As the leaves begin to turn and a crispness fills the air, wedding season takes on a magical quality. Autumn, with its rich color palette and cozy ambiance, provides a stunning backdrop for couples to say "I do." As a wedding guest, you'll want a hairstyle that is not only chic and elegant but also practical for the often-unpredictable fall weather. An updo is the perfect solution, keeping your hair flawlessly in place from the ceremony to the dance floor. Whether you have long, flowing locks or a chic medium-length cut, there's a fall updo that will perfectly complement your wedding guest attire.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through nine stunning fall updos that are wedding-guest approved. From classic chignons to bohemian braids, we've curated a list of hairstyles that are both on-trend and timeless. We'll provide tips and inspiration to help you achieve the perfect look, ensuring you feel confident and beautiful as you celebrate the happy couple.

The Enduring Allure of the Updo

Updos have been a symbol of elegance and sophistication for centuries. From the intricate hairstyles of ancient Greece to the glamorous red-carpet looks of today, the updo has remained a go-to choice for formal occasions. There are several reasons why updos are particularly well-suited for fall weddings:

• Weather-Proof: Fall weather can be unpredictable, with wind and rain always a possibility. An updo keeps your hair secure and prevents it from becoming a frizzy, windswept mess.

• Showcase Your Outfit: An updo draws the hair away from your face and neck, allowing you to showcase the neckline of your dress and any statement jewelry you may be wearing.

  
  

• Effortless Elegance: A well-executed updo exudes an air of effortless elegance. It's a polished and sophisticated look that is perfect for a formal event like a wedding.

  
  

• Comfort: With your hair off your neck, you'll stay cool and comfortable, even on a crowded dance floor.

Before we dive into the specific hairstyles, it's important to remember that the perfect updo starts with healthy hair. For tips on how to achieve your best hair, check out these health and self-care tips.

1. The Classic Chignon

The chignon is a timeless and sophisticated updo that is perfect for a fall wedding. This elegant style is characterized by a low bun or knot at the nape of the neck. It's a versatile look that can be adapted to suit any hair type or length.

For a classic chignon, start by gathering your hair into a low ponytail. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base to create a bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins and a spritz of strong-hold hairspray. For a more modern take, you can leave a few face-framing tendrils loose.

To create a flawless chignon at home, follow this detailed low chignon tutorial. For those with thicker hair, using the right bobby pins is crucial. We recommend Frenchies Hairpins for a secure hold that will last all night.

This classic style pairs beautifully with a variety of wedding guest outfits. For inspiration on what to wear, explore these chic summer wedding guest outfits, many of which can be adapted for fall with the addition of a stylish wrap or jacket.

2. The Romantic Braided Updo

Braids add a touch of romance and whimsy to any hairstyle. A braided updo is a beautiful choice for a fall wedding, especially for those with a bohemian or rustic-chic style. There are countless variations of braided updos, from a simple crown braid to an intricate fishtail braid woven into a bun.

For a simple yet elegant look, try a crown braid. This style involves creating two braids on either side of your head and pinning them across the top of your head like a crown. For a more intricate look, consider a fishtail-braided bun.

To master the art of the braided updo, explore the tutorials on the Easy Updo Hairstyle Tutorials YouTube channel. They offer a wide range of braided styles for all skill levels.

A braided updo is the perfect complement to a romantic and feminine outfit. For ideas on how to complete your look, check out these breezy linen outfit ideas. While the article focuses on summer, many of the styles can be transitioned to fall with the right accessories.

3. The Effortless Messy Bun

The messy bun has become a go-to hairstyle for a reason: it's effortlessly chic and easy to create. While it may seem like a casual style, the messy bun can be elevated for a formal occasion with the right styling and accessories.

To create a wedding-guest-approved messy bun, start by adding some texture to your hair with a texturizing spray. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and create a loose bun, allowing some pieces to fall out naturally. Secure the bun with bobby pins and finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the "undone" look.

For a step-by-step guide on how to create the perfect messy bun, check out this tutorial on easy updo hairstyles.

The messy bun is a versatile style that can be paired with a variety of outfits. It's a great option for those who want a more relaxed yet still polished look. For more fashion inspiration, visit the Fashion Hub on That Love Podcast's website.

4. The Sleek High Ponytail

A sleek high ponytail is a modern and sophisticated updo that is perfect for a fall wedding. This style is all about clean lines and a polished finish. It's a great option for those with long, straight hair, but it can also be achieved with the help of a flat iron and some smoothing serum.

