17 Crimped Accent Updo Hairstyles for Textured, Polished Looks
Crimped details turn polished updos into textured statement looks, adding dimension around buns, twists, braids, ponytails, and face-framing sections.
Crimped accent updos are a smart way to introduce visible texture without crimping every strand. A narrow textured panel, a few face-framing pieces, or a crimped section woven into a bun can completely change the silhouette while leaving the overall style wearable and balanced.
The best option depends on how dramatic you want the texture to appear, where you prefer volume, and how much styling time you have. Compare sleek versus softly undone finishes, high versus low placement, and subtle hidden crimping versus clearly defined accent sections before choosing your favorite.
Quick List
- Crimped Tendril High Bun Hairstyle
- Crimped Crown Low Chignon Hairstyle
- Crimped Accent Bubble Pony Updo Hairstyle
- Crimped Side Braid Bun Hairstyle
- Crimped Half Wrapped Top Knot Hairstyle
- Crimped Face Framing French Twist Hairstyle
- Crimped Rope Twist Low Bun Hairstyle
- Crimped Accent Braided Crown Updo Hairstyle
- Crimped Mohawk Inspired Bun Hairstyle
- Crimped Temple Detail Sleek Bun Hairstyle
- Crimped Ribbon Ponytail Updo Hairstyle
- Crimped Side Swept Knotted Updo Hairstyle
- Crimped Accent Double Bun Hairstyle
- Crimped Halo Twist Low Updo Hairstyle
- Crimped Peekaboo Messy Bun Hairstyle
- Crimped Front Panel Sculpted Updo Hairstyle
- Crimped Accent Romantic Pin Up Hairstyle
1. Crimped Tendril High Bun Hairstyle
A high bun becomes noticeably more dimensional when the smooth gathered shape is contrasted with finely crimped tendrils around the face. Keeping the bun itself softly polished prevents the texture from becoming overwhelming, while narrow crimped pieces near the temples and ears create movement and a slightly playful finish. This approach works especially well when you want an updo that feels dressed up without looking overly formal. Medium to long hair provides enough length for a full bun, although finer hair can gain extra presence from gentle backcombing. Leave the crimped pieces light and separated instead of coating them heavily with product so their zigzag texture remains visible and flexible.
Styling Notes
Crimp only the strands you plan to leave loose, then build the bun separately. This gives you cleaner control over the amount of texture framing the face.
Best For
This style suits parties, date nights, dinners, and semi-formal events where a polished bun with a more youthful textured detail feels appropriate.
2. Crimped Crown Low Chignon Hairstyle
This low chignon uses crimping through the crown to create soft lift before the hair settles into a smooth, tucked shape at the nape. The textured upper section adds fullness without requiring an oversized bun, making the hairstyle especially useful when you want visible volume from the side. A lightly crimped crown can also keep a formal chignon from appearing too flat or severe. The contrast looks most refined when the nape remains controlled while the crown keeps a slightly airy finish. Medium and long lengths are easiest to tuck securely. Instead of brushing the crimping completely smooth, use your fingers to soften the surface while preserving enough definition to catch the light.
Why It Works
Placing the texture above the chignon visually lifts the profile and gives the updo more dimension without changing its classic low placement.
Wear & Maintenance
Use pins through the tucked base rather than relying on heavy hairspray. The crown should retain a little movement instead of becoming stiff.
3. Crimped Accent Bubble Pony Updo Hairstyle
A bubble pony updo gets extra definition when selected sections are crimped before the ponytail is divided into rounded segments. Rather than texturing the entire style, concentrate the crimping through one or two interior panels so they peek through each bubble and create a layered effect. The result combines a clean pulled-back shape with playful volume through the length. Long hair works particularly well because several bubbles can be formed without crowding the silhouette. For a more compact version, create fewer, fuller sections and tuck the final length underneath. The key is keeping each elastic comfortably secure while gently expanding the bubbles afterward, allowing the crimped texture to show rather than disappearing inside an overly tight ponytail.
Hair Type & Length
Medium-density to thick long hair creates naturally substantial bubbles, while finer hair can benefit from light texturizing spray before the sections are expanded.
Pro Tip
Wrap a small smooth strand around each visible elastic for a cleaner finish that contrasts nicely with the textured interior.
4. Crimped Side Braid Bun Hairstyle
The defining feature of this updo is a textured side braid that travels toward a compact bun, giving the eye a clear path from the front of the hairstyle to the back. Crimping the braid section first makes each crossing look fuller and more intricate, even when the braid itself is kept relatively simple. The remaining hair can stay smoother so the braided accent remains the focal point. This is a useful option when you want noticeable detail from multiple angles without creating a heavily decorated updo. It adapts well to medium or long hair and can be worn with a low bun for softness or slightly higher placement for extra lift. Loosen the braid carefully after pinning so the texture expands evenly.
