The Best Braided Updo Tutorials: Top Styles from The Braid Up
Transform your look with stunning braided updos—discover techniques, products, and expert tips featured in Cosmopolitan’s The Braid Up series.
Braided updos offer more than just a stylish twist on classic hair—they’re a versatile, protective, and confidence-boosting way to reinvent your look. Whether you want a formal style for an occasion or need an everyday protective option, braided updos deliver durability and undeniable flair. Cosmopolitan’s The Braid Up series, celebrated for its cutting-edge tutorials and creative vision, has curated some of the most eye-catching and practical braided updos. From intricate stitch braids to elegant butterfly braids, this guide walks you through the three top updos featured in the series, along with the essential tips and tricks from expert stylist Stasha Harris.
Why Braided Updos?
Braided updos have become indispensable for anyone seeking both beauty and function in their hairstyles:
- Protective benefits: Minimize manipulation and breakage by keeping hair secure and shielded from environmental damage.
- Versatility: Suitable for day-to-night transition, with options from sleek buns to voluminous braids.
- Low maintenance: Once styled, updos can last for days or even weeks with proper care.
- Suitable for all hair textures and lengths: Extensions and products can make every hair type updo-ready.
1. The Braided Stitch Bun with Wavy Weave
This iconic look, featured in The Braid Up, combines the neat lines of stitch braids with the dramatic fullness of a woven bun enhanced by wavy hair extensions. The result is a show-stopping style that neatly fuses structure and glamour.
What You’ll Need:
- Edge control gel or pomade
- Rat-tail comb for precise parting
- Hair elastics
- Braiding hair (Kanekalon, Marley, or similar)
- Wavy synthetic weave extensions
- Edge brush or toothbrush for finishing touches
Step-by-Step Tutorial:
- Prep your hair: Begin with freshly washed and moisturized hair. Use a leave-in conditioner for softness and manageability.
- Section and part: Use a rat-tail comb to create clean partings where you want your stitch braids to lie. Tie or clip away unused sections to avoid tangling.
- Create the stitch braids: Using edge control, apply product along the parts for sleekness. Begin braiding, pulling in small sections of hair to form neat, defined stitches along each cornrow. Secure each braid at the end with an elastic.
- Form the bun: Gather all the braids at the crown or nape as preferred. Wrap braiding hair (with added wavy weave extensions) around the base of the ponytail, sculpting into a full, voluminous bun. Pin and tuck ends as necessary for a seamless finish.
- Smooth and style: Lay your edges with a brush and a bit of gel. Set the look with a light mist of holding spray if desired.
Expert Tips:
- For extra hold and shine, use a long-lasting edge gel around hairlines and partings.
- Pack small bobby pins to discreetly secure any stray hairs or extensions throughout the day.
Recommended Products:
- Shine ’n Jam Conditioning Gel
- Ebin New York 24 Hour Edge Tamer
- ORS Olive Oil Wrap/Set Mousse
2. Flat Twist Bun with Extensions
This style elevates classic flat twists into a chic updo by using extensions for added length and body. Perfect for formal occasions, it’s striking yet surprisingly easy to accomplish with the right technique.
What You’ll Need:
- Braiding extensions (pre-stretched are ideal)
- Setting mousse for hold and definition
- Edge control for sleek hairlines
- Bobby pins
Step-by-Step Tutorial:
- Prepare hair: Start on stretched or blown-out hair for smoother twists. Apply leave-in conditioner to keep hair soft.
- Section hair: Divide hair into large, even sections from the front hairline towards the back of your head.
- Integrate extensions: Attach extensions at each section and begin flat twisting close to the scalp, adding hair as you move along the section.
- Wrap and secure: Once all twists are complete, gather the ends and wrap them into a low bun at the nape or crown. Use bobby pins to fix in place.
- Finish and set: Smooth flyaways with mousse, and style baby hairs for a polished effect.
What others are reading
Professional Touches:
- Use wrapping strips or a scarf after styling to lay the twists and set the style while drying.
- Add gold cuffs or beads to some twists for extra glamour.
Products to Try:
- Creme of Nature Argan Oil Foaming Mousse
- Mielle Organics Honey & Ginger Styling Gel
3. The Butterfly Braid Updo
The butterfly braid combines oversized, flowing braids with a sculptural updo, making it ideal for dramatic occasions or photo-ready moments. Its signature feature is the looped, ‘butterfly wing’ effect created by fanning out sections of the braid and pinning them just so.
