Creating updos for long hair can seem intimidating, but with the right techniques and a little bit of practice, you can easily achieve a beautiful and elegant hairstyle. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to create stunning updos for long hair.
Prepping Your Hair
Before starting any updo hairstyle, it’s important to properly prep your hair. This will ensure that your hair stays in place throughout the day or evening, and that your hairstyle looks polished and put together. Here are a few steps to take before creating your updo:
- Start with clean, dry hair. Wash your hair with your favorite shampoo and conditioner, and allow it to air dry or blow-dry until completely dry.
- Use a texturizing spray. Apply a texturizing spray to your hair to add volume and grip. This will help your updo stay in place and prevent it from slipping out of position throughout the day.
- Secure your base. For many updo hairstyles, it’s important to create a secure base before styling your hair. This can be done by creating a ponytail at the back of your head, or by sectioning off your hair and securing each section with bobby pins.
With these prepping steps out of the way, let’s dive into some popular updo hairstyles and how to create them.
The Classic Bun Updo
The classic bun is a timeless updo that works well for any occasion. It’s simple to create and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Here’s how to create a classic bun:
- Start by brushing your hair back into a high ponytail at the crown of your head. Make sure to smooth out any bumps or flyaways with a comb.
- Twist the ponytail around the base of the elastic band to create a bun shape. Tuck the ends of your hair under the bun and secure with bobby pins.
- Use additional bobby pins to anchor any loose pieces or secure any areas that feel unstable. Finish with hairspray to hold everything in place.
Variations on the Classic Bun Updo:
- The Messy Bun: For a more casual, bohemian look, simply pull out some strands of hair around your face and tug on the sides of your bun to create a slightly disheveled effect.
- The Braided Bun: Incorporate a small braid into your classic bun by braiding a section of hair before twisting it into a bun shape. You can also wrap a braid around the base of the bun for added interest.
- The Double Bun: Create two buns instead of one by dividing your hair in half and creating two high ponytails at the crown of your head. Twist each ponytail into a bun and secure with bobby pins.
The French Twist Updo
The French twist is an elegant and sophisticated updo that’s perfect for special occasions. Here’s how to create a French twist:
- Start by brushing your hair back and gathering it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Twist the ponytail up towards the ceiling and tuck it into itself at the top of your head.
- Secure the twist in place using bobby pins and be sure to cover the entire twist so that no part of it is visible.
- Pull out any loose strands of hair around your face for a softer, more romantic look. Finish with hairspray to hold everything in place.
Variations on the French Twist Updo:
- The Twisted Ponytail French Twist: Before twisting your hair up into a French twist, separate a small section of hair near your ear and twist it tightly. Wrap the twisted section around the base of your ponytail and secure with bobby pins. Then, proceed with creating your French twist.
- The Messy French Twist: For a more relaxed and effortless look, create your French twist as usual but then gently tug on different parts of the twist to loosen it up and create some texture. Pull out a few strands of hair around your face for a more undone effect.
- The Double French Twist: Create two separate French twists, one on each side of your head. This is a great option for anyone with especially thick or long hair that can be difficult to twist into a single French twist.
The Braided Updo
Braids are a fun and versatile way to add some visual interest to any updo hairstyle. Here’s how to create a braided updo:
- Start by sectioning off a small section of hair at the crown of your head and braiding it tightly.
- Gather the rest of your hair and pull it back into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
- Twist the ponytail up into a bun shape and secure with bobby pins.
- Wrap the braided section around the base of the bun and securing it with bobby pins. Make sure to tuck in the ends of the braid so that they’re hidden.
- Use additional bobby pins to anchor any loose pieces and finish with hairspray to hold everything in place.
Variations on the Braided Updo:
- The Fishtail Braid Updo: Instead of a traditional braid, create a fishtail braid by dividing your hair into two sections and crossing small pieces from each section over each other until you reach the ends. Wrap the fishtail braid around the base of your bun and secure with bobby pins.
- The Dutch Braid Updo: Create a Dutch braid by starting at the crown of your head and braiding your hair while also incorporating more hair from each side as you go. Once you reach the nape of your neck, continue twisting your hair into a bun shape and secure with bobby pins. Tuck in the end of the braid so that it’s hidden.
- The Braided Crown Updo: Create two braids on each side of your head and wrap them around the top of your head like a crown, securing them with bobby pins. Gather the rest of your hair into a low ponytail or bun and secure with bobby pins.
Tips for Creating Long Hair Updos:
- Don’t be afraid to use hairspray to hold your updo in place. A light misting of hairspray can help keep your hair in position without looking stiff or crunchy.
- Bobby pins are your friend! Use them liberally to secure any loose pieces of hair and keep your updo in place.
- Experiment with different textures, braids, and twists to create unique and personalized updo hairstyles.
- If you have thick or heavy hair, consider using some hair elastics or clips to help support your updo and prevent it from falling apart throughout the day.
- Practice, practice, practice! Creating updos can take some time and patience, so don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get your desired look. With practice, you’ll become a pro in no time.
- Consider adding some accessories to your updo, such as flowers, pins, or a headband. These can add some extra visual interest and help take your hairstyle to the next level.
- If you’re short on time or don’t have a lot of experience with updos, start with simple styles like a classic bun or a French twist. These are easy to create and look elegant and put together.
- If you have layers in your hair, you may need to use more bobby pins or elastics to keep everything in place. Experiment with different techniques until you find what works best for your hair type and length.
- Don’t be afraid to play around with the placement of your updo. It doesn’t always have to be centered on the back of your head – try creating a side bun or twisting your hair up at the nape of your neck for a different look.
- Finally, remember that updos are meant to be fun and creative! Don’t stress too much about getting everything perfect – embrace any imperfections and enjoy the process of experimenting with different styles and techniques.
Creating updos for long hair is a great way to add some elegance and sophistication to your look. With the right techniques and a little bit of practice, you can create stunning updo hairstyles that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer classic buns, French twists, or braided styles, there’s an updo out there that’s perfect for you. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures, accessories, and techniques until you find the perfect style to suit your individual needs and preferences. Happy hairstyling!
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