Are you under the impression that rocking short hair means limited styling options? Think again! You would be surprised to find out how many updos for short hair you can try out in 2023.
Updos can be a great option for those with short, hair because it allows you to change up your look quite easily. Here are a few easy updos that can be done with short hair:
- Top Knot: just gather your hair into a ponytail at the top of your head and twist it into a bun. The next and last step is to secure it with bobby pins.
- Braided Updo: create a small braid at the top of your head and secure it with bobby pins. it will look even better if you add some smaller braids at the sides and also secure them with the bobby pins.
- Pinned Updo: pin up the front section of your hair and leave the back loose. to create volume on the crown use a volumizing spray.
- Headband Updo: just place a headband around your head and tuck your hair behind your ears.
- Pin Curl Updo: curl your hair with a curling iron and pin it up in a bun or updo style. It’s a great way to add volume and texture to your short hair.
Remember, just practice to make it perfect! so if it takes a few tries to master these updos, do not get discouraged on your first try. Also, remember that there are a lot of tutorials that can help you.
From long bobs to pixie haircuts, you can enjoy a myriad of cute and easy hairstyles with updos that will bring out the best.
1. Updo for Very Short Hair
What better way to start our list of short hair updos than with a classy hairstyle? Regardless of how short your hair is, don’t shy away from using elegant hair accessories. For instance, these two dazzling hairpins will make any updo shine.
2. Chignon
When researching updo hairstyles, you will often find that chignons top all lists. If you’re ever in doubt about styling your playful locks for a formal occasion, we always recommend that you consider this hairstyle.
3. Easy DIY Updo
What if you don’t have a lot of time at hand? Some updo hairstyles for short hair are so simple that you can DIY them to perfection in a few minutes. For example, this half up half down hairstyle requires just a quick twist, and you’re ready to go.
4. Cute and Elegant Braids
One of the many beauties of braids is that they cater to all situations. While you can use them for an urban glam look, you can also incorporate them into any fancy hairstyle. Here you can see how to braid your way to the updo of your dreams. Check out this Asian women’s guide for hairstyle for more reference.
5. Wedding Updo
Speaking of refined hairdos for short hair, we couldn’t have possibly tackled them without considering short bridal hairstyles. If you want to tie the knot fabulously, think about adding some delicate accessories to your hair. A few white roses are always an excellent way to start.
6. Afro-Textured Hair
Afro-textured hair is a dream come true for women who long for intricate hairstyles. Even if your corkscrew curls are super short, you can twist them in the back and let them unravel and bounce around freely at the top.
7. Vintage Hairstyle
Retro hairdos are almost synonymous with fine tastes. Although this category of updos for short hair requires a bit more time, patience, and expertise for styling, the results will be worth it. The graceful inward curls are the key to success. Pure elegance! Imagine yourself attending a party in this fashion. Definitely stunning!
8. Pinned and Curled Hairstyle
Ladies with bob haircuts can easily rely on this kind of hairstyle for a speedy yet memorable look. All you need is a curling iron, a few bobby pins, and a generous amount of hairspray. Curl your tips, pin them one into the other and spray them in place.
9. Fine Hair
Fine hair can prove to be tricky from time to time when styling is in a discussion. If you want to create the illusion that your hair is thicker or more voluminous, bouffant hairstyles are just what you need. Tease it up, ladies!
10. All Curly Hairstyles
Have naturally curly hair and love it? Use an abundance of pins to swirl your way to one of the most enchanting updos for short hair. Like with most other ravishing hairstyles, hairspray is mandatory, especially if you want the updo to resist throughout the night.
11. French Braided Style
Think braids won’t work on short hair? Challenge accepted! You can experiment with various braiding styles if you have any hairstyle a bit longer than a pixie cut. For example, this loose French braid beautifully ends in a tiny twisted bun.
12. Pompadour Hairstyle
Time and time again Rihanna proves that she is a veritable hair queen. She always slays, whether we see her with traditional African hairstyles or short and spikey cuts. She opted for a lavish pompadour in this photo to flatter her shorter locks.
13. Crown Braids
Another braiding technique you can look into is the crown braid. Also known as a tiara or halo braid, this hairstyle involves creating a French braid across the crown of your head. Alternatively, braid all the way around to create a halo effect.
14. Crisscross Updo
This pretty hairstyle is as easy as 1, 2, and 3, not to mention that it works for hair of all lengths. Simply take a few strands on each side and twist them in a crisscross manner, pinning them in the center. You will be radiant!
15. Loose Updo
While tightly styled updos are eye-catching, loose hairstyles have their own unique charm. In addition to this, they stand out against other fancy hairstyles through the lack of rules. Feel free to style your hair loosely as you, please!
