An elegant updo doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, some of the most beautiful hairstyles are born from simplicity and a few clever techniques. A delicate, well-secured updo can elevate your daily look or add a touch of sophistication to a special occasion. The key lies in understanding the fundamentals of preparing your hair, using the right tools, and mastering a few basic structures. This guide will walk you through creating timeless, simple updos that not only look effortless but also stay perfectly in place all day long.
Preparing Your Hair for the Perfect Updo
The foundation of a long-lasting updo is the right hair texture. Freshly washed, silky hair can be too slippery for pins to grip onto. It's often better to style your hair on the second day after washing. If you must start with clean hair, you'll need to add some grip. Start by applying a texturising spray or a light-hold mousse to damp hair before blow-drying. This will give your strands a slightly coarser texture, making them easier to manipulate and secure. If you have very fine hair, a light sprinkle of volumising powder at the roots can also provide extra lift and hold, creating a more substantial base for your style.
Fundamental Techniques for Simple Structures
Most simple updos are variations of a few core techniques. Mastering these will give you the confidence to experiment and create your own styles.
The Basic Twist
The simplest way to gather hair is by twisting it. Take a section of hair, twist it tightly or loosely depending on the desired effect, and pin it in place. A twisted low bun, for example, is created by gathering hair into a low ponytail, twisting the tail, and then coiling it into a bun. This technique is also perfect for securing the sides of your hair back from your face.
The Low Ponytail Base
Many elegant updos start with a secure low ponytail. Use a clear elastic or one that matches your hair colour. Position the ponytail at the nape of your neck. From here, you can twist it, braid it, or loop it through itself to create various styles. A key tip is to not pull the ponytail too tight against the scalp; a little looseness allows for more versatile styling and a softer look.
Simple Braids
A classic three-strand braid can be incorporated into an updo in many ways. You can braid your ponytail before wrapping it into a bun for added texture, or create small braids on either side of your head and pin them back for a romantic, bohemian feel. For a fuller look, gently pull on the sides of the braid to 'pancake' it before pinning.
Choosing and Using the Right Tools
The success of your updo heavily depends on how you secure it. Using the right tools correctly makes all the difference between a style that lasts for hours and one that falls apart quickly.
- Bobby Pins: These are the workhorses of updos. For maximum hold, insert them with the ridged side facing down towards the scalp. A great technique is to create an 'anchor' by interlocking two pins in an 'X' shape. To make them less visible, slide them into the base of the twist or bun, catching a small amount of hair from the style and anchoring it to the hair on your scalp.
- U-Shaped Pins (Hairpins): These are ideal for securing larger sections of hair, like a finished bun, without creating tension or dents. The trick is to 'scoop' a section of hair from the bun, then 'hook' it by turning the pin towards your scalp and pushing it in. This locks the style in place with a lighter touch than bobby pins.
- Clear Elastics: Small, clear elastics are perfect for creating ponytails or securing the ends of braids without being visible. They are a must-have for creating intricate-looking but simple-to-execute styles.
Securing Your Style for All-Day Durability
The final steps are crucial for longevity. Once your updo is pinned into place, it's time to lock it in. Gently tug on a few small strands around your face and at the nape of your neck to create a softer, more modern and less 'done' look. This also adds to the comfort of the style. To finish, use a flexible-hold hairspray. Hold the can about 30 centimetres away from your head and mist it lightly all over. This avoids creating a stiff, crunchy texture while still taming flyaways and providing a lasting hold. For extra security, you can lightly spray your bobby pins before inserting them to give them extra grip.
