What is a Loose Updo?

A loose updo is a type of hairstyle where long hair is pulled back off the face, and secured at the back of the head. The hair may be up near the crown of the head or down at the nape of the neck; as long as the hair is not hanging loose, it can generally be considered an updo, or a partial updo. A loose updo is an elegant hairstyle that is able to give many women a fresh, natural look.

There are many different types of updos. In a loose updo, the hair may be pulled straight back off the face, or it may be parted to one side. Sometimes a sideswept bang or blunt bang is left with this type of hairstyle. This type of style may look slightly messier and more natural than a tight updo, where hair is slicked back more smoothly off the face without any wayward strands left out. The line between a loose updo and a tight updo is fairly vague, however, and any hairstylist should be able to create a certain desired look.

Loose updos are popular hairstyles for events such as weddings and proms. Once the hair is swept back off the face, it may be curled and pinned to the head for a more finished look, or it may be simply curled and left relatively loose. A simple French twist is a type of updo, and this style is quite elegant and appropriate for many fancy occasions.

Though a loose updo can work on both long or short hair, those with particularly short, cropped hair may need to add a few hair extensions to make the style look complete. Hair decorations are occasionally added to lose updos, such as hair pins, decorative headbands, or flowers. This is an especially popular look for weddings, when the bride can place one of her chosen wedding flowers in her hair.

Pieces of the hair may be deliberately loose in a loose updo, to create a more casual look. It is generally a good idea to avoid leaving tendrils loose around the face, however, because this can give the style a somewhat dated appearance. Keep in mind that this type of hair style does not necessarily need to be only for fancy occasions. A loose updo can look great during the day for work or for a casual day, when paired with a simple outfit.