By Velvet Moon 
Intro: Your Braided Crown Awaits
I’ve always believed that a braided updo isn’t just a hairstyle—it’s your crown, your statement, and your moment to shine. Whether you’re walking down the aisle, heading to prom, or just living your best life, braided updos have that rare power to elevate your look from basic to breathtaking.
Let’s walk through 15 showstopping braided updo styles that blend elegance, artistry, and individuality. From floral-inspired spirals to goddess-level crowns, these styles don’t just steal selfies—they steal the entire spotlight.
1. Crown Braid Elegance: A Royal Touch for Special Events
A crown braid updo wraps your head like a halo, giving you the ultimate “regal but effortless” vibe. It’s perfect for weddings, formal galas, or anytime you want to radiate majesty.
Why It Works:
- Wraps around your head like a tiara
- Versatile for both sleek and boho looks
- Frames the face gracefully
Pro Tip: Add tiny pearl pins or mix in a Mohawk braid twist for an edgier finish.
2. Twisted Dutch Braid Bun for Modern Sophistication
This updo mixes structure with elegance, combining a sleek Dutch braid with a low, twisted bun.
Styling Steps:
- Prep with smoothing serum
- Create a centered or off-center Dutch braid
- Wrap into a bun and pin securely
Perfect For: Black-tie events, date nights, and weddings.
3. Sleek Base Braiding Tips for Flawless Finish
Before diving into any braided updo, get your base right.
My Go-To Steps:
- Use a flat iron at the roots
- Section cleanly with a tail comb
- Apply firm-hold gel to eliminate flyaways
Bonus Look: Pair your braid with a low messy bun to soften the structure.
4. Securing the Crown: Locking the Braid in Place
No one wants their braid falling mid-party. Secure like a pro.
Technique:
- Anchor with U-pins in an X shape
- Use flexible-hold hairspray
- Keep ends tucked for a clean finish
Consider layering in tiny accent braids or glitter pins to elevate your crown braid game.
5. French Braid Wrap With Side-Swept Romance
This style gives major fairy-tale vibes—perfect for brides or prom queens.
How-To:
- Begin a French braid high on one side
- Curve around the head in a wrap
- Leave loose tendrils for softness
Style Match: Looks divine with off-shoulder dresses or lace details.
6. French Braid Pattern & Side Sweep Securing
Make this braid stay put without losing that romantic flair.
Secure With:
- Clear mini elastics
- X-pinned bobby pins at a 45° angle
- A light mist of strong-hold spray
Extra Touch: Blend with a second braid or twist for volume.
7. Essential Styling Products for Braided Perfection
Every iconic updo starts with the right products. Here are my non-negotiables:
- Texturizing Spray: For grip and body
- Strong-Hold Hairspray: For long-lasting control
- Shine Serum: For that silky, radiant finish
8. Bohemian Fishtail Updo With Loose Tendrils
A fishtail braid updo gives free-spirited romance with just enough structure.
How-To:
- Start with day-old hair for grip
- Create fishtail braids along both sides
- Pin into a loose crown
- Pull out tendrils for that airy softness
Bonus Look: Add baby’s breath or micro florals for bridal occasions.
9. Braided Rose Bun: Floral-Inspired Glamour
This style mimics the spiraled layers of a rose and is absolutely magical.
Steps:
- Dutch braid in a spiral from the crown
- Coil the tail into a bun
- Pin to mimic petals
Pro Tip: Lightly tease the crown before braiding for more volume.
10. Adding Texture and Volume for Petal Perfection
Make your braided rose look full and blooming.
Steps:
- Tease crown sections
- Apply dry texturizing spray at the roots
- Pull braid edges slightly for “fluff”
Finish With: Flexible-hold hairspray and a few sparkling pins.
11. Double Waterfall Braid With High Twisted Knot
Waterfall braids bring drama, especially when paired with a topknot.
How-To:
- Create two diagonal waterfall braids
- Let strands cascade for softness
- Gather the rest into a high ponytail
- Twist into a knot and pin
Where to Wear: Evening parties, bridal showers, or even photoshoots.
12. Spiral Lace Braid for Wedding-Ready Style
Think of this as a romantic halo braid with a spiral twist.
Technique:
- Start braiding from one nape side
- Curve around the head in a spiral
- Keep tension consistent and ends hidden
Crown Position Tip: Slightly off-center crowns add modern drama.
13. Messy Box Braid Updo With Textured Volume
Perfect for protective styling with personality.
How-To:
- Loosely gather box braids at the crown
- Pin in a circular formation
- Let a few braids fall naturally for charm
Pro Tip: Spritz roots with shine spray for extra polish.
14. Rope Braid Crown With Pearled Accents
Two-strand rope braids can form a halo too—especially with pearls.
How-To:
- Twist rope braids along both sides
- Pin into a crown pattern
- Add pearl pins evenly across the braid
For Special Events: This is bridal, baby shower, or anniversary perfection.
15. Grecian-Inspired Triple Braid Weave
Channel your inner goddess with this triple-braid fantasy.
How-To:
- Section into three Dutch braids
- Weave across and layer over each other
- Pin at the nape for soft draping
- Leave wisps near the ears for softness
Finish With: A golden accessory for that Grecian glow.
16. Side-Swept Mermaid Braid Chignon
Fishtail braids sweep into a twisted chignon to create ocean-inspired romance.
Steps:
- Braid hair to one side
- Pull gently for texture
- Twist into a side chignon
- Pin discreetly
Pair With: Flowing gowns or beach ceremonies.
17. Celtic Knot Braid With Intricate Details
This braid is all about visual storytelling—woven like a Celtic knot.
How-To:
- Make three thin braids on each side
- Cross into figure-eight patterns
- Pin to create a layered knot
Where It Slays: Renaissance-themed events or high-fashion shoots.
18. Braided Mohawk Updo for Edgy Elegance
For the bold beauty who wants drama and polish.
How-To:
- Create a strong center Dutch or fishtail braid
- Add tight cornrows on both sides
- Pin into a raised mohawk silhouette
Add Ons: Gold thread, rings, or glitter for full impact.
19. Butterfly Braid Bundle With Romantic Twists
This one’s whimsical and fluttery, just like butterfly wings.
Steps:
- Dutch braid both sides
- Cross into a butterfly shape at the back
- Twist loose hair into a bun
- Pin with floral or gem accents
Perfect For: Garden weddings or spring festivals.
20. Halo Braid Fusion With Hidden Pins
Wrap a braid around your head like a halo—divine and discreet.
Styling Hack:
- Conceal pins under sections of the braid
- Keep ends tucked for a seamless loop
Why We Love It: It stays in place while looking angelic and effortless.
21. Lattice Braid Architecture for Evening Glam
This precision braid is pure runway fantasy.
How-To:
- Create diagonal Dutch braids
- Cross at angles and secure intersections with elastics
- Pin ends underneath
- Spray with gloss for red-carpet shine
Pro Finish: A hint of shimmer spray on the braid can bring it to life under lights.
Final Words: Braid Your Way to Brilliance
There you have it—21 updo hairstyles with braids that don’t just take a good selfie, they own the room.
From romantic to edgy, floral to fierce, there’s a braided updo for every mood, every moment, and every milestone. Yes, they take practice. Yes, your arms may get tired. But trust me—it’s worth it.
So grab your pins, your patience, and a mirror. Your braided masterpiece awaits—and the spotlight’s already yours.