April weddings are that perfect in-between: a little breeze, a little humidity, and a whole lot of “we’re taking photos outside for hours.” Your updo needs to look soft and romantic, but also stay put through hugs, wind gusts, and a packed dance floor.
These five updos are my go-to picks for spring because they photograph beautifully from every angle and can be pinned to last—without feeling stiff or helmet-y.
Top 5
1) Twisted Low Chignon with Airy Face Pieces
This is the “quiet luxury” updo that flatters basically everyone, especially oval, heart, and square face shapes thanks to those soft pieces around the cheeks. The vibe is timeless bridal, but the twists keep it feeling modern and dimensional in outdoor light. Practical tip: ask your stylist to prep with a light texture spray (not heavy hairspray) before twisting—texture helps pins grip so it survives wind and dancing. Veil placement is easiest right above the twist line, anchored with two crossed pins under the comb.
2) Braided Crown Into a Low Bun
If you want “romantic garden bride” energy that still holds up through golden-hour photos, this one is a winner. It’s super flattering for round faces because the crown braid adds height and elongates the silhouette, and it’s also amazing for medium-to-thick hair that can support a braid without looking skinny. Practical tip: tell your stylist to build the braid tight, then gently “pancake” it for fullness—tight first is what keeps it intact later. A fingertip veil looks gorgeous tucked under the crown at the back for a clean, secure anchor point.
3) Sleek High Bun with a Center Part
This updo gives snatched, editorial elegance and looks unreal in photos—especially if you love a clean neckline and statement earrings. It flatters oval and long face shapes best, and it’s also a dream for warmer April days because it keeps everything off your neck. Practical tip: make sure the bun is built around a small donut or padded base and finished with a humidity-resistant spray, then wrap a final section of hair over the base to hide it. Veil placement: go under the bun (not on top) so it doesn’t slide during dancing.
4) Textured French Twist (Soft, Not Severe)
A modern French twist is insanely chic for April—structured enough to handle outdoor photos, but soft enough to feel bridal when you add a few wispy pieces. It’s especially flattering for mature moms of the bride/groom and brides who want a lifted look around the jawline and cheekbones. Practical tip: request “invisible structure”—meaning a few small backcombed sections inside the twist plus mini pins placed vertically, not just horizontally, for extra staying power. A birdcage veil or a small comb accessory sits beautifully at the top seam of the twist.
5) Low Knot Bun with Pearl Pins (Dance-Floor Proof)
This is the effortless, slightly undone updo that still reads polished, and it’s perfect if you want movement without mess. It flatters shorter necks and petite frames because it sits low and balanced, and it works great for fine hair when built with subtle padding and strategic pinning. Practical tip: use pearl pins as “functional sparkle”—have your stylist place them where the bun is pinned so they’re not just cute, they’re helping hold everything together. A veil can go right above the knot, and a few pearls around the base make the back view photo-ready.
FAQ
How do I keep my updo from falling during outdoor photos?
Start with the right prep: a light mousse or texture spray on dry hair gives grip, then set the updo with pins placed in “X” shapes for tension. Ask for a strong-hold hairspray misted in layers (not a single heavy blast), and avoid over-conditioning the day of—too-silky hair slips faster. If it’s windy, choose styles with a contained perimeter (low chignon, twist, or sleek bun) over super-loose pieces.
What’s the best updo if April humidity is a concern?
Sleek buns and structured twists tend to outperform very airy, loose updos in humidity because there’s less exposed texture to puff up. Tell your stylist you want a humidity-resistant finishing spray and a smoothing cream just on the surface (not the roots). If you love softness, keep face-framing pieces longer and controlled, rather than lots of short wisps.
Where should my veil sit with an updo?
For low buns and chignons, placing the veil just above the bun gives a classic look and strong support. For high buns, place the veil underneath the bun so the comb has hair to grip and doesn’t pop out when you move. Always do a quick “head shake test” in the trial—if it shifts, you may need extra anchoring pins or a different comb size.
Can fine hair hold these updos without looking flat?
Yes—fine hair just needs smart building. A small donut, padding, or even a discreet hairpiece can create shape while keeping the style lightweight. Ask for gentle backcombing in the interior (not the top layer) and a dry texture spray for grip, then finish with a shine mist only on the surface so it still looks soft in photos.
What accessories photograph best with April wedding updos?
Pearl pins, delicate combs, and small floral accents look amazing in spring light and won’t overpower the hairstyle. If you’re outdoors, choose accessories with secure combs or pins (not clip-only pieces) so they don’t slide. A good rule: if your dress is detailed, go minimal in the hair; if your dress is clean, you can make the updo accessory a moment.