10 Romantic Updos for Date Night

1. The Effortless Messy Bun

Don’t let the name fool you—this is messy by design, and it’s the epitome of effortless chic. The goal is a bun that looks like you casually twisted it up, with soft tendrils framing your face and a shape that’s full and textured, not tight and perfect. It’s approachable, sexy, and incredibly quick to achieve. Start with second-day hair or add a bit of texturizing spray for grip. Pull your hair into a high or low ponytail, twist it loosely, and wrap it around the base, securing with pins. The key is to gently pull out face-framing pieces and loosen the bun for that romantic, lived-in feel.

2. The Braided Crown

Channel your inner goddess or bohemian romance with a braided crown. This style encircles your head with a halo of braids, creating a soft, ethereal, and incredibly feminine look. It works beautifully on both long and medium-length hair. You can opt for a single Dutch braid (braided underhand for a raised effect) starting at one temple and wrapping around, or two smaller braids starting at each side and meeting at the back. Tuck the ends under and secure with bobby pins. For added romance, gently pull on the edges of the braid to pancake it, making it look fuller and softer.

3. The Classic Chignon

Timeless, elegant, and perpetually sophisticated, the chignon is a date-night staple. This low bun, typically positioned at the nape of the neck, speaks of understated glamour. For a romantic twist, avoid making it too sleek or severe. Create a low ponytail, twist it, and coil it into a knot, tucking the end under. Use pins to secure, but leave some volume at the crown and pull out a few soft pieces. A side-parted chignon or one with a slight twist at the crown before gathering the hair can add extra visual interest and romance.

4. The Twisted Low Updo

This is one of the easiest yet most stunning romantic updos to master. It involves creating two large twists or rope braids and pinning them together into a low, intricate-looking bun. It’s softer than a braid and has beautiful texture. Simply divide your hair into two sections, twist each one tightly, then twist them together around each other and pin at the base of your skull. Leave the ends out to flutter or tuck them in for a neater finish. The result is a detailed, romantic updo that looks far more complex than it actually is.

5. The Bubble Ponytail Updo

Playful, modern, and undeniably fun, the bubble updo adds a youthful and flirty touch to your date night look. Start with a high ponytail. Then, at even intervals down the length of the ponytail, place hair elastics, spacing them a few inches apart. The magic happens next: gently pull and puff out the hair between each elastic to create “bubbles.” You can leave the tail out or twist it into a small bun. This style is fantastic for adding volume and a touch of whimsical romance to your ensemble.

6. The Voluminous Gibson Tuck

A vintage-inspired style that oozes old Hollywood romance, the Gibson Tuck is all about volume at the crown and a tucked, seamless back. It’s surprisingly simple. Create volume at the crown with backcombing or a volumizing spray. Then, gather your hair at the nape of your neck as if for a low ponytail, but instead of pulling it all the way through on the last loop of the elastic, tuck the ends under to create a soft, folded effect. Secure with pins and gently pull at the crown to enhance the volume. It’s elegant, dramatic, and perfectly romantic.

7. The Fishtail Braid Bun

Combine the boho charm of a fishtail braid with the polish of an updo. This style starts with a low, side-swept fishtail braid. Once the braid is complete, instead of securing the end with an elastic, coil it into a bun at the nape of your neck or slightly to the side. Pin it securely. The intricate texture of the fishtail makes the bun look exceptionally detailed and romantic. Pull out a few pieces around the face and at the neck to soften the look even further.

8. The Half-Up Twisted Crown

If you love the look of an updo but can’t bear to put all your hair up, this is your perfect compromise. It offers the romantic detail of an updo while letting your locks flow freely. Take two sections of hair from the front, twist them back, and cross them over each other at the back of your head, pinning them in place. This creates a beautiful, crown-like effect that keeps hair out of your face while showcasing your length. It’s ideal for a date that involves a breezy walk or a more casual, yet still special, setting.

9. The Sleek Ballerina Bun

For a look that is sharp, modern, and intensely chic, the high ballerina bun is a powerful choice. When executed with sleekness, it highlights your facial features and neckline beautifully. To keep it romantic, avoid making it too severe. Use a smoothing product to eliminate flyaways, but consider a soft wispy hairline or a few strategically placed loose strands. Placement is key—a bun right at the crown of the head feels youthful and elegant. This style pairs exceptionally well with statement earrings and a bold lip.

10. The Romantic Updo with Accessories

Sometimes, the simplest updo is transformed into something extraordinary with the right accessory. Take any basic bun, twist, or chignon and add a touch of sparkle or nature. A delicate chain with a pearl detail woven into the base of a bun, a sparkling barrette holding a twisted section, or even a few fresh, small flowers (for a garden date) can elevate your hairstyle to a work of art. The accessory becomes the focal point, adding a personalized and deeply romantic touch to your overall look.

Final Tips for Your Perfect Romantic Updo

No matter which of these romantic updos you choose, a few universal tips will ensure success. Prep is everything: Slightly dirty hair has more grip than freshly washed hair. Use a texturizing spray or dry shampoo at the roots for volume and hold. Invest in good tools: Clear elastics, bobby pins that match your hair color, and a strong-hold hairspray are your best friends. Practice makes perfect: Try your chosen style a day or two before the big date. Most importantly, embrace the imperfections. A few loose strands or a slightly asymmetrical shape often add to the romantic, effortless vibe. Now, you’re ready to turn heads and feel absolutely beautiful on your special night out.