When it comes to easy updo hairstyles, nothing beats the effortlessness of a top knot.
But if you were after a way to dress up your signature bun, or don’t have the length to create the infamous ‘pineapple’ head, we’ve got your back.
No matter whether you’ve got short, medium, or long hair, you’ll find an updo to suit you in our ultimate inspiration gallery… happy hairstyle hunting!
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Sleek low bun
Ideal for shorter hair lengths, a low sleek bun is a chic way to wear your hair for any special occassion. Keeping a centre part will help you get the most out of your length, and you can pull out any shorter layers once secured to frame the face.
Image: @dvir_tvik
Loose low bun
If you have length to play with, a looser, relaxed bun is also within reach. If your hair is thick and heavy, try splitting it into two layers. Use the bottom layer to create your bun at the nape of your neck, then French twist the top layer on each side, wrapping it round the top off your bun and securing with bobby pins.
Image: @emmachenartistry
Piled high
Got curls? Use your bounce to create height by pulling into a high pony, and then pin the ends back towards the crown to create a voluminous bun. We love how Yara Shahidi has untucked a few strategic strands, particularly the one just in front of her ear.
Detailed low pony
Add a little drama to your sleek ponytail by adding some plaited detail. Using your hair to strategically hide hair ties is key here.
Image: @dvir_tvik
Side braid pony
Ideal for those with long hair and lots of it. Start by creating a side part, then braiding the thicker side towards the back of your head. Secure the end of the braid and the remainder of the hair together in a single ponytail. Curl and add texturising spray to fluff up the pony.
Image: @emmachenartistry
Braided front bun
A stunning style for those with braids from curl queen, Nai’vasha. We’re so here for the criss-cross pattern and front bun placement.
Image: @naivashaintl
Low bun tuck
The tucked up bun makes for an ideal wedding day hairstyle, with the option of securing a veil underneath or above.
Image: @dvir_tvik
Voluminous ponytail
Looking to add more volume to your ponytail? Try backcombing near the base to create texture and height.
Image: @emmachenartistry
Scarf braid
If you’re handy with a braid, try swapping out a section of hair for a scarf. The ideal distraction for dirty hair.
Image: @kristin_ess
Traditional pineapple
Ain’t nothing wrong with sticking with a classic, and Shay Mitchell provides the best pineapple inspo.
Braid to bun
The braided bun is another great one for weddings, but you won’t want to cover the detail with a veil this time. Try threading a few accessories or flowers through instead.
Image: @dvir_tvik
Day two updo
The messy bun is another classic, ideal for day two hair. Utilise your dry shampoo for texture, and keep the brush at bay. The messier it is, the better it’ll hide the grease.
Image: @emmachenartistry
Double bun
Can’t decide between a hun and a bun? Why not have both… Up the style stakes by securing with statement slides.
Image: @kristin_ess
Triple bun
Thought a double bun was fun? Well, how about a TRIPLE bun. This one is ideal for shorter hairstyles, as the length doesn’t have to go as far to be secured.
Image: @zotheysay
Braid to pony
Got sick of braiding halfway through? Don’t worry about it. Just stop, secure, and let the rest flow.
Image: @maneaddicts
Some of these updo hairstyles are so pretty and feminine.
I often wear a plaited bun secured with twirl pins – they're brilliant! The braided scarf looks great! I used to wear a scarf plaited into my hair, but I not recently.
I’m not sure about doing them myself, but I’d love someone else to do them for me!
love low buns
So cool
I could never get a headband right, so glad I watch this video.
Love the braided bun.
I wish my hair would grow long and thick enough for these styles – they all look great!