17 Braided Updo Combinations That Wow Every Time
Is there any hairstyle more universally enchanting than a braided updo? It’s the perfect marriage of intricate artistry and practical elegance. Whether you’re preparing for a red-carpet event, a friend’s wedding, or simply want to elevate your everyday look, a braided updo offers limitless possibilities. Gone are the days of the simple braided bun. Today’s trends are all about creative combinations—mixing braid types, textures, and placements to create a look that is uniquely you. This guide is your inspiration vault, featuring seventeen breathtaking braided updo combinations guaranteed to turn heads and spark compliments every single time.
1. The Classic Dutch Crown Braid
Let’s start with a timeless regal look. The Dutch crown braid, where braids are woven underhand to create a raised, 3D effect, is circumnavigates your head like a halo. This style is perfect for keeping hair off your face while looking effortlessly chic. For a modern twist, start with a deep side part and incorporate small, face-framing tendrils. It’s a stunning choice for brides, bridesmaids, or anyone channeling their inner queen.
2. Fishtail Braid into a Low Chignon
The fishtail braid is renowned for its delicate, intricate pattern. By weaving a single, thick fishtail braid and then coiling it into a low, sleek chignon at the nape of the neck, you achieve a look of sophisticated complexity. This combination is exceptionally elegant for formal dinners and black-tie events. Pro tip: lightly pull apart the sections of the fishtail before coiling to maximize volume and visual interest.
3. Triple Braided Ballerina Bun
Channel graceful ballerina vibes with this structured yet beautiful updo. Create three separate Dutch or French braids horizontally across the back of your head, gathering all the ends together into a high, tight bun. The braids act as stunning accents leading the eye to the classic bun. This style is not only gorgeous but also incredibly secure for active days or performances.
4. Bohemian Rope Braid Twist
For a relaxed, festival-ready look, rope braids (or twist braids) are your best friend. Create two thick rope braids on either side of your head and twist them together loosely into a messy, low bun. Gently pull out face-framing pieces and wispy strands around the neck for that signature carefree bohemian feel. This combination is ideal for a day out or a casual summer wedding.
5. The Braided Headband into a Ponytail Updo
This is a fantastic way to elevate a simple ponytail. Take a section of hair from the front and braid it into a Dutch or French braid, wrapping it across your head like a headband. Secure it at the opposite ear, then gather all your hair, including the braid ends, into a high, sleek ponytail. You can then twist the ponytail into a bun or leave it as a statement braided ponytail.
6. Waterfall Braid Leading to a Side Bun
The waterfall braid is ethereal and romantic. Start a waterfall braid on one side of your head, allowing the cascading strands to blend into the rest of your hair. Gather all your hair to the opposite shoulder and create a soft, rolled side bun. The waterfall effect adds a dimension of flowing beauty that makes this updo perfect for proms and romantic dates.
7. Cornrow-Inspired Braids into a Top Knot
Incorporate sleek, geometric patterns for a bold, fashion-forward statement. Create small, neat cornrows or flat braids originating from the hairline and traveling back toward the crown. Gather all your hair, including the braided sections, into a high top knot or bun. This combination showcases edgy sophistication and keeps hair impeccably in place.
8. The Mermaid Braid Bun
This style is pure fantasy. Begin with a deep side part and create a loose, large French or Dutch braid that starts at one temple and curves around the back of the head. Instead of braiding all the hair, stop about halfway and coil the remaining unbraided hair along with the braid end into a low, side-swept bun. It creates the illusion of a braid melting into waves—perfect for a beach wedding.
9. Double French Braids into a Braided Bun
A childhood classic, all grown up. Part your hair down the middle and create two classic French braids. Instead of leaving them as pigtails, bring the two braided tails together at the back of your head and braid them into one larger braid, then wrap that braid into a bun. This is a super secure and stylish option for athletic activities or busy days.
10. Pull-Through Braid with a Low Twist
The pull-through braid (often mistaken for a fishtail) creates a stunning, voluminous effect with minimal braiding skill. Create this braid down the center back of your head, then twist the remaining length and pin it into an elegant, low knot. The combination of the braid’s texture with the simple twist is modern and minimalist.
11. The Tousled Braided Updo with Ringlets
Embrace texture! Start with second-day wavy or curled hair. Create a few random, loose braids throughout your hair—some small, some large. Then, gently gather all your hair, braids included, into a messy updo at the back of your head, allowing ringlets and braid ends to escape artfully. This is the ultimate effortlessly glamorous look.
12. Halo Braid with a Center Part Bun
A variation on the crown braid, this style features a single halo braid that circles the head but leaves the top section of hair free. Gather the top section and the ends of the braid into a neat bun positioned at the center of the crown. This creates a beautiful, structured look that highlights both the braid and the bun.
13. Braided Base for a Voluminous Bun
Create a solid foundation for your bun that adds hidden detail. Braid the hair at the nape of your neck in a horizontal French or Dutch braid. Then, gather all the upper hair, including the braid’s tail, into a high, voluminous donut bun. From the front, it looks like a classic chic bun, but the surprise braid in the back is a stunning detail.
14. Asymmetric Braid and Knot Combo
Asymmetry is incredibly fashionable. Create a single standout braid—like a Dutch or rope braid—on one side of your head. Gather the rest of your hair, along with the braid, into a low, asymmetric knot or bun positioned at the opposite side of your neck. This look is artistic, modern, and perfect for making a bold statement.
15. Micro Braids Accenting a Sleek Bun
For a look that’s both delicate and striking, incorporate several micro braids. Create a few very thin braids scattered through the front and sides of sleek, straight hair. Then, pull all hair back into a ultra-slick, low bun or ponytail. The tiny braids add just a hint of intricate detail against the polished background.
16. The Braided Roll
This vintage-inspired updo gets a modern update with braids. Create a rolled or “victory roll” shape at the front or side of your head, but instead of using just curled hair, incorporate a braid into the roll itself. Secure the rest of the hair in a complementary style, like a low chignon. It’s a gorgeous retro-glam combination.
17. The Infinity Braid Bun
Our final showstopper is the infinity braid, which creates a stunning, continuous loop pattern. Create a small infinity braid as a focal point, then use it as the centerpiece of a bun. Wrap remaining hair around the infinity braid to form the bun, allowing the braid to sit prominently at the center. This combination is complex, beautiful, and guaranteed to wow.
Mastering Your Braided Updo
Now that you’re brimming with inspiration, remember that practice makes perfect. Start with simpler combinations, like the braided headband ponytail, and work your way up to more intricate styles. Use quality products: a texturizing spray for grip, a strong-hold hairspray for longevity, and bobby pins that match your hair color. Most importantly, have fun with it and don’t be afraid to pull out a few strands for a softer, more romantic finish. Each braid tells a story, and each updo is a masterpiece waiting to happen on your head.
With these seventeen breathtaking braided updo combinations in your style arsenal, you’re ready for any event, mood, or moment that calls for a touch of hair magic. Which one will you try first?
