Stuck between wearing an updo or letting your hair down? No problem, we got you covered. There’s a few rules of thumb to follow depending on the event, occasion, reaction you’d like, and season. The guide below starts with a few examples, then goes into a couple popular outfits to help you decide when to do an updo, or let your hair lay low.
- Weddings - Everyone has an opinion on hair etiquette, but the only opinion that matters is the bride’s. It is her big day and her wedding images. If you’re a bridesmaid, ask her what she wants her team to do. If you’re a guest, updos are perfectly fine as long as you don’t do bridal hair like a wedding chignon bun.
- Necklines - High necklines and long hair normally don’t match well. High necklines are a way to increase the appearance of your bust. Long hair, especially when it flows over the front of your shoulders, can offset the illusion while an updo keeps the emphasis on your face and allows the illusion to remain intact.
- Highlighting outfits - The updo allows your outfit to be the centerpiece of your look. If you want to keep the focus on your clothing, like you’re a model or walking a red carpet, then go updo. If you want your face and outfit to flow together for a first date or casual days, then let your locks hang low.
But when push comes to shove, it is personal preference when you should go with an updo or leaving your hair loose. Here’s a couple of examples of when to choose which style based on events and outfit types.
Little Black Dress
There’s nothing more classic than a little black dress. If you’re going to a formal function then updos will work perfectly. They’re elegant, sophisticated and classy. But if you want to stand out for a co*cktail party, go with something that lays low as most other people will have gone up. Or try an asymmetrical hairstyle where you have some of your hair down one shoulder and the rest pulled back.
Maxi Dress
This go-to dress is always a win, and the hairstyle can change based on the event. If it's a bottomless brunch, start with an updo like a bun, and drop it like it's hot with some natural waves when you’re ready to head home. Casual day out with friends or a first date? Wear your hair down. It’s more inviting, easier to add a sun hat to if you go for a walk after, and sits comfortably all day. The neckline rule is more important here too.
If you feel insecure about your torso because you’re slimmer and your maxi dress has a high neckline, stick with the updo. If you want to keep things looking sleek and slim, wear your hair down.
Gown
You’re likely heading to a formal event if you’re wearing a gown, so use the wedding and neckline rules from above. If you have a low cut look and want your body to take center stage, go updo. Looking to have your face take center stage? Framed bangs and forward facing hairstyles will bring your look to life and keep their eyes connected to yours. Long locks that flow over the front of your shoulders, or curly bangs that hang down create a nice flow from head to toe, but frame and highlight your face to keep the attention there.
Sun Dress
Sundresses almost always call for long and loose hairstyles. They complete the soft and summery vibe, add to the flow of your ensemble, and keep your look comfy. There are exceptions like when it gets windy or you’re going to be in a convertible where you need your hair confined.
Keep a hair clip handy and do a quick french twist, or throw your hair up into a bun. Don’t worry about a sleek look, sun dresses are for comfort and fun so messy buns are perfectly good to go. And both of these styles can be created in seconds and undone easily so you can continue on your day.
Shift Dress
Shift dresses are always good with low flowing hair. The longer hairstyles add dimension and life to the flat laying clean lines of the dress. And choosing a style with hair over one or both shoulders is perfect. If you like the updo look, but don’t want an updo, try a high scrunchie ponytail or go for a 60’s vibe with a barbie ponytail for this look.
There is one big exception to the updo in a shift dress rule-of-thumb, and that is music festivals. Space buns and other balanced updos can complete the look if you’re doing playful makeup designs with pops of color, and you can add ribbons and scrunchies to bring the color palette from the dress together with your hair.
Jeans and Tshirt
The simple answer here is whatever makes you feel like you. If it's a jeans and tshirt day, do what makes you feel comfy. Wear your hair up in a clip if you’re out running errands, and let it flow if you’re relaxing at home.
If you found this guide to when to go with an updo or let your hair flow free helpful, subscribe to the TELETIMES blog below for more style ideas and hair health tips.
FAQs
If you want to keep the focus on your clothing, like you're a model or walking a red carpet, then go updo. If you want your face and outfit to flow together for a first date or casual days, then let your locks hang low.
