Natural hair is a beautiful canvas for creativity, and updos are a fantastic way to showcase its versatility. Whether you’re heading to a formal event, a casual outing, or just want to switch up your everyday look, there’s an updo that’s perfect for you. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 15 cute updos for natural hair that are sure to turn heads and boost your confidence. From elegant braided styles to playful curly creations, these updos celebrate the beauty and versatility of natural hair.
1. Curly Updo with a Crown Braid
The curly updo with a crown braid is a regal and romantic style that combines the best of both worlds: intricate braiding and natural curls. This look features a beautifully braided crown that wraps around the head, while the rest of the hair is gathered into a voluminous curly updo at the back. The contrast between the sleek braid and the textured curls creates a stunning visual effect that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to feel extra glamorous.
Styling Tips:
- Start with well-moisturized, detangled hair
- Create a Dutch braid along the hairline, continuing around the head
- Gather the remaining hair into a high ponytail
- Pin curls from the ponytail to create a voluminous updo
- Secure with bobby pins and finish with a light-hold hairspray
2. Rolled and Pinned Updo for Natural Hair
The rolled and pinned updo is a classic and elegant style that works beautifully with natural hair textures. This sophisticated look involves creating several rolled sections of hair that are then pinned in place to form a structured updo. The result is a sleek and polished appearance that’s perfect for formal events, weddings, or professional settings. This versatile style can be adapted to suit various face shapes and hair lengths.
Styling Tips:
- Apply a smoothing cream to damp hair for easier manipulation
- Create 4-6 sections and roll each one towards the center of the head
- Secure each roll with bobby pins, overlapping them for a cohesive look
- Tuck in any loose ends and smooth flyaways with a small brush
- Finish with a medium-hold hairspray for long-lasting hold
3. Half Braided Half Curly Updo with Cornrows
The half braided half curly updo with cornrows is a fun and edgy style that combines sleek braiding with voluminous curls. This look features cornrows on one side of the head, leading into a curly updo on the other side. The contrast between the tight braids and the free-flowing curls creates a unique and eye-catching appearance. This style is perfect for those who want to showcase their versatility and add a touch of edge to their look.
Styling Tips:
- Part hair deeply to one side
- Create cornrows on the side with less hair, braiding towards the back
- Gather the remaining hair into a high ponytail on the opposite side
- Pin curls from the ponytail to create a voluminous, curly updo
- Add accessories like hair cuffs or beads to the braids for extra flair
4. Sculptured French Braid with a Front Roll
The sculptured French braid with a front roll is an artistic and sophisticated style that’s sure to make a statement. This intricate look features a sleek front roll that transitions into a beautifully sculptured French braid at the back. The result is a polished and unique appearance that showcases your natural hair texture while keeping it styled and off your face. This updo is perfect for formal events or when you want to feel extra glamorous.
Styling Tips:
- Start with smoothed, detangled hair
- Create a front roll by twisting a section of hair from the hairline
- Secure the roll with bobby pins
- Begin a French braid at the crown, incorporating the rolled section
- Continue braiding to the nape, tucking in the ends for a polished finish
5. Cute Contrasting Top Afro Updo
The cute contrasting top afro updo is a playful and celebratory style that embraces the natural volume and texture of afro-textured hair. This look features a sleek, pulled-back section at the sides and back, contrasting beautifully with a voluminous afro puff at the top. The result is a fun and stylish appearance that’s perfect for casual outings, festivals, or any time you want to showcase your natural texture with a touch of flair.
Styling Tips:
- Apply a moisturizing cream to enhance your natural curl pattern
- Smooth and secure the sides and back with gel and bobby pins
- Gather the top section into a high ponytail
- Fluff out the ponytail to create a voluminous afro puff
- Add a colorful headband or accessories for extra personality
6. Twist’n’Bun Updo for Natural Hair
The twist’n’bun updo is a chic and versatile style that works beautifully with natural hair textures. This look involves creating several twisted sections that are then gathered and shaped into a bun at the back of the head. The result is a textured and interesting updo that keeps hair secure while showcasing its natural beauty. This style is perfect for both casual and formal occasions, depending on how sleek or relaxed you make it.
Styling Tips:
- Start with moisturized, stretched hair for easier twisting
- Create 6-8 two-strand twists, moving towards the back of the head
- Gather all twists at the nape of the neck
- Shape the twists into a bun, securing with bobby pins
- Loosen some strands for a more relaxed, romantic look
7. Rope Twist Halo Braid
The rope twist halo braid is an elegant and eye-catching style that creates a beautiful crown effect around the head. This look involves creating a continuous rope twist that encircles the head, resembling a halo or crown. The result is a sleek and sophisticated appearance that keeps hair neat and off the face while showcasing your natural texture. This style is perfect for special occasions or when you want to feel like royalty.
Styling Tips:
- Start with smoothed, detangled hair
- Begin the rope twist at the nape, working your way around the head
- Use a small amount of gel or edge control for a sleek finish
- Secure the end of the twist under the beginning, creating a seamless look
- Add small accessories like pearls or flowers for extra glamour
8. French Braided Updo
The French braided updo is a timeless and elegant style that works beautifully with natural hair. This look features one or more French braids that are then pinned up to create a structured and sophisticated updo. The result is a polished and put-together appearance that’s perfect for formal events, weddings, or professional settings. This versatile style can be adapted to suit various face shapes and hair lengths.
