38 Super Easy Updos + Step by Step Tutorial

Updated on February 26, 2024
Tatiana Cooper By Tatiana Cooper
Tatiana Cooper

Expert writer, copywriter, and well-versed beauty and wellness enthusiast.

Easy UpdosPIN

38 Super Easy Updos + Step by Step Tutorial

Look, we’re all guilty of tossing our hair up and out of our faces when we don’t have time to style it, and more times than not, it often looks like crap. But, we have a solution for you, easy updos! We have curated a list of all the easiest but still beautiful updos that you can do first thing in the morning before work so you no longer have to have a bad hair day nearly every day. So, let’s get into it and talk about all things updo hairstyles!

How To Do an Easy DIY Updo

First up, let’s start with the basics – an easy DIY updo that anyone can master.

Materials Needed:

  1. Hairbrush or comb
  2. Hair tie or elastic band
  3. Bobby pins
  4. Hair accessory (optional)

Step #1

Start with Brushed Hair. Begin with clean and brushed hair to ensure a smooth and polished look.

Step #2

Create a High Ponytail. Gather all your hair at the crown of your head and secure it with a hair tie or elastic band. The placement can be at the very top for a high updo or slightly lower for a mid-height updo.

Step #3

Loosen the Ponytail. Once the ponytail is secured, use your fingers to gently loosen the hair around the crown to add volume. This step helps create a more relaxed and casual appearance.

Step #4

Twist the Ponytail. Take the ponytail and twist it into a simple rope or coil. Keep twisting until the entire length of the ponytail is twisted.

Step #5

Wrap the Twist into a Bun. Start wrapping the twisted ponytail around the base, forming a bun. Continue wrapping until you reach the end of the twisted section.

Step #6

Secure with Bobby Pins. Use bobby pins to secure the bun in place. Insert the pins vertically into the bun, catching both the twisted section and the base to ensure a secure hold.

Step #7

Loosen Strands for an Effortless Look. If you desire a more relaxed or messy look, gently pull a few strands of hair from the bun to frame your face. This adds a touch of softness to the updo.

Step #8

Secure Loose Ends. Tuck in any loose ends and secure them with additional bobby pins if needed. Make sure the bun feels secure.

Step #9

Final Adjustments. Take a moment to look in the mirror and make any final adjustments. You can also use this time to add a decorative hairpin or accessory if you like.

Step #10

Finish with Hairspray. If you want to set the style and reduce flyaways, you can finish the look with a light mist of hairspray.

Easy Updo For Medium Hair

If you’re blessed with medium-length hair, there are countless updo options to choose from. One popular choice, and our favorite updos for medium hair is the classic chignon. To achieve this look, start by parting your hair down the middle and gathering it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Twist the ponytail into a coil, tuck the ends under, and secure it with bobby pins. Finish off with a spritz of hairspray to keep everything in place.

Before we jump into any more styles, we wanna go over the pros and cons of updos.

Pros Of Easy Updos Cons Of Easy Updos
  • Formal and Elegant
  • Versatility
  • Highlights Accessories
  • Long-Lasting
  • Suitable for Various Hair Types
  • Complexity and Time-Consuming
  • Professional Styling
  • May Require Accessories
  • Limited Casual Appeal
  • Risk of Tension and Breakage

Simple Curly Hair Updo

If you are one of the lucky ones who have naturally beautiful curly locks, we first want to say we’re jealous, Second, we want you to know this simple curly hair updo will be perfect for you. Curly hair is great when doing updos because it helps to create an effortlessly voluminous look. All you need to do is simply just pin your hair up, pull out a few strands here and there, and then boom, the perfect simple curly hair updos.

Easy Updo For Short Hair

The best and easiest way to do an updo for short hair is a low bun. A low bun allows you to gather as much of your short hair as possible into one hair elastic without using a thousand bobby pins. Simply just gather the hair at the nape of the neck and give it a twist inward for this beautiful yet easy bun.

