As someone who has been styling thick hair for many years, I can vouch for the challenge it poses: slippery strands, buns that look more like bricks, and updos that do not last longer than an hour. Time to change that.
The updo hairstyles for thick hair are all those styles that involve twisting, securing, or gathering voluminous strands on top of the neck area. The main thing that differentiates thick hair from fine hair is the need for more support, the necessity of layering to avoid bulkiness, and somewhat looser hairstyle to avoid headaches due to the tension. All thick hair strands retain their curls perfectly fine, and heatless techniques will be just as effective.
In this article, I am going to introduce 15 updos made exclusively for thick hair along with all necessary techniques and products for styling.
Why Thick Hair Needs Different Updo Rules
Thick hair isn’t just about volume—it’s about weight. A standard bun using 50 grams of fine hair feels completely different from one using 150 grams of coarse strands. The physics of gravity works against you here. That’s why every updo below starts with the same foundation: prep your hair with texture spray or dry shampoo on day-two hair (freshly washed thick hair is too slippery). Use spin pins instead of bobby pins—they grip twice as much hair. And always tease the roots at the crown for extra hold.
| Updo Name | Time to Create | Difficulty | Best Hair Length | Hold Strength | Ideal Occasion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Chignon | 5 min | Easy | Shoulder to mid-back | Medium | Office, brunch |
| Messy Bun | 3 min | Easy | Shoulder to waist | Medium | Everyday |
| French Twist | 10 min | Medium | Shoulder to mid-back | Strong | Formal events |
| Braided Crown | 15 min | Hard | Armpit to waist | Very strong | Weddings, festivals |
| Top Knot | 4 min | Easy | Armpit to waist | Medium | Gym, errands |
| Dutch Braid Updo | 12 min | Medium | Mid-back to waist | Very strong | All-day wear |
| Sock Bun | 6 min | Easy | Shoulder to waist | Strong | Office, dinner |
| Half-Up Twist | 3 min | Easy | Any length | Light | Casual outings |
| Low Ponytail Twist | 7 min | Easy | Mid-back to waist | Medium | Work, dates |
| Bubble Ponytail | 8 min | Easy | Shoulder to waist | Strong | Parties |
| Double Bun (Space Buns) | 10 min | Easy | Armpit to waist | Medium | Music events, fun looks |
| Romantic Rolls | 12 min | Medium | Shoulder to mid-back | Strong | Galas, proms |
| Pineapple Updo | 5 min | Easy | Waist or longer | Light | Lazy days, bedhead fix |
| Faux Hawk | 15 min | Hard | Shoulder to waist | Very strong | Night out, edgy looks |
| Sleek High Bun | 7 min | Medium | Armpit to waist | Strong | Formal work, ballet |
Classic Chignon
Thick hair makes a chignon look effortlessly luxurious. The secret here is pre-sectioning. Divide your hair into top and bottom halves—this prevents a lumpy shape. Twist the bottom section into a low bun, then smooth the top section over it and pin. The result looks like one seamless knot. Use a strong-hold gel on flyaways, and tuck the tail under instead of wrapping it around the base. This solves the “too much hair” problem because you’re working in layers. It suits oval and heart-shaped faces best, and works with both modern minimal dresses and traditional silk blouses. Moving on, the messy bun is even simpler.
Messy Bun
You’d think messy buns are easy, but thick hair often creates a giant, shapeless blob. The trick: only twist your hair halfway through the elastic on the last loop, leaving a loop of hair sticking out. Then, wrap the remaining tail around the base and pin. Gently tug the bun sides to create that effortless, piece-y look. Use a velvet scrunchie for grip—satin slips on thick strands. This style saves mornings when you’re late, and looks great with casual sweaters or workout gear. Next, let’s tighten it up with the French twist.
French Twist
The French twist is classic, but thick hair can make it feel too bulky. Counteract this by backcombing the interior section before rolling. Start with a low ponytail, flip the ponytail upward, and tuck the ends into the base. Then roll the entire ponytail toward your scalp and pin vertically. For thick hair, use three large alligator clips instead of bobby pins—they grip deeper. This style stays perfect through a full workday and pairs beautifully with blazers or evening gowns. Ready for something more intricate? The braided crown is next.
Braided Crown
A braided crown on thick hair is stunning but requires patience. Braid two dutch braids starting at your temples, pulling them tight against your scalp. Then wrap each braid over your head like a headband, crossing them at the back. Pin the ends under the opposite braid. The weight of thick hair actually helps this style stay put—it won’t slide off. For extra hold, spray each braid with hairspray before pinning. This is ideal for outdoor weddings or long festival days. Transitioning to speed, the top knot is your go-to.
Top Knot
Thick hair wants to make a top knot huge. Embrace it. Pull hair into a high ponytail at the crown, then twist the ponytail tightly and wrap it around the base. Don’t try to tuck the tail—let it stick out slightly and pin it against the knot. This creates that intentionally messy, voluminous look that’s trendy right now. Use a thick elastic that won’t snap. This style works for the gym, coffee runs, or lazy Sunday afternoons. Next up, the Dutch braid updo offers serious durability.
