Is there any hairstyle more universally flattering and endlessly versatile than the wavy updo? It sits at the perfect intersection of effort and elegance, offering a solution for bad hair days, formal events, and everything in between. Unlike a sleek, polished updo that can feel severe, wavy textures bring movement, romance, and a touch of playful softness to your look. They frame the face beautifully, add volume, and possess an innate ability to look both intentional and effortlessly chic.
If you’re ready to elevate your hair game and command attention, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve curated a list of 18 breathtaking wavy updo hairstyles that are guaranteed to make you look and feel incredible. Prepare to be inspired.
1. The Textured Messy Bun
Let’s start with a classic that never fails. The textured messy bun is the hero of quick, stylish hair. The key here is to embrace the imperfection. Start with second or third-day hair for optimal grip, or spritz in some texturizing spray. Pull your hair into a high ponytail, but don’t pull all the hair through on the last loop of the hair tie. Instead, fan out the loop and gently pull at sections around your crown and the bun itself to create wispy, face-framing pieces and amplify the volume. This style says, “I woke up like this, but fabulous.”
2. The Boho Braided Crown
Channel your inner earth goddess with a boho braided crown. This ethereal style is perfect for festivals, weddings, or simply adding a magical touch to your day. Create two loose braids on either side of your head, starting from your temples. Gently pull at the edges of the braids to make them wider and softer, integrating your natural waves. Then, drape each braid across the top of your head like a crown, securing them with bobby pins at the back. Leave the rest of your wavy hair down, or twist it into a low bun for a fully secured updo.
3. The Low, Loose Chignon
For an aura of sophisticated elegance, the low, loose chignon is unmatched. Positioned at the nape of your neck, this style is incredibly graceful. Twist your wavy hair loosely as if you’re making a low bun, but instead of coiling it tightly, allow the ends to flow out and the waves to create a soft, unstructured shape. Secure with pins and pull out a few waves around your face and neck to soften the look. It’s the ultimate choice for a black-tie event, a professional setting, or a romantic dinner.
4. The Half-Up Twisted Pony
Why choose between up and down when you can have the best of both worlds? The half-up twisted pony is a dynamic and youthful style that keeps hair off your face while showcasing the length and texture of your waves. Take two small sections of hair from the front, twist them loosely backwards, and join them at the back of your crown, securing them with a clear elastic or a stylish clip. The result is a lifted, voluminous look that highlights your beautiful waves.
5. The Voluminous Top Knot
Take the messy bun to new heights—literally. The voluminous top knot is a statement-maker. Tease the crown section of your hair slightly for extra lift before gathering it into a very high ponytail. When forming the bun, don’t wrap it tightly; instead, loop the ponytail loosely and secure it, then pull the sides to create a larger, more dramatic knot. This style is perfect for when you want to look polished and fashion-forward with minimal effort.
6. The Tousled Ballerina Bun
A modern take on the classic ballerina bun, this style trades sleekness for soft, tousled texture. Instead of a tight, slicked-back look, start with wavy hair and use a bristle brush to gather it into a mid or high ponytail with a bit of volume at the crown. As you twist the bun, allow the wavy ends to poke out and frame the bun. Gently pull the bun apart and use your fingers to create a softer, less perfect shape. It’s artistic and refined, yet approachable.
7. The Mermaid Braid Updo
Dive into a fantasy with the mermaid braid updo. This intricate-looking style is easier than it appears. Create a loose, low side braid with your wavy hair, pulling it apart to make it look fuller and more textured. Once you reach the ends, coil the braid into a bun at the nape of your neck and secure it with pins. The waves will give the braid incredible body and a dreamy, oceanic feel that is simply mesmerizing.
8. The Gibson Tuck with a Twist
The Gibson tuck is a vintage classic, but when done with waves, it becomes incredibly modern. To achieve this, create a loose, low ponytail but do not pull the hair all the way through on the last loop, creating a looped base. Then, gently tuck the remaining length of the ponytail under the loop and secure it with pins. With wavy hair, the result is a beautifully textured, voluminous roll at the back of your head that exudes timeless charm.
