Top 50 Updo Trends for Rectangular Face Shapes | The Ultimate Style Guide
Top 50 Updo Trends for Rectangular Face Shapes
Finding the perfect hairstyle is an art form that relies heavily on geometry and balance. For those with a rectangular face shape—often characterized by a strong jawline, a high forehead, and a face length that is noticeably longer than its width—the goal is to create softness and visual width. While this face shape is elegant and statuesque, often seen on high-fashion runways, choosing the wrong updo can inadvertently elongate the face further.
This comprehensive guide explores the top 50 updo trends specifically curated for rectangular face shapes. Whether you are preparing for a wedding, a gala, or simply want to elevate your everyday look, these styles focus on shortening the vertical line of the face, adding volume to the sides, and softening angular features. By understanding the principles of proportion, you can transform your look and highlight your best features with confidence.
The Golden Rules of Styling for Rectangular Faces
Before diving into the specific trends, it is crucial to understand the architectural principles behind styling for a rectangular face. Unlike oval faces which are naturally balanced, a rectangular shape requires strategic volume distribution. The primary objective is to break up the vertical length. This is achieved by avoiding excessive height at the crown, which only adds to the elongation, and instead focusing on width and texture.
Professional stylists generally recommend incorporating face-framing layers, bangs, or tendrils. A stark, slicked-back look can be harsh on a rectangular face because it exposes the full length of the forehead and jawline without any softening elements. Instead, think of curves, waves, and asymmetry. Asymmetry is particularly powerful; a side part or a side-swept chignon draws the eye horizontally rather than vertically, effectively "cutting" the length of the face visually.
Furthermore, the texture of the hair plays a significant role. Stick-straight hair can emphasize the straight lines of a rectangular jaw. Adding curls, waves, or messy texture introduces organic shapes that contrast beautifully with angular bone structures. The following trends have been categorized to help you navigate through 50 distinct styles that adhere to these golden rules.
Category 1: The Romantic Low Buns (Styles 1-10)
Low buns are arguably the most flattering category of updos for rectangular faces. By placing the weight of the style at the nape of the neck, you avoid adding height to the top of the head. These ten variations focus on texture and width.
1. The Messy Nape Knot
This style relies on imperfection. By keeping the bun loose and pulling out strands, you create a soft silhouette that counteracts a sharp jawline.2. The Braided Low Chignon
Incorporating a braid that wraps around a low bun adds horizontal detail, which helps widen the appearance of the face.3. The Twisted Gibson Tuck
A classic rolled style that sits low and wide. The rolling technique adds volume near the ears, which is perfect for balancing face length.4. Side-Parted Low Bun
Deep side parts are essential for rectangular faces. This style sweeps hair across the forehead, effectively shortening the face.5. The "Undone" Bun with Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs are a game-changer. They cover the corners of the forehead and taper in at the cheekbones, creating an oval illusion.6. The Textured Figure-8 Bun
Intricate twisting at the nape creates a wider focal point at the back, drawing attention away from vertical length.7. Soft Waves Low Bun
Curling the hair before pinning it back ensures that the texture remains soft and voluminous around the sides of the face.8. The Double Knot
Two knots tied horizontally at the nape create significant width, balancing the face's proportions perfectly.9. Accessories-Heavy Chignon
Using wide barrettes or floral arrangements on the side of a low bun draws the eye outward, creating width.10. The Looped Pony-Bun
A modern, effortless look where the hair is pulled halfway through the elastic at the nape, leaving ends free for texture.Category 2: Asymmetrical and Side-Swept Styles (Styles 11-20)
Symmetry can sometimes emphasize the boxy nature of a rectangular face. Breaking that symmetry with side-swept styles disrupts the vertical lines and adds an element of softness and intrigue.
11. The Classic Side Chignon
Positioning the bun behind one ear instantly breaks the vertical line of the face.12. Side-Swept Curls with Pinning
Leaving the hair mostly down but pinned to one side creates an updo feel while maintaining the softening effect of loose hair.13. The Asymmetrical French Twist
Instead of a vertical twist centered on the head, this version is angled or placed to the side for a modern, widening effect.14. Side Braid into Bun
A thick Dutch braid running along one side of the head into a low bun adds crucial volume at the temple and ear level.15. The Faux-Bob
Tucking long hair under to simulate a bob creates width at the jawline, which can be very flattering if textured properly.16. Cascading Side Updo
For longer hair, allowing tendrils to cascade down one shoulder creates a diagonal line that shortens the face.17. The Offset Ballerina Bun
Moving a standