Are you tired of the same old ponytail or messy bun? Do you crave a hairstyle that whispers effortless cool but screams sophisticated style? Look no further than the textured updo. This isn’t your grandmother’s pristine, shellacked-updo. Today’s textured updos are all about embracing volume, movement, and a touch of beautiful, deliberate imperfection.
1. The Modern Messy Bun: The Art of Effortless Chic
Let’s start with a classic, reimagined. The messy bun has been a go-to for years, but the modern version is all about strategic texture. The goal isn’t a “just-rolled-out-of-bed” look, but a carefully crafted style that appears both relaxed and refined.
To achieve this, texture is non-negotiable. Start with second or third-day hair, or spritz a texturizing spray throughout your lengths. Pull your hair into a high ponytail, but instead of securing it tightly, leave it a little loose. Twist the ponytail around its base, but don’t wrap it neatly—allow pieces to fall out naturally. Use your fingers to gently pull at the sides of the bun and the crown of your head to create volume. The final touch? Pull out a few face-framing tendrils to soften the look.
2. The Braided Crown: A Regal Yet Relaxed Vibe
Channel your inner goddess with a textured braided crown. This style is perfect for weddings, festivals, or any day you want to feel a little more magical. Forget the tight, perfect braids of the past; the key here is loose, textured plaits that look like they were woven by fairies.
Create two loose braids on either side of your head—Dutch braids, French braids, or simple three-strand plaits all work wonderfully. The trick is to gently pull apart the sections of the braid after you’ve finished braiding to make them look fuller and more organic. Then, simply drape each braid across the top of your head, pinning them securely at the back, and tuck the ends under. Pull out as many tiny hairs as you dare around your hairline and neck for that soft, romantic finish.
3. The Textured Low Chignon: Elegance with an Edge
For a more formal event that still calls for a modern twist, the textured low chignon is your best friend. This updo takes the classic low bun and injects it with grit and volume, transforming it from prim to powerfully chic.
Begin by creating a low ponytail, but tease the hair at the crown slightly for hidden volume. Instead of twisting the ponytail neatly, backcomb the length of it with a fine-tooth comb to create maximum texture and fullness. Then, twist or fold the ponytail into a bun, but keep it open and loose. Use pins to secure the shape, but allow the ends to poke out freely. The result should be a bun that looks deceptively simple but is packed with detail and dimension.
4. The Pulled-Out Ponytail: Volume and Height Redefined
The ponytail will never go out of style, but the textured, pulled-out version is a league of its own. This style focuses on creating immense volume and a fascinating silhouette from every angle.
After pulling your hair into a mid or high ponytail, the real work begins. Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the hair tie to conceal it, securing it with a pin underneath. Now, the fun part: starting just above the hair tie, gently pull out small sections of hair all around the ponytail. Do this incrementally, creating a soft, bubble-like effect or a full, rounded shape. The more you pull, the bigger and more textured it becomes. This style is a fantastic way to make fine hair look incredibly thick.
5. The Twisted Rope Updo: A Surprisingly Simple Stunner
If you struggle with braiding, this is the textured updo for you. The twisted rope technique is incredibly easy to master but yields a result that looks intricate and professional. It’s a beautiful way to add texture through pattern and dimension.
Divide your hair into two large sections. Twist each section tightly in the same direction. Then, twist the two already-twisted sections around each other in the opposite direction. This counter-twisting locks the style in place. Coil the resulting rope into a bun at the back of your head and secure it with pins. Once secured, don’t forget the most important step: gently pull the twists apart to loosen the style and create that all-important texture and volume.
6. The Textured Top Knot with Scarf Accent
Elevate the simple top knot by combining texture with a pop of color or pattern. A silk scarf is the perfect tool to add a touch of glamour and personality to this everyday style.
Fold a long, thin scarf into a band. Tie it around your head as a headband, with the knot at the nape of your neck. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, including the ends of the scarf, so the scarf runs through the center of your ponytail. Then, create your messy bun or top knot as usual, allowing the scarf to be woven into the style and the ends to flow freely with your hair. The scarf helps to add bulk and visual interest, while the textured bun ensures it stays modern and cool, not costumey.
7. The Deconstructed French Twist: A Vintage Style, Modernized
The French twist is the epitome of old-school elegance. But when you deconstruct it and add loads of texture, you get a hairstyle that is both timeless and trend-setting.
Start with heavily textured hair. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck as if you’re going to do a low ponytail. Instead, twist the hair upwards towards the crown. As you twist, avoid smoothing the hair down. Let it be a little bumpy and uneven. When you reach the top, instead of tucking the ends in neatly, let them fan out or tuck them loosely so they can be seen. Secure with pins vertically. The final look should be a beautiful, textured roll with pieces naturally escaping to frame the face.
Your Texture Toolkit: Products You Need
Creating these stunning looks is much easier with the right products. To build the perfect foundation for your textured updo, consider adding these to your arsenal:
Texturizing Spray: This is your holy grail. It adds grit, volume, and hold without the crunch of hairspray, making your hair easier to manipulate and style.
Dry Shampoo: A miracle worker for adding volume and absorbing oil at the roots. Second-day hair always has more natural texture, and dry shampoo helps you get there.
Sea Salt Spray: Perfect for creating beachy, piece-y waves that form the perfect base for any updo, especially if you have straighter hair.
Fine-Tooth Comb for Teasing: A small, fine-tooth comb is ideal for backcombing sections of hair to create hidden volume and grip.
Strong-Hold Bobby Pins: Don’t underestimate the power of a good bobby pin. You need ones that will grip your texture and hold all day (or night) long.