16. Bob Pin Up
This is yet another inspiring hairstyle for women with bob haircuts. It follows the same principle of twisting, pinning, and spraying. Like the updo style we mentioned above, you shouldn’t be afraid to leave a few stray strands in front.
17. Back Braided Hair
Instead of creating a tiara or crown braid, you can apply a similar technique to the back of your head. Make sure you braid horizontally, just above your nape. To glamorize the overall look, add some sparkling accessories like the ones shown in this photo.
18. Faux Hawks
Ah, faux hawks, what would we do without you? One thing’s certain, if this concept didn’t exist, we would have ourselves shaving the sides of our heads more often than we’d like. Instead, we can fake it till we make it with class.
19. Headband
As far as accessories that work well with updos for short hair are concerned, headbands are also a must-have. They can help you wrap your short strands up easily, without the need for any additional accessories. A fresh looking style that is perfect for the summer season. Check out more short hairstyles for black women.
20. Twists and Braids
You can frequently find small braids and twists in updos for short hair, but what if you combine them? The outcome is nothing less than breathtaking. Another major advantage is that this hairstyle can be applied to long pixie haircuts and bobs alike.
21. Twisted Low Bun
Want an effortless yet unforgettable trendy hairstyle to complement your short hair? You will be pleasantly surprised to find out that twisted low buns are always in fashion. Just twist your hair into a spiral and secure the bun in place.
22. Messy Short Hair
It’s easy to understand why messy and classy are now almost the same concept. A few loose strands and a teased top can go a long way for any updos for short hair. Moreover, you can adapt them for fancy and casual occasions all the same. Capture people’s eyes with this enchanting style. It is surely worth trying.
23. Half Up Braided Hair
Hairstyles that are half up half down are wonderful for multiple reasons. One of the main ones is that they can be used equally for short, medium, or long hair. For shorter hair, braid two strands on each side and connect them in the middle.
24. Pixie
Naturally, the shorter your hair is, the harder it will be to use hair ties or other similar accessories. Nonetheless, one hair accessory that should be part of your staple pieces is the metallic headband. Applying one to your pixie cut can create the superb illusion of an updo.
25. Knotted Faux Hawk
We love faux hawks so much that we strongly believe they deserve a secondary entry on our list, this time with a different technique. Another way to create a faux hawk is to knot your hair on the fanned part.
26. Half Up Twisted Updo
Remember what we said about half-up hairstyles for short hair? Well, this example strengthens our claim. You can obtain a picture-perfect hairstyle by twisting pieces of hair on each side with a half up half down result.
27. Updo for Bridesmaid
We’re accustomed to talking all about wedding hairstyles, but we usually focus on the bride. But how about bridesmaids? If you’re one of the best friends of the lady of the hour and you have short hair, don’t hesitate to let yourself be inspired by this hairstyle.
28. Chic Center Braid
Do you prefer more of a high fashion touch to your hairstyles? Even if you have shorter hair, you can experiment with this fantastic hairdo. What we love most about it is that the braid in the middle creates stylishly the illusion of a mohawk.
29. Mini Pull Through Braid
You will usually see pull-through braids on very long hair. You don’t need to worry, though; you can adapt them for your neck-length locks. While you might not be able to have numerous knots throughout the braid, you can rock at least two flawlessly.
30. Spiral Braid
Can you say adorable? We love the imagination applied to this hairstyle and how the braid was introduced creatively. It starts with a braid on the top, which spirals into a cute, small, twisted bun at the end.
31. French Twist
Another incredibly elegant hairstyle is the French twist. While it works the best with straight hair, it can also be tailored for wavy or curly locks too. Believe us, ladies – you can’t go wrong with this one for black tie events.
32. Side Braid
Braids on one side are one of the most popular options among updos for short hair. In this case, an ample plait was braided loosely to one side of a long bob. It’s a terrific hairstyle for girls who sport side parts.
33. Double Afro Puffs
Yet another trendy updo for afro-textured hair is the 90s-inspired space buns. They are also referred to as double puffs, and they’re guaranteed to bring out your inner geek girl. The results are sweet, chic, and irresistible.
34. Ribbon Style
Remember when we were little girls, and we adored putting ribbons and bows on everything? Well, you can bring back your childhood passion without a care in the world, as bows are totally in. All you have to do is part your hair half up, half down, and tie a ribbon in the middle. Add more flavor to your style by putting accessories over you. Make sure to choose something that will match the volume and color of your hair.
35. Cute Headwrap
Just like headbands and tiaras, headwraps are delightful hair accessories for short hair. If you don’t have a headwrap, you can also use a scarf for a similar effect. Make sure you leave plenty of loose strands in the front.
36. Twisted Bangs
Sometimes, small touch can go a long way for your hairstyle. For example, ladies with long bangs can twist them for a fast and fantastic look. While it won’t require a lot of time, it will be remarkable for sure.
37. Boho Updo
Release your inner boho chick! Another half-up, half-down updo for you is this spectacular fishtail braid idea. Instead of braiding all of your hair with the fishtail technique, use it just for two large chunks of hair on the sides. Don’t forget the flowers! What a display of perfection! Take a look at this.
38. Side Twisted Hairstyle
As you have most likely noticed, twisting is essential for styling short hair. In this example, you can see how four side twists were styled into an ultra-chic updo. Feel free to tease the top for added volume without much effort.
39. Half Up Top Knot
You might not be able to rock a full top knot if your hair is really short, but you can always get the second-best option. Part your hair like you would with any other half-up hairstyle and carelessly tie the top part in a messy bun. A carefree look that is worth trying! She’s a beauty, isn’t she?
40. French Roll Hairstyle
Similar to the French twist, the French roll is also an unmistakable sign of refinement. Nonetheless, the styling technique is slightly different, focusing on the inward “rolling part”. You can also add a pretty accessory on one side.
41. Side Fishtail Braid
Fishtail braids have made our list again, this time with a one-sided approach. If you want a hairstyle with more chances of making heads turn, you might want to go with this one. The fishtail braid is wide, thick, and definitely an original approach to hairstyling.
42. African American Updo
If you want to grow your natural hair healthily, we recommend that you look into protective hairstyles. With the help of safe braid extensions, you can make your super-short locks a little bit longer, like with this braided updo. Look at the complexity of those braids! You certainly need someone skillful to achieve that. Try it out!
43. Slicked Back and Small Braid
While this hairstyle isn’t technically an updo, it has a similar effect that ladies with extremely short hair will appreciate. The most significant “ingredient” is to slick your hair back entirely. After that, create a small and tight braid on one side.
44. Diagonal Braided Short Hair
Why go with the crowd when your hairstyle can be totally out of the box? Instead of braiding only on one side or straight down your head, try a diagonal approach. You can end it all in a timeless twisted messy bun tucked gently to the side.
45. Khaleesi Braids
If you haven’t heard of Game of Thrones by now, there are fair chances that you have been living under a rock. All jokes aside, one of the most unforgettable characters in the series is Daenerys Targaryen, the Khaleesi. Her braided hairstyle has inspired this charming look.
46. Triple Buns
Even though your hair needs to be a bit longer for this one, you can nail it if you have shoulder-length locks. Multiply a regular twisted bun by three, and you’ll get a delicate and creative hairstyle to spice up your outfit.
47. Natural Hairstyle
Want to go full-out natural? Embrace your natural afro-textured hair wholeheartedly with a hairstyle like this. Aside from the admirable updo part, we also like the puffed-up bangs in the front. We recommend it for a modern-retro look.
48. Side Chignon
Women with wavy or curly hair will adore this hairstyle. Gently pull all of your strands to the side and pin them into a glamorous chignon. This hairstyle fits even the fanciest of events, from cocktail parties to weddings.
49. Pinned Bun with Tiara
If you want to make your pinned updo even more appealing, all you need is a thin, classic accessory. This tiara headband may not seem like much, but it can make a whole difference in the outcome of your appearance.
50. Pin Up Curly Bangs
Finally, we’ll end our list on a glam note with pin-up updos for short hair. We admire the versatility of this hairstyle, as it can be applied to any hair texture. The voluminous, curly bangs in the front are truly the cherry on top to leave a marvelous impression.
51. Soft Messy Low Bun
This pretty updo would be perfect for women who have short hair with a fun color added in. Here she has pulled her hair back into a low messy bun and clipped it all together with golden clips. Be sure to leave a few messy strands out to get the most out of this updo for short hair.
52. Messy Updo with Headband Braid
Up next is one of those timeless hairstyles for women. Here she added a big and thick braid on the side of her head and pinned it back behind her layers. Add in beautiful spiral curls throughout and you are going to be ready for any big event or party you have.
53. Boho Short Hair
Looking for a boho updo? You could always give this next style a shot. Here she has twisted her hair back and pinned it tight. Be sure to add twist your hair around before pinning it all together.
54. Blonde Bun for Short Hair
Next up would be a simple solution that would look great on women of all ages. Here she has pulled her hair back slick and added in the smallest little bun. Add hair spray to complete this beautiful style.
55. Shoulder-Length Updo with Braids
This next updo hairstyle for women would work best if you have shoulder-length hair. In the photo above she went with a thick side braid and pinned all of the hair up and back. This is a beautiful look that will never go out of style.
56. Blonde Curly Chignon
Chignons are so popular when you are in a pinch and need a fast style. When asking for a Chignon your hair will be styled with a small bun right above the nape. Here they added a few extra twists to add even more style to the already beautiful look.
57. Casual Updo with Dutch Braids
Need a casual updo for short hair? This look is one of the best styles out there. To get this look you are going to want to add a thick braid right behind your bangs and keep the rest of the hair loose with a bit of a wafer.
58. Smooth Low Bun Updo
Here is a beautiful wedding updo for short hair. In the photo above she has styled her pretty brown hair with a few highlights in a low and smooth bun. Keep a few face-framing pieces out in the front and add a beautiful headband and you are all set.
59. Textured Messy Low Bun with Pearl
Textured hairstyles just hit differently. In this next updo hairstyle, she has pulled her style back in layers and added texture by twisting them around. She has also added a pin with big white pearls and which add just enough texture to her pretty style.
60. Boho Braid on Short Hair
Up next is another boho hairstyle for women with short hair. Here she kept most of her hair wavy and down but added a thick braid on the top. This would be a perfect style if you had a wedding or big party to go to.
61. Formal Hairstyle
If you are looking for an elegant and formal updo for short hair this style would be so perfect. Here she has a small bun right above her nape that was formed by pulling her hair back and twisting it all around and it looks amazing.
62. Short Tousled Updo
Tousled hairstyles are always so much fun to try. Here she has styled her updo with a big bun and a braid wrapped around it. This could easily be a bridal updo or a pretty style to wear for a formal event.
63. Messy Chignon for Short Bob
Messy chignon looks will always be popular in women’s hairstyles. This is because they are easy to pull off and work with any length of hair. Here she went with a textured messy style and it looks amazing.
64. Messy Half Up Half Down
This is one of those hairstyles that once you learn how to pull it off you will be wearing a few times a week. Add in a few curls and twist and pin a few of the pieces around the face back and you are going to look amazing.
65. Quick and Easy Updo
Here is yet another messy updo for women with short hair. She has pulled all of her hair back into a high bun here and added a few twisted sections around the side. Adding in those twists will give your hair a bit more volume and leave you feeling incredibly pretty.
66. Wavy Bob with Braids
This next hairstyle is one of the best updos for short hair on this list. Here she has gone with a short bob hairstyle, added spiral curls all around, and went with a braided headband in the front. This style turned out so pretty because she picked a beautiful red hue for her hair color.
67. Fancy Hairstyle for Short Hair
Next up is a perfect wedding updo for short hair. She has just enough curls, twists, and pins in to ensure her style will stay looking fresh all day long. Add a few of your wedding flowers in and you are all set.
68. Short Updo for Older Woman
Older women love wearing their hair in updos. In the photo above she pinned her grey hair up in a high bun and curled the face-framing layers. Once you learn how to pull this look off you are never going to want to change it up.
69. Classy Knotted Bun
Classy looks will never go out of style. Here she has her light blonde hair styled in a messy knotted bun and it looks amazing. Be sure to twist a few of the strands back before placing them in the low bun, you are going to love the way you look.
70. Bridal Updo for Short Hair
Most brides go with an updo on their big day. It helps to keep the hair out of the face and leaves you with one less thing to worry about. In the photo above she went with two big twists around the sides of her head and added a pretty hairpiece on top.
Updos for Short Hair FAQs
1. First, brush your hair very well, and make sure it doesn’t have tangles.
2. Make a ponytail at the top of your head. You could use a hair tie to keep it in place.
3. Twist the ponytail around itself and make a bun. Use bobby pins to keep it in place.
4. If some hair remains out of the bun, use bobby pins and tuck them into the bun.
5. And that is it! Your quick updo is ready; you can add a headband or hairpins to be fancier. It was easy, wasn’t it?
1. Brush your hair insistently to make it smooth and clean.
2. Take a section of hair from the top of your head, about the size of a banana.
3. Use a hair tie or elastic band to tie this section of hair into a small ponytail.
4. Take the rest of your hair and let it hang loose. Don’t forget to brush again the loose part!
So, What Is YOUR Hair Motivation?
To put it all in a nutshell, updos for short hair are both possible and numerous, varied, and awesome! Don’t ever let styling get in the way of your bold haircut idea. We promise that there are more than enough styling options to get you excited about any courageous makeover. Even if you already have short hair, we’re positive that you’ll be inspired by at least a part of these brilliant ideas. What are your top 5 updos for short hair?
Thelma Ewart started painting and drawing as a hobby when she was young. She pursued arts which eventually lead her to the fashion industry. She is now a hairstyle artist that considers all of her projects as a work of art. Pursuing creativity is what drives her to become the best in what she does.