Suddenly, Everyone I Deem Stylish Is Wearing Their Hair in This "Old-Fashioned" Way
From undone buns to twisted ponytails, these are the best updo hairstyles to re-create as we step into spring.
Mica Ricketts
As someone with very thick, long hair, I don't tend to wear my hair down a lot. When I wake up, all I want to do is shove it into a ponytail or a bun, as I know I simply don't have the time to style it any other way. I usually opt for a slicked-back bun as it's quick, easy and always looks polished. However, lately I've found myself wanting to switch things up a bit. Perhaps it's because I'm ready to wave goodbye to winter and embrace a new spring hair trend, or perhaps it's because updos that were once seen as "old-fashioned" are now the height of sophistication again, especially on the red carpet. Let's face it: the theme of elegance is key this season, and I'm ready to try something new.
Luckily for me, there's lots of inspiration out there. I've noticed a lot of my favourite celebrities and fashion people opting for updo hairstyles this season, as they are just as easy to pair with chunky knits and boots as they are spring dresses. Plus, they add a little something extra to your look. So, I've spent the past few days scrolling on Instagram and checking out some of the most stylish accounts to see what updo hairstyles are going to be big this season. From undone buns to sleek ponytails and plaits, there is something for everyone.
Ahead, I've rounded up 15 of the best updo hairstyles to try right now that are sure to earn you compliments. Plus, I've included top products, tips and tricks to help you re-create the looks. What are you waiting for?
Article continues below15 Stylish Updo Hairstyles to Try This Spring
1. Oversized Clip
An oversized clip is an easy way to secure your updo hairstyle in place, and it also happens to look super chic. I love letting a few pieces of hair fall loosely around my face for that effortless feel.
Get the Look:
A tortoiseshell-print claw clip is an essential hair accessory, as it goes with pretty much everything.
Keep your updo in place without stiffness or stickiness thanks to this hydrating, flexible-hold hairspray.
2. Half-Up, Half-Down
Consider Zoë Kravitz's cool boho style your gateway to an updo hairstyle if you're used to wearing your strands loose. Simply section the top half of your hair into a tousled top knot and leave the bottom half flowing free.
Get the Look:
These are the best silk scrunchies for securing updos without leaving kinks or creases in your hair once you let it down again.
Enhance your hair's natural texture whilst adding moisture with this versatile styling pomade.
3. Plaits
Plaits are back in a big way this season, and if you want a polished finish, opt for a slicked-back style like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.
Get the Look:
A good brush is key to achieving a smooth updo, and this vegan boar bristle one adds so much shine.
Smooth flyaways and add a mirror-like shine to hair with this glossy spray.
4. '90s Tendrils
This effortlessly undone updo is giving me all the '90s vibes thanks to Hailey's wavy, face-framing tendrils.
Get the Look:
No time for a full styling session? Add a dollop of this to damp hair and watch your hair's natural texture emerge whilst keeping flyaways at bay.
This is a cult classic for a reason; it adds effortlessly cool texture, soaks up excess oil and leaves hair smelling like you've just stepped out of a luxury salon.
5. Low Ponytails and Buns
I love high ponytails and buns, but for a really chic, French-girl finish, try securing your hair slightly lower down. Not only does this look elegant, but it's also a lot kinder to your scalp.
Get the Look:
Opt for an invisible hair tie to keep this chic style looking ultra minimalist.
Slick back your hair into a ponytail or bun with this conditioning stick that adds extra polish.
6. Feathery Top Knot
If you're worried about an updo feeling too formal, then make like Greta Lee and incorporate some feathery flyaways to an otherwise sleek bun for a more undone feel.
Get the Look:
Use this ultra-hydrating serum on wet or dry hair to plump strands, quench dehydration and add a healthy shine.
Whether you're sectioning hair or teasing out tendrils, a long tail comb is a must-have for creating a stylish updo.
7. Updo With Fringe
There's no denying that an updo looks even more sophisticated with a fringe, especially a wispy one like this.
Get the Look:
Fringes can be a little high-maintenance, but keeping a dry shampoo on hand means it will look perfectly fresh every single morning.
Work a tiny bit of this between your fingers, then use it to add precise texture to your wispy fringe.
8. Oversized Scrunchies
I'm loving the oversized-scrunchie trend this spring. Try a silk one, as it'll be a lot gentler on the hair.
Get the Look:
This candy-striped set is so joyful.
The award for the coolest scrunchies on the market has to go to Damson Madder. They come in so many fun prints and textures.
9. Face-Framing Layers
Ask your hairdresser to cut in some face-framing layers to add a stylish touch to your updo.
Get the Look:
As the name suggests, this texture-boosting spray adds extra oomph and movement to all styles, but it works particularly well with layers.
Hair grips are a non-negotiable when creating an updo. These ones will slide into styles almost invisibly to help you add lift and hold exactly where you need it.
10. Slicked-Back Bun
The slicked-back bun has become somewhat of a classic updo over the past few years. Not only is it easy to achieve (and great for in-between hair -wash days), but it also looks super polished.
Get the Look:
Create a sleek and shiny style with this shea-butter-infused gel that conditions hair whilst smoothing flyaways.
Pop this nifty tube in your bag and comb it over any flyaways or delicate new hairs that need a little extra smoothing.
11. Slicked-Back Ponytail
If you're not a fan of a bun, a slicked-back ponytail also gives a polished finish.
Get the Look:
Packed with nourishing plant butters and caster seed oil, this multi-tasking stick helps you to create the slickest of updos whilst conditioning and moisturising your hair.
The blend of natural boar bristles and nylon quills on this brush makes it so easy to smooth down every hair whilst sweeping it all into a ponytail.
12. Undone Bun
This might be one of my favourite updos ever. I love an undone style as they're super low-maintenance. Simply throw your hair up into a bun and secure it in place with a clip or scrunchie. Top tip: don't try to secure all of your hair in place; the looser, the better.
Get the Look:
Who knew that Space NK did hair accessories? This chic claw clip is so beautiful.
A unique non-aerosol dry shampoo that leaves hair feeling airy and fresh whilst adding a little grit for the perfect textured bun.
13. Middle Parting
A middle parting will immediately take your updo to the next level. Use the end of a comb to help section the hair and get that sharp finish.
Get the Look:
This versatile comb makes separating sections and creating sharp partings an absolute breeze.
Use this hair oil as an overnight treatment, a pre-heat styler, or on your finished look to lock in moisture, smooth and add a shiny finish.
14. Side Parting
For a dramatic take, why not try a side parting? This style is making a serious comeback, and I'm totally here for it.
Get the Look:
If you want your blonde to shine as brightly as Sophie Turner's, then try this illuminating shampoo.
This in-shower treatment takes only five minutes to get to work but leaves hair with a glassy shine for days afterwards.
15. Claw Clips and Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs add such a cute touch to any updo, especially when paired with a claw clip.
Get the Look:
The colour of this clip is perfect for spring.
How cute?!
