Photos: Getty Images Save Story Save this story Save Story Save this story Anyone with thick hair knows it can feel like both a blessing and a burden. There's the extra drying time and the seemingly endless packages of hair ties sacrificed to the cause. On the other hand, when it's time to create an updo on thick hair—whether formal or just for the hell of it—that abundance actually becomes your best friend.
"Thick-haired girlies often complain about how much work their hair is, but when it comes to updos, it is a definite advantage," says Billy Hannam , hairstylist at Anushka Spa and Salon in Palm Beach, Florida. “Thick hair provides natural volume and fullness.”
In other words, the very thing that can make washday feel like an endurance sport is what opens the door to some seriously stunning updo options. Whether you're inspired to wear a polished chignon , a romantic bun, or a runway-ready beehive, thick hair offers the kind of built-in body that hairstylists love to work with.
“One of the biggest advantages of thick hair is that it provides built-in volume and hold,” says Marcos Diaz , a New York City-based hairstylist. “The key is choosing styles that work with that density rather than trying to control it too much.”
Ahead, we've rounded up the best updos for thick hair that make the most of every last substantial strand.
Photo: Getty Images Photo: Getty Images Photo: Getty Images Photo: Getty Images Never underestimate the ability of a bun to be interesting—especially when you’re going for panache, not perfection. “A textured, mid-placement bun is one of my favorite updos for thick hair because it showcases the hair’s natural volume and movement while keeping the look modern and effortless,” says Diaz. “It’s versatile enough for both casual and formal occasions.”
Diaz recommends applying a texturizing spray like Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture Spray or the Allure Readers’ Choice Award winner Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray throughout dry hair to create grip and hold. Next, gather your hair into a ponytail in the middle of the back of the head, twist it loosely into a bun, and secure it with bobby pins . Feel free to pull out a few face-framing pieces and add a bit of volume at the crown for a softer finish.
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Photo: Getty Images Photo: Getty Images Photo: Getty Images Part of what makes this look so incredibly stylish is the balance it strikes between the severity of a perfectly polished, middle-parted base and the softness of a low, cushiony bun. “A sleek, center-part chignon is timeless and elegant,” says Diaz. “Thick hair naturally creates a fuller-looking chignon, which gives the style a luxurious finish.”
After making a center part, smooth your hair into a low ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with pins. You’ll want to keep the top under control and free of flyaways with a pomade like Aveda Control Paste Hair Pomade or the Allure Best of Beauty Award-winning Fatboy Perfect Putty . To add glossiness and make sure it stays in place, spray a shine-enhancing hairspray all over. We like Joico Hold Hero High Hold + Shine Boosting Finishing Spray .
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Photo: Getty Images Photo: Getty Images A slicked-back puff creates a “sophisticated silhouette, while allowing natural curls to take center stage,” says Mi…