When to wear hair up vs down? ›
"If you are wearing a strapless dress, either hair down or half up, half down will look pretty and feminine while still showing off the neckline," advises Mar. Loose waves and a soft, flowing style is key. If your dress has a higher neckline, our pro says to consider an updo.
Should I wear my hair up or down for a wedding guest? ›
Can I wear my hair down to a wedding? You can definitely wear your hair down to a wedding – as long as your finished style looks smart and complements your outfit.
Should I wear my hair up or down with a dress? ›
While your dress doesn't have to dictate how you wear your hair, it's still a good check point if you're on the fence. Dresses with high necklines tend to be more formal, so an up-do would be the most appropriate. Plus, an up-do will prevent any hair from getting caught on the dress—a double win!
Does hair up or down make you look skinnier? ›
It seems counterintuitive but sometimes bringing all your hair up can, in fact, make your face appear slimmer, and the addition of face-framing pieces creates a shadow that can make your cheeks look super sculpted.
Does hair up or hair down look more professional? ›
Keep it simple with a ponytail
Instead of wearing your hair down, wear a classy bun or ponytail, or twist your hair into a smooth, long braid to keep your hair away from your face. Classy buns, ponytails or a long braid can give a professional look to your style while keeping you comfortable.
Does hair up make you look younger? ›
Wear a ponytail
According to the expert, wearing a ponytail is a well-known hack to achieve a younger appearance. She explained: “Long hair? Try brushing it back into a high ponytail as this also slightly pulls the facial skin back. It's essentially like a facelift, with just a simple brush and tie!”
Is it healthier for hair to be up or down? ›
In conclusion, wearing your hair down can offer numerous benefits for your hair, scalp, and overall appearance. It allows for better circulation, reduces the risk of damage and breakage, enhances natural shine, and can even improve your confidence and self-esteem.
What face shape looks better with hair up? ›
Circular faces suit higher and messier ponytails, with volume at the top to elongate the face. Curls and waves are particularly flattering to round faces. Loose face framing strands around the face will also elongate the face and create definition.
Do guys like women's hair up or down? ›
Across the board, men prefer that women wear their hair down rather than up in any kind of "styled" 'do. "Women just look more approachable, like they are down to have a good time when their hair is free-flowing and not all hairsprayed up," says one man.
When deciding on your perfect hairstyle, keep in mind the dress code and style of the wedding you're attending. For a casual daytime celebration, you may want to opt for soft waves, whereas an elegant evening affair might call for an extravagant updo. Keep in mind your wedding guest dress or outfit, too!
How many hours before your wedding should you get your hair done? ›
Your hair and makeup should be completed approximately 2 hours before your ceremony time if you are getting ready at a location away from your place of ceremony.
When should you wear an updo? ›
If you're going to a formal function then updos will work perfectly. They're elegant, sophisticated and classy. But if you want to stand out for a co*cktail party, go with something that lays low as most other people will have gone up.
Should I leave my hair down or put it up? ›
If you have short hair, sleep with it down since tying it up would cause too much friction and pressure on your scalp. If you have long hair, you're going to want to tie it up to protect your strands, especially the ends, from getting snagged or pulled as you sleep.
Should you wear your hair up or down for a date? ›
Highlighting outfits - The updo allows your outfit to be the centerpiece of your look. If you want to keep the focus on your clothing, like you're a model or walking a red carpet, then go updo. If you want your face and outfit to flow together for a first date or casual days, then let your locks hang low.
Should you wear your hair up all the time? ›
Every once in a while, it's OK to wear your hair tightly pulled back, but you want to avoid wearing a tightly pulled hairstyle every day. The constant pulling can cause strands of your hair to break or fall out. In time, the continuous pulling can damage your hair follicles.
Is it more healthy to sleep with your hair up or down? ›
By keeping your hair up, you minimize its contact with your face, ensuring that it remains fresh and free from unwanted residue. Prevents Breakage: Hair tied up (especially in a loose bun or braid) can reduce the risk of hair breakage. It stops hair from rubbing against the pillow and causing friction.
Is it better to work out with your hair up or down? ›
If you have long hair or prefer to keep your hair out of your face, working out with your hair up might be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you have short hair or don't mind your hair getting sweaty, you might prefer to work out with your hair down.
