12 Twisted Updos That Look Complicated (But Aren’t)

The Secret Weapon: Prep & Tools You Actually Need

Before we dive into the styles, let’s talk foundation. The key to any good updo is starting with the right canvas. Second or third-day hair is your best friend—a little natural oil provides grip and helps prevent flyaways. If your hair is freshly washed, spritz some dry shampoo or texturizing spray at the roots for volume and hold.

Your toolkit is simple: a fine-tooth comb for sectioning, a handful of strong-hold bobby pins (color-matched to your hair is a game-changer), a few clear elastic bands, and a light-hold hairspray or smoothing serum. That’s it! No need for fancy gadgets. Now, let’s get twisting.

1. The Classic Twisted Bun

This is the perfect starting point. Create a low ponytail but don’t secure it with an elastic. Instead, twist the entire length of the ponytail until it naturally coils around itself. Wrap the twisted length around the base to form a bun, tucking the end under, and secure with bobby pins. The pre-twisting creates beautiful, seamless texture that makes a basic bun look expertly crafted.

2. The Rope Braid Crown

Rope braids (or twist braids) look intricate but are simpler than traditional three-strand braids. Take a section of hair from each side above your temples. Twist each section tightly to the right. Then, cross the right twist over the left, adding a little hair from the side each time you cross. Continue around your head, pinning as you go, to create a beautiful, bohemian crown.

3. The Tucked Twist Ponytail

Elevate your everyday ponytail in 60 seconds. Gather your hair as if for a high ponytail, but before securing it, twist the entire section once. While holding the twist, wrap an elastic around to create a ponytail with a built-in, textured knot at the base. For extra flair, take a small section from the ponytail, wrap it around the elastic to conceal it, and pin it underneath.

4. The Hidden Twist Lowdo

This style is all about secret engineering. Create a low, loose ponytail. Pull out a small section from underneath the ponytail, twist it, and wrap it over the top of the elastic, pinning it underneath on the opposite side. It instantly adds a detail that looks like you interwove multiple strands, but it’s just one clever twist.

5. The Half-Up Twisted Knot

Gather the top section of your hair as if for a half-up style. Twist the entire section once to create a loose rope, then tie it in a simple overhand knot. Secure the knot at the base with a bobby pin or a small clip. Fluff it gently for a soft, romantic look that holds surprising volume.

6. The Bubble Twist

Start with a high ponytail. Secure an elastic a few inches down from the first, but before pulling the hair all the way through on the second loop, stop to create a “bubble.” Take a small strand from underneath the bubble, twist it, and wrap it around the elastic to hide it. Repeat down the length of the ponytail. The twists between each bubble add a polished, intricate touch.

7. The Elegant Twisted Chignon

Part your hair deeply to one side. On the heavier side, take a front section and begin a simple two-strand twist (rope braid), adding in hair from the front as you go back toward your ear. Once you reach behind your ear, combine it with the rest of your hair into a low twist or bun. This single accent twist frames the face beautifully and elevates a simple chignon.

8. The Double Twisted Updo

Divide your hair into two equal horizontal sections (top and bottom). Twist the bottom section into a low twisted bun and pin. Then, twist the top section separately and wrap it around the first bun, pinning it in place. This creates beautiful, defined layers of texture that look like you mastered a complex braid.

9. The Messy Twist & Pin Updo

This is the ultimate “I tried without trying” style. Gather small, random sections of hair, twist them loosely, and pin them to the back of your head in an artful, criss-cross pattern. There’s no right or wrong—just keep adding twisted pieces and pinning until you’re happy. The result is a beautifully undone, artistic updo.

10. The Side-Swept Twisted Pony

Brush all your hair to one side. Gather it as if for a low side ponytail. Before securing with the elastic, give the entire length one or two full twists. Secure with the elastic. The twist will cause the hair to fall in a lovely, draped manner over your shoulder, looking far more deliberate than a standard side pony.

11. The Twisted Headband Effect

Take a front section on one side, from temple to temple, and divide it into two strands. Twist them together into a rope braid. Once you reach the opposite ear, continue twisting the remaining length and tuck it behind your ear, pinning it securely. This creates the illusion of a twisted headband with zero effort.

12. The Infinity Twist Bun

Create a low ponytail. Split it into two equal sections. Twist each section tightly in the same direction. Then, twist those two twisted pieces *together* in the *opposite* direction. Coil the resulting double twist into a bun and pin. The counter-twisting creates a stunning, infinity-like pattern that looks incredibly complex.

Pro Tips for a Flawless Finish

No matter which style you choose, these final tips will ensure it looks polished and lasts. Always pin against the direction of pull—insert the bobby pin wavy-side down, pointing into the updo, for maximum hold. Use a light-hold hairspray on a toothbrush to gently tame baby hairs around your hairline. And don’t be afraid to pull gently on the sides of your twists or bun to create effortless volume; a little looseness is chic and forgiving.

The true beauty of these twisted updos is their accessibility. They don’t require magical skills, just a willingness to play with your hair. Each twist, each strategic pin, builds confidence. So next time you’re short on time but want to look like you put in serious effort, remember this list. Choose one, grab your pins, and get twisting. You might just surprise yourself with the gorgeous, complicated-looking results you can create with your own two hands.