12 Showstopping Updo Hairstyles For Black Women

Black women have always been at the forefront of hairstyling innovation; their innate and creative elegance constantly amazes everyone, from fans on the red carpet to executives in boardrooms. From Zendaya's stunning faux Mohawk to Ciara's ethereal half-up top knot, Black women continuously raise the bar for sophisticated updo ideas when it comes to unique hairstyles. 

They undeniably remain trendsetters and innovators in the hairstyling industry, but it can be hard to find an updo that appeals and speaks both to your personal style and type of event. That's why we have a select list of 12 showstopping updo hairstyles for black women designed specifically for every occasion. If you're looking for something classic enough for date night or a chic statement for your next Zoom call, our collection has just the right style for you.

Let's Get Started!

1. Neat Afro Puff Updo

Sometimes, the simplest of hairstyles can make jaws drop and turn heads. The afro puff updo is a timeless classic that is still popular and practical for any occasion. Pulling all your hair into an elegant puff gives this look its feminine sophistication. With this low-maintenance updo, you can show off a chic appeal without altering your natural texture. 

For an effortless and polished take on this economy, consider incorporating elegant Afro hairstyles to add the desired volume and shape. Afro hairstyles bring out the fullness and brilliance of each curl, making it fashionable and empowering. 

2. Curly Black Hair Updo with Cornrows

Doing a perfect job with a combination of cornrows and curls might sound intimidating. Contrary to that belief, it is much simpler than you thought! This hairstyle is perfect for anyone wanting to add simple elegance and more charm to their look. 

Whenever you plan for a special night, such as date night or a dinner event with somebody special, or just need something smarter than your average glam, the black updo hairstyle with curls is an ultimate go-to. Whether you decide on big, bold cornrow layering or fine, thin layering, you would be up for an enviable transformation either way!

To scale up further and attract everyone's attention around the corner, try accessorizing with barrettes and or clips for increased glamour and ultimate shine.

3. Braided Mohawk Updo

This hairstyle is an edgy yet classic variation of the typical updo that oozes confidence without being overly ostentatious. It's a wonderful option for anyone wanting to switch up their look! What's more, with the Mohawk updo, you can rest assured that you're not only limited to the top of your head. 

Ideal for black women looking to be bold with their appearance, complicated, intricate designs gracefully adorn the bottom part frame of the cornrows and braiding in the center, creating an unforgettable aesthetic. 

Its detail-oriented craftsmanship easily charms passersby and murders any funky standouts. Try adding extra volume and intricacy to the sides with multiple braids and thicker hair extensions for a more daring look. Or, add some curls at the ends of your mohawk updo for an ode to glamour. Either way, you're sure to leave people in awe! 

4. Rolled Updo with Jewelry

Black women are renowned for their mastery in styling their hair. However, it never hurts to shake things up and try something new. Take this beautiful rolled updo adorned with delicate jewelry, for example. 

• To recreate this look, you'll need to brush your hair down and then loop it into a twisted updo.
• To create more depth and dimension, accessorize the look with some clip pons or your choice of hair jewelry. 

Whether it be a gathering of white gloves sophistication or just a night out on the town, this divinely glamorous hairstyle works perfectly for any special occasion. Make an entrance everywhere you go with this lustrous trend – guaranteed to leave everyone enchanted!

5. Black to Blonde Ombre Ponytail Updo

While it may seem that transitioning from jet-black to white-blonde requires lots of bleaching and damage, this isn't always true. This look proves you can achieve an on-trend color without harming your strands. 

This poofy ponytail updo is one of the hottest styles this season and is perfect for more formal occasions and everyday wear. It offers a great opportunity to stand out from the crowd in a genuinely unique way while still protecting your natural texture and strands.

Furthermore, colored buds like these complement dark women's skin tones wonderfully, making them a popular yet low-maintenance option. The bright hue remains flattering when put into higher buns, too. Try this hot, modern style if you want to showcase some color without any consequences for your hair!

6. Black Four Space Buns Updo

Make a haute statement with this fun and flirty 4-bun updo. Whether you wear your buns sleek and smooth or full of volume, this look offers a chance to show off both class and edge. Gather four perfectly positioned buns atop your head for an ethereal and goddess-inspired vibe – simply perfect for any African queen!

This delightful hairstyle artfully embraces natural texture while providing plenty of styling control with the use of must-have edge control products. Strut into any gala or night out with friends sporting this bold look that's sure to make heads turn. Redefine beauty norms and impress onlookers with the remarkable strength found in every twist of two-strand sections. Let this simple stunt gracefully reflect presence and power, making your strong spirit known!

