There is nothing sexier and more elegant than a simple updo that adds interest to your neckline and brings a glamorous, yet effortless vibe to any appearance. From different versions of the famous ballerina bun to extremely severe, slicked chignons and high top knots, updos will be one of the hottest hairstyles for spring/summer 2011.

Spring/summer 2011 comes with a wide palette of beautiful, feminine hairstyles. Among all these, there is one timeless trend exuding maximum femininity and sophistication: the updo. Seen in a myriad of different versions suitable for numerous occasions, an updo is universally flattering and works amazing on long and medium-length hair.

Versatile and practical, an updo will always add a special vibe to your looks, whether you choose a simple bun, a messy, festival-chic one, a polished chignon, or, a sophisticated knot with a retro appeal.

The ballerina bun was one of the hairstyles chosen by many designers for spring/summer 2011. Its elegance and simplicity makes it one of the best options when it comes to finding the perfect hairstyle for a casual, daytime outfit, or for a more special event that requires a more chic appearance.
Classic and tidy at Nina Ricci and Jil Sander or rather messy, yet attentively studied at Diane von Furstenberg, there are various versions where to choose from. It is very practical and it can be done in an instant. You just have to make a ponytail and wrap the hair around the elastic band, then secure the bun.

Diane Von FurstenbergJil Sander

Hervé Léger by Max AzriaNina Ricci


Summer is all about flirty and playful, just-got-out-of-bed looks with breezy, romantic dresses and appropriate hairstyles. You can enjoy this amazing season to the fullest going for effortless, yet feminine, adorable hairstyles such as a romantic chignon as spotted at Proenza Schouler and Dsquared². Moreover, if you want to add a glamorous feeling, yet preserve a sweet look, you can draw your inspiration from the Dolce & Gabbana or Nina Ricci runway shows where the chignon reveals sophistication through a simple approach, perfect for a candid and luminous character. This is a simple and chic updo with minimal styling required.

Dolce & GabbanaProenza Schouler

Dsquared²Nina Ricci


As we have seen, there are timeless hairstyles that never go out of fashion and keep reinventing themselves season after season. Well, this is the case of the elegant chignon that never seems to fail due to its numerous versions and ladylike luxurious aspect. This is why it can be said that this type of updo is among the most popular choices when it comes to chic hairstyles.

For spring/summer 2011, a refined, office-appropriate approach of the chignon was spotted at Chloé, with hair worn at the nape of the neck, and Gucci, in a slicked way with a total wet effect. However, a more elegant and extremely polished updo that you can rock at a special event is the one seen at Oscar de la Renta and the French twist from Zac Posen.

ChloéGucci

Oscar de la RentaZac Posen


The newest hairstyle trends for spring/summer 2011 will feature adorable and unique shapes and styles. Creative knots oozing self-confidence and relaxation, but also glamour and style will be some of the hottest hairstyle trends for the warm season. Looking just like twisted sculptures, the updos seen at Gucci and Viktor & Rolf are effective without creating the illusion of trying too hard.

There is nothing more comfortable and sweet than wearing your hair up during hot summer days when the heat might get quite unbearable. In these circumstances, a high top knot can easily do the trick without too much effort. This hairstyle screams spontaneity and laid-back style and it works great even on curly hair. Draw your inspiration from Z Spoke by Zac Posen and Moschino. Add a headband or a scarf for a unique look.

GucciViktor & Rolf

Z Spoke by Zac PosenMoschino

Photos via elle.com