Natural hair offers endless possibilities for creating stunning updos that are both elegant and versatile. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a formal event, or just looking to elevate your everyday look, formal natural hair updos are the perfect solution. Below, we explore different types of updos that highlight the beauty of natural textures while offering sophistication and style.
1. The Classic Bun
What It Is
The classic bun is a timeless updo that works for all hair types, including natural hair. This sleek style can be worn high, low, or in the middle, making it versatile for any formal occasion.
How to Achieve the Look
- Step 1: Start with stretched or blown-out hair for a smoother finish.
- Step 2: Gather your hair into a ponytail at your desired height.
- Step 3: Twist the ponytail and wrap it around itself to form a bun.
- Step 4: Secure with bobby pins and smooth the edges with a styling gel.
Why It Works
The classic bun is a simple yet elegant style that can be dressed up with accessories such as jeweled pins or flowers. It’s ideal for formal events and ensures your natural hair stays sleek and polished throughout the day.
2. Twisted Chignon
What It Is
A twisted chignon is a more intricate version of the classic bun. This style adds dimension and texture by incorporating twists, making it perfect for natural hair.
How to Achieve the Look
- Step 1: Part your hair into two sections—top and bottom.
- Step 2: Create twists in both sections, then wrap them around each other at the nape of your neck.
- Step 3: Pin the twists in place, ensuring that they stay secure.
- Step 4: Smooth your edges for a polished finish.
Why It Works
The twisted chignon offers a unique and sophisticated alternative to the standard bun. It’s an ideal updo for weddings, formal dinners, or any occasion where you want to make a statement while maintaining a refined look.
3. Braided Crown Updo
What It Is
The braided crown updo is a regal and eye-catching style that involves wrapping braids around the head to create a crown-like effect. This style is perfect for formal events and adds a touch of elegance to natural hair.
How to Achieve the Look
- Step 1: Create two large braids on either side of your head.
- Step 2: Wrap each braid around your head, securing them with bobby pins as you go.
- Step 3: Tuck the ends of the braids under each other to create a seamless crown.
- Step 4: Add accessories like gold cuffs or decorative pins for extra flair.
Why It Works
The braided crown updo is both regal and elegant, making it ideal for weddings, galas, or any formal occasion. It showcases the beauty of braids while adding a sophisticated touch to your look.
4. Twisted Updo with Volume
What It Is
This voluminous updo combines twists with natural texture to create a full, eye-catching style. The extra volume adds drama and glamour, perfect for a black-tie event.
How to Achieve the Look
- Step 1: Start by twisting small sections of hair across your head.
- Step 2: Gather the twists into a voluminous bun or roll at the top of your head.
- Step 3: Pin everything in place, leaving some twists loose for added texture.
- Step 4: Tease the crown area for even more volume and spray lightly with a holding spray.
Why It Works
This style celebrates the natural texture and volume of your hair while keeping it controlled and elegant. It’s a standout look that will leave an impression at any formal event.
5. Low Puff Updo
What It Is
The low puff updo is a chic and modern take on a natural hair updo. It involves gathering the hair into a low puff, which creates a sleek and sophisticated look while allowing your curls to shine.
How to Achieve the Look
- Step 1: Brush your hair back into a low puff at the nape of your neck.
- Step 2: Use a gel or pomade to smooth the hair around the puff for a sleek finish.
- Step 3: Secure the puff with a hair tie and fluff out the curls to create volume.
- Step 4: Add a headband or jeweled accessory to elevate the look.
Why It Works
The low puff updo is a great choice for those who want a sleek and polished style without sacrificing volume and texture. It’s ideal for formal events where you want to keep your natural curls on display.
6. Rolled Tuck and Pin Updo
What It Is
The rolled tuck and pin updo is a retro-inspired style that works beautifully with natural hair. It involves rolling and tucking sections of hair to create an intricate, vintage-inspired look.
How to Achieve the Look
- Step 1: Start by sectioning your hair into three parts—two sides and one back.
- Step 2: Roll the back section upwards and pin it at the nape of your neck.
- Step 3: Roll and tuck the side sections towards the back, pinning them in place.
- Step 4: Smooth any flyaways and add vintage-inspired hair accessories for a complete look.
Why It Works
The rolled tuck and pin updo offers a vintage charm that is perfect for formal occasions. This style adds a touch of old Hollywood glamour to your natural hair, making it perfect for themed events or elegant evenings.
Conclusion
Formal natural hair updos are versatile and allow you to embrace your natural texture while looking polished and elegant. Whether you prefer a classic bun, a twisted chignon, or a voluminous puff, there’s a formal updo that will suit your style and event. These hairstyles not only look stunning but also protect your natural hair, ensuring that you can look your best while keeping your hair healthy.
I’ve spent countless hours researching, experimenting, and learning about the intricacies of natural hair care. I aim to share this knowledge with you, helping you navigate the challenges and triumphs of your natural hair journey.