An updo is a hairstyle where the hair is arranged and pinned up on top or at the back of the head, rather than hanging down. When someone wears their hair in an updo, they might twist it into a bun, weave it into a braid that wraps around their head, or pin it up in an elegant knot.

People choose updos for many reasons. Dancers and athletes often wear their hair up so it stays out of their face during performances or competitions. Someone might wear a fancy updo to a wedding or formal dinner. In hot weather, pulling hair off your neck in an updo can feel much cooler than letting it hang down your back.

You might hear someone say they're “putting their hair up” when they're creating an updo, whether it's a simple bun or an elaborate style with multiple braids and pins.