To create a sleek high ponytail, start by blow-drying your hair straight. Use a flat iron to get your hair as smooth and sleek as possible. Gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head and secure it with a hair tie. To elevate the look, wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to conceal the hair tie.

For a flawless finish, use a high-quality hairspray like Kenra Perfect Medium Spray 13, which will keep your hair in place without making it feel stiff.

A sleek high ponytail is a bold and confident look that pairs well with a modern and minimalist outfit. For more ideas on how to express your personal style, explore these tips on adding a personal touch to your wedding dress. While the article is about wedding dresses, the principles of personalization can be applied to any outfit.

5. The Glamorous Hollywood Waves Updo

For a touch of old-school glamour, consider a Hollywood waves updo. This style is characterized by soft, voluminous waves that are swept up into an elegant updo. It's a timeless look that is perfect for a formal or black-tie wedding.

To create this look, you'll need a curling iron and some strong-hold hairspray. Curl your hair in sections, creating soft, uniform waves. Once your hair is curled, gently brush out the waves to create a soft, flowing look. Gather your hair to one side and create a low, loose bun, allowing the waves to frame your face.

For inspiration on how to achieve this glamorous look, check out the work of celebrity hairstylist Anh Co Tran. He is known for creating stunning red-carpet looks that are both modern and timeless.

A Hollywood waves updo is the perfect complement to a glamorous and sophisticated outfit. To complete your look, consider a pair of statement earrings and a classic red lip.

6. The Textured Low Bun

A textured low bun is a modern and chic updo that is perfect for a fall wedding. This style is all about creating volume and texture, giving the classic low bun a contemporary twist. It's a great option for those with fine hair, as the texture can make the hair appear fuller.

To create a textured low bun, start by adding some texturizing spray or mousse to your hair. Gather your hair into a low ponytail and backcomb the ponytail to create volume. Create a loose bun and secure it with bobby pins. Gently pull on the bun to create more texture and volume.

For a list of the best hairsprays to hold your textured bun in place, check out this article on the best hairsprays for updos.

A textured low bun is a versatile style that can be dressed up or down. It pairs well with a variety of necklines and can be accessorized with a statement hairpiece.

7. The Knotted Updo

A knotted updo is a unique and stylish alternative to the traditional bun. This style involves tying your hair into a knot to create a chic and modern updo. It's a great option for those with medium to long hair.

To create a knotted updo, divide your hair into two sections. Tie the two sections into a knot, as you would with a shoelace. Secure the knot with bobby pins and tuck in the ends. You can create a single knot or multiple knots for a more intricate look.

For a visual guide on how to create a knotted updo, explore the tutorials on the Awesome Hairstyles YouTube channel.

The knotted updo is a modern and fashion-forward look that is perfect for a contemporary wedding. It pairs well with a minimalist and architectural outfit. For more ideas on modern wedding style, check out these unique wedding dress alternatives to the traditional veil.

8. The French Twist

The French twist is a classic and elegant updo that is perfect for a formal fall wedding. This sophisticated style is characterized by a sleek and polished twist that is secured at the back of the head. It's a timeless look that never goes out of style.

To create a French twist, gather your hair to one side and twist it upwards. Tuck the ends of the hair into the twist and secure it with bobby pins. For a flawless finish, use a smoothing serum to tame any flyaways.

For a detailed tutorial on how to create a classic French twist, check out this guide on chignon styles, which also includes instructions for a French twist.

The French twist is a sophisticated and elegant look that pairs well with a classic and timeless outfit. It's the perfect choice for a black-tie or formal wedding. For more advice on wedding etiquette, read this article on fall wedding guest etiquette.

9. The Accessorized Updo

An accessory can instantly elevate any updo, adding a touch of personality and flair. For a fall wedding, consider incorporating a hair accessory with autumnal elements, such as leaves, berries, or rich jewel tones.

There are endless possibilities when it comes to accessorizing your updo. You can add a statement hair comb to a classic chignon, weave a delicate hair vine through a braided updo, or add a few sparkling pins to a messy bun.

For a wide selection of beautiful wedding hair accessories, check out Lace & Favour and Liberty in Love. They offer a stunning range of hair combs, pins, vines, and more.

When choosing a hair accessory, consider the style of your dress and the overall theme of the wedding. For a rustic wedding, a floral or leaf-adorned accessory would be a perfect choice. For a glamorous wedding, a sparkling crystal or pearl accessory would be more appropriate.

