How to Create Stunning Braided Updos

Braided updos are a perfect combination of elegance and versatility. They can be styled for any occasion, from casual outings to formal events. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create stunning braided updos that will leave everyone impressed.

1. Classic French Braid Updo

Steps:

1. **Prep Hair:** Start with clean, dry hair. Apply a light styling mousse for extra hold and texture.

2. **French Braid:** Begin a French braid at the crown of your head, incorporating sections of hair as you move down toward the nape of your neck.

3. **Secure Braid:** Once you reach the nape, continue braiding the rest of your hair in a regular braid and secure the end with a hair tie.

4. **Roll and Pin:** Roll the braid up towards the nape and secure it with bobby pins, tucking any loose ends.

5. **Finish:** Set the style with a light hold hairspray.

Why It Works:

The French braid updo is timeless and sophisticated, making it perfect for both day and evening events. It keeps your hair neatly in place while adding a touch of elegance.

2. Fishtail Braid Bun

Steps:

1. **Prep Hair:** Brush your hair to remove any tangles and apply a texturizing spray.

2. **Fishtail Braid:** Divide your hair into two sections. Take a small piece from the outside of the left section and cross it over to the right section. Repeat on the other side and continue until the end, securing with a hair tie.

3. **Create Bun:** Wrap the fishtail braid around itself at the nape of your neck to form a bun. Secure with bobby pins.

4. **Tuck Ends:** Tuck any loose ends into the bun and pin them down.

5. **Finish:** Spray with hairspray to hold the style in place.

Why It Works:

The fishtail braid bun is intricate and eye-catching, offering a modern twist on the classic bun. It’s perfect for special occasions where you want to make a statement.

3. Crown Braid Updo

Steps:

1. **Prep Hair:** Part your hair down the middle and apply a smoothing serum to tame flyaways.

2. **Create Braids:** Starting near one ear, create a regular braid and secure the end with a hair tie. Repeat on the other side.

3. **Wrap Braids:** Lift one braid across the top of your head, like a headband, and pin it in place. Repeat with the other braid, tucking the ends under the first braid.

4. **Secure:** Use bobby pins to secure the braids and hide any loose ends.

5. **Finish:** Set with hairspray for extra hold.

Why It Works:

The crown braid updo is both romantic and regal, making it ideal for weddings, proms, or any event where you want to feel like a princess.

4. Dutch Braid Chignon

Steps:

1. **Prep Hair:** Brush your hair thoroughly and apply a light hold gel.

2. **Dutch Braid:** Create a Dutch braid by crossing sections of hair under instead of over, starting at the top of your head and working your way down.

3. **Secure Braid:** Once you reach the nape of your neck, secure the braid with a hair tie.

4. **Form Chignon:** Twist the braid into a low chignon and secure with bobby pins.

5. **Tuck Ends:** Tuck any loose ends into the chignon and pin them down.

6. **Finish:** Apply hairspray to keep the style intact.

Why It Works:

The Dutch braid chignon is a sophisticated and polished hairstyle that’s perfect for professional settings or formal events. It’s elegant yet understated.

5. Double Braided Bun

Steps:

1. **Prep Hair:** Divide your hair into two sections and apply a texturizing spray.

2. **Create Braids:** Braid each section into a regular braid and secure the ends with hair ties.

3. **Wrap and Pin:** Wrap each braid around the back of your head, forming a bun, and secure with bobby pins.

4. **Tuck Ends:** Tuck the ends of the braids under the bun and pin them down.

5. **Finish:** Spray with a medium hold hairspray.

Why It Works:

The double braided bun adds dimension and texture to your hair, making it a unique and stylish option for any occasion. It’s both fun and elegant, suitable for both casual and formal events.

Conclusion

Braided updos are a fantastic way to add elegance and style to your look. Whether you’re going for a classic French braid updo or a more intricate fishtail braid bun, these hairstyles are sure to turn heads. With a bit of practice and the right products, you can achieve stunning braided updos that will leave everyone impressed. Experiment with these styles to find the perfect updo for your next special occasion.