Cute Easy Updo

If you have your mind set on a cut easy updo, there is only one answer – accessories! We love the look of incorporating accessories into our essay updo for a super fast and uncomplicated way to make your hairstyle look cuter.

You have a few accessory options to make your easy updo cute, such as:

  1. Hairpins and Bobby Pins
  2. Hair Clips and Barrettes
  3. Headbands
  4. Hair Ties and Scrunchies
  5. Hair Wraps and Scarves
  6. Claw Clips
  7. Hair Forks and Hair Sticks

Easy Wedding Updos

Your wedding day can be one of the best days of your life, therefore you are going to want to look your best. And to look your best, we think you’ll need an easy wedding updo. This updo is our favorite because of how effortlessly beautiful it looks. Plus, the pearled clips really make it something special.

Zohna Tip

If you want your hair to look extra shiny and glossy, there are products on the market that will instantly give you beautiful shine for your big day or any special occasion.

Easy Updo For Thin Hair

Having thin hair can sometimes feel like the end of the world, but it really shouldn’t. There are so many ways you can boost your hair confidence by making your hair look a bit thicker. A few of our favorite ways to help make your hair look and feel thicker are listed in the chart below!

How To Make Hair Appear Thicker For An Easy Updo Description
Choose the Right Haircut Opt for a layered haircut to add volume and texture. Layers help create the illusion of fuller hair, and they can be customized based on your preferences.
Avoid Heavy, Blunt Cuts Heavy, blunt cuts can make thin hair look even thinner. Consider softer, tapered ends to add movement and dimension.
Add Volume with Layers Ask your stylist to add long layers to your hair. This can create the illusion of more volume and thickness, especially around the crown and ends.
Blow-Dry Upside Down Flip your head upside down while blow-drying to lift the roots and add volume. Use a round brush to create lift and bounce.
Use Volumizing Products Choose volumizing shampoos and conditioners designed to add fullness to the hair. Additionally, use lightweight mousse or volumizing spray at the roots for added lift.
Tease the Roots Gently tease the roots of your hair with a comb to add volume at the crown. Be careful not to damage the hair by teasing it too aggressively.
Consider Hair Extensions Hair extensions, particularly clip-in extensions, can add instant volume and length to thin hair. Make sure to choose high-quality, natural-looking extensions.

Quick Natural Hair Updo

Not all of us like to wake up super early before work and not all of us have time to do our hair before it’s time to hit the road. That said, we might have just changed your hair game forever with this super quick natural hair updo. Forget about all the crazy updos, and just focus on the simple things like this twisted low bun.

Easy Messy Updos

Messy hair is the hairstyle everyone is drooling over and we are here to show you our favorite messy hairstyle, aka the easy messy updo. All you need to do is messily create a bun on the top of your head, and then pull the hair slightly at the sides. Once the bun looks a bit too large and a bit too crazy, use bobby pins to pin the sides down to the scalp. This will create the most perfect messy updo you had no idea was missing from your life.

Easy Braided Updo

If a simple updo is just a bit too easy, we have a slightly more complicated but still easy updo for you to take a peek at. This low bun braid updo is the perfect hairstyle for those who like a little extra something in their easy updo. Simply just do a braid on each side of the head and instead of using all your hair, use the bottom half of the hair and put it into a bun, including the end of the braids.

There are a few different braids you can do, such as:

Easy Updos For Work

Just because you’re heading to the office doesn’t mean you have to have a bad hair day most of the time. We are about to change your hairstyle world with this stunning easy updo for work that looks like you spent plenty of time on when in reality, it only took a couple of minutes. This style is all about a big voluminous low bun. However, the keyword is voluminous. We highly suggest you start incorporating a hair donut into your bun routine to give your hair an extra oomph!

Super Quick Updo

The one thing a lot of us don’t have is time. But there’s no need to stress because this super awesome and super quick updo is here to save the day. Think of a side-swept and loosely twisted bun at the nape of the neck. Also, it only takes three seconds to place pretty accessories into your strands for a super quick leveling up.

