20 Stylish Updo Hairstyles for Men with Long Hair – Bold, Clean & Creative

Long hair on men is no longer just a counterculture statement, it’s become a mainstream symbol of confidence, versatility, and style. And when it comes to showing off long locks while keeping them manageable, updo hairstyles for men are the go-to choice. In 2025, these styles strike the perfect balance between clean grooming and bold creativity.

Whether you’re going for a polished man bun, edgy top knot, or intricate braided look, here are 20 updo hairstyles for men with long hair that are turning heads this year.

Why Men Should Embrace Updo Hairstyles

• Keeps hair secure during workouts, workdays, or heat
• Highlights facial structure and grooming
• Versatile for casual or formal wear
• Reduces tangling and breakage
• Adds instant edge or elegance

20 Stylish Updo Hairstyles for Men with Long Hair

1. Classic Man Bun

The staple of long-haired men’s fashion. Tie all your hair at the crown or lower back of your head for a sleek, fuss-free look.

• Key Features:
  • Hair pulled back into a secure bun
  • Works for straight, wavy, or curly textures
  • No parting needed clean and simple
  • Can be high, mid, or low on the head
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use a non-slip elastic to keep it in place
  • Apply smoothing cream or oil for a polished finish
  • Brush hair back with fingers for a natural texture
  • Pair with a fade or undercut for added edge
  
• Best For:
  • Everyday wear
  • Casual to semi-formal looks
  • Men with shoulder-length or longer hair
  
• Vibe:
  • Minimalist and modern
  • Clean-cut with a relaxed twist
  • Confident and low-maintenance
  

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2. Braided Bun

Start with cornrows or two-strand twists, then wrap them into a bun perfect for a protective style with structure.

• Key Features:
  • Braids or twists gathered into a top or low bun
  • Adds texture and dimension
  • Long-lasting and protective
  • Keeps hair secure and stylish
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Keep the scalp moisturized between braids
  • Use edge control to smooth baby hairs
  • Go for symmetrical braids for a cleaner bun base
  • Great for hot weather or active days
  
• Best For:
  • Protective styling
  • Men with textured or natural hair
  • Statement looks or formal events
  
• Vibe:
  • Bold and structured
  • Culturally rich and fashion-forward
  • Protective meets performance

3. Half-Up Top Knot

Tie only the top half of your hair into a knot and leave the rest down ideal for showcasing length while staying neat.

• Key Features:
  • Top section pulled into a knot or bun
  • Bottom half left loose
  • Works with straight, wavy, or curly hair
  • Offers both style and movement
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Section hair from temples up for clean proportions
  • Use a lightweight wax for hold and shape
  • Perfect with layered cuts for extra texture
  • Match with a fade or undercut for extra contrast
  
• Best For:
  • Casual hangouts or beach days
  • Men with medium to long layers
  • Those wanting a relaxed look with control
  
• Vibe:
  • Boho-meets-street style
  • Youthful and laid-back
  • Creative without being high-maintenance
  

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4. Twisted Updo

Create two or more thick twists and pin or tie them at the back or crown for a textured, sculptural updo.

• Key Features:
  • Thick, rope-like twists styled upward
  • Gathered at the crown or nape
  • Adds volume and shape
  • Ideal for curly or coiled hair
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use a twisting cream for better hold and definition
  • Secure with pins or elastic bands
  • Moisturize before twisting to prevent breakage
  • Combine with a fade for a clean contrast
  
• Best For:
  • Men with textured or natural hair
  • Formal events or fashion-forward occasions
  • Protective styling with artistic edge
  
• Vibe:
  • Sculptural and bold
  • Textured sophistication
  • Afrocentric elegance with a twist

5. High Samurai Bun

A tight bun placed high on the crown sharp, structured, and influenced by traditional Japanese style.

• Key Features:
  • High, centered bun at the top of the head
  • Tight, pulled-back sides
  • Minimalist and striking silhouette
  • Works best with straight or wavy hair
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Comb hair upward evenly to avoid bumps
  • Use a strong hold gel or wax for slick edges
  • Pair with shaved sides or undercut for bolder contrast
  • Can be accessorized with a hair stick for authenticity
  
• Best For:
  • Men with long, even-length hair
  • Sharp and fashion-forward looks
  • Fitness or martial arts-inspired aesthetics
  
• Vibe:
  • Warrior-inspired precision
  • Bold and disciplined
  • Minimalist with edge
  

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6. Cornrows into Bun

Cornrow the top or full head and tie the ends into a compact bun at the back protective and clean.

• Key Features:
  • Scalp braids flowing into a bun
  • Combines tight structure with an updo
  • Protective and stylish
  • Keeps hair secure and neat
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Moisturize scalp before braiding
  • Ensure even tension in cornrows for comfort
  • Wrap bun tightly to avoid loosening
  • Pair with a clean fade or shape-up for sharpness
  
• Best For:
  • Long-term wear with low maintenance
  • Men who want style with function
  • Professional and athletic environments
  
• Vibe:
  • Structured yet bold
  • Sleek and disciplined
  • Perfect balance of style and protection
  

7. Side Braided Updo

Braid the sides and pull everything into a centered or offset bun bold yet sophisticated.