9. The Wavy Pompadour Ponytail
Elevate a simple ponytail to a red-carpet-worthy style. The wavy pompadour ponytail focuses on volume at the crown. Tease the hair at the top of your head gently, then smooth it back over the teased section to create a rounded, voluminous pouf before securing the rest of your hair into a mid-height ponytail. The contrast of the sleek (but not flat) crown with the cascading, bouncy waves of the ponytail is undeniably glamorous.
10. The Rope Braid Updo
For a chic and slightly more polished look, the rope braid updo is a stunning option. Part your hair down the middle and create two rope braids (twisting two sections of hair around each other) on each side. Bring them to the back of your head and twist them together, then coil the resulting twist into a low bun. The texture of the rope braid complements wavy hair beautifully, creating a defined yet soft pattern.
11. The Side-Swept Wavy Updo
Asymmetry is incredibly alluring, and the side-swept wavy updo masters this. Gather all your hair to one side, as if you’re making a low side ponytail. Instead of securing it with a band, twist or braid it loosely and then coil it into a bun, securing it just behind your ear. Pull out waves around your face and at the nape of your neck on the opposite side to create a soft, romantic, and deeply flattering silhouette.
12. The Bubble Ponytail Updo
Playful and trendy, the bubble ponytail is a fun way to style your waves. Put your hair into a high ponytail. Then, at even intervals down the length of the ponytail, place additional hair ties, about 3-4 inches apart. Once all the ties are in, gently pull apart each section between the ties to create “bubbles” of voluminous waves. This adds incredible dimension and a modern, architectural feel to your look.
13. The French Twist with Escaping Waves
The French twist is the epitome of old-world glamour, but it can be modernized with waves. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it upwards, folding it inward as you go. Secure it with pins. The modern twist? Don’t tuck all the ends in. Allow some of your wavy ends to escape at the top or sides, creating a soft, undone finish that feels fresh and less formal.
14. The Fishtail Braid Crown
Similar to the boho braided crown but with a more intricate pattern, the fishtail braid crown is a showstopper. Create a fishtail braid on each side of your head (a fishtail is made by taking small outer pieces and crossing them over into the opposite section). Drape them over your head to form a crown. The wavy texture makes the fishtail look fuller and more delicate, perfect for a bohemian bride or a special summer event.
15. The Messy Twist-Bun Hybrid
This style is for when you want something unique and artistic. Separate your hair into two large sections. Twist each section loosely and then twist them around each other. Instead of securing the ends into a tight bun, simply coil the intertwined twists into a loose, messy bundle at the back of your head and pin it securely. The resulting updo has incredible texture, depth, and a beautifully undone aesthetic.
16. The Wavy Updo with Scarf Accent
Incorporate a pop of color and pattern by adding a silk scarf. You can use the scarf in multiple ways: tie it around a low bun like a headband, weave it through a braid before coiling it, or use it as the tie for your ponytail before creating your updo. The silk adds a luxurious touch, while the print provides a stunning contrast to your natural waves.
17. The Elegant Bridal Updo
For the bride seeking a romantic and timeless look, a wavy bridal updo is perfection. This often combines several elements—soft braids, face-framing tendrils, and a beautifully textured low bun. The goal is to create a look that is structured enough to last all day and night but soft enough to look romantic and ethereal. Adorn it with delicate pearl pins or fresh flowers for the ultimate fairy-tale finish.
18. The Deconstructed Updo
Our final style is the ultimate in effortless chic. The deconstructed updo isn’t one specific technique but a philosophy. It involves loosely pinning sections of your wavy hair up at the back of your head without a clear pattern. Use plenty of pins to secure random twists and folds, always pulling out pieces to create a soft, lived-in effect. It should look as if you’ve artfully arranged your hair with your fingers in a moment of inspiration—because, in a way, you have.
Unlock Your Inner Stylist: Final Tips for Perfect Wavy Updos
Now that you’re armed with inspiration, remember that the foundation of a great wavy updo is texture. If your hair is naturally straight, use a curling wand to create soft, alternating waves rather than uniform curls. Texturizing spray is your best friend—it adds grit and hold, making it easier for your hair to grip itself and stay put. Don’t be afraid of bobby pins; criss-cross them when inserting for maximum security. Most importantly, practice makes perfect. Try these styles on a lazy weekend afternoon to see which ones work best for your hair length and texture.
Wavy updos are more than just a hairstyle; they are a statement of effortless grace and confidence. So go ahead, pick your favorite, and get ready to turn heads instantly.