Easy 50s Hairstyles Updo

The 50s were known for their classic and glamorous hairstyles, and you can recreate that same retro vibe with an easy 50s updo. When we think of a glamorous 50ss hairstyle we automatically think of a large bun at the crown of the head and bangs (just like the image above.) If you are hearing and seeing bangs and thinking hell no, let us try to convince you it’s a good idea. In the chart below are a handful of bang options to choose from – you might find one you actually really like!

Bang Styles For Easy Hairstyles Updo Description Who They Are Suitable For
Blunt Bangs Blunt bangs are cut straight across the forehead, creating a bold and edgy look. They can be tailored to different lengths, ranging from eyebrow-grazing to below the eyebrows. Blunt bangs work well with a variety of face shapes but are particularly flattering on those with oval or heart-shaped faces. They can add a modern and chic element to your hairstyle.
Side-Swept Bangs Side-swept bangs are longer in length and are swept to one side of the face. They provide a softer and more versatile look compared to blunt bangs. Side-swept bangs are versatile and can complement various face shapes. They are especially great for those with round or square faces as they can help soften facial features.
Wispy Bangs Wispy Bangs are soft and textured, with shorter pieces blending into longer strands. This style creates a light and airy appearance. Side-swept bangs are versatile and can complement various face shapes. They are especially great for those with round or square faces as they can help soften facial features.
Baby Bangs (Micro Bangs) Baby bangs, also known as micro bangs, are very short bangs that sit above the eyebrows. This style can be straight across or slightly textured for a bold and distinctive look. Baby bangs are a bold choice and work well for those who want to make a statement. They can suit various face shapes but often look particularly striking on oval or heart-shaped faces.

Zohna Tip

When choosing a bang type do some research to see if it suits your face shape, that way you will know if it will suit you before you do it!

Easy Prom Updo

Prom night is all about looking and feeling your best, so you can dance the night away with confidence. That said, this easy prom updo can help with that! We love the low bun and side braid pairing. They look absolutely stunning together. What we love even more is the floral detailing that really screams prom! Don’t forget to pull out some face framing pieces at the front to help make sure you look your best in pictures.

Easy Loc Updo

If you have locs, there are plenty of creative updo options to choose from and the easiest one is a simple top knot. Simply just gather your locs at the top of your head and tie it with a hair tie. If you want to make sure it stays all day you can also use bobby pins. Our favorite way to accessorize the easy loc updo is a simple hairband.

Easy Formal Updos

The easy part of a formal event is finding the outfit. The not-so-easy part is figuring out what hairstyles are going to match that outfit, let alone the makeup! But this easy formal updo is sure to match every outfit and makeup style you choose. The voluminous back and large low bun pair perfectly with face framing pieces. This is a great hairstyle to pair with beautiful earrings and a statement necklace.

Easy Wedding Guest Updo

You don’t want to steal the show from the Bride but you also want to look good, we get it. We get it so much that we have this easy wedding guest updo style that is incredible and simple, without being too over the top. The loose braid cascading down into the beautiful nest of hair at the nape filled with tiny floral embellishments is the prettiest little updo we’ve seen in a while, don’t you think?

Easy Half Updos

If you can’t decide between wearing your hair up or down, why not go for a half updo? This hairstyle is great if you want your hair out of your face but don’t completely up. This look is great when you curl the strands with a large barrel curling iron for those large loose curls and add a shiny hair accessory right where the hair divides between up and down.

Easy Bun Updo

When in doubt, go for a classic bun updo – with a twist (don’t worry it’s an easy twist instead of going for one bun, why not try for two? By incorporating two buns one on top of the other, you can create a fuller and more voluminous look with your updo. Plus, if you pull around the bun to make it larger and look more disheveled it almost looks like one super large bun, giving the illusion of thicker hair.

Casual Bob Updo

If you have short hair, all hope is not dead! You can still do an easy updo, you’ll just have to make a few compromises here and there. For example, this casual bob updo is a half up half down look, simply because it would be hard to fit all your hair up on your head without needing a million bobby pins.

