You pull your hair up, glance in the mirror, and suddenly your face looks longer than it did five minutes ago. If that sounds familiar, you’re not imagining it. Certain updos can exaggerate length by stacking height on top of height. Updo Hairstyles for Long Face shapes work best when they create width, softness, and balance instead. The good news is you don’t have to settle for the same low bun every time. These styles use different structures, placements, and techniques to create a more harmonious look while staying practical enough for real life.
The Claw Clip French Roll
The claw clip French roll takes a classic shape and makes it far easier to recreate. Hair gathers into a relaxed vertical roll secured with a large claw clip rather than dozens of pins. This is the one for when you’re running late but still want your hairstyle to look intentional. The clip adds width through the middle of the hairstyle, helping balance facial proportions. It feels current without chasing trends.
| Style Details | |
|---|---|
| Face Shape | Long, Oval |
| Hair Texture | Straight, Wavy |
| Hair Type | Medium, Thick |
| Difficulty Level | Beginner |
| Time to Style | 5 Minutes |
The Space Bun Updo
Space buns create width naturally because the hairstyle spreads visual weight across both sides of the head. Unlike a high top knot, the structure focuses attention outward rather than upward. Reach for this whenever you want something playful that still feels put together. The dual bun design helps break up vertical length beautifully. It brings personality without becoming difficult to wear.
| Style Details | |
|---|---|
| Face Shape | Long, Heart |
| Hair Texture | Straight, Wavy |
| Hair Type | Medium, Thick |
| Difficulty Level | Beginner |
| Time to Style | 12 Minutes |
The Bubble Bun
A bubble bun creates rounded sections throughout the hairstyle rather than one compact shape. Those soft curves add visual width and texture in all the right places. This works best when your usual bun routine starts feeling repetitive. The bubble sections make the hairstyle look more detailed than it actually is. Sometimes a few hair ties can completely transform an updo.
| Style Details | |
|---|---|
| Face Shape | Long, Oval |
| Hair Texture | Straight, Wavy |
| Hair Type | Medium |
| Difficulty Level | Beginner |
| Time to Style | 10 Minutes |
The Side Fishtail Updo
A fishtail braid gathered into a side updo creates beautiful asymmetry. Instead of emphasizing height, the hairstyle encourages the eye to move sideways. This is the one for when you’re attending a special event and want something memorable without looking overdone. The woven texture adds detail while the side placement creates balance. Every angle offers something interesting to see.
| Style Details | |
|---|---|
| Face Shape | Long, Diamond |
| Hair Texture | Straight, Wavy |
| Hair Type | Medium, Thick |
| Difficulty Level | Intermediate |
| Time to Style | 25 Minutes |
The Folded Ponytail Updo
A folded ponytail updo starts with a low ponytail that folds inward and secures into a structured shape. The silhouette sits wider than many traditional updos, making it a great choice for longer face shapes. This works best when you want something elegant that doesn’t require advanced styling skills. The folded design feels polished while remaining approachable. It’s a hidden gem that deserves more attention.
| Style Details | |
|---|---|
| Face Shape | Long, Oval |
| Hair Texture | Straight |
| Hair Type | Fine, Medium |
| Difficulty Level | Beginner |
| Time to Style | 8 Minutes |
The Double Dutch Braided Bun
Two Dutch braids create width across the head before joining into a bun at the back. The braid placement naturally helps balance facial length. Reach for this whenever you need a hairstyle that stays secure for hours. The double braid structure feels sporty, stylish, and practical all at once. It’s a strong option for busy days.
| Style Details | |
|---|---|
| Face Shape | Long, Heart |
| Hair Texture | Straight, Wavy |
| Hair Type | Medium, Thick |
| Difficulty Level | Intermediate |
| Time to Style | 20 Minutes |
The Knotted Low Updo
A knotted low updo uses simple knots instead of braids, twists, or rolls. The result feels modern while maintaining a soft silhouette near the nape. This is the one for when you want something that looks different from the hairstyles everyone else is wearing. The knots create texture without adding unnecessary height. It’s understated in the best possible way.
| Style Details | |
|---|---|
| Face Shape | Long, Oval, Diamond |
| Hair Texture | Straight, Wavy |
| Hair Type | Medium |
| Difficulty Level | Intermediate |
| Time to Style | 15 Minutes |
Pro Tips For Updo Hairstyles for Long Face
Focus On Width Before Height
Many people automatically add volume at the crown when creating an updo. Long face shapes often benefit more from width through the sides instead. That small adjustment can change the entire balance of a hairstyle.
Consider Side Placement
Side buns, side braids, and asymmetrical styles often work beautifully because they redirect visual attention. A hairstyle doesn’t need dramatic volume to create balance.
Don’t Be Afraid Of Accessories
A claw clip, decorative pin, or statement barrette can add width exactly where you need it. Sometimes the accessory becomes part of the solution rather than an afterthought.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Stacking Too Much Height On Top
We’ve all tried hairstyles that looked great in a tutorial but felt off once we saw them on ourselves. Excessive crown height can sometimes make a long face appear even longer. A more balanced silhouette usually works better.
Pulling Everything Too Tight
Very tight styling can remove softness and width from the overall shape. Leaving a little dimension often creates a more flattering result.
Frequently Asked Questions
What updo is most flattering for a long face?
Styles that create width rather than height tend to be the most flattering. Space buns, side updos, and double braid styles often work particularly well.
Are high buns bad for long face shapes?
Not always, but extremely high styles can sometimes exaggerate facial length. Balanced placement usually creates a more harmonious look.
Can long face shapes wear braided updos?
Absolutely. Double Dutch braids and side fishtail updos often help add width and texture while maintaining balance.
Are claw clip hairstyles good for long faces?
Yes. Many claw clip updos naturally create width through the middle of the hairstyle, which can be very flattering for longer face shapes.
Final Thoughts
Updo Hairstyles for Long Face shapes don’t need complicated styling tricks to create balance. The Claw Clip French Roll offers an easy everyday option while the Side Fishtail Updo brings more texture and detail for special occasions. Small changes in placement and shape can make a surprising difference. Share a comment and let everyone know which style you’re planning to try first.