• Key Features:
  • Side braids add visual structure and edge
  • Hair gathered into a top or low bun
  • Strong contrast between braided and loose sections
  • Stylish and protective
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Braid clean, defined rows on both sides or just one
  • Use edge control for a sleek finish
  • Secure the bun with a strong hair tie
  • Works great with an undercut for extra contrast
  
• Best For:
  • Statement-making looks
  • Men with long sides and top
  • Fashion shoots or events
  
• Vibe:
  • Urban warrior
  • Refined with an edge
  • Bold meets braided precision
  

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8. Messy Updo

Loosely tie hair into a bun or twist with pieces falling out. Ideal for a rugged, creative look.

• Key Features:
  • Imperfect, undone styling
  • Loose strands add texture and character
  • Works with wavy or curly hair
  • Low-maintenance yet fashionable
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use texturizing spray or sea salt mist for hold
  • Avoid slick products embrace frizz and movement
  • Let a few strands fall naturally around the face
  • Tie the bun loosely for a relaxed effect
  
• Best For:
  • Casual or artsy settings
  • Men who embrace natural texture
  • Long hair with layers or volume
  
• Vibe:
  • Effortless and creative
  • Bohemian cool
  • Artistically undone
  

9. Man Bun with Undercut

Pair long top hair with shaved sides or undercut for high contrast. Tie into a bun or knot to finish the edgy appearance.

• Key Features:
  • Sharp undercut with long hair on top
  • Hair tied back into a man bun
  • High-contrast silhouette
  • Easy to maintain with trimmed sides
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Keep the undercut clean and defined
  • Use matte pomade or styling cream for control
  • Tie the top into a bun or top knot
  • Add a fade for extra sharpness
  
• Best For:
  • Edgy and modern styles
  • Men who want contrast and low side volume
  • Streetwear and nightlife looks
  
• Vibe:
  • Bold and structured
  • Rebellious sophistication
  • High-impact style
  

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10. Low Knot with Part

Slick back hair and tie it at the nape with a clean part great for formal or business settings.

• Key Features:
  • Low bun or knot positioned at the neck
  • Defined side or middle part
  • Sleek, clean finish
  • Ideal for straight or loosely wavy hair
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use a fine-tooth comb for parting
  • Apply styling gel or pomade for a glossy hold
  • Tie hair tight and low for polish
  • Pair with a suit or button-down for formal appeal
  
• Best For:
  • Office or business environments
  • Weddings and formal events
  • Men with medium to long straight hair
  
• Vibe:
  • Minimalist elegance
  • Polished and professional
  • Dapper with an artistic twist
  

11. Box Braids Updo

Braid your hair into box braids and twist or knot them into a bun for a dynamic, protective look.

• Key Features:
  • Medium to long box braids styled into a bun
  • Scalp-protective and tension-free
  • Works with high or low bun placement
  • Clean parts and geometric structure
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Moisturize scalp before braiding
  • Use a strong hair tie or scrunchie for hold
  • Position the bun based on occasion high for casual, low for formal
  • Keep braids fresh with oil or leave-in spray
  
• Best For:
  • Protective styling for natural hair
  • Men wanting both structure and style
  • Cultural and creative expressions
  
• Vibe:
  • Bold and practical
  • Structured yet expressive
  • Modern with cultural roots
  

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12. Twist Out Puff Updo

If you’re rocking natural texture, gather the hair into a voluminous puff on top or back stylish and natural.

• Key Features:
  • Defined twist-out texture gathered into a puff
  • Big volume and natural shape
  • Works with medium to long coils or curls
  • Tension-free and breathable
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Twist and set hair overnight for max definition
  • Use a pick or wide-tooth comb to fluff the puff
  • Secure with a headband or elastic at the base
  • Moisturize to prevent frizz and maintain shape
  
• Best For:
  • Men with coily or kinky textures
  • Natural, heat-free styling
  • Everyday wear or artistic flair
  
• Vibe:
  • Effortless and powerful
  • Natural confidence
  • Creative and carefree

13. Celtic-Inspired Braided Updo

Incorporate complex braid patterns (like rope or fishtail) into an updo for a warrior-style aesthetic.

• Key Features:
  • Intricate braid designs like rope, fishtail, or crown braids
  • Styled into a bun, knot, or coiled updo
  • Medieval or fantasy-inspired look
  • High attention to detail and texture
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Start with clean, detangled hair
  • Use gel or pomade to control flyaways
  • Work with a stylist if patterns are elaborate
  • Add leather ties or beads for authentic flair
  
• Best For:
  • Cosplay, festivals, or bold fashion statements
  • Long hair with medium to thick texture
  • Men looking for fantasy or historical influence
  
• Vibe:
  • Warrior-chic
  • Artistic and mythical
  • Regal with edge
  

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14. Tied Dreadlock Bun

Gather locs into a bun either loose or wrapped tightly. Works well with high or low placement.

