When it comes to weddings, African American brides often seek hairstyles that reflect their unique beauty and cultural heritage. Updo hairstyles are a popular choice because they add elegance and sophistication to any bridal look. This article explores various updo hairstyles suitable for African American brides, offering tips and inspiration for creating stunning looks on the big day.
Classic Bun Updo
Timeless and Elegant
The classic bun updo is a timeless choice for brides. It involves gathering the hair at the crown or nape of the neck and securing it into a sleek bun. This hairstyle can be worn with or without a veil and complements a variety of bridal gown styles.
Creating the Classic Bun Updo:
Prepare the Hair:
Wash and condition the hair.
Blow-dry the hair straight or use a flat iron for a sleek finish.
Section the Hair:
Divide the hair into three sections: top, middle, and bottom.
Create the Bun:
Smooth the middle section into a ponytail.
Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with pins.
Finish the Look:
Smooth the top section over the bun.
Secure with pins and hairspray.
See also: How To Make Hair Extensions Longer
Chignon Updo
Sophisticated and Chic
A chignon is a low, twisted bun that sits at the nape of the neck. This hairstyle is sophisticated and chic, making it perfect for a formal wedding. It can be adorned with hair accessories such as pins or flowers to add a personal touch.
Creating the Chignon Updo:
Prep the Hair:
Apply a smoothing serum.
Blow-dry the hair straight.
Part and Section:
Create a side part.
Divide the hair into three sections.
Form the Chignon:
Twist the middle section into a low bun.
Secure with pins.
Add the Finishing Touches:
Wrap the side sections around the bun.
Pin securely and use hairspray.
Braided Updo
Intricate and Beautiful
Braided updos are beautiful and intricate, showcasing the natural texture of African American hair. There are many variations, such as a crown braid or braided bun, allowing brides to choose a style that suits their personality and wedding theme.
Creating a Braided Updo:
Prep the Hair:
Wash, condition, and detangle the hair.
Blow-dry or stretch the hair.
Braid the Hair:
Create small to medium-sized braids.
Secure the ends with small elastics.
Form the Updo:
Gather the braids into a bun or twist them into a crown braid.
Secure with pins and embellish with accessories.
Twist Updo
Elegant and Versatile
Twist updos are elegant and versatile, perfect for African American brides. They can be created with flat twists, two-strand twists, or Senegalese twists. This style works well with natural or textured hair.
Creating a Twist Updo:
Prepare the Hair:
Moisturize and section the hair.
Create twists using your preferred method.
Form the Updo:
Gather the twists into a bun or roll them into an updo.
Secure with pins.
Finish with Accessories:
Add decorative pins or flowers.
Use a light hairspray to hold the style.
Pompadour Updo
Bold and Glamorous
The pompadour updo is bold and glamorous, making a statement on the wedding day. This hairstyle involves creating height at the front of the head and can be combined with a bun or chignon at the back.
Creating the Pompadour Updo:
Prep the Hair:
Blow-dry and straighten the hair.
Section off the front portion.
Create the Pompadour:
Backcomb the front section for volume.
Smooth and roll it back, securing with pins.
Form the Back:
Style the back into a bun or chignon.
Secure with pins and hairspray.
Curly Updo
Natural and Romantic
A curly updo embraces the natural texture of African American hair, offering a romantic and soft look. This style works well for brides with naturally curly or coily hair.
Creating a Curly Updo:
Enhance Curls:
Define curls with a curling cream or gel.
Allow the hair to dry naturally or use a diffuser.
Form the Updo:
Gather the curls into a loose bun or updo.
Secure with pins, allowing some curls to frame the face.
Finish with Accessories:
Add a tiara or floral crown.
Use a light hairspray to hold the style.
Faux Hawk Updo
Edgy and Modern
The faux hawk updo is edgy and modern, perfect for brides looking to make a statement. This hairstyle involves creating height and volume in the center, with the sides sleek or braided.
Creating the Faux Hawk Updo:
Prep the Hair:
Blow-dry and straighten the hair.
Section off the sides.
Style the Center:
Backcomb the center section for volume.
Smooth and pin into place.
Style the Sides:
Braid or slick back the sides.
Secure with pins and hairspray.
Vintage Updo
Classic and Glamorous
Vintage updos bring a touch of old Hollywood glamour to the wedding day. Styles like finger waves or pin curls can be incorporated into the updo for a classic look.
Creating a Vintage Updo:
Prep the Hair:
Apply a setting lotion.
Create finger waves or pin curls.
Form the Updo:
Gather the styled hair into an updo.
Secure with pins.
Finish with Accessories:
Add a vintage comb or veil.
Use a light hairspray.
High Bun with Bangs
Stylish and Sophisticated
A high bun with bangs is stylish and sophisticated, framing the face beautifully. This hairstyle is versatile and can be adorned with various accessories.
Creating the High Bun with Bangs:
Prepare the Hair:
Blow-dry and straighten the hair.
Section off the bangs.
Create the High Bun:
Gather the rest of the hair into a high ponytail.
Twist into a bun and secure with pins.
Style the Bangs:
Smooth and style the bangs as desired.
Use a light hairspray.
Side-Swept Updo
Elegant and Asymmetrical
The side-swept updo is elegant and asymmetrical, offering a modern twist on traditional updos. This style can be soft and romantic or sleek and polished.
Creating the Side-Swept Updo:
Prep the Hair:
Blow-dry and straighten the hair.
Create a deep side part.
Form the Updo:
Sweep the hair to one side.
Create a bun or chignon and secure with pins.
Finish with Accessories:
Add decorative pins or a comb.
Use a light hairspray.
Half-Up, Half-Down Updo
Versatile and Romantic
The half-up, half-down updo is versatile and romantic, combining the elegance of an updo with the natural beauty of loose hair. This style is perfect for brides who want the best of both worlds.
Creating the Half-Up, Half-Down Updo:
Prep the Hair:
Curl or wave the hair for texture.
Section off the top half.
Style the Top Half:
Create a small bun or twist with the top section.
Secure with pins.
Leave the Bottom Half Loose:
Let the curls cascade down.
Use a light hairspray.
Maintaining Updo Hairstyles
Keep the Style Intact
Maintaining an updo hairstyle throughout the wedding day is crucial. Here are some tips to ensure the hairstyle stays intact:
Use Strong Hold Products:
Apply a strong hold hairspray.
Use styling gels or pomades.
Secure with Quality Pins:
Use high-quality hairpins and clips.
Ensure the updo is firmly secured.
Avoid Excessive Touching:
Refrain from touching the hair frequently.
This prevents frizz and maintains the style.
Have a Touch-Up Kit:
Carry a small kit with pins, hairspray, and a comb.
Use it for quick fixes during the day.
Conclusion
African American updo hairstyles for weddings offer a range of options from classic buns to intricate braids. Each style enhances the bride’s natural beauty and complements her wedding attire. By following the tips and techniques provided, brides can achieve a stunning updo that lasts throughout their special day, making them feel confident and beautiful as they celebrate their union.
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