What You’ll Need:
- Braiding hair (for thickness and volume)
- Strong-hold gel or edge tamer
- Hair ties and bobby pins
- Hair shine spray
Step-by-Step Tutorial:
- Stretch and prep: Work with stretched hair for easier braiding. Apply a base of styling gel for smoothness.
- Create the base braid: Gather hair (with added extensions if desired) into a high ponytail. Braid it into a single, extra-thick plait and secure the end with a tie.
- Shape the wings: Loosen sections of the braid with your fingers, fanning them outward to mimic the shape of butterfly wings. Use bobby pins to secure each loop at the base, creating soft, voluminous curves.
- Refine and finish: Mist with shine spray for extra gloss, and brush down any baby hairs with an edge brush.
Stylist Tips:
- For more volume, fluff out each braid section gently before pinning.
- Wrap a silk scarf around your hairline for 10 minutes to set edges in place.
Top Product Picks:
- Lottabody Sleek Me Blowout Lotion
- Kiss Colors & Care Edge Fixer Glued Gel
General Maintenance: How to Make Braided Updos Last
To maximize the lifespan and sheen of your braided updo, follow these key care principles:
- Moisturize your scalp: Use a lightweight oil, such as jojoba or castor oil, applied with a cotton pad directly to the scalp. This wards off dryness and itchiness, especially when extensions are used.
- Avoid matting: Don’t brush synthetic hair. Detangle gently with fingers and trim small knots rather than ripping them out.
- Satin at night: Before bed, wrap hair in a satin scarf or wear an adjustable satin bonnet. This protects the style and prevents tangling.
- Dry shampoo or scalp sprays: Between washes, use a dry scalp spray or dry shampoo to absorb oil and freshen up the roots.
- Limit product buildup: Avoid heavy creams or oils on the braiding hair itself, which can weigh down the style and attract dust.
How to Accessorize Your Braided Updo
Braided updos are a canvas for creativity and personal flair. Here are ways to elevate your look:
- Braid rings and cuffs: Add metallic rings, cuffs, or charms to select sections, focusing on buns and accent braids for a statement look.
- Shells and beads: Thread decorative shells or beads onto the ends or anchor points for a bohemian touch.
- Colorful string or ribbon: Weave in colorful threads, ribbons, or yarn to match your outfit or express your mood.
- Fresh or faux flowers: Perfect for weddings and festivals, tuck flowers behind the bun or into the braid’s base.
Essential Tools & Products Every Updo Enthusiast Should Own
- Edge brushes: For meticulous baby hair styling.
- Wide-tooth combs: For gentle detangling before braiding.
- Soft bristle brushes: To slick down hair for parting and styling.
- Snag-free hair ties and bobby pins: Essential for holding hair in place without breakage.
- Wrap strips and silk scarves: For setting and maintaining edges overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long do braided updos typically last?
A: With proper care and nightly protection, braided updos can last 1–3 weeks, depending on hair texture, scalp health, and how much product or accessories are used.
Q: Is it possible to do these updos on short or medium-length hair?
A: Absolutely. Using hair extensions or pre-stretched braiding hair allows most braided updos to be created on any length, as long as there is enough hair to anchor the starting braid or twist.
Q: How should I prep my hair before braiding?
A: Start with clean, deeply conditioned, and detangled hair. This ensures a smoother braiding process and reduces the risk of breakage when undoing the style later on.
Q: What’s the best way to protect my edges from tension?
A: Don’t braid too tightly near the hairline. Always moisturize edges and consider applying a protective serum or oil before and after styling. Edge scarves at night also help guard against breakage.
Q: Can I wash my hair while it’s in a braided updo?
A: Yes, but gently. Use diluted shampoo or a scalp-cleansing spray and rinse carefully. Avoid saturating extensions where possible, and always dry thoroughly to prevent mildew.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Style with Braided Updos
These standout braided updo tutorials from The Braid Up prove that you don’t need to sacrifice hair health for style—or vice versa. With expert guidance, the right products, and a dash of creativity, anyone can achieve a polished, protective, and totally Instagram-worthy updo. So gather your favorite hair tools, accessories, and inspiration—the next great braided updo is in your hands.
References
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a44127544/crochet-braid-bantu-knots-how-to/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Vf-ipmTsC0
- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUgchMD0OL6JqoHBu-TGEKvgjM-74ZTPu
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GkmjuaGEjTk
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a30987077/best-of-braided-updos-tutorial/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wJ0Yvb8FcE
- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrx4fxhgMUObLCxt_QbtT-1Qqx0oN2-EN
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAFJ5P7X-DI
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