Easy Braids & Updo Hairstyles: Casual & Formal Looks

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Upward Bound

Keep hair piled into a bun or twist perfectly in place by wrapping not just one, but several, headbands or stretchy oversize hair bands around the crown of your head. Dress it up or down with multicolored bands, patterns, or accessorized headbands.

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Pile It On

Pile hair high to create tons of lift at the crown. And don't be afraid of flyaways — slightly messy updos are so stylish, so let those pretty tendrils fly free.

Linda Churilla

Pin-Up Girl

This chic style is surprisingly easy to do: Haphazardly pin up sections of your hair at the very middle of the back of your head. Like most updos, this will work best on slightly dirty, day-old curls.

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Pigtails for Grown-Ups

Surprise! Two long braids can be sexy — and look much better than they did in third grade. Keep this look grown-up by plaiting strands loosely, allowing a few tendrils to twist out. Leave ends loose, or secure them with a holder that matches your hair color. For another twist on this style, try fishtail braids.

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Piled Braids

If you've got it, flaunt it! Extra-long hair allows for maximum experimentation. Try twisting up long braids on the top of your head, plait one strand directly across your forehead for a flower-child look, or try a small French braid across your hairline, a la celebs like Drew Barrymore, Lauren Conrad, and Jennifer Aniston — the possibilities are endless.

Laura Doss

Soft Chignon

This graceful look is super versatile — as appropriate at the office as it is at a wedding. Never tried something like this with your hair before? No worries: a chignon looks most modern when it's a little messy.

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Dress Up a Bun

Whether you're rocking a super-sleek bun (shown) or a messy, it-took-two-seconds version, put a pretty twist on any updo with your favorite flower or a sparkly accessory.

Laura Doss

Laid-Back Braids

Control overgrown bangs and layers with this breezy look. (We love this look in hot, humid weather!)

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Singled Out

Nothing looks prettier and more wholesome than one long braid — no matter what your age. Create a French braid, or tie a low pony at the nape of your neck and braid down.

Laura Doss

Polished Ponytail

This sleek spin on a classic 'do takes the ponytail from playground to cocktail party. Want to make this look really work? Skip a shampoo or two. The natural oils in your hair will help the knot stay put and keep any flyaways at bay.

Originally published on FitnessMagazine.com, August 2009.