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20 Updo Ideas That Are Perfect If You Have Thin Hair

two photos of women with updos for thin hair
Having thin hair shouldn’t stop you from looking or feeling just as good as anybody else—that’s a statement we can’t emphasize enough! If you have a formal event on the horizon and are feeling insecure about your strands, it’s time to bring in the professionals for the best hair styling ideas. Updos for thin hair are totally doable and even easy to achieve! Using skills like braiding and teasing combined with the right hair products, you’ll be well on your way to feeling fantastic. Keep scrolling for the ultimate inspo you need for thin or fine hair!

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The Best Updos For Thin Hair

Good hair day by @styles_by_reneemarie.

Timeless Chignon

Got a wedding, a formal dinner, or a company event you need to look impeccable for? At times like this, we always return to the classics like this stunning chignon.

Good hair day by @jamiedanahairstylist.

Velvet Bow Updo

We’re hearing holiday music just looking at this expensive-looking but simple updo style with a gorgeous hair bow.

Good hair day by @jamiedanahairstylist.

Double Fishtails

If you can fishtail braid, you should absolutely be putting those nimble fingers to work on this pair of fishtails that’ll keep your hair out of your eyes all night.

Good hair day by @chitabeseau.

Silky Smooth Crossover

Thin hair has one thing going for it: it’s easy to keep smooth and silky. Work your best assets with this glass-finish crossover ponytail.

Good hair day by @s.b.whimsicalhair.

Bohemian Half Updo

Not every updo has to have all your hair off your neck! If inches are your strong suit, leverage that long hair and choose a half updo pancaked to the max to create the appearance of added hair.

Good hair day by @samirasjewelry.

Gathered Rosette Updo

Thin hair is perfect for delicate braids, so put your braiding skills to the test and try these gathered rosettes. They’re made by twisting a simple braid around itself and bobby pinning the “flower” into place!

Good hair day by @annette_updo_artist.

Double Fishtail Bun

The trick to this adorable fishtail braid bun is spraying your hair with Biolage R.A.W. Frizz Control Styling Spray for a sleek finish. Once you’re all finished, embrace your thin hair and pull a few face-framing strands free around your face for a boho, relaxed vibe.

Good hair day by @annette_updo_artist.

Snail Bun

Confident braiders, try this snail bun for size! Thin strands can slip out of updos, so prep your hair with Biolage R.A.W. Texturizing Styling Spray for texture and definition before you start styling!

Good hair day by @annette_updo_artist.

Criss-Cross Ponytail

Big, glam barrel curls can help add volume to even the thinnest hair. Use a curling iron to create ringlets throughout your hair before starting on this incredibly simple twisted ponytail style.

Pinned-Back Curls

Got thin curls and can’t find updos for your hair type? We’ve got your back. Try pinning one side behind your ear with a bejeweled clip or hair accessory for a simple but impactful look.

Half-Up Braid Crown

Hair accessories are perfect for masking the look of thin strands. This style relies on two thin braids pinned at the back of your head and topped with a fairy-like crystal headband. Simple? Yes. Effective? You bet!

Good hair day by @annette_updo_artist.

Elegant Updo

Fake thicker hair by investing time in a really good blowout before beginning to style your mane. By using a round brush and pointing the air stream at your roots, your finished blow-dried mane will have serious volume that lends itself to an elegant updo like this one.

Good hair day by @jennesahair_.

Crossed Fishtails

Take your go-to braids to the next level by twisting them like the pros do! All it takes is a couple of simple crossed fishtail braids to make you look like an Insta influencer. We promise this easy updo style will bring in tons of compliments!

Good hair day by @sarahbridalbeauty.

Half Updo Twist

If fishtails aren’t your style (or it seems like they require about 74 different hands to achieve), modify the crossed half updo by just using simple twists. Biolage Styling Complete Control Hairspray is a must to make sure you’re not pinning back stray hairs all night!

Good hair day by @annette_updo_artist.

Modern French Twist

Thin hair isn’t a problem when you know how to tease it! Add volume to your hair by teasing it—taking sections of hair and combing from tips to root—then smoothing the top later. Once your hair is looking larger-than-life, roll your ends into this modern French twist.

Good hair day by @alexandralee1016.

Half-Up Hair Bow

If you can’t find a premade hair bow you like, just make your hair into one! This surprisingly easy updo for fine hair works best with light, thin strands. That’s an easy win.

Good hair day by @annette_updo_artist.

Twin Bun Updo

One bun is two good, but two buns are iconic. Even the most updo-shy ladies can get behind this easy peasy double bun look!

Good hair day by @annette_updo_artist.

Scarf Bun

We always like the way accessories can draw attention to any lumps, bumps, or bare spots in a hairstyle. Pair a pretty patterned hair scarf with a simple chignon and you’ll be surprised at the attention you get!

Good hair day by @annette_updo_artist.

Bubble Ponytail

Fake volume by pancaking your bubble ponytail to the extreme. This is a 5-minute style that’s best for long hair.

Good hair day by @elissawolfe.

Milkmaid Updo

Embrace your inner milkmaid by braiding your hair up and over your crown. Add in sparkly clips and a few loose strands for maximum visual impact! If you’d rather hand your styling over to a professional, we know the best ones in the biz. Use our salon locator to find the perfect stylist near you.

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