18 Braided Updos for Special Events

Classic & Timeless Elegance

These styles are the foundation of formal hairstyling. They offer a refined, polished look that never goes out of fashion and works impeccably with traditional gowns and settings.

The Braided Low Bun: A quintessential choice. Start with a low ponytail, braid it, and then wrap it into a neat bun at the nape of your neck. For added detail, create a small Dutch braid along the hairline before gathering the hair. It’s understated, graceful, and universally flattering.

The Rope Twist Chignon: This technique uses two-strand twists instead of traditional three-strand braids, creating a beautiful, textured rope-like effect. Twist two sections of hair and then wrap them around each other into a low or mid-height bun. The result is a sleek and modern twist on the classic chignon.

The French Braid into a Bun: Begin a French braid at the crown, incorporating all your hair, and continue it down into a low ponytail. Braid the tail and coil it into a bun. This style offers superior hold and a seamless look from the top of your head to the tip of the bun.

The Braided Ballerina Bun: Elevate the classic ballerina bun by adding a braided headband or wrapping a thin braid around the base of the bun. It’s perfect for showcasing a long neck and elegant earrings.

Bohemian & Romantic Vibes

For a softer, more whimsical feel, these braided updos incorporate loose tendrils, textured braids, and floral elements. Ideal for garden weddings, boho-chic events, or when you want a more relaxed yet stunning look.

The Braided Crown (Halo Braid): A crown of braids encircling the head is the epitome of bohemian romance. You can opt for a single Dutch braid that wraps around, or two braids starting at each temple and meeting at the back. Leave a few soft tendrils free around the face for a dreamy effect.

The Fishtail Braid Updo: The fishtail braid has a distinctive, intricate pattern that looks beautiful when incorporated into an updo. Create a side-swept fishtail braid and pin it into a loose, low bun, or use multiple fishtail braids to build a textured updo.

The Pull-Through Braid Bun: This style creates the illusion of multiple complex braids with surprising simplicity. Using hair elastics and pulling sections through, you build a voluminous, textured braided bun. It’s easier than it looks and incredibly eye-catching.

The Messy Braided Bun with Flowers:

Embrace intentional texture. Tease the hair slightly at the crown for volume, create a few loose braids (Dutch or regular) leading into a messy, pinned bun. The pièce de résistance? Tucking in a few fresh or silk flowers for a touch of natural beauty.

Modern & Statement-Making Styles

If your goal is to turn heads and showcase a fashion-forward aesthetic, these contemporary braided updos are for you. They play with structure, placement, and asymmetry.

The Asymmetric Braided Bun: Place your braided bun off to one side, either at the nape or higher up behind the ear. Combine this with an asymmetric neckline on your dress for a cohesive and avant-garde look.

The Geometric Braided Updo: Incorporate sharp parts, box braids, or cornrows into a sleek updo. These braids are laid flat against the scalp in clean lines, creating a striking graphic pattern that leads into a neat bun or knot.

The Braided Ponytail Updo: Not all updos have to be buns. A high, braided ponytail wrapped at the base with a strand of hair can be incredibly chic. For more drama, create a bubble braid by pulling sections of the ponytail to create “bubbles” along its length.

The Double Braided Knot: Split your hair into two sections, braid each, and then tie them together in an elegant knot at the back of your head. It’s a unique and artistic alternative to the standard bun.

Regal & Intricate Designs

For those who want to feel like royalty on their special day, these styles involve more complex braiding techniques and often resemble works of art.

The Waterfall Braid Updo: A waterfall braid creates a cascading effect of loose hair. Incorporate one or more waterfall braids along the sides of your head, then gather the remaining hair into a low, elegant updo. The result is ethereal and flowing.

The Dutch Braid Lattice Updo: This involves creating a network of Dutch braids that crisscross over the back of the head, like a lattice or net, before gathering the ends into a bun. It’s a true showstopper that highlights technical skill.

The 5-Strand Braid Updo: Moving beyond the classic three strands, a five-strand braid creates a wide, flat, and incredibly detailed pattern. Use this braid as the central piece of your updo, coiling it into a bun or using it as a headband.

The Braided Updo with Accent Pieces: Sometimes, the magic is in the details. Weave ribbons, delicate chains, or pearl strands into your braids before styling them into an updo. This adds a personalized and luxurious touch.

Quick & Elegant (For Last-Minute Magic)

Short on time or doing your own hair? These styles offer maximum impact with relatively simple techniques.

The Twisted Low Bun with Braid Accent: Simply twist your hair into a low bun. Then, take a small section from underneath, braid it, and wrap that braid around the base of the bun to hide the elastic. Instant polish in minutes.

The Headband Braid into a Twist: Create a Dutch or French braid along your hairline from one ear to the other. Gather all your hair, including the braid ends, into a low side ponytail, then twist it into a sleek knot or bun.

The Braided Hair Tap: This is essentially a braided barrette. Braid a medium section of hair, then fold and pin it over the rest of your hair, which is styled in a simple low ponytail or chignon. It looks like a complex braided updo but is surprisingly simple.

Choosing & Preparing for Your Braided Updo

Now that you’re inspired, here are a few tips to ensure your braided updo is flawless.

Consult with Your Stylist: Bring inspiration photos to your trial. Discuss your dress neckline, veil, and any hair accessories. A good stylist will advise on what works best for your hair type, length, and thickness.

Hair Health is Key: Start deep-conditioning treatments a few weeks before the event. Healthy, moisturized hair holds style better and looks shinier.

The Perfect Base: Most stylists prefer day-old hair for updos, as it has more texture and grip. Use dry shampoo at the roots for added volume and hold.

Accessorize Wisely: Whether it’s pins, a comb, or a tiara, ensure your accessories complement, not compete with, your braids. Sometimes, less is more.