13 Celebrity Braided Updos To Add To Your Mood BoardsASAP

Protective styles, specifically braids, are my go-to during the summer months. They give my hair a break from daily manipulation and maintenance, heat styling, and the ever-looming threat of humidity-induced frizz. But, if I’m being honest, braids are more than just a summer staple — they’re a timeless statement look. Not only do they protect and promote hair growth, but they also deliver major style moments with minimal upkeep. But you know what truly sets braids apart? Their versatility. Whether you're running errands, hanging out with friends, or lounging on vacation, braids can adapt to suit any vibe. And they don’t have to be worn straight down your back, either — braids can be styled into updos like top knots, buns, high ponytails, and half-up, half-down looks for even more variety. You can keep things sleek and simple or go bold with added accessories, color, or more intricate patterns — the possibilities are truly endless. It’s no wonder so many celebrities, including Zoë Kravitz, Tia Mowry, and Chase Infiniti, have fully embraced the look at events and on the red carpet.

Ahead, TZR has rounded up the best celebrity braided updos that’ll give you some major inspiration for your next hairstyle. Get ready to book that braiding appointment.

Keke Palmer

Palmer channeled her inner ‘90s vixen at the premiere of her film I Love Boosters, wrapping her coppery boho braids into an effortless, tousled updo with a few romantic tendrils left out on the side.

Kerry Washington

For the Sundance Film Festival (the last to be held in Park City, Utah), Washington opted for blonde boho braids, swept up into a ponytail at the crown. The gorgeous style perfectly framed her face, showcasing her pretty, rosy makeup.

Chase Infiniti

Infiniti has become something of a natural hair It Girl in recent months; it seems as though every time she hits a red carpet, she presents an exciting new way to wear braids, twists, or coils. Case in point: This braided ballerina bun, completely slicked-back save for one dainty braided curl.

Nathalie Emmanuel

Crisp partings, accent braids circling the ears to the front of the face, the bright blonde color; every single element of Emmanuel’s Bantu knot is eye-catching. Combining so many stylistic elements into one look is a bold move — and it paid off big time.

Alicia Keys

When it comes to wearing braided hairstyles on the red carpet and during performances, Keys is true to this, not new to this. The chanteuse has been committed to cornrows, plaits, and Fulanis for over two decades now — and still finds fresh ways to wear them, like these jumbo space buns.

Wunmi Mosaku

During the press tour for Sinners, Mosaku served up nonstop protective-style inspo. It’s all but impossible to pick a best, but this elegant box-braided chignon was certainly among the many standouts.

Laura Harrier

Harrier’s sleek, small box braids are styled into a half-up, half-down ponytail, creating a look that’s polished yet playful. The braids have undone ends that fall freely down her back, adding length, texture, and movement.

Jourdan Dunn

Gathered into a high ponytail, Dunn’s braided updo brings all the drama. Paired with sleek, laid edges, this look commands attention.

Gabrielle Union

Union styled her box braids into a high top knot, leaving out a few face-framing pieces for a soft, effortless touch. The result? A quick and easy style that still looks super put-together.

Ayo Edebiri

A side-swept updo, like Edebiri’s, is an easy way to switch up your braids. Throw on some claw clips or pins, and you’ve instantly leveled up a simple, everyday look.

Zoë Kravitz

For the 2021 Met Gala, Kravitz’s micro-braids were parted down the middle, then swept into a polished French twist for an effortless yet sophisticated look.

Tia Mowry

For a film premiere, Mowry took her curly bun up a notch by adding cornrows, giving her look a cool and modern edge.

Tyla

For GQ’s Man of the Year event in 2023, Tyla paired her sleek stitch braids with a curly ponytail for an attention-grabbing style.

Yara Shahidi

Shahidi is a seasoned pro when it comes to braided styles. For this look, her hair was slicked back before a few thick, cropped braids were added for a fresh take on the classic ponytail.