Multiple Mini Buns
Multiple mini buns create a playful, contemporary look that’s both practical and visually striking.
This style works particularly well for those with thick hair or anyone wanting to try something unconventional.
The multiple buns distribute weight evenly and provide excellent security throughout wear.
- Divide hair into 4-6 sections depending on thickness and desired effect
- Create small ponytails in each section at varying heights
- Form each ponytail into a mini bun using your preferred technique
- Secure each bun individually with bobby pins
- Adjust spacing and height for visual balance and comfort
23. Knotted Updo
The knotted updo uses simple hair-tying techniques to create an intricate-looking style without complex braiding skills.
This approach relies on strategic knotting to build structure and visual interest.
Perfect for medium to long hair, this technique offers security with an artistic appearance.
- Section hair into manageable pieces for knotting
- Tie simple overhand knots with pairs of sections
- Continue knotting, incorporating previous knots into new ones
- Build upward and backward, creating a sculptural effect
- Pin final knots securely and adjust for desired fullness
24. Pinwheel Bun
The pinwheel bun creates a spiral pattern that resembles its namesake, offering a unique geometric approach to updo styling.
This technique involves wrapping hair in a specific pattern to achieve the pinwheel effect.
The result is both secure and visually captivating, perfect for special occasions.
- Create a ponytail at your chosen height and secure with elastic
- Divide the ponytail into several equal sections
- Braid each section loosely and secure ends temporarily
- Wrap each braid around the base in a spiral pattern, overlapping slightly
- Pin each braid section as you wrap to create the pinwheel design
25. Graduated Layer Bun
The graduated layer bun builds sections of hair in ascending layers for a dimensional, architectural appearance.
This technique works particularly well for showcasing different hair lengths within the same style.
The layered approach creates depth and visual interest while maintaining security.
- Divide hair horizontally into three or four layers
- Secure each layer at slightly different heights on your head
- Form each secured section into a partial bun
- Layer the buns on top of each other, with the lowest layer largest
- Pin all layers together while maintaining the graduated appearance
26. Crossed-Pin Updo
The crossed-pin updo uses decorative bobby pins as both functional and aesthetic elements.
This minimalist approach allows the pins themselves to become part of the design while providing necessary hold.
Perfect for those who appreciate clean lines and geometric precision in their styling.
- Smooth hair back into a low gathering point
- Secure the base with a small elastic band
- Use decorative or contrasting bobby pins to create crossing patterns
- Insert pins at angles to form geometric designs while securing hair
- Balance functional hold with aesthetic pin placement
27. Bubble Ponytail Updo
The bubble ponytail updo transforms the trendy bubble ponytail into a more formal updo by coiling the bubbled sections.
This style maintains the playful bubble texture while achieving the sophistication of an updo.
Works beautifully for medium to long hair and semi-formal occasions.
- Create a ponytail and add elastic bands every few inches down its length
- Gently pull at each section between elastics to create bubble shapes
- Coil the entire bubbled ponytail and pin it into an updo formation
- Ensure each bubble maintains its shape within the updo
- Secure with bobby pins while preserving the textured appearance
28. Origami Fold Updo
The origami fold updo takes inspiration from paper folding techniques to create sharp, architectural lines in hair styling.
This modern approach emphasizes geometric precision and clean edges.
Perfect for those who appreciate contemporary art and want their hairstyle to reflect artistic sensibilities.
- Section hair into geometric shapes rather than traditional curves
- Fold each section with sharp precision, creating angular shapes
- Pin folds to maintain their geometric integrity
- Build the updo using straight lines and angular connections
- Focus on architectural elements rather than soft curves
29. Layered Twist Updo
The layered twist updo combines multiple twisting techniques at different levels to create depth and movement.
This approach layers various twisted elements for a complex appearance that’s actually quite achievable.
The multiple layers provide excellent security while showcasing different twisting patterns.
- Divide hair into several horizontal sections
- Create different types of twists in each section (rope twists, regular twists, loose twists)
- Layer the twisted sections at different heights and angles
- Secure each twisted element individually before combining
- Build upward and backward, creating a sculpted twisted landscape
30. Vintage-Inspired Bouffant Updo
The vintage-inspired bouffant updo brings 1960s glamour to modern styling with its characteristic volume and sophisticated height.
This style creates dramatic elevation at the crown while keeping hair elegantly secured.
Perfect for formal events and anyone wanting to embrace retro glamour with contemporary wearability.
- Tease hair at the crown using a fine-tooth comb for maximum volume
- Smooth the top layer over the teased hair without flattening completely
- Secure the bouffant with bobby pins placed strategically for invisible hold
- Gather remaining length into an elegant updo at the nape
- Set the entire style with strong hold hairspray to maintain volume and shape
Conclusion
Mastering the art of updo styling opens up endless possibilities for keeping your hair both beautiful and practical throughout any day or event.
The 30 Easy Updo Hairstyles to Keep Hair Out of Your Face presented in this comprehensive guide offer solutions for every skill level, hair type, and occasion imaginable.
From quick everyday fixes like the messy top knot to elaborate formal styles such as the vintage-inspired bouffant updo, these techniques ensure you’ll never be without options for elegant, secure hair styling.
The key to success with any updo lies in practice, patience, and finding the techniques that work best with your individual hair texture and lifestyle needs.
Whether you’re preparing for a professional presentation, an evening out, or simply need to keep hair contained during daily activities, these versatile updo options will serve you well.
Remember that the most beautiful updo is one that makes you feel confident and comfortable, so don’t hesitate to adapt these techniques to suit your personal style and preferences.