Styling Notes
Crimp only the side panel destined for the braid. Separating it before styling keeps the rest of the updo sleek and prevents unnecessary bulk.
Why It Works
The combination of a defined braid and controlled bun gives the style structure, while crimping makes the braided section appear more substantial.
5. Crimped Half Wrapped Top Knot Hairstyle
A half-wrapped top knot offers a modern way to showcase crimped texture without turning the entire updo into a high-volume look. The hair is gathered high, but instead of wrapping every strand into a perfectly round bun, one crimped section remains visible as it crosses or partially circles the knot. That textured strip breaks up the smoother surface and makes a simple top knot feel much more intentional. The placement naturally draws attention upward, so it can be especially appealing with statement earrings or clean necklines. Medium to long hair works best for achieving both the knot and the decorative wrap. Keep the base secure, then pin the crimped accent loosely enough that its pattern stays visible.
Best For
This style works well for dinners, celebrations, casual events, and modern bridal-party looks where you want height without an overly traditional finish.
Pro Tip
Crimp the accent panel before gathering the ponytail so you can position its strongest texture exactly where it will be seen.
6. Crimped Face Framing French Twist Hairstyle
A classic French twist takes on a softer, more contemporary personality when paired with slim crimped sections around the face. The main twist stays smooth and vertically structured, creating the familiar elegant profile, while the textured pieces at the front prevent the finished look from feeling too strict. You can leave one narrow strand on each side or use an asymmetrical approach with a more noticeable crimped panel on one temple. This combination is particularly effective for evening events because it balances traditional polish with a subtle fashion detail. Medium to long hair is easiest to roll securely into the twist. Keep the front texture defined but not overly wide, since small accents preserve the sophisticated shape of the hairstyle.
Wear & Maintenance
Secure the French twist firmly with pins hidden inside the roll, then arrange the crimped pieces last so they are not flattened during construction.
Why It Works
The contrast between a smooth vertical twist and crisp face-framing texture creates interest while keeping the overall silhouette elegant.
7. Crimped Rope Twist Low Bun Hairstyle
This low bun combines two kinds of texture: rounded rope twists and finely defined crimping. Crimped accent strands can be incorporated into one side of the rope twist or wrapped around the finished bun, creating a visible shift in surface without disrupting the smooth overall shape. Because the bun sits near the nape, the style feels grounded and comfortable while still offering plenty of detail from behind. Long hair gives you more room for multiple twists, but medium lengths can create a compact version with one strong rope section. Keep the twisting tension moderate; pulling too tightly can hide the crimp pattern. Once everything is pinned, gently separate a few textured ridges with your fingertips to emphasize the contrast.
Hair Type & Length
Medium to long hair is ideal, and naturally dense hair can create a particularly full rope effect without much added volume.
Styling Notes
Apply smoothing product to the non-crimped sections before twisting so the difference between sleek and textured hair remains clearly visible.
8. Crimped Accent Braided Crown Updo Hairstyle
A braided crown already creates a strong decorative shape, and selective crimping makes that detail appear even more dimensional. Instead of crimping every section, texture several strands before they are incorporated into the crown braid. Those pieces create small ridges and shadows throughout the braid while smoother strands keep the finished result balanced. The remaining hair can be tucked underneath at the back, forming a complete updo with a soft, continuous silhouette. This approach is especially attractive when viewed from the side because the texture emphasizes the curve of the crown. Medium to long hair gives the braid enough length to travel comfortably around the head. Loosen selected braid loops after pinning rather than pulling the entire braid apart.
Best For
The romantic shape works well for weddings, garden events, formal dinners, and occasions where a detailed updo feels more fitting than a simple bun.
Pro Tip
Use smaller crimped sections near the front and slightly wider ones toward the back to keep the crown balanced rather than visually heavy around the face.
9. Crimped Mohawk Inspired Bun Hairstyle
For a bolder interpretation of the trend, this updo places several connected buns or pinned sections along the center line of the head, creating a mohawk-inspired profile without cutting the hair. Crimped panels between the sections increase height and make the central ridge look fuller, while smoother sides keep the silhouette sharp. The style can be dramatic without becoming chaotic when the textured areas stay concentrated through the middle. Medium and long hair offer the most flexibility because they can be divided into multiple anchor points from crown to nape. This look benefits from careful sectioning more than excessive product. Build the structure first, then use your fingers to expand the crimped areas until the central line appears continuous.
Styling Notes
Keep the side sections controlled and relatively close to the head. The visual impact should come from the raised center rather than equal volume everywhere.
Best For
This statement style fits concerts, creative events, fashion-forward parties, and occasions where a conventional bun would feel too understated.
