31 Wavy Updo Hairstyles That Make the Most of Your Natural Texture
Wavy hair is made for updos. The natural bend gives every bun and twist built-in grip and volume, so styles hold longer and look fuller than they do on straight hair, often with fewer pins and less product.
To build this list, we reviewed dozens of real updos created by working hairstylists and kept only the looks where the wave pattern stays clearly visible instead of being smoothed away. Each idea is credited to the stylist who created it and comes with notes on which hair length it suits, the occasion it fits, and how much effort it takes, from a five-minute messy bun to a pinned bridal chignon.
One tip before you start: style on second-day hair or mist in a texture spray. Freshly washed waves are soft and slippery, while a little grit helps pins stay put all day.
31 Wavy Updo Ideas From Casual Buns to Bridal Styles
1. Twisted High Wavy Ponytail Updo
A voluminous high ponytail with rope-twisted sections across the crown and soft waves flowing down the length. It is a glamorous option for long wavy hair when you want height and movement without a full bun. Curl the lengths first and pin each twist securely so it holds all night.
2. Loose Low Chignon With Tendrils
This low chignon sweeps the hair softly to one side and finishes with loose wavy strands around the neck. It is an elegant, romantic choice for weddings, bridesmaids or evening events. Add texture spray before pinning so the bun looks full and lived-in rather than tight.
3. Textured Wavy Low Bun
Defined waves are pinned across the back of the head and gathered into a twisted low bun, with a few wispy pieces left out. The texture looks effortless while staying polished enough for a wedding guest or bridal look. It works especially well on medium to long naturally wavy hair.
4. Vintage Wave Side Bun
Sculpted, glossy waves frame the face and lead into a coiled bun at the side of the nape. This retro-inspired updo is ideal for formal events, themed parties or a bold bridal look. Set the waves with a curling iron and clips, then brush them gently into shape for a defined finish.
5. Curled High Bun Updo
Smooth sides lead up to a high bun built from loose, looped curls, with soft face-framing pieces left free. It shows off the neck and shoulders, making it perfect for strapless or open-back dresses. Curl the hair before gathering it so the loops keep their shape.
6. Pearl Accent Wavy Bridal Updo
Soft, brushed-out waves are swept into a low twisted bun and finished with a pearl hair vine. The balayage color highlights the wave pattern, so the texture stands out beautifully in photos. A lovely option for brides who want something romantic but not overly formal.
7. Messy Wavy Low Bun
A relaxed low bun with loose texture throughout and long face-framing strands that soften the look. It is quick to recreate at home and suits everyday wear, brunches or casual events. Loosely wave your hair, twist it into a bun at the nape, and pull a few pieces out around the face.
8. Fishtail Braid Wavy Updo
A fishtail braid runs along the side of the head and blends into a curly, textured low bun. Loose wavy tendrils keep it soft and boho, making it a great pick for bridesmaids or outdoor weddings. Gently pull the braid apart after plaiting to make it look fuller.
9. Simple Twisted Updo for Short Waves
Soft waves are rolled into a low twisted bun that sits neatly at the nape. This is an easy, elegant updo for shorter wavy hair that still looks put-together for work or formal events. A few bobby pins and a light hairspray are all you need to keep it in place.
10. Everyday Natural Wavy Bun
A loose low bun made from naturally wavy hair, with curled wisps falling around the ears. It is low-effort and perfect for work, college or weekends when you want hair off your face. Use your natural texture, or add waves with a flat iron for extra definition.
11. Short Wavy Twisted Low Bun
Wavy texture on the crown flows into a neatly twisted low bun, with short side pieces left loose. It proves that short to shoulder-length wavy hair can still be styled into a full-looking updo. Add texturizing spray before twisting to give fine hair more grip and volume.
12. Wavy Bob Updo With Velvet Bow
Short wavy hair is gathered into a loose, textured twist and finished with a black velvet ribbon bow. It is a cute, trendy way to put up a bob for casual outings, dates or holiday parties. Leave a few curled pieces at the nape for a soft, romantic finish.
13. Curly Bridal Updo With Face Framing
A low, voluminous bun paired with defined curly tendrils on both sides of the face creates a glamorous bridal look. The middle part and loose pieces soften the face while the bun keeps hair off the neck. Ideal for naturally wavy or curly hair that holds curl well.
14. Sleek Chignon With Wavy Strands
A smooth, polished low chignon is balanced with loose wavy strands falling around the neck. It combines a clean, classic shape with soft movement, suiting formal weddings and black-tie events. Smooth the crown with a brush and curl only the loose pieces to get this look.
