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As far as the concept of “minimalist” hairstyles goes, it’s unarguable that any look besides wearing your hair up and away from your face leads the charge. The only other option is wearing it down, but let’s face it: depending on your hair type, getting your flowing locks to behave and “flow” precisely the way you need them to when you are pressed for time or not in the mood is the root of much of our hair and beauty pain.
An updo can match virtually every life situation that a woman or girl of any age may encounter, regardless of time constraints, occasion, or hair type. Think about it for a second – regardless of your age, resorting to throwing your hair up in a bun, ponytail, or braid, fancy or not, has most certainly occurred on more than one occasion. Whether at the office, the gym, in bed, sweating it out during household chores or shmoozing during your best friend’s wedding, you either started or ended the activity with a good old-fashioned trusty UPDO.
My curiosity about this particular hair phenomenon was inexplicably sparked recently (most likely during a particularly lucky up day), and I decided to undertake a mini research project on this style subject. I also realized I haven’t delved into style and beauty that much on the blog/magazine so far; therefore, marrying the two seemed like the perfect writing opportunity to embark on.
HISTORY, AESTHETIC & SIGNIFICANCE
There is so much beauty, sophistication, and practicality represented in the visual attained of a woman wearing her hair up, no matter her age, race, or culture. More of a face is revealed, a mindset shift occurs (you know it’s true), and sometimes even behaviour towards you changes if you pay close enough attention.
Historically, and I will try not to lose your attention by going too far back into the ages, the updo prevailed. Updos can be traced back to ancient civilizations—back to Greek and Roman women, who are often depicted in statues and paintings with their hair neatly coiled and pinned in place. This was a signal of status.
As time progressed, the style evolved into Western professional settings and came to represent professionalism and capability. A woman unconcerned with her mane meant work was her main focus instead. Undistracted and unemotional by the induced sex appeal of her gorgeous locks, she could get the job done and inspire those around her to do the same.
Outside of work, we saw the draw of the updo during the 1960s in the creation and propagation of The Bouffant, which involved teasing and spraying hair into a stiff dome resting atop your other “dome.” Cultural icons who commonly sported this style are Jacqueline Kennedy and Mary Tyler Moore.
In 2025, intentionally wearing your hair up seems to be the less favoured look – outside of work, professional, or any other formal setting anyway. It appears to be more about long locks, stylish bobs, and the like.
But the unmistakeable appeal of the updo will always be its convenience, versatility, and effortless style. It stands the test of time and preference and is a style go-to that never really goes out of style.
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Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope what you have read has somehow educated, informed, or inspired you.
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