Braided updos are making a comeback among older women who want stylish yet practical hairstyles. These elegant looks combine the timeless appeal of braids with the sophistication of updos, creating perfect options for special events or everyday wear.
Best of all, they’re designed to be low-maintenance while still looking absolutely stunning.
1. Crown Braid Glory
A single braid wrapped around the head creates a regal look that stays put all day.
Perfect for women with longer hair, this style keeps strands away from your face while showcasing beautiful silver or gray tones. No need for constant adjustments!
2. French Braid Bun
Starting with a French braid that flows into a secure bun creates timeless elegance.
The technique locks hair in place, making it ideal for active days. Gray and silver strands actually enhance this style’s dimensional appeal, catching light beautifully throughout the day.
3. Twisted Side Sweep
Who says braided styles can’t work with shorter hair? This asymmetrical updo combines small braids with twisted sections for visual interest.
The side-swept design flatters most face shapes and stays secure with minimal pins. Texture spray adds grip.
4. Braided Chignon Charm
Sophisticated yet surprisingly simple! Two braids wrap around each other to form a low chignon at the nape.
The beauty lies in its imperfection – looser strands actually enhance the look. Once secured, this style easily lasts through dinner and dancing without touchups.
5. Fishtail Crown Fusion
Fishtail braids might look complicated, but they’re actually easier than French braids for many women.
This half-crown version requires minimal arm strain during styling. The intricate pattern creates visual interest while keeping hair secure – spray lightly for all-day hold.
6. Braided Gibson Tuck
Channel vintage glamour with this updated classic! A loose braid gets tucked and pinned for effortless elegance.
The style works beautifully with highlighted or dimensional gray hair. Prep with texturizing spray for grip that lasts through evening events without constant checking.
7. Milkmaid Braid Modernized
Forget the youthful associations – this style looks remarkably sophisticated on silver-haired women!
Two simple braids wrap around the head, creating a frame that highlights cheekbones and eyes. The style stays put during activities and requires just 4-6 bobby pins.
8. Twisted Rope Elegance
Not technically a braid but achieves the same secure effect with less effort!
Two sections of hair are twisted rope-style, then pinned into a sophisticated updo. The technique works wonderfully on fine hair, creating the illusion of thickness while staying comfortably in place.
9. Braided Top Knot
Forget messy buns – this structured version incorporates a braid for stability and style.
The height creates a lifting effect that’s flattering for mature faces. Hair is gathered high, braided loosely, then wrapped into a knot that stays put through dinner and dancing.
10. Dutch Braid Updo
Dutch braids (where strands go under instead of over) create dimension that’s particularly flattering for thinning hair.
This technique makes hair appear fuller while staying securely pinned. The reverse braiding method actually makes this style easier to self-create than traditional French braids.
11. Braided Faux Hawk
Bold yet sophisticated! This edgy style features side braids leading to a textured center section.
Despite its dramatic appearance, it requires just basic braiding skills and a few pins. The style works beautifully with natural gray texture and stays put through evening events.
12. Lace Braid Accent
A delicate lace braid (where strands are added from just one side) creates a feminine detail within a simple updo.
The technique works wonderfully on layered hair that might slip from traditional styles. Spritz with light-hold spray for a style that lasts through afternoon activities.
13. Twisted Waterfall Wonder
Half-up styles offer versatility for women transitioning to gray or with multi-tonal hair.
This pretty option features a waterfall braid that cascades into loose waves or curls. The partial updo keeps face-framing strands secure while showcasing beautiful length and dimension.
14. Infinity Braid Bun
Named for its continuous loop appearance, this style looks complex but requires just basic braiding.
The technique creates a secure base for a bun that stays put through active days. Works beautifully with hair that has natural wave or texture, requiring minimal product.
15. Braided Victory Roll
Vintage inspiration meets modern practicality! This retro-inspired style incorporates a braid into a rolled section.
The technique secures hair beautifully for special occasions while celebrating silver strands. Despite its elaborate appearance, it requires just basic pinning skills and medium-hold spray.