Braided Updo

Updo with a long braid previous hairstyle next hairstyle
 
In the closing years of the 1910s, as the world was changing in ways no one could have predicted, the women of America and Europe held tightly to one of their most beloved beauty rituals: the art of the braided updo. The look featured here is a true masterpiece of that era.
 
What makes this style so striking is the incredible amount of structure built into the top section of the hair. The crown is full and rounded, with waves that have been carefully formed and held in place. In 1919, women who wanted to achieve this look would have relied on hairpins by the dozen, a generous amount of pomade or setting lotion, and a great deal of patience.
 
The real showstopper here is the long, thick braid that trails down from the side of the updo. It is a full, substantial braid - tightly woven and bursting with texture - and this kind of braid takes a skilled hand to create. Each section is woven with care, producing a rhythmic, rope-like pattern that draws the eye downward and gives the whole look a sense of movement and life.
 
1910s updo with a braid
 
The braid falls over the left shoulder and chest, resting against the dark green fabric of the dress. It ends with a simple black ribbon: a small but purposeful detail that suggests the wearer has taken care with every aspect of her appearance. This finishing touch was typical of the era, when accessories and small details were considered just as important as the hair itself.
 
The hair is a warm reddish-brown, a color that catches the light beautifully and adds warmth to the overall look. This deep chestnut tone pairs perfectly with the forest green of the high-collared dress. Together, they create a palette that feels luxurious.
 
This hairstyle is polished without being fussy, dramatic without being over the top, and deeply rooted in a tradition of feminine beauty that valued skill and effort. Whether worn to a formal gathering, a Sunday church service, or simply to help a woman feel her best on an ordinary day, this braided updo was a quiet declaration of grace.
 
Even today, a style like this turns heads. It bridges the gap between historical beauty and modern sensibility, reminding us that good craftsmanship never truly goes out of fashion. If looking at this image makes you wish for a slower world: one where getting dressed and styling your hair meant taking the time to create something beautiful.
 
©Hairfinder.com
 
See also: Vintage Hair