These 30 Updos are Perfect for Both Formal and Casual Occasions

Middle Part Twist

From her beauty looks to her statement-making red carpet wear, Margot Robbie has wowed fans. This classic yet versatile updo is no exception. The middle part keeps her face looking long and lean, and the doughnut-shaped bun shows off fullness. Keep the tendrils pulled back for something more refined, or let them hang loose for something softer.

Pulled Back Bun

Buns are a staple updo style, so it can be difficult to make this look feel fresh and modern. However, Sweeney is up to the challenge. Even though the hair is pulled out of her face, it is not smoothed out. The ripples leading up to the bun feel intentional, not messy. Sweeney is wearing it on the red carpet, but this look could work for a date night or weekend spent with friends.

Frizz-Free High Bun

If Brosnahan’s bun felt a little too ‘done’ for you, try Selena Gomez’s high bun instead. She still keeps the sides sleek—with zero frizz in sight. The high bun feels a little more relaxed than some of the others on this list, but the high-shine style keeps it elevated.

Modern Princess Lea

For those with long hair, a crown bun like this can show off all that luxurious length. When Carrie Fisher played Princess Lea in Star Wars, her hair stole the show. While Yara Shahidi may not have done double space buns, Fisher’s essence was there. Yet, nothing about it feels dated or old-fashioned. 

Bantu Knots

Bantu knots originated from Zulu tribes in Southern Africa, and Marsai Martin brings a modern flair to the style. She wears the protective style on the top half of her head and lets the rest of her braids hang down. Copy her look or cover your scalp in knots.

Ultra-Sleek Low Pony

Jennifer Lawrence’s honey-colored strands are always on display when she graces the red carpet, but they rarely are pulled back. When she does, it is bound to make a statement. Her sleek, low pony looks at home on the red carpet for a movie premiere, but it could also be worn with a matching set at the gym.

Tousled Wet Bun

If low buns and sleek ponytails feel too safe for your style, look to Ciara for inspiration. Her perpetually wet style is both daring and fun. Be warned: this type of style requires tons of styling products, from creams to serums.

Modern French Twist

If you associate French twists with flight attendants, prepare to have your stereotypes shattered. Anya Taylor Joy offers a fresh take on the sometimes stuffy style. This looser, more casual interpretation of a classic fits a variety of occasions, from weddings to the workplace.

Twisted High Pony

If you typically wear your hair in a protective style like twists or braids, look no further than Halle Bailey for some serious hair inspo. Her high ponytail is full and voluminous. She wears this style with a sporty halter dress, but her ‘do would also complement much more formal wear.

Sleek Sculptural Bun

If you love the ‘clean girl’ aesthetic but want to add your own twist to it, forget the low ponytail or simple bun. Instead, try recreating this modern, sculptural low bun. Many updos work best with second-day hair, but this one is best with washed hair. For the best, shiniest results, blow out your hair before attempting.

Tinkerbell Top Knot

Hair inspiration can come from all sources, even Disney characters. Top knots are generally thought of as casual, but Lily Collins proves, with the right styling, this ‘do can be worn for all sorts of occasions. Add this to your inspiration board, especially if you have bangs.

Sleek and Spikey

If you love the shiny look but want to add a little spice, this is the ‘do for you. Doja Cat wore it to the red carpet, but our beauty team loves this style for a night out with friends.

Braided Bun 

Looking for a way to make a simple bun feel special? Easy: add braids. Nicole Richie’s updo may be simple, but it looks elevated. To create this look for yourself, pull your hair into a tight ponytail. Then, split your ponytail in half and braid each chunk separately. Finally, wrap each braid around the ponytail and pin to secure. Protip: if you want the bun to look fuller, pull on the waves of the braids. However, if you like Richie’s smaller bun, keep the braids tight.  

French Braid Crown 

Braided updos never go out of style, and we can see why. Lili Reinhart rocks a French braid crown. Not only is this look going to hold up after a long night, but it’s also one of the quicker looks to recreate for yourself once you get the hang of the braiding. 

60’s Inspired Pony 

Modern hairstyles may be falling flat inspiration wise. Instead, look to a different era, like the sixties. The key to creating a full ponytail like Kate Beckinsale’s is teasing–lots and lots of teasing. Start with three-day hair for optimal texture, and gather everything into a tight ponytail. Tease multiple sections and then brush a section of hair over the top to smooth things over. Use a large barrel curling iron to flip the ends out. Finally, tie a black bow on the ponytail for a girly touch. 

Rope Braids 

Calling all long-haired ladies: this is the next updo for you to try. Eva Longoria shows off her impressive length with dramatic rope braids. For this look, she is sporting two braids, but you can try three or four. 

Modern Chignon

Let’s face it: Ashley Graham can pull off just about anything, but this current take on a classic updo has us updating our mood boards. The chignon has been worn for decades, but Graham’s tousled volume brings this style into the modern era. 

Piecey Twist

Bieber is typically known for her ultra ‘done’ looks. This piecey style turns her typical look on its head. If some of these looks feel too formal for every day, try something casual like this tousled twist. 

Low Ponytail with Thick Tendrils 

Kerry Washington wows no matter what her hair looks like, but this style really made waves, no pun intended. If you are attending a wedding in the near future or looking for a new way to spice up your ‘do for Saturday night, bookmark this low ponytail for the future.