39 updos you’ll actually want to wear on repeat
Not-such-a-spoiler alert: we are all collectively obsessed with updos right now. The hashtag #updo has racked up billions of views on TikTok, and it's no surprise that our ongoing love for the 1990s is behind many of the biggest revival looks.
This latest wave is all about snatched silhouettes, such as ultra sleek buns, polished chignons and anything that looks like it belongs on the head of a model moving between castings. The claw clip, once the unofficial mascot of the decade, has reclaimed permanent residence in our handbags, ready to twist hair up in seconds. That nostalgic 1990s updo, famously worn by icons like Pamela Anderson in a messy meets glamorous style, keeps inspiring new interpretations every single day.
Face framing tendrils have fully returned as well (hey, Zendaya at the Challengers screening earlier this year, sporting a mid-height ponytail with blunt bangs and face-framing tendrils), softening even the slickest looks to give a slightly undone finish. At the same time, glossy ballerina buns and wet look, scraped back styles (yep, still!) are having a major celebrity moment, with fans including Lori Harvey and Sofia Richie.
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On the more experimental side, intricate braids and sculptural buns continue to appear across red carpets and social feeds. India Amarteifio, Yara Shahidi and plenty of other trendsetters are offering endless ideas, whether you want something half up, braided, wrapped, woven or clean and minimal.
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The best part is that updos are not just stylish. They are incredibly practical. Whether you prefer a snatched vibe or a sexily dishevelled finish, wearing your hair up is the easiest way to revive second or third day strands. Glossy waves look their best on freshly washed hair, but updos benefit from a little grit and natural texture. A spritz or two of dry shampoo will only help, adding hold, lift and longevity.
So whether you are rocking a carefree second day topknot, adding a touch of elegance with a classic ballerina bun or going for full drama with an intricate braided creation, an updo is always a good idea. It suits every length and every texture, from short to long and from curly to straight.
“A sleek ponytail can create a polished and sophisticated look, perfect for weddings or formal events,” top hairstylist & colourist Rachel Selt tells us. “Adding some waves can soften the style and give it a romantic touch, while face-framing pieces can enhance your features beautifully. You can also play with the height of the ponytail, whether it’s low, mid, or high, depending on the vibe you want to achieve.”
“For shorter hair, a waved half-up style with loose pieces can instantly elevate your look with a touch of glamour,” Rachels explains. “This hairstyle beautifully balances elegance and playfulness, allowing the waves to frame your face while keeping the hair off your neck. The soft, tousled waves add dimension and movement, making it a perfect choice for any special occasion. Plus, the loose pieces give it a relaxed yet chic vibe.”
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“For thinner hair, a twisted sleek or loose bun is an excellent choice, as it offers both style and sophistication,” Rachel tells us. “By incorporating specific techniques, like adding extensions, you can effortlessly enhance the fullness and volume of your bun. A sleek twisted bun creates a polished look, while a loose bun adds a more boho look. Both styles can be customized to fit the occasion.”
Looking for inspiration? We've got you covered. Here are some of our favourite updo hairstyles to help spark your next look.
Snatched sculpture bun
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Braided tucked bun
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Half-up space buns
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The scoop
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'90s China bumps
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Woven tendril bun
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Curly updo
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Curly steggy buns
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Sky-high pony
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The messy Tinkerbell
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Sleek twist
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The new-gen model bun
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Glam '90s updo
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Rosebud bun
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Platinum Pammy updo
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Braided updo
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Tinkerbell bun and soft fringe
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Braided space buns
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Messy wrapped bun
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Stacked curl bun
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Messy half-up space buns
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Sleek '90s updo
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Accessorised plaited bun
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Wrapped braids
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Glossy '90s updo
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Low bun
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Twist bun and braid
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Wrapped bun
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Chunky braids
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Knotted spiky bun
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Supermodel updo
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Bantu knots
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Casual claw clip bun
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Intricate bow bun
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Piled-high '90s updo
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Loose braid bun
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Curly Tinkerbell bun
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Sky high ballerina bun
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Curly '90s updo
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Sleek and spiky
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For more from GLAMOUR's Beauty Editor, Elle Turner, follow her on Instagram @elleturneruk