Choosing the Right Updo for You

With so many beautiful fall updos to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Your Hair Type and Length: Some updos work better with certain hair types and lengths. For example, a sleek high ponytail is best for long, straight hair, while a textured low bun is a great option for fine hair.

  
  

• Your Face Shape: The right hairstyle can flatter your face shape and enhance your best features. For example, an updo with some volume on top can elongate a round face, while a style with soft, face-framing tendrils can soften a square jawline. For more information, read this guide on choosing a hairstyle for your face shape.

• Your Outfit: Your hairstyle should complement your outfit, not compete with it. If you're wearing a dress with a high neckline or intricate detailing, a simple and elegant updo is a good choice. If you're wearing a more simple dress, you can afford to be more creative with your hairstyle.

• The Wedding's Formality: The formality of the wedding will also influence your choice of hairstyle. For a formal or black-tie wedding, a classic and elegant updo is a safe bet. For a more casual wedding, you can opt for a more relaxed and bohemian style.

Final Touches

Once you've chosen the perfect fall updo, there are a few final touches that can take your look to the next level:

• Shine Spray: A spritz of shine spray will add a healthy, glossy finish to your hair.

  
  

• Hairspray: A good hairspray is essential for keeping your updo in place all night long.

  
  

• Statement Earrings: An updo is the perfect opportunity to show off a pair of statement earrings.

  
  

• A Confident Attitude: The most important accessory you can wear is confidence. Rock your updo with a smile and you're sure to turn heads.

For more inspiration on all things love and relationships, be sure to check out That Love Podcast and their episodes.

Conclusion

A fall wedding is a magical occasion, and the perfect updo can make you feel like the belle of the ball. From the timeless elegance of the classic chignon to the bohemian charm of a braided updo, there is a fall updo to suit every style and personality.

By considering your hair type, face shape, outfit, and the formality of the wedding, you can choose a hairstyle that will make you feel confident and beautiful. With the right tools, techniques, and a little bit of practice, you can create a stunning updo that will last from the "I do's" to the last dance.

So, as you prepare to celebrate the happy couple, don't forget to give your hair the attention it deserves. A beautiful fall updo is the perfect finishing touch to your wedding guest look, ensuring you look and feel your best on this special day. For more wedding ideas, check out the Wedding Ideas section on That Love Podcast. And for advice on all matters of the heart, be sure to explore their Relationship Advice section.

FAQs

1. What is the best updo for a windy fall day?

The best updo for a windy fall day is a style that is secure and close to the head, such as a classic chignon, a French twist, or a sleek high ponytail. These styles will minimize the chances of your hair coming undone in the wind.

2. How can I make my updo last all night?

To make your updo last all night, start with clean, dry hair. Use a good-quality hairspray and plenty of bobby pins to secure your style. You can also use a texturizing spray or mousse to give your hair some grip.

3. What are some good hair accessories for a fall wedding?

Good hair accessories for a fall wedding include pieces with autumnal elements, such as leaves, berries, or rich jewel tones. Hair combs, pins, and vines are all great options.

4. Can I do a fall updo on medium-length hair?

Yes, you can do a fall updo on medium-length hair. Many of the styles mentioned in this article, such as the classic chignon, the messy bun, and the textured low bun, can be adapted for medium-length hair.

5. How do I choose an updo that will flatter my face shape?

To choose an updo that will flatter your face shape, consider the following:

• Round face: An updo with some volume on top can elongate a round face.

• Square face: A style with soft, face-framing tendrils can soften a square jawline.

• Heart-shaped face: A style with some volume at the sides can balance a heart-shaped face.

• Oval face: Oval faces are versatile and can pull off most updo styles.

6. Should I get my hair professionally done for a wedding?

Whether or not you get your hair professionally done for a wedding is a personal choice. If you're comfortable doing your own hair and have a simple style in mind, you can certainly do it yourself. However, if you're not confident in your hairstyling skills or you want a more intricate style, it's a good idea to book an appointment with a professional hairstylist.

7. What should I do if my hair is very fine?

If your hair is very fine, choose an updo that will add volume and texture, such as a textured low bun or a messy bun. You can also use a volumizing mousse or spray to give your hair some lift.

8. Can I wear an updo with bangs?

Yes, you can wear an updo with bangs. You can either leave your bangs down to frame your face or incorporate them into your updo.

9. What is the most popular updo for weddings?

The most popular updo for weddings is the classic chignon. It's a timeless and elegant style that is perfect for any formal occasion.

10. How can I make my updo look more modern?

To make your updo look more modern, try adding some texture, leaving a few pieces of hair loose, or incorporating a unique hair accessory.