Updos 101: Updo Styling Tips & Tricks

Before you go to the stylist...

Think about what hair style you want before you go. And bring Updo pictures! Stylists tend to be visual people. If you bring a picture, it will be easier to create the look you wish to have. But PLEASE, always keep in mind that most of the women you see in magazines with updos, have hair extensions or hair pieces to give them that full look. You might not have the amount of hair needed to do the updo style you've chosen, so ALWAYS go with a couple of ideas. NEVER just one.

Don't wash your hair the day you're going to have an updo done. Opt just to shower and throw your hair up with a scrunchy or just rinse and don't use shampoo. Dirty hair equals a better updo. Yes, it's true. Not only is "dirty" hair easier to work with, it will hold a curl much longer , will be easier to tease and most important, will have a great deal of shine to it. Sacrifice washing for a day or two before, for the greater good of a great hair day!

Just because your stylist can give you a great cut and everyday hair style, does not mean that they can do updos as well. Always do a test run to see if you and your stylist are on the same page and she understands what you want. If she's not good at updos, generally they will tell you beforehand and recommend someone in the salon who can help you with your updo style.

Always wear a button down shirt or one with a loose fitting neck when having an updo done.

While you're there....

Don't put hair up to tight. This can cause headaches hours later and ruin a big day. If you feel your hair is too tight or a pin hurts, let her/him know.

If you have short hair, don't think you are excluded from the world of updos. As long as your hair is long enough to pull to the back of your head. Here's the trick. Instead of trying to gather your hair in one ponytail, divide hair into 2 or 3 ponytails or even more if necessary. One at top, middle and bottom. Then curl or style the ponytails and be sure to interlock them by combining hair from each as you work your way down. No one will ever know you have short hair! Check out Updos & short hair for more tips

If you don't like something, say it. Nothing bothers stylists more than when their clients are unhappy. And believe me, we can read body language better than you can imagine! But please keep in mind that updos are a work in progress. You can usually never see how they will turn out until they are almost complete. So if it looks a little scary for awhile, bare with your stylist. But if it looks like they are going in a totally different direction from what you want, say something.

Give yourself plenty of time. Nothing is worse than having less time than needed to finish a style.

Tipping. Ah what to tip. Many of my clients ask what you should tip. Use your best discretion, but generally a good tip for an updo is $10.00 or more.

Misc. Tips

If you have a long face, try not to go with updos that are "stuck" on top of your head. Instead, opt for a nape knot or a lower updo. Check out Updos for your facial shape for more tips.