Styling Tips:
- Start with moisturized, detangled hair
- Create one or more French braids, moving towards the back of the head
- Secure the ends of the braids with small elastic bands
- Pin the braids up and around to form an updo shape
- Loosen some strands for a softer, more romantic look
9. Twisted Side Updo
The twisted side updo is a chic and asymmetrical style that adds interest and elegance to natural hair. This look involves creating several twisted sections that are then gathered and pinned to one side of the head. The result is a unique and eye-catching updo that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of glamour to your everyday look. This style works well with various hair lengths and textures.
Styling Tips:
- Part hair deeply to one side
- Create several two-strand twists, moving towards the side with less hair
- Gather all twists and pin them to create a side-swept updo
- Secure with bobby pins, tucking in any loose ends
- Add a decorative hair clip or flowers for extra flair
10. Naturally Curly Tie-Up
The naturally curly tie-up is a simple yet stunning style that celebrates the beauty of natural curls. This look involves gathering your curls into a high ponytail or bun, allowing some tendrils to fall loose around the face. The result is a carefree and romantic appearance that’s perfect for both casual and formal occasions. This style is ideal for those who want to showcase their natural texture while keeping hair off the neck and face.
Styling Tips:
- Start with well-moisturized, defined curls
- Gather hair into a high ponytail, leaving some face-framing pieces
- Secure with a hair tie, being careful not to disrupt curl pattern
- Pin the ponytail into a bun or leave it loose for a pineapple effect
- Use a pick to add volume and shape as desired
11. Flat Twists Updo
The flat twists updo is a sleek and sophisticated style that combines the neatness of flat twists with the elegance of an updo. This look involves creating several flat twists that lead into a styled updo at the back of the head. The result is a polished and put-together appearance that’s perfect for formal events or professional settings. This versatile style works well with various hair lengths and can be adapted to suit different face shapes.
Styling Tips:
- Start with moisturized, detangled hair
- Create 4-6 flat twists, moving towards the back of the head
- Gather the ends of the twists and any loose hair at the back
- Pin the gathered hair into a neat bun or styled updo
- Smooth edges with a small amount of gel or edge control
12. Twisted Curly Mohawk
The twisted curly mohawk is a bold and edgy style that combines sleek sides with a voluminous curly top. This look features twisted or braided sides that lead into a mohawk-like strip of defined curls along the center of the head. The result is a fun and eye-catching appearance that’s perfect for those who want to make a statement with their natural hair. This style works well for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events.
Styling Tips:
- Part hair to create a mohawk section down the center
- Twist or braid the sides tightly, securing with bobby pins
- Apply a curl-defining cream to the center section
- Style the curls into a voluminous mohawk shape
- Secure with bobby pins and finish with a strong-hold hairspray
13. Pompadour Updo for Natural Hair
The pompadour updo is a classic style that’s been given a modern twist for natural hair. This look features a voluminous front section that’s styled into a pompadour shape, while the rest of the hair is sleekly pulled back into an updo. The result is a bold and sophisticated appearance that’s perfect for making a statement at formal events or when you want to feel extra glamorous. This style works particularly well for those with thick, voluminous natural hair.
Styling Tips:
- Start with stretched or blow-dried hair for maximum volume
- Create a large pompadour at the front using a teasing comb
- Smooth the sides and back, gathering hair into a low ponytail
- Pin the ponytail into a neat bun or styled updo
- Secure the pompadour with bobby pins and finish with hairspray
14. Knots and Twists Combination
The knots and twists combination updo is a creative and textured style that showcases the versatility of natural hair. This look involves creating various sized knots and twists throughout the hair, then arranging them into an updo shape. The result is a unique and interesting appearance that’s perfect for those who love to experiment with their hair. This style works well for both casual and formal occasions, depending on how neat or relaxed you make it.
Styling Tips:
- Start with moisturized, detangled hair
- Create various sized Bantu knots and two-strand twists throughout the hair
- Arrange the knots and twists into an updo shape, pinning securely
- Leave some twists hanging for added dimension
- Add accessories like hair jewelry or flowers for extra flair
15. Braided Humidity Proof Updos
Braided humidity-proof updos are a lifesaver for those living in humid climates or for days when you need your style to last. These looks typically involve creating multiple braids or cornrows that are then pinned up into a styled updo. The result is a sleek and long-lasting appearance that resists frizz and maintains its shape throughout the day. This versatile style can be adapted for various occasions, from casual outings to formal events.
Styling Tips:
- Start with freshly washed and deeply conditioned hair
- Apply an anti-humidity serum or cream before styling
- Create multiple braids or cornrows, moving towards the back
- Pin the braids into a styled updo shape
- Secure with bobby pins and finish with an anti-humidity hairspray
In conclusion, these 15 cute updos for natural hair offer a wide range of options for every occasion and personal style. From elegant braided styles to playful curly creations, there’s an updo that will make you feel confident and beautiful while celebrating the versatility of your natural hair. Remember to always start with well-moisturized hair and be gentle in your styling to maintain the health of your locks. With these stunning updos in your repertoire, you’ll always have a go-to style for any event or mood.