25 Updo Hairstyles For Black Women

Wearing your hair up can feel tired. If you find yourself thinking, “ugh, another ponytail”, it’s time to inject some new life into your updo hairstyles. Whether your hair is natural or weaved, long or short, there’s a huge variety of updo styles you can wear. Styling your hair so that it rests on top of your head is commonly referred to as a “crown” style, so why not embrace wearing your own crown? We’ve put together a list that incorporates everyday styling techniques like braids, twists, and dreadlocks that have transformed the updo from boring to beautiful. Take a look at these gorgeous black updo hairstyles and try one out for your next date night, special event, or any day when you wake up feeling like a queen.

This gravity-defying bun takes trendy, ultra long box braids to the next level, and fits right in with Solange’s avant-garde style. When paired with a tailored outfit, this is the perfect meeting of cutting edge trend and classic style.

Swap out your old ponytail for Zendaya’s chic version by adding big curls at the back and wrapping the base of the pony with a piece of your own hair. This is a great style for showing off our natural curls with lighter ends and darker roots.

This high ponytail in a jumbo braid was made popular after featured in Beyoncé’s video for “Upgrade U”. To recreate this black updo hairstyle for yourself, put hair in a tight, high top knot (or small ponytail if it’s too short to twist into a knot) and loop Kanekalon hair around it. Fan Kanekalon over your top knot to hide your natural hair, and then braid down to the ends to complete the look.

If you like to keep things simple, a high bun with the right makeup is always elegant and can be great for any occasion. Add some baby hair and statement earrings to complete the look.

How stunning is this braided updo! Lemonade braids are so in right now and this updo s not only a gorgeous protective style, you can wear it to a special occasion like your best friends wedding, or simply to the office or school.

Known for being fierce and fabulous, leave it to Tyra Banks to turn a simple bun hairstyle into something new and interesting. Instead of twisting hair around in a typical top knot shape, individual sections of hair have been rolled and pinned to add multiple levels of definition. This is a great updo style for women with round faces, or anyone looking for a unique style for their next special occasion.

An updo look that’s popular for both casual and dressed up looks, this version of the top knot is sleek and elegant, with no stray hairs out of place. The defined middle part is a simple but unusual addition that’s a standout detail on a classic style.

In this gorgeous style, we get a stunning and memorable red carpet appearance. Wearing an elegant hairstyle reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour, the side swept bang seen here is universally flattering, and classic makeup choices match the tone of the hair, complimenting rather than distracting from the overall look.

Kerry Washington is keeping it simple with this sleek, mid height ponytail in a three strand braid. This chic updo has tons of styling options, and will match your style whether you’re wearing dramatic makeup and a gown with a plunging neckline, or keeping it fresh faced in skinny jeans and a crop top.

An easy style to wear with natural hair, Janet Jackson proves that messy curls can leave you looking very put together. To get this look, mist your hair with water, then apply an ample amount of curl mousse through your hair to smooth edges. After product is distributed, simply tie hair up to your desired height, and this simple updo is yours all day.

A super easy technique to do on your own hair, this black updo is made up of many small flat twists that converge on the top of the head. With hair piled up high, this is the perfect style to show off your favorite oversized earrings and new bold lip color. If you’re lookong for natural black hair updos, you should definitely try this braided updo.

A lover of braids in their many forms, Alicia Keys put an elegant twist on the staple hairstyle with this loose braided updo that’s delicately pinned to the side. The overall look is more polished than a free hanging braid, and creates height that helps lengthen the face and slim the cheeks. This is definitely one of our favorite black hair updos!

Another vintage inspired look, Lala Anthony’s red carpet style includes a big side bun that covers one ear, and an artfully swept bang that covers part of the forehead and shows off some chocolate brown highlighting.

Not only has Janelle Monae become an inspiration for women who wear their hair natural, but she’s done it while styling her hair herself. Janelle’s signature style, this rolled updo in a pompadour shape is bold enough to be attention-grabbing, and the pompadour shape that’s typically seen in men’s styles contrasts with her feminine choices in bold lip color and bright, sparkly earrings.