Simple Bridesmaid Updo

Being a bridesmaid is all about looking second to the bride while still complimenting her beauty. That said, you want a hairstyle that won’t outshine but help the bride shine even more. This simple bridesmaid updo is exactly that, simple. However, the green gem clip helps to add a bit of something extra for the big day without taking too much effort.

Easy Ponytail Updo

Just because something is easy, doesn’t mean you need to keep it the same every time. This easy ponytail updo is the perfect hairstyle for those who love a ponytail but also want to switch it up a bit with something a bit more fun. Something that instantly elevates any updo is covering up the hair elastics and this look is great for that. Simply add a fishtail braid over your ponytail and voila, you get this masterpiece of a hairstyle.

Quick Weave Updo

This hairstyle is achieved by incorporating hair extensions into your natural hair, giving you the illusion of length and volume without commitment. Simply weave in the extensions and gather your hair into a high bun. Secure it with bobby pins and make sure to leave out your curtain bangs to frame your gorgeous face.

Easy Summer Updos

During the summer there’s rarely a point in time where we feel like having our hair down, so it’s fun to play around with different updos. This easy summer updo is a fun one as it entails a bunch of knots along the head that lead into little buns at the nape of the neck. It’s like a bunch of little space buns, and what could be cooler than that!

Easy Low Updo

If you’re aiming for a more elegant look, the easy low updo is the way to go. This style is perfect for formal events or a fancy night out, but also looks great just for a casual outing or lounging around the house. Start by parting your hair in the middle and gather it into a low bun at the nape of your neck. If you like the light and wispiness of the girl’s hair in the image above, pull the hair back super lightly and run a curling iron through it.

Updo For The Gym

Yes, you read that right – there’s even an updo for the gym! Just because you’re breaking a sweat doesn’t mean you can’t look good doing it. We suggest just going for a simple top knot at the top of the head. This will ensure that everything stays up during whatever activities you get up to at the gym.

If you are more interested in hairstyles for the gym then easy updos don’t click out so fast, here are a few gym hairstyles you could try for your next gym session:

  1. High Ponytail
  2. Braided Ponytail
  3. French Braid or Dutch Braid
  4. Boxer Braids
  5. Space Buns
  6. Bantu Knots

Sporty Updo

For those with an active lifestyle, the sporty updo is the perfect solution. This hairstyle keeps your hair secure and out of the way during intense workouts or outdoor activities. Make sure to do the braids extra tight so that the strands stay braided and don’t fall out. If you want to leave the hair down you can, but you can also simply tie it all into a low ponytail, which is probably a bit more practical.

The Everyday Updo

Whoever said scrunchies weren’t a thing anymore has no idea what they are talking about. A silk scrunchie and a low bun are the ultimate comb for an everyday updo. Plus, the silk of the scrunchie is great for your hair, especially if you do updos often as they can be harsh on the hair.

If you do updos often and like the sound of protecting your hair we have a few tips you can try, such as:

Protecting your hair is essential to maintain its health, strength, and overall appearance. Here are various ways to protect your hair:

  • Gentle Washing
  • Condition Regularly
  • Limit Heat Styling
  • Air Dry When Possible
  • Protective Hairstyles
  • Avoid Tight Hairstyles
  • Silk or Satin Pillowcases
  • Protect Hair in Chlorine and Saltwater
  • Protective Products

Easy French Twist Updo

For a touch of Parisian style, the easy French twist updo is a must-try. Start by gathering your hair into a low loose ponytail at the nape of your neck. Twist the ponytail upwards, tucking it in as you go, until you reach the top of your head. Secure the twist with bobby pins and you’re ready to channel your best French impersonation.

Easy Updo For Layered Hair

When you have layered hair some updo styles can be a bit tricky. However, this easy updo for layered hair is going to change your world. Rather than working against your layers, this embraces them and allows you to have fun with them. The low ponytail is a braid at the crown of the head that accentuates the layers. If you need you can secure the layers with bobby pins and let some shorter pieces frame your face for a playful and effortless look.

