21 Wrapped Updo Styles for Elegant Occasions

The Classic Chignon Collection

Let us begin with the foundation of elegant hairstyling: the chignon. Synonymous with grace, these styles are perfect for black-tie events, formal weddings, and any occasion where timeless beauty is the dress code.

The Low Wrapped Bun: The quintessential elegant updo. This style involves gathering hair at the nape of the neck and wrapping it into a sleek, low knot. The “wrapped” effect is often achieved by taking a section of hair to coil around the base of the bun, hiding the elastic and creating a seamless, polished finish. It pairs flawlessly with statement earrings and an open-back dress.

The Textured Ballerina Bun: A higher, crown-centered take on the classic. Instead of slick perfection, this bun embraces soft, pulled-out tendrils and a slightly looser wrap for a more romantic, accessible feel. It’s ideal for garden parties or ballet-inspired weddings.

The Twisted Rope Chignon: Before wrapping the bun, create two thick strands of hair and twist them around each other into a rope. Then, coil the rope into your chignon. This adds incredible visual texture and detail, making the updo a focal point even from the back.

Braided & Wrapped Masterpieces

Introducing braids into your updo instantly adds a dimension of artistry and romance. These styles are perfect for the bride, the wedding guest, or anyone wanting a look that is both intricate and effortlessly beautiful.

The Braided Crown Wrap: This regal style features two braids—Dutch or French—starting at the temples and wrapping around the head like a crown. The ends are tucked and pinned into a small, wrapped bun at the back. It’s a heavenly choice for a bohemian or rustic-chic event.

The Fishtail Wrap Bun: Create a low side fishtail braid, but instead of finishing it, use the length of the braid to wrap around into a bun. The unique texture of the fishtail makes the wrapped bun look exceptionally detailed and modern.

The Hidden Braid Chignon: For a subtle surprise, create a single braid underneath the top layer of your hair. Gather all hair into a low ponytail, then wrap it into a bun. The braid will peek through strategically, adding a secret element of detail to a seemingly simple style.

Twisted & Tied Elegance

Twists offer a softer, more fluid alternative to braids. These wrapped updos are all about movement, soft lines, and a seemingly effortless capture of elegance.

The Gibson Tuck with a Modern Wrap: A vintage-inspired style updated for today. Create a deep side part, then twist and roll the hair from the opposite side, tucking it under itself. Use a remaining section to wrap around the tucked base, securing the look with elegant pins.

The Triple Twist Updo: Divide your hair into three horizontal sections. Twist each section individually, then coil and pin them over one another in a vertical line, creating a stunning, wrapped column of twists down the back of your head.

The Knotted Bun: Before making your bun, tie two or three loose knots in your ponytail. Then, wrap the knotted length into a bun and secure. The knots create beautiful, organic volume and a uniquely textured wrapped appearance.

Modern & Architectural Styles

For the fashion-forward individual, these wrapped updos play with structure, placement, and unexpected details. They are conversation starters and works of wearable art.

The Sculptural Loop Bun: This involves pulling hair through a loop created by your own hand, resulting in a bun that looks like an elegant, wrapped knot suspended at the back of the head. It’s geometric, chic, and incredibly modern.

The Asymmetric Wrapped Bob: For shorter hair or long bobs, this style is a revelation. Twist and wrap sections of hair asymmetrically across the head, pinning strategically to create the illusion of a sophisticated, textured updo without the need for length.

The Bubble Braid Wrap: Create a high ponytail and section it into “bubbles” by tying elastics at even intervals, then gently pulling each section to puff it out. Wrap the bubbled length around the base to form a playful, voluminous, and utterly modern bun.

Romantic & Softly Undone

Elegance doesn’t always mean tight and precise. These wrapped styles embrace softness, tendrils, and a dreamy, romantic aesthetic that feels both luxurious and approachable.

The Messy Wrapped Bun with Tendrils: The key here is intentional imperfection. After creating a loose, wrapped bun at the crown or nape, gently pull out face-framing pieces and small sections around the bun. Use a texturizing spray for a lived-in, romantic feel.

The Twisted Halo with Loose Curls: This half-updo masterpiece involves twisting sections from both sides of the head and pinning them at the back, creating a “halo” effect. Leave the rest of your hair down in soft curls, and wrap a small section from a curl around the base of the twists to hide pins.

The Braided Wrap with Floral Embellishment: Choose any of the braided wrapped styles and take it to the next level by tucking in fresh flowers, a delicate vine, or jeweled hair pins along the path of the braid or around the wrapped bun.

Accessorizing Your Wrapped Updo

The final touch for any of these 21 styles is the accessory. A well-chosen piece can elevate your updo from beautiful to breathtaking.

Pearl-Encrusted Pins: Scatter a few along a twist or around a chignon for instant vintage glamour.

A Statement Comb: Slide a decorative comb into the side of your wrapped bun or above a braided crown for a regal touch.

Delicate Chains or Hair Jewelry: Drape a fine gold chain across your bun or braid, securing it with pins, for a cutting-edge yet elegant detail.

Silk Scarves or Ribbons: Incorporate a thin, elegant ribbon into your braid before wrapping, or use a silk scarf to wrap around the base of your bun, tying it into a small bow.

Remember, the most important element is choosing a style that makes you feel confident and radiant. An elegant updo is more than just a hairstyle; it’s the crowning touch to your entire ensemble, a final note of polish that completes your look for any special occasion. So, study these 21 styles, find your inspiration, and get ready to turn heads with your elegantly wrapped hair.