7. Crown Twist Updo for Black Hair

If you want to channel a goddess's beauty, try the crown twist updo. It's crafted with black natural hair to flaunt your vibrancy, and two-strand twists bring an additional flair to both sides. 

If your 4b/4c natural hair has volume, why not make the most of it by styling massive buns and creating visual impact? Fold the unlocked mane together to evoke a halo shape right in front and join them up low across the back for an elegant effect. 

With this hairstyle come two styling routes: opt for a sweet, romantic final look or vamp it up if you wish. Be assured that either way, this updo will stay punchy and take your breath away.

8. Massive Braided Updo

A braided bun is a simple and popular black updo hairstyle that can be worn in various ways. Take the casual approach by achieving a low and discreet look for date nights. Or, if you're feeling fancy, choose to go for a high bun or shift to one side, perfect for formal events.

Try incorporating up to three strands of braids into the bun to make it even more intricate. That way, you can get that massive and beautiful updo hairstyle that absolutely won't budge throughout your night out! 

9. Dreadlocks High Bun Updo

Black women's hair exudes undeniable personality and versatility, which is why its naturalistic charm continues to reverberate through many cultures. Dreadlocks offer endless opportunities to achieve the perfect hairstyle, and fortunately, they can be designed into stunning buns. 

Start by gently gathering Locs and fashioning them into a high bun. A fashionable headband will then help secure the precious locks in place, while some tucked-away ends give it a lotus flower vibe. 

This mesmerizing updo will have heads turning for miles with its sheer elegance, reminding you that beauty can come from living fearlessly in your own skin. Revel in the gorgeous breathtaking buns and let it complete your ultra-modern city guru cast!

10. Elegant Hat-shaped Updo

Say goodbye to old-fashioned hats because the elegant hat-shaped updo is here to stay! This appealing style offers a bold take on enchanting early 1900s fashion. 

To recreate the stunning hairstyle, you must place an appropriate round-shaped hat or fascinator on top of your head and intertwine the hair around using a circular finding. 

Once each strand has been Pinned in its place with some U pins, admire your masterpiece that wraps around your crown like a glove – adding sophistication and class to any evening. Whether it's a gala or drinks with pals, you shall certainly be remembered with an updo fit for royalty. Ladies, it is time you embrace this timeless hairstyle and let it take you from ordinary to extraordinary! 

11. Formal Shiny Black Low Updo

Every stylish look cherishes a classic updo. A Formal, Shiny Black Low Updo perfectly balances a soft boutique bun and lustrous shine for special occasions. 

To start, spread setting lotion throughout your hair or wig while styling it to its desired shape. Gather all the strands into one hand and wrap them around with the other for an immaculate finish at the nape of your neck. Pin sections in with bobby pins. 

For extra shimmer, go over everything lightly with a flat iron to fully refine it all. With some trendy accessories or pretty flowers, you'll be certain to show off your uniquely created Formal Shiny Black Low Updo with splendor! Perfect for wedding brides!

Related Read: Top 20 Stylish Wedding Hairstyles For Black Women 2024

12. Updo with Red Long Swoop Bang

When it comes to making a statement, a bold updo with a long red swoop bang is guaranteed to complete any look. This remarkable hairstyle will not only demonstrate your fashion-forward taste but will show off your individuality as well.

Depicting your own style is best done by entrusting the intricacies of this hairstyle to an experienced hair salon with technical knowledge in this area. With their expertise, you can achieve the perfect blend of creativity and assurance that the desired look is achieved with precision and clarity. 

And if that's not enough for a one-of-a-kind look – you can customize this style with additional shimmers such as gold or silver – ensuring your appearance will really stand out from the crowd! Lastly, have some fun by adjusting exactly where the brisk swoop bang stops across your forehead for an extra personalized style.

In A Nutshell

In conclusion, it's time to show off your head full of beautiful hair with one of the twelve showstopping updos for black women that will leave you feeling fabulous and fierce. 

Whether you're headed to the office or a special event, there's an updo style to fit any occasion. And with all the options available, you'll be sure to turn heads wherever your day takes you. 

So get creative and try out some shapes and styles that work best for you — hairstyle ideas are endless! Get styling and find the perfect look for any event or outing coming up in your near future. There's no better way than showing off your gorgeous locks with one of these updos.