Dutch Braid Updo
Dutch braids (the reverse of French braids) sit on top of thick hair beautifully. Braid two Dutch braids from the nape of your neck upward, meeting at the crown. Then gather them into a low twist or bun. The braids thin out the bulk, making the updo manageable. This style survives hours of dancing or a full work shift. Pair it with a leather jacket for edge or a chiffon dress for soft contrast. Now let’s look at the sock bun trick.
Sock Bun
A sock bun is basically a donut-shaped foam ring that you wrap your hair around. For thick hair, use a larger donut (or make your own from a cut sock). The trick: pull your ponytail through the donut, then spread your hair evenly over it before rolling down. This prevents that “bald spot” where the donut shows through. It stays comfortable all day because the weight is evenly distributed. Great for office meetings or dinner dates. Moving to simpler options, the half-up twist is perfect.
Half-Up Twist
Not every updo needs to be full. Take the top half of your thick hair, twist it toward the back, and pin it just above the nape. Let the bottom half cascade down. This reduces volume around your face while showing off length. Use a decorative claw clip for thick hair—bobby pins won’t cut it. This is the ultimate casual style for running errands or grabbing coffee. For a fancier half-up, try the low ponytail twist.
Low Ponytail Twist
This is the low ponytail’s more polished cousin. Pull hair into a low ponytail, then twist the tail upward and tuck it through the gap above the elastic. Tighten gently. The twist hides the elastic and creates a rope-like texture. With thick hair, the rope effect is especially pronounced and elegant. It works for both daytime business meetings and evening dinner dates. Next, let’s have some fun with bubble ponytails.
Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail adds playful volume. Tie your ponytail high, then add small elastics every 2 inches down the length. Gently tug each section to create little “bubbles.” For thick hair, use thin, clear elastics that won’t tug. This style turns your thick ponytail into a series of soft spheres. It’s perfect for parties or pop events. Now let’s get creative with double buns.
Double Bun (Space Buns)
Part your thick hair down the middle, then pull each side into a high ponytail. Twist each into a bun and pin. Thick hair makes the buns look full and cute rather than puny. Leave a few face-framing strands out to soften the look. This is great for music festivals or casual fun days. Ready for a romantic vibe? Try romantic rolls.
Romantic Rolls
These are like Gibson rolls but adapted for thick hair. Create a low side part, roll each section inward toward the nape, and pin. The rolls should sit side by side like two soft snails. Thick hair holds the shape beautifully without needing much product. This works wonderfully for prom, weddings, or any formal event. Next, the pineapple updo is a lifesaver.
Pineapple Updo
This is the go-to for very long, thick hair on lazy days. Flip your head forward, gather all hair at the crown, and secure with a very loose scrunchie. Don’t pull the hair through completely—leave a loop. This protects your hair texture while keeping it off your neck. It’s perfect for bedtime or study sessions. Now let’s get edgy with a faux hawk.
Faux Hawk
Braid two Dutch braids from temples to crown, leaving the center section loose. Then pull the center back and pin it into a mini mohawk. Thick hair gives this style serious presence. Use strong-hold gel on the braids to keep them flat. This is ideal for concerts or nights out. Finally, the sleek high bun.
Sleek High Bun
This is the epitome of polished. Use a fine-tooth comb and gel to smooth every strand into a high ponytail. Then wrap the ponytail around itself tightly, pinning as you go. For thick hair, do this in two sections (wrap half, then the other half around it) to avoid a lumpy shape. This looks stunning with a ball gown or business suit.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
| Mistake | Why It Happens | The Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Updo falls apart after an hour | Too few pins for hair weight | Use spin pins (each holds as much as 5 bobby pins) |
| Bun looks lumpy | Hair not pre-sectioned | Divide into top/bottom sections before twisting |
| Tension headache | Pulling hair too tight | Loosen the base; thick hair doesn’t need tightness to stay |
| Creases from elastics | Using thin elastic bands | Switch to spiral hair ties or silk scrunchies |
| Frizz ruins sleek look | High humidity + product mismatch | Apply a drop of argan oil to palms, pat down after styling |
Similar Variations You Should Know
- Low vs. High: Low updos suit round faces, high updos elongate square faces.
- Side vs. Center: Side buns add asymmetry; center buns are classic.
- Braided vs. Twisted: Braids hold longer in thick hair; twists are faster.
- Accessorized: Pearl pins or velvet ribbons distract from bulk and add polish.
Hair Care Tips for Updos on Thick Hair
- Never start with freshly washed hair. Day-two hair has natural grip. Dry shampoo adds even more.
- Deep condition weekly. Thick hair gets dry underneath. Healthy strands hold styles longer.
- Trim every 8 weeks. Split ends make updos look frayed and messy.
- Use a silk pillowcase. Friction-free sleep prevents tangles that ruin next-day updos.
- Don’t over-brush. Use a wide-tooth comb for detangling; brushes flatten volume.
Whether you’ve got a chignon for the office or a braided crown for the weekend, thick hair gives you an advantage—volume that fine hair envy. With the right pins, a bit of prep, and these 15 updos, you’ll have your thick hair under control and looking incredible. Now go try one, and watch it stay put all day.
