About Updos

History

Long hair was the most common hairstyle for women up until the 20th century in many cultures around the world. That said, as nearly any woman with long hair will tell you, it can get in the way. Some of our earliest representations of women show updos, and sometimes quite elaborate ones. In some cultures, women's hair was kept pinned up and covered after marriage, and only worn loose in private or by young, unmarried girls. With these sorts of social norms, it is not a surprise that women's hairstyles have included many varied updos, sometimes with additional hairpieces, wire frames or decorative additions.

Women's long hair and hairstyles have more cultural significance than many people might expect. Depending upon the culture, even the style of braiding or plaiting, the complexity of the updo and the hair coverings worn may all provide information about the woman's lifestyle, marital status and social status. In America, this changed significantly in the 1920s when women cut off their long hair, opting instead for easy care, low-maintenance bobs. Today, a carefully done updo may signify a formal occasion, but has little social relevance.

In its most basic form, an updo serves to keep long hair out of the way. In a rush, women with long hair may simply tie it in a knot, use a pencil or chopstick to quickly secure a bun, or plait it messily. These are all, while basic and rushed, simple updos. Functional updos still commonly used today include braids and French braids, buns and a variety of ponytails. These can all be done with just two hands, a comb and a mirror. Moreover, they will usually hold without significant pinning or hair products.

A formal updo may include curls, twists or elaborate plaiting. While some women can do their own updos, these are often seen at weddings, proms and on the red carpet. More often than not a formal updo is the work of a professional hairdresser. Many of the styles we associate with the past are, by today's standards, these sorts of updos. However, it is important to remember that a wealthy woman in the Victorian era would have had help at home with her hair.

If you are planning an updo, whether a quick one done at home for a day on the town or a formal one for your wedding, consider your hair type, length and face shape. Styles with more height on the top are ideal for rounder faces, whereas if your face is longer, you may wish to consider a shape with more width than height. Simple updos can be a great everyday hairstyle if you take the time to learn how to do them. Pick up a comb and brush, some bobby pins and hairspray and spend some time experimenting to learn what works best with your hair.