16 Trending Updo Hairstyles Ideas
Updo hairstyles have always been synonymous with elegance, but 2025’s updos feel different. After seasons of deliberately messy hair, ultra‑feminine styling is back. Beauty editors note that the look is “polished, pretty and princessy”, with intricate buns, princess‑style updos and dainty accessories leading the way. Celebrity hair experts explain that the key elements of the modern princess updo are a soft, voluminous bun and face‑framing tendrils. This romantic aesthetic is also driven by nostalgic ’90s influences; stylists say the Pamela Anderson–inspired messy princess updo is “literally everywhere”.
With that backdrop, this roundup of sixteen trending updo ideas highlights the textures, braids and accessories that have captured stylists’ attention this year. Each style is paired with tips on how to recreate it and suggestions for who it suits best so that you can tailor your updo to your hair type and plans.
1. Romantic Messy French Twist
A French twist doesn’t have to be severe. Hairstylists are favouring relaxed twists with wispy pieces around the face. Start by twisting the hair up and pinning it at the back of your head; then loosen a few strands for softness. This relaxed take works on medium to long hair and gives a chic finish without looking too “done.”
2. Airy High Updo
Those with long hair and a love for volume will gravitate toward the airy updo. The style teases the crown and gathers hair into a high bun with front pieces styled to accentuate the face. Because the bun sits high, it elongates the face and adds drama; it’s perfect for formal events or whenever you want to make a statement.
3. Low Bun With a Twist
Low buns will never go out of style, but the 2025 version includes an eye‑catching twist. Instead of a smooth chignon, twist sections of hair before pinning them together at the nape. This detail elevates the basic low bun and works beautifully for weddings or evening outings.
4. Textured Curly Updo
Curly hair doesn’t need to be tamed to look elegant. A textured low bun with lots of airy curls is trending. After curling your hair, loosely gather it at the back and secure with pins, leaving some curls free around the face. The result is romantic and surprisingly easy to achieve on shoulder‑length hair.
5. Updo With Lightweight Curls (’90s Vibes)
Updos inspired by Pamela Anderson’s ’90s styles are back. To recreate the look, twist your hair as if you were securing it with a claw clip, separate and curl the ends, and pull out a few face‑framing tendrils. Fix with hairspray to maintain volume. This style is ideal for nights out or any time you want that “bombshell” vibe.
6. Double‑Textured Low Bun
Long hair can be tricky to wear up without feeling heavy. A popular solution is the textured double bun, which uses two buns to distribute weight. Create a ponytail, split it in two and twist each section into a bun. Let a few fringe pieces frame your face and add sparkly pins for evening events.
7. Charming Crown Braid
If you’d like an updo that’s equal parts boho and romantic, try a crown braid. Create two braids on either side of your head and wrap them around the crown, pinning them in place. Hair accessories such as delicate flowers or pins take this look from casual to wedding‑ready.
8. Brigitte Bardot Bun
The Brigitte Bardot bun is one of the most talked‑about updos for 2025. It features a playful, airy bun with lots of volume and fringe pieces. Style your hair into a high roll and gently tease the crown; pull out tendrils at the front and nape for a lived‑in feel. It’s an excellent option when you want a retro‑inspired look that feels modern.
9. Sleek Low Bun
Minimalist chic is always in fashion. A sleek low bun offers elegance with minimal effort. Smooth your hair back, create a bun at the nape and secure with pins. To add a modern twist, pull the crown slightly to create volume or leave the bun slightly undone. This style suits all hair textures and transitions seamlessly from office to evening.
10. Voluminous Messy French Twist
For those who love a bit of drama, a voluminous French twist delivers. Twist your hair into an undone roll, allowing strands to stick out intentionally. The goal is to create height and movement rather than a perfect roll. Use texture spray before styling to give hair grip.
11. Elegant High Updo With Pearls
Pearl‑embellished updos are perfect for brides and special events. A sleek bun sits high on the head, and delicate pearls or floral pins are woven through the strands. If you’re wearing a veil, attach it below the bun so the embellishments remain visible.
12. High‑Dimension Textured Low Bun
A textured low bun with dimensional colour has become a stylist favourite. The key to this look is mastering modern updo techniques, such as teasing and twisting to create volume. Highlights and lowlights add depth, while loose tendrils frame the face.
13. Braided Updo With Fishtails
Braided updos are perfect when you want to show off creativity. A low bun paired with double fishtail braids on each side of the head is trending. Lighter extensions can add both fullness and pops of colour. This style is ideal for parties and makes a statement from every angle.
14. Voluminous Bridal High Updo
Bridal hair trends emphasise volume and texture. A riot of playful curls piled high on the head creates a dynamic updo. Peekaboo embellishments — small pieces of jewellery or flowers hidden within the curls — add surprise and glamour. It’s an excellent choice for brides seeking a high‑impact look.
15. Textured Bun With an Accent Braid
Why choose between braids and buns when you can have both? Mixing a loose textured bun with a small accent braid produces a unique, bohemian look. Curl your hair, create a low bun and braid a small section along the side before wrapping it into the bun. The braid adds detail without overpowering the style.
16. Modern Princess Updo (Pam Anderson‑Inspired)
The updo generating the most buzz this year is the princess or Pamela Anderson updo. Experts say the messy princess updo is “literally everywhere” in 2025, and trend forecasters call it a “huge trend”. The style features a soft, voluminous bun with delicate tendrils framing the face. To achieve it, gather hair at the crown, twist it into a loose bun and pin it, leaving pieces free at the hairline. Finish with a soft‑hold spray and, if desired, a bow or pearl clip for extra femininity. This look works whether you prefer a high, dramatic bun or a lower, effortless version and brings vintage glamour into the present.
Bringing It All Together
Updos are back in a big way thanks to a renewed appreciation for polished, feminine hair and a healthy dose of nostalgia. Whether you favour the undone romance of a messy French twist or the structured playfulness of a princess updo, these sixteen styles show that there’s an updo for every mood. As stylists note, the best updo is one that balances structure and softness and lets you feel both elegant and comfortable all day long.
