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Best Night Out Hairstyles for Women: Stylish Updos That Look Great on Any Hair Type

Whether you're heading to dinner, an event, or a night in Old Town Scottsdale, an updo can instantly polish your look. These modern styles are simple, flattering, and ideal for women who want elegance without spending hours in front of the mirror.

Best Night Out Hairstyles for Women: Stylish Updos That Look Great on Any Hair Type
By Chloe Lomeli
Hair Stylist at the Gainey Village Spa

Getting ready for a night out should feel fun, not stressful. Whether you’re heading to dinner, an event, or a night in Old Town Scottsdale, an updo can instantly polish your look. These modern styles are simple, flattering, and ideal for women who want elegance without spending hours in front of the mirror.

Below are five easy updos perfect for any evening out — all customizable based on your hair type, texture, and personal style.

Messy Bun / Top Knot

A go-to style for a reason. The messy bun gives you that effortless, slightly tousled look that works for everything from casual cocktails to dressier evenings.

How to Create a Messy Bun

  • Pull your hair into a high or low ponytail.
  • Lightly loosen the hair at your crown for a softer shape.
  • Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base.
  • Secure with a hair tie or bobby pins.
  • Gently pull pieces from the bun to create volume and texture.
  • Leave a few face-framing strands for a flattering finish.

This style works especially well in the Phoenix climate since it keeps hair off your neck while still looking chic.

Sleek Low Bun / Chignon

If you’re looking for something more polished, the sleek low bun or classic chignon is a timeless choice.

When to Choose This Style

  • Dinner dates
  • Evening concerts
  • Any event where you want a more refined, elegant look

How to Create a Sleek Low Bun

  • Apply a light texturizing spray to help the hair hold its shape.
  • Gently tease the crown for natural fullness.
  • Pull your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
  • Twist and wrap the ponytail into a smooth bun.
  • Pin in place and finish with a light mist of hairspray.

Add a sparkling clip or hairpin for an evening-ready touch.

Slicked-Back High Ponytail

A sleek ponytail is modern, bold, and surprisingly easy once you know the basics. It’s a great option if you want a lifted, stylish look that works well in desert evenings when humidity isn’t an issue.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Strong-hold gel, wax, or pomade
  • Fine-tooth brush
  • A secure hair tie
  • Bobby pins (optional)

How to Style It

  • Brush hair upward toward the crown.
  • Apply product to smooth flyaways and create a sleek finish.
  • Secure tightly with a hair tie.
  • Wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the elastic if desired.

Curly Updo

This look embraces your natural curls, giving you a soft, voluminous style that always stands out.

Why Curly Updos Work Well

  • They highlight your natural curl pattern
  • They add instant volume without extra styling
  • They’re great for both short and long curly hair

How to Create a Curly Updo

  • Gather curls high, low, or to the side — whatever feels best.
  • Pin curls section by section, following their natural shape.
  • Leave a few curls loose near the face for softness.
  • Set lightly with hairspray to maintain bounce.

Twisted Bun

Simple, fast, and elegant — perfect for days when you want something pretty without a lot of prep time.

How to Create a Twisted Bun

  • Pull your hair into a high or low ponytail.
  • Twist the length of the ponytail into a rope shape.
  • Wrap it around the base.
  • Secure with a hair tie or bobby pins.

This look works beautifully for dinner with friends or a relaxed evening out.

Which Updo Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Style Best For Time Required Overall Vibe
Messy Bun Casual nights, warm weather 2–3 minutes Relaxed & effortless
Sleek Low Bun Dressy events, dinner dates 5 minutes Sophisticated
High Ponytail Modern, bold looks 3 minutes Clean & lifted
Curly Updo Natural curls or waves 5–7 minutes Voluminous & soft
Twisted Bun Quick evenings out 2 minutes Simple & elegant

These updos prove that looking put-together doesn’t require complicated tools or styling experience. With a little practice, each style can be customized with accessories, added volume, or a splash of texture to match your vibe for the evening. If you want a professional style, head to the Village Spa. Our hairstylists can help you choose and execute the perfect style for your next night out.

Ready to Look and Feel Your Best?

Sign up for a 7-day free trial now at any of our clubs—Gainey, Ocotillo, DC Ranch, or Camelback.