• Key Features:
  • Dreadlocks styled into a bun or top knot
  • Low-manipulation and protective
  • Suitable for short to long locs
  • Versatile positioning (top, mid, or low)
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Moisturize locs regularly with oil or mist
  • Use a thick tie or loc band for secure hold
  • Avoid tight pulling to protect edges
  • Style while damp for smoother shaping
  
• Best For:
  • Men with mature or starter locs
  • Daily wear or polished formal looks
  • Those seeking easy maintenance
  
• Vibe:
  • Clean and intentional
  • Grounded and cultural
  • Low-effort, high-impact

15. Double Bun Updo

Split your hair into two buns either side-by-side or vertically. A creative, fashion-forward look.

• Key Features:
  • Two buns placed either horizontally (ears) or vertically (top and back)
  • Works with loose hair, twists, or braids
  • Playful and artistic structure
  • Standout variation from traditional man bun
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Part the hair evenly and secure with strong bands
  • Use mousse or cream to control frizz
  • Try variations like braided double buns or locs
  • Keep sides clean for a sharper silhouette
  
• Best For:
  • Fashion-forward individuals
  • Creative styling or performance settings
  • Men with medium to long hair
  
• Vibe:
  • Edgy and unconventional
  • Artistic with flair
  • Youthful and bold
  

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16. Halo Twist Updo

Wrap two-strand twists or braids around the perimeter of your head like a crown refined and protective.

• Key Features:
  • Crown-like twist or braid circling the head
  • Can be paired with a bun or loose back section
  • Low-tension and protective for edges
  • Smooth and clean finish
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use edge control for a sleek perimeter
  • Keep sections even for a polished appearance
  • Secure ends discreetly with pins or tucking
  • Moisturize before styling for softness
  
• Best For:
  • Formal occasions or artistic shoots
  • Men with textured or curly hair
  • Protective style enthusiasts
  
• Vibe:
  • Regal and refined
  • Polished with natural texture
  • Creative yet clean-cut

17. Twist Bun with Fade

Leave hair long on top, twisted and tied into a bun, with faded or tapered sides for sleek contrast.

• Key Features:
  • Two-strand twists gathered into a top bun
  • Faded or tapered sides for a clean finish
  • Combines structure with volume
  • Protective and easy to manage
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Keep twists neat and moisturized
  • Ask your barber for a clean low or mid fade
  • Use a styling gel or cream to reduce frizz
  • Ideal for thick or coily hair types
  
• Best For:
  • Men who want definition with edge
  • Those transitioning from braids or locs
  • Casual to formal wear versatility
  
• Vibe:
  • Sleek and confident
  • Urban with a refined touch
  • Balanced between bold and polished
  

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18. Rope Braid Bun

Twist strands into thick rope braids before tying them into a bun for maximum volume and hold.

• Key Features:
  • Rope-style braids wrapped into a high or low bun
  • Chunky texture and structured finish
  • Long-lasting and secure hold
  • Great for dense or longer hair
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Moisturize before braiding for softness
  • Use rubber bands or thread for braid ends
  • Tie braids into a tight bun or layer for a stacked look
  • Finish with oil or shine spray for polish
  
• Best For:
  • Men with thick, long hair
  • Protective styling with flair
  • Statement-making formal or creative looks
  
• Vibe:
  • Strong and intentional
  • Sculptural and bold
  • Protective with presence

19. Dreaded Top Knot

Gather dreads high into a tight top knot powerful and commanding, yet clean and contained.

• Key Features:
  • High-placed knot made from locs or dreads
  • Tidy, centered style with strong visual presence
  • Works well with medium to long locs
  • Protective and low-maintenance
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Retwist your roots if needed for a cleaner base
  • Use a strong elastic or wrap to hold the knot in place
  • Apply oil for shine and scalp care
  • Perfect with tapered or undercut sides
  
• Best For:
  • Men with mature dreads
  • Work, events, or casual settings
  • Those who want a bold yet tidy silhouette
  
• Vibe:
  • Regal and controlled
  • Strong and centered
  • Minimalist with impact
  

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20. French Braided Updo

French braid the top section of your hair and tie it into a bun or ponytail elegant and eye-catching.

• Key Features:
  • Intricate French braiding leading into a bun or ponytail
  • Structured and sleek appearance
  • Blends European elegance with modern edge
  • Suitable for medium to long hair
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Section cleanly for even braiding
  • Use styling gel or mousse for control
  • Secure ends with an elastic or wrap
  • Great with or without a fade
  
• Best For:
  • Special events, weddings, or fashion-forward looks
  • Men who want structure with flair
  • Hair that holds braids well
  
• Vibe:
  • Polished and sophisticated
  • Artistic and bold
  • Cultured with a modern twist