16 Easy Updo Hairstyles to Try at Home

Getty/Axelle/Bauer-Griffin
Getty/Axelle/Bauer-Griffin

For most people, the term "updo" elicits visions of prom hairstyles and wedding looks — not to mention hours spent in a chair at a salon. But updo hairstyles don't have to be formal or difficult. In fact, they can be easy to do at home and are a great way to keep your hair off the back of your neck.

Updos are remarkably versatile and can easily transition between day and night, casual and formal, and sleek and messy. Best of all, even the most amateur stylists can achieve these professional-level looks at home. For most of these styles, all you need are a few bobby pins, some product, a mirror, and a handy DIY tutorial to walk you through it step-by-step.

From braided updos to ponytail updos, milkmaid braids, space buns, and twists, these tutorials include something for every type of occasion and hair type.

Ahead, we rounded up tutorials for beginner easy updo hairstyles.

Additional reporting by Naomi Parris

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'90s Ponytail Updo Hairstyle

Channel your inner Ariana Grande with this quick and easy '90s-inspired ponytail by Anife. Whether you're headed out for a day full of errands or on a romantic date night, a high ponytail will never steer you wrong.

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Easy Slicked Back Bun Updo Hairstyle

A classic, slicked-back bun remains one of the most loved updo hairstyles, and it's quite simple to achieve. Tyla Lauren creates the look in this two-minute tutorial. Whether you're in a hurry to fix a bad hair situation or want something simple after wash day, this sleek bun is ideal.

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French Twist Updo For Medium and Long Hair

Alex Gaboury proves that updos don't need to be complicated or time-consuming in this 60-second French twist tutorial. While this style looks super elegant and complicated, it's actually quick and easy.

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Easy Locs Updo Styles Medium and Long Hair

For those with medium to long-length locs, Morgan Alexis creates an effortless style that can be rocked day or night. The easy high bun combined with twisting your hair to create chic, faux bangs makes the style is for anyone to replicate.

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Updo Hairstyles For Short and Medium Hair

For those with short, fine hair, Mallory Brooke seamlessly demos five separate updos that don't require hot tools or professional-level skills. From a chic low bun to "no braid-braids," you're guaranteed to find something that works for your hair, occasion, and technique.

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Updo Cornrow Braids Hairstyle

While cornrows are a style that you can rock alone, AbbieCurls shows how easy it is to get creative and put your own twist on traditional styles. By fluffing out the ends, you have the option to create one large bun or a fun set of double buns, creating a finished look that has serious staying power.

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Simple Chignon Updo Hairstyle

This voluminous chignon hairstyle from CinthiaTruong is ideal for those seeking a style that is elegant enough for a formal wedding but still looks modern.

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Goddess Braids Updo Hairstyles

As if goddess braids weren't already a statement style, Alana Simone finds six ways to style them that will surely give you a confidence boost. With her savvy tips and tricks — such as doing space buns and a "Poetic Justice" style pony — even the most amateur stylists will find it easy to achieve these styles.

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Milkmaid Braided Updo Hairstyle

The braided milkmaid updo has experienced a surge in popularity over the last few years. Note that it is best suited for medium to long-length hair. KathleenLights demos how to turn two ponytail plaits into a crown in just a few easy steps.

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Easy Natural Updo Hairstyles For Straightened Hair

If you have medium-length or longer hair, these updos from Yours Naturally's Ashley Williams are your ideal for formal events. Featuring a chunky braid, tucked updo, and twisted bun, all of these styles are soft, elegant, and romantic.

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Box Braids Updo Hairstyle: Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are a simple, yet iconic hairstyle trend from the '90s and 2000s that doesn't seem to be going anywhere any time soon. It's the perfect protective and hassle-free hairstyle that you can rock for days. This Bantu knot tutorial from LaVidaRosa is a bold, fun take on the classic style. Not to mention, you can easily take them out when you're ready to wear your hair down again.

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Effortless Side Bun Updo Hairstyle

This two-in-one video from MakeupWearables Hairstyles walks you through two side-bun updos. The tutorial also offers different ways of customizing based on occasion, skill level, hair type, and desired style.

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Dutch Updo Braid Style

While short, layered hair can present to be a challenge for updos, this video from Luxy Hair proves that it's far from impossible to nail a stunning, versatile look. By using a headband, bobby pins, and a Dutch braid, she is able to quickly transform her hair into a beautiful updo.

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Twisted Updo For Short Natural Hair

Women with natural hair will love this twisted updo by MahoganyCurls. She also details the products used in her video, ensuring that you can easily achieve the same level of flawlessness at home.

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Classy Messy Bun Updo Hairstyle

This side-swept updo hairstyle from Eve Markava is the perfect effortless look. Though the teased details make it feel ideal for every day, it can juxtapose a gown to give it that cool edge.

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Crown Braid Updo Hairstyle

Though this tutorial from MakeupWearables Hairstyles requires a few more steps than some of the simpler looks, the finished crown braid updo is undeniably worth the few extra minutes of styling. The oversize braid begs to be Instagrammed.

Easy Updo Hairstyles
POPSUGAR Photography | Grace Hitchcock

Easy Updo Hairstyles