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Face shapes: Oval • Heart • Round
Hair length: Medium • Long • Extra Long
Hair texture: Wavy • Curly • Thick • Straight
Difficulty: Medium to Advanced
Time to style: 45-75 minutes
Works with: Cathedral veils • Fingertip veils • Pearl pins • Fresh florals • Vintage combs
Updo braids give brides that perfect blend of romantic elegance and timeless sophistication they dream about. There's something magical about how woven strands frame your face, making you feel like the most beautiful version of yourself while photographs capture every intricate detail that tells your love story.
Beyond the breathtaking aesthetic, braided updos are incredibly practical for your big day. They hold beautifully through humidity, outdoor ceremonies, and hours of dancing, while providing the perfect anchor for veils and accessories without adding uncomfortable weight or pressure to your scalp.
Delicate pearl-studded hairpins scattered throughout braids
Vintage gold or silver leaf combs at the nape
Crystal-encrusted bobby pins for subtle sparkle
Beaded hair vines woven into the braid pattern
Silk ribbon threaded through braided sections
Baby's breath tucked into braid loops for ethereal romance
Garden roses or ranunculus clustered at the base
Cathedral or chapel veils secured below the braided updo
Fingertip-length veils with lace edge pinned at the crown
Wash hair the day before; clean hair can be too slippery.
Apply texturizing spray at roots before braiding for better grip and hold.
Use bobby pins in an X-pattern and hairspray each layer individually.
Pack a small bottle of finishing spray for quick touch-ups before reception.
Prep hair with volumizing mousse on damp hair, then blow-dry using a round brush to create texture and body.
Divide hair into three sections and create loose Dutch or French braids on each section, pancaking gently as you go.
Secure one braid horizontally across the back of the head with pins to create a foundation for the updo.
Wrap remaining braids around the base in a circular or figure-eight pattern, tucking ends underneath and securing every inch.
Secure with final pins, gently pull at braid edges for romantic softness, and mist with flexible-hold hairspray for all-day perfection.
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Absolutely! Braiding actually creates the illusion of thicker, fuller hair, and your stylist can add extensions seamlessly for extra volume. Teasing at the crown before braiding also adds beautiful dimension.
Book 3-6 months before your wedding date to secure your preferred stylist. Schedule a trial run 1-2 months before to perfect the style and timing.
Yes, braided updos are perfect for outdoor ceremonies! They're incredibly secure against wind and humidity, making them one of the most reliable styles for garden or beach weddings.
Ask your stylist to avoid pulling braids too tight at the hairline, and place pins flat against your scalp rather than perpendicular. Taking brief breaks to gently massage your scalp during the reception helps too.