10. Crimped Temple Detail Sleek Bun Hairstyle
A sleek bun can look striking with just one unexpected patch of texture near the temple. The main hair is smoothed back into a clean bun, while a narrow crimped panel is deliberately left visible along one side before blending into the base. Because most of the hairstyle stays polished, even a small textured section becomes easy to notice. The effect is graphic, modern, and less romantic than many crimped updos, making it useful when you prefer clean lines. A center or deep side part can both work, depending on where the crimped detail is placed. Keep the accent crisp and intentional; random flyaways around it can reduce the contrast that makes this style interesting.
Why It Works
The restrained placement turns crimping into a design element rather than an all-over texture, creating a strong focal point with minimal extra volume.
Wear & Maintenance
Carry a small amount of smoothing product for the sleek sections, but avoid applying it directly over the crimped panel where it could flatten the pattern.
11. Crimped Ribbon Ponytail Updo Hairstyle
This elevated ponytail uses crimped sections almost like ribbons, wrapping them around the base or crossing them over the ponytail before the remaining length is tucked or looped into an updo shape. The result feels more detailed than a basic pony while still keeping a recognizable lifted silhouette. Smooth sections help define the crimped ribbons, so the contrast remains visible even from a distance. Long hair gives you the easiest canvas for wrapping, although medium lengths can work with a smaller looped finish. Create the ponytail first, separate the decorative sections, and crimp those pieces individually. Keep the wraps broad enough to show texture but flat enough to sit neatly against the base without creating bulky knots.
Styling Notes
Anchor each textured ribbon underneath the ponytail with a small pin, hiding the ends before shaping the remaining length into the final updo.
Hair Type & Length
This look is easiest on medium to long hair with enough length to form both the wrapped accents and the raised ponytail shape.
12. Crimped Side Swept Knotted Updo Hairstyle
A side-swept knotted updo brings the hair toward one shoulder, where overlapping sections are pinned into a soft cluster. Adding crimped texture to selected pieces gives the knots a more intricate surface and prevents the arrangement from looking like one solid mass of hair. The asymmetrical placement is especially flattering when you want an updo that can be clearly seen from the front as well as the back. Keep the opposite side smoother and closer to the head so the volume remains concentrated around the knot. Medium to long hair works best for creating several overlapping sections. Instead of forcing every strand into an identical loop, vary the size of the knots and let the crimping provide visual continuity.
Best For
This style suits formal dinners, weddings, cocktail events, and photographs where visible side detail is more important than a perfectly symmetrical back view.
Pro Tip
Build the lower knots first and layer the more textured sections on top so the strongest crimp pattern stays visible.
13. Crimped Accent Double Bun Hairstyle
Double buns become more polished when they are positioned intentionally and connected by a controlled crimped accent. The buns can sit vertically along the back of the head for an elegant stacked effect or slightly apart for a more playful silhouette. Instead of crimping both buns completely, use a textured panel between them or wrap a crimped strand around one base. This keeps the hairstyle dimensional without making the two-bun shape feel overly busy. Medium and long hair are both suitable as long as the hair can be divided into two secure sections. Aim for similar visual weight in each bun, even if their exact shapes differ. The accent should link the composition rather than compete with the buns themselves.
Why It Works
Two defined shapes naturally attract attention, while a restrained strip of crimping provides texture that visually connects them.
Wear & Maintenance
Use separate anchor elastics for each bun before adding pins. A secure foundation helps the style remain balanced as the textured accent is adjusted.
14. Crimped Halo Twist Low Updo Hairstyle
This style frames the head with a soft halo twist before gathering the remaining hair into a low tucked updo. Crimped strands are woven selectively through the twist, giving the halo a slightly expanded, almost woven appearance without losing its rounded shape. The low back section can remain understated so the eye stays on the textured perimeter. It is a graceful option for anyone who likes crown-inspired hairstyles but wants something softer than a full braid. Medium to long hair provides enough length to create continuous twists from both sides. Avoid brushing the crimped pieces too aggressively before incorporating them; keeping some definition helps the texture remain visible after the twist has been loosened.
Styling Notes
Twist each side toward the back with gentle tension, pin them together above the nape, and then tuck the remaining length beneath the joined sections.
Best For
The soft halo shape works naturally for weddings, engagement events, formal gatherings, and romantic evening looks.
15. Crimped Peekaboo Messy Bun Hairstyle
A messy bun becomes more visually interesting when tiny crimped sections appear between the loops instead of sitting entirely on the surface. This peekaboo approach keeps the overall style relaxed while adding texture that reveals itself as the hair moves. The bun should remain intentionally loose rather than perfectly circular, with crimped pieces tucked through different areas to create small flashes of definition. A few natural flyaways can complement the undone finish, although the base still needs to feel secure. Medium to long hair works well, and finer hair can benefit from the extra body crimping provides. Rather than crimping large panels, work with several narrow pieces so the textured accents remain scattered and subtle.
Why It Works
Hidden texture adds depth inside the bun, making a casual shape look more layered without requiring complicated braiding or decorative accessories.
Pro Tip
Pull the bun loops into shape before placing the crimped accents. This prevents the textured pieces from disappearing as you adjust the volume.
16. Crimped Front Panel Sculpted Updo Hairstyle
This sculpted updo puts the crimped texture front and center by creating a defined panel that sweeps back into a structured pinned shape. The front section can be raised slightly for height or directed diagonally across the crown, allowing the zigzag pattern to become part of the hairstyle’s architecture. The sides and back should remain more controlled so the textured panel looks deliberate rather than oversized. This is one of the stronger statement options in the collection and works particularly well when you want the hairstyle to be visible in front-facing photographs. Medium to long hair gives enough length for a secure back section. Preserve definition by handling the crimped panel with your fingers instead of brushing through it repeatedly.
Best For
Choose this look for fashion events, formal parties, creative shoots, or occasions where you want the hairstyle itself to function as a focal accessory.
Styling Notes
Create and secure the back structure first. Shape the front panel last so you can adjust its height without disturbing the rest of the updo.
17. Crimped Accent Romantic Pin Up Hairstyle
This romantic pin-up gathers soft sections into a loose, low-to-mid updo while allowing several crimped accents to weave through the pinned curls and twists. The texture should appear in selective ribbons rather than across the entire head, giving the style a gentle vintage influence without making it feel costume-like. Face-framing pieces can be lightly curved or crimped depending on how much softness you want around the front. The pinned sections work best when they vary slightly in size, creating a layered silhouette with visible depth. Medium and long hair provide enough length for the individual loops. Use flexible hold so the updo maintains its shape while preserving the soft movement that makes this style feel romantic.
Hair Type & Length
Medium to long hair is easiest to arrange into layered pinned sections, while naturally textured hair may require less additional crimping to create visible dimension.
Wear & Maintenance
Secure each loop individually instead of relying on one large cluster of pins. This makes it easier to adjust the silhouette without rebuilding the entire style.
How to Choose the Right Look
Start with hair length and density. Long hair gives you the most options for braided crowns, ribbon wraps, bubble pony shapes, rope twists, and layered pin-ups. Medium hair can still create convincing buns, French twists, double buns, and compact low updos, especially when crimping is used to increase visual fullness.
Texture placement matters just as much as the updo shape. If you prefer a subtle finish, choose the Crimped Temple Detail Sleek Bun Hairstyle, Crimped Peekaboo Messy Bun Hairstyle, or Crimped Tendril High Bun Hairstyle. For stronger texture, the Crimped Front Panel Sculpted Updo Hairstyle or Crimped Mohawk-Inspired Bun Hairstyle makes the crimping much more visible.
Consider styling time and hold as well. Sleek buns and simple chignons are usually easier to control once the accent section is prepared, while braided crowns, multiple knots, and structured center sections require more deliberate sectioning and pin placement. Low styles often feel more comfortable for extended wear, while high buns and elevated pony updos create a more lifted silhouette.
Finally, match the finish to the occasion. Smooth, restrained updos suit polished or formal settings, softly loosened twists create a romantic effect, and graphic crimped panels offer a more fashion-forward result. Whatever you choose, use crimping strategically so it enhances the shape instead of adding unnecessary bulk everywhere.
Final Thoughts
Crimped accent updos work best when the texture has a clear purpose. It might frame the face, add volume through the crown, highlight a braid, wrap around a bun, or appear unexpectedly inside a loose updo. Narrowing the list becomes easier once you decide how visible you want the crimping to be and whether you prefer a sleek, romantic, playful, or statement-making finish.
FAQs
Can you add crimped accents without crimping all your hair?
Yes. In fact, selective crimping often makes the contrast more noticeable. Separate the strands you want to feature before building the main updo.
Which crimped accent updos work best for medium-length hair?
Low chignons, French twists, compact buns, double buns, and side-knotted styles are practical choices because they do not depend on very long sections for their shape.
How do you keep crimped sections visible in an updo?
Avoid brushing them completely smooth. Shape them with your fingers and pin them where the texture can sit on or near the surface of the hairstyle.
Should crimping be done before or after creating the updo?
Usually before. Crimp the selected accent sections first, then incorporate them into the finished style. This gives you better control and more consistent texture.
Can crimped accent updos look formal?
Yes. Pairing small crimped sections with smooth chignons, French twists, braided crowns, or sculpted buns can create a polished look while preserving distinctive texture.
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