Easy Updo For Straight Hair

Straight hair may seem like a challenge when it comes to updos, but fear not, because there’s a simple solution. A sleek and polished updo is the perfect choice for those with straight hair. If you want to secure any flyaways at the crown of the head, use a strong hold gel and a bristle brush. That will ensure you look shiny and sleek just like in the image above.

Zohna Tip

If you're using a hot tool, like a hair straightener, please make sure you use heat protectant, your strands will thank you.

Easy Updo For Fine Hair

Don’t let fine hair hold you back from experimenting with different hairstyles. With the right techniques and products, you can create the illusion of volume and texture. Opt for a tousled and messy updo to add body and dimension to your fine locks. Use texturizing spray or dry shampoo to add grip and hold to your hair before creating the updo. Braids are also a great way to add some texture, and so are clips. Just look at how bouncy and voluminous that girl’s thin hair looks. That could be you!

Easy Classic Updo

When it comes to updos, you can never go wrong with a classic. The easy classic updo is a timeless hairstyle that is suitable for any occasion. This elegant look can be achieved by gathering your hair into a low twisted bun at the nape of your neck and letting a few loose strands frame your face for a soft touch.

Wet Hair Updo Easy

The wet hair look is never one we thought would gain popularity, but here we are. This wet hair updo style is all about making wet hair look good. But, it’s not actually wet. There is a specific amount of gel used in the hair that helps give it the allusion of being wet. This is a very high-fashion look, so be prepared to feel super high fashion.

Easy High Updo

We’ve been talking a lot about the low buns, and now it’s time for the high bun to get in the limelight. We love this high bun because it looks unique from all the other twist buns and because it’s filled with bobby pins, cool right?!

Easy Loose Updo

When we think of having our hair up, we usually picture having our hair pretty tight against our head. But, for this easy loose updo that is not the case. This bohemian-inspired updo starts with curling the strands so they get that pretty wispy look. Then simply just loosely tie the hair at the nape of the neck. Some strands will inevitably fall out, but that’s part of the appeal.

Casual Twist Updo

When doing an updo, it’s never the wrong choice to add in twist. That said, we think you should pair a twisted low bun with a double braid action along the side of the head. Not only does a low bun always look good, but the braids add a little bit more of something to look at.

Easy Headband Updo

Do you want to know the recipe for a perfect hairstyle? Okay here it goes, a low bun and a headband! Yep, it’s that simple. The low bun beautifully pulls and secures the hair back, while the headbands keep things looking beautiful.

Simple Vintage Updo

A bun right above the forehead might sound strange, but we promise it looks cool. This simple vintage updo is perfect for those vintage lovers out there. This hairstyle is given to 50s housewives and we’re kind of loving it. Plus, this is a style you don’t see very often, so if you like to be different from the herd these ones for you.

FAQ

  • Are These Updos Suitable For All Hair Types?

    Absolutely! Whether you have long hair or short hair, straight hair or curly hair, these updos can be adapted to suit any hair type. Just make sure to use enough bobby pins to secure your hair in place and hairspray to keep it all in place.

  • How Long Does It Take To Create These Updos?

    The time it takes to create these updos can vary depending on your hair length and skill level. On average, you can expect to spend around 10-15 minutes perfecting each updo. However, with practice, you’ll be able to create them even faster!

  • Can I Wear These Updos For Formal Occasions?

    Absolutely! The Casual Twist Updo, Easy Headband Updo, and Simple Vintage Updo are all versatile enough to be worn for any occasion. Whether it’s a wedding, a prom, or a fancy dinner, these updos will make you look and feel fabulous!

Easy (updos) Peasy Lemon Squeezy

Congrats, you’ve made it to the end of all things easy updos! We will feel like failures if there isn’t at least one updo style in here that you feel like talking about tomorrow morning – so don’t tell us if there wasn’t one. Just kidding, we know there definitely was!