Finding the perfect updo for a round face is about creating harmony and balance. A loose updo paired with soft, face-framing strands is a winning combination that adds length and softens features, and we have curated the best styles for you.
The Core Principle: Why This Look Works
Round face
shapes are characterized by similar width and length with soft, curved lines and fuller cheeks. The goal of any flattering hairstyle is not to hide your features, but to enhance them by creating balance. The combination of a loose updo with face-framing pieces works beautifully for two key reasons. First, the updo adds height at the crown, which draws the eye vertically and creates the illusion of a longer, more oval-shaped face. Second, the soft tendrils or layers left around the face break up the roundness, soften the jawline, and create flattering diagonal lines that draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones.
The Effortless Messy Bun
The messy bun is a timeless classic for a reason: it is effortlessly chic and universally flattering. For a round face, this style is particularly effective when worn high on the head. This placement instantly lifts your features. The key is to keep it from looking too severe. After securing your hair, gently tug at the bun to create volume and texture. Most importantly, pull out a few soft tendrils around your face and even at the nape of your neck. These loose pieces are non-negotiable as they prevent the style from accentuating roundness and instead create a soft, romantic frame.
The Romantic Low Chignon
While high updos are often recommended, a low chignon can be just as stunning on a round face, provided it is styled correctly. Opt for an asymmetrical or side-swept chignon, which breaks up the symmetry of a round face. Gather your hair into a loose knot at the nape of your neck, slightly off-center. This draws the eye diagonally. Ensure you leave out longer, face-framing layers that start below the cheek or around the jawline. These pieces will elegantly skim your jaw, adding length and softness where it’s needed most. It’s a sophisticated choice perfect for formal events.
The Playful High Ponytail with Volume
A high ponytail can be transformed into a gorgeous updo with a few simple tweaks. Start by gathering your hair at the crown of your head to create that elongating effect. Before securing it, gently tease the roots at the crown for added volume. Once your ponytail is in place, you can loosely twist or braid it and pin it into a bun shape. Like with other styles, leaving out face-framing strands is crucial. Curtain bangs or longer, side_swept pieces work exceptionally well here, as they open up the face while creating those desirable vertical lines.
The Braided Crown Updo
A braided crown or halo braid offers a beautiful, bohemian alternative. This style wraps a braid around the crown of your head, which automatically adds height and visual interest up top. The texture of the braid itself provides softness. To make this style work for a round face, avoid pulling all the hair back too tightly. Leave out a few soft, wispy tendrils around the hairline to frame your face. You can also gently pull apart the braid to give it a fuller, more 'lived_in' feel, which further softens the overall look and prevents it from appearing too severe.
Styling Tips for Success
Regardless of which updo you choose, a few key tips will ensure a flattering result. First, always focus on creating some volume at the crown, as this is the primary way to add length to your silhouette. Second, embrace a bit of messiness; overly slicked_back styles can emphasize roundness, whereas loose, textured updos provide softness. Finally, the face_framing pieces are your best friend. Whether they are long tendrils, curtain bangs, or soft layers, these strands should ideally start below the cheekbone to effectively slim and contour your features.