15. Romantic Wavy Wedding Updo
Brushed waves are gathered into a soft low bun at the nape and accented with a delicate crystal hair vine. It pairs beautifully with strapless wedding gowns and photographs well from every angle. Ask your stylist to set the waves first so the texture lasts through the whole day.
16. Loose Wavy Bridesmaid Updo
Voluminous blonde waves are loosely twisted and pinned into a low, textured updo with soft pieces falling free. The relaxed finish is perfect for bridesmaids, engagement shoots or garden parties. It looks best on medium to long hair with plenty of curl.
17. Easy Messy Bun for Short Waves
Short to medium wavy hair is twisted and pinned into a messy, textured bun with loose strands at the nape. It is quick to do and perfect for everyday wear when hair feels too short for a full bun. Use a few bobby pins and leave the texture undone for an effortless look.
18. Twisted Low Bun for Bridesmaids
Sections of hair are twisted back from the crown and rolled into a structured low bun with soft, wavy edges. It is elegant and secure, making it ideal for bridesmaids, mothers of the bride or formal dinners. Lightly loosen the twists with your fingers for a softer, lived-in finish.
19. Braided Curly Wavy Updo
A side twist-braid leads into a full updo of defined waves and curls pinned at the back. Loose curled tendrils around the ear add a soft, romantic touch. A great choice for medium-length wavy hair at weddings, proms or special occasions.
20. Messy Wavy Bridal Bun With Gold Pin
A loose, textured updo with tousled waves gathered at the nape and decorated with a gold leaf hair pin. The undone finish feels natural and boho, ideal for rustic or outdoor weddings. Keep volume on the crown and let a few waves fall loosely for a soft silhouette.
21. High Messy Wavy Bun
A high, voluminous bun made from loose waves, with long face-framing strands left out. It is a fun, casual updo for warm days, errands or a night out. Lightly tease the base before pinning to add height and keep the bun looking full.
22. Tousled High Wavy Updo
Dark brown waves are swept into a tall, tousled updo with curtain bangs and wispy tendrils framing the face. The mix of height and loose texture makes it both relaxed and glamorous. Great for long wavy hair at parties, receptions or dinner dates.
23. Curly Bridal Updo With Baby's Breath
Natural curls and waves are pinned into a full, textured updo decorated with fresh baby's breath flowers. Soft curly tendrils at the nape and ears add a romantic finish. Perfect for brides with naturally curly or wavy hair who want to embrace their texture.
24. Sculpted Wave Low Bun
Defined waves spread across the crown and are pinned into a loose, swirled low bun with soft tendrils. The visible wave pattern gives the updo depth and dimension from the back. An elegant choice for weddings, bridesmaids or formal events.
25. Shoulder Length Wavy Low Bun
Shoulder-length wavy hair is gathered into a simple low knot at the nape with soft texture on top. It shows you do not need long hair to wear a pretty updo. Perfect for office days, formal dinners or any time you need a quick, polished style.
26. Soft Wavy Low Bun With Face Framing
Soft waves are loosely gathered into a low bun at the back, with long wavy pieces framing the face. It is gentle and easy to wear, suiting both casual days and dressy occasions. Pull out a few strands around the face before pinning the bun for this soft effect.
27. Voluminous Textured Wavy Updo
Loose, piecey waves are pinned up in layers to create a full, textured updo with wisps around the face. The tousled finish looks relaxed yet intentional, great for weddings or parties. Use a dry texture spray to build volume and grip before pinning.
28. Curly Wavy Messy Updo
Auburn waves and curls are gathered into a soft, messy updo with loose curls falling at the nape. The rich texture adds volume and makes the style look full from every angle. A pretty option for medium-length wavy hair at proms, weddings or parties.
29. Defined Wave Low Bun
Glossy, defined waves on the crown flow into a smooth twisted low bun with long wavy tendrils. The contrast between the textured top and neat bun keeps it elegant and modern. Ideal for wedding guests or brides who want a natural wavy finish.
30. Short Wavy Twisted Updo
Short wavy hair is twisted along the sides and pinned into a textured updo at the back, with curled pieces near the ears. It is a creative way to style a bob or short cut for parties and special occasions. Add a touch of shimmer spray for a festive finish.
31. Vintage Finger Wave Side Bun
Smooth, sculpted waves sweep across the head into a low side bun, with loose curled strands around the face and neck. This vintage-inspired look is elegant and timeless for weddings and formal events. It also shows how beautifully waves highlight silver and grey hair.