20 Award Show Updo Methods for Your Big Night
The lights dim, the music swells, and all eyes turn to the aisle. Whether you’re heading to a gala, a wedding, or a milestone celebration, your walk down that figurative red carpet deserves a hairstyle that makes you feel like a winner. There’s something about an elegant updo that whispers confidence, sophistication, and timeless glamour—exactly the vibe of Hollywood’s biggest award shows.
1. The Classic Hollywood Chignon
This is the quintessential red carpet hairstyle. Sleek, low, and impossibly chic, the classic chignon sits at the nape of the neck. The key is in the smoothness and symmetry. Start with straightened hair, gather it into a low ponytail, twist it tightly, and coil it into a neat bun. Secure with pins and use a toothbrush with hairspray to tame every flyaway.
2. The Textured Messy Bun
Don’t let the name fool you—this is artful, intentional messiness. Seen on stars embracing a more relaxed vibe, this updo is all about volume and movement. Tease the crown for lift, pull hair into a high ponytail but leave the ends free, then loosely pin sections around the base. Pull out face-framing pieces and wispy tendrils for a soft, romantic effect.
3. The Braided Crown
A regal choice that never goes out of style. This method involves creating two braids—one on each side—and pinning them across the crown like a tiara. It works beautifully on both straight and wavy hair. For an award show twist, try a fishtail or Dutch braid for added intricacy. Leave the rest of your hair down in soft waves or incorporate it into a low bun.
4. The Sculptural Ponytail
The ponytail has graduated to high fashion. The award show version is ultra-sleek, often with a deep side part, and sometimes features a dramatic wrap of hair around the base to conceal the band. The focus is on architectural shape and glossy finish. Use a strong-hold gel and a boar bristle brush to achieve that impeccable, mirrored surface.
5. The Modern Gibson Tuck
A vintage style revived with a modern edge. This involves creating loose, internal rolls at the back of the head for incredible volume. It’s softer than a classic chignon and has a beautiful, romantic silhouette. Perfect for those with medium to long hair wanting a look that’s elegant yet unexpectedly cool.
6. The Knotted Updo
Simple, elegant, and surprisingly secure. This method uses a series of knots to create a beautiful, textured bun. It’s excellent for adding visual interest to fine or slippery hair. Create two sections, tie them in a simple knot, then another, and pin the ends under. The result is a effortlessly chic, bohemian-meets-glam look.
7. The Bubble Ponytail
A playful and trendy updo that makes a statement. After securing a high ponytail, use small, clear elastics to create evenly spaced “bubbles” down the length of the tail. Gently pull on each section to puff it out. For an award show edge, incorporate metallic threads or glitter spray between the bubbles.
8. The French Twist
The epitome of old-world elegance. Gather hair at the nape, twist it upwards, and tuck the ends in, securing with pins vertically. The classic French twist is sleek, but you can modernize it by gently pulling at the sides for a little soft volume or adding a stunning statement comb at the side.
9. The Waterfall Braid into a Low Bun
This combines the ethereal beauty of a waterfall braid with the polish of a bun. Start a waterfall braid at one temple, carrying it back to the opposite side, then gather all hair into a soft, low bun. It’s a perfect choice for asymmetrical necklines, as it draws the eye across your features.
10. The Sleek Ballerina Bun
Positioned high and center on the crown, this bun is all about precision. It requires a donut bun form for perfect roundness and a lot of hairspray. The parting can be center or severe side. This style highlights your bone structure and neckline beautifully, making it a favorite for statement earrings.
11. The Half-Up, Half-Down Masterpiece
Not fully an updo, but a red carpet staple that offers the best of both worlds. The top section is often intricately braided, twisted, or volumized and pinned back, allowing the rest of the hair to cascade down. It’s a youthful and romantic option that maintains a sense of drama.
12. The Tousled Updo with Accessories
This is where you let your accessories shine. Start with a loosely pinned, textured updo—maybe a messy bun or a twist with lots of pull-outs. Then, strategically add statement pieces: a line of delicate chain links, a bold barrette, or fresh flowers. The hair is the canvas for your jewelry.
13. The Slicked-Back Low Bun
This powerful look is minimalist and bold. Using a strong-hold gel or pomade, slick all hair back from the hairline with no parting. Gather into a tight, low bun. This style is confident, modern, and draws all attention to your face and outfit. It’s a favorite for fashion-forward award shows.
14. The Rope Twist Ponytail
An easy way to elevate a simple ponytail. Split your ponytail into two sections, twist them around each other tightly, then secure the end. This creates a beautiful, rope-like texture that looks intricate but is simple to achieve. For extra hold, lightly hairspray each section before twisting.
15. The Voluminous Updo with a Hairpiece
Sometimes, your own hair needs a helping hand for maximum impact. Create a base updo with plenty of teasing for volume, then incorporate a high-quality hairpiece or fall. This could be a set of clip-in extensions for a bigger bun or a faux hair wrap to add color and texture. The goal is seamless, glorious volume.
16. The Asymmetrical Knot
Pull all your hair to one side and create a large, loose knot just above your shoulder. Tuck the ends under and pin securely. This is a quick, effortlessly sexy style that works wonderfully with off-the-shoulder or one-shoulder gowns. It’s relaxed yet undeniably polished.
17. The Elegant Updo with Face-Framing Layers
This method ensures your updo doesn’t look too severe. After creating your chosen updo—be it a chignon, twist, or bun—carefully pull out a few strategic, shorter layers around your face and at the nape. Curl these pieces softly to frame your features and add a touch of softness.
18. The Double Bun (Space Buns)
Once reserved for festivals, this playful style has been reimagined for the red carpet. The key is in the execution: make them neat, symmetrical, and maybe a bit lower on the head. Part hair down the middle and create two high, sleek buns. It’s a bold, fashion-forward choice that shows personality.
19. The Twisted Halo
A gentler alternative to a braided crown. Take two sections of hair from above each ear, twist them back, and pin them at the crown, allowing the ends to blend into the rest of your down hair or updo. This creates a beautiful, ethereal halo effect that lifts the face.
20. The Deconstructed Updo
This is the ultimate in modern glamour. It looks as if you’ve just casually pinned up your hair, but every piece is placed with intention. Use lots of pins in a criss-cross pattern, leave ends out, and embrace texture. The result should be artistic, fluid, and uniquely you.
Final Curtain Call: Tips for Your Big Night
Now that you’re armed with inspiration, remember these final backstage secrets. Always start with second-day hair for better grip, or use a texturizing spray. Invest in quality bobby pins that match your hair color and a strong-hold, flexible hairspray. Most importantly, do a trial run a week before your event. This ensures you’re comfortable with the method and have all the tools you need.
Your big night is your red carpet moment. With these 20 award show updo methods, you have the blueprint for a hairstyle that’s not just beautiful, but also tells a story of confidence and celebration. So take a deep breath, put on your favorite music, and get ready to create your own winning look. The spotlight is waiting.
