Braided Updo: 45+ Elegant Variations for Every Occasion

Add a touch of glamour and elegance to your hair with updo braids. Get inspired by looks like the braided bun or the braided chignon and shine on every occasion.

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Updo Braid

Instantly achieve a glamorous look! With the updo braid, you celebrate your long hair and give it a flowing, elegant touch. Perfect as a bridal hairstyle or for the next big event! After braiding overnight, graceful waves are revealed in the morning, which can be shaped into a voluminous curly braid with defining curl cream. The great thing: cleverly teased hair at the roots gives you extra volume and the illusion of a wide braid. Refine your masterpiece with a bit of shine hairspray and set highlights with selected hair accessories. A secret tip at the end: styled to the side, long earrings make this look irresistible.

Braided Bun

Discover the braided bun as your next wedding hairstyle or for an elegant everyday look! Do you already feel the excitement while styling? With a little practice, you'll soon become a braiding expert. You just need some hair gel or volumizing powder to give your hair the necessary hold and perfect structure. Braid your hair loosely or tightly, depending on the look you prefer, and then roll it up into a bun. Using bobby pins and a few hair ties, you can secure the masterpiece and shape it accordingly. Pair the bun with accessories to make it even more personal - this way, every hairstyle becomes unique. Check out a detailed guide to perfect your skills!

Braided Chignon

Imagine yourself as a Greek goddess or a noble Renaissance lady - with a braided chignon, you bring this flair into the modern world. This evening hairstyle is the epitome of elegance and, with a well-explained tutorial, easier to master than you think. Braid your hair in the technique of your choice, shape it into a chignon, and secure the masterpiece with hairpins invisibly. A touch of shine spray at the end gives it the final touch, making you ready to add a hint of historical chic to any festive occasion. Did you know that even international stars often choose a chignon to dazzle on the red carpet? Now it's your turn to wear this timeless look!

Braided Ballerina Bun

Get ready for a real eye-catcher on the dance floor – the braided ballerina bun! Not only is it practical for keeping those pesky strands in check during your pirouettes and jumps, but it's also a true beauty boost that adds elegance to your look. Simply tie your hair into a tight ponytail, divide it into several sections, and braid – either a classic French braid or experiment with a fishtail braid for that extra flair. Then wrap the braid around the base of the ponytail and gently but securely fix everything with bobby pins. Tip: A hairnet prevents flyaways and gives your braided ballerina bun a flawless finish. This way, your grace remains unmatched not only in dance but also in your hairstyle!

Braided Hair Crown

Imagine walking into a room with a braided hair crown and immediately becoming the center of attention. This timeless hairstyle, exuding elegance and natural beauty, can be mastered at home with a bit of practice. Start the classic hair crown with a headband by braiding your hair around it to create a solid base. Finally, add some hairspray for extra hold. Whether for special occasions or just because you want to feel fabulous, the braided hair crown is your styling highlight for an unforgettable appearance.

Preparing Your Hair for the Updo

For the perfect execution of your braided updo, good preparation is essential. Start by washing your hair and using a conditioner to make it smooth and manageable. Thoroughly dry your hair and apply a little heat protectant if you plan to straighten or curl it for added volume. If your hair is too smooth and slippery, a bit of volumizing powder or dry shampoo can help by giving your hair more grip. Before you start braiding, brush your hair to remove any tangles and work a little smoothing serum into the ends to seal them. If you want curls, style them before you start braiding.

Variations of Braiding Techniques for Updos

There are many different braiding techniques that can make your updo something truly special. Try a Dutch braid, which is also known as an 'inside-out French braid' due to its raised appearance. The fishtail braid is another stylish option, creating a fine and intricate pattern. You can also experiment with various braid sizes. For instance, incorporate fine, thin braids into your bun or chignon to create a subtle texture. For a more dramatic effect, you can use thick, loosely braided strands, artfully draped and pinned to the head. Furthermore, you can combine two braiding styles, like having a traditional braid on one side and a fishtail braid on the other. Let your creativity run wild and play with symmetrical or asymmetrical patterns.

Ensuring the Stability and Longevity of the Updo

To keep your braided hairstyle intact all day, a few tricks are needed. Start by securing your braid sections with hair ties that match your hair color. Then, pin up the braided part using bobby pins. Make sure to insert the pins so they are hidden under the hair and not visible.

Use hairspray to keep the hairstyle in place, but don't overdo it, as you don’t want your hair to look sticky or unnatural. For added hold, you can lightly tease the hair underneath before pinning it up. This provides a solid foundation for your hairstyle.

Lastly, check your hairstyle from all angles using a handheld mirror and add more bobby pins if necessary to secure loose strands or perfect the shape. This approach ensures your braided hairstyle stays firmly and reliably in place, allowing you to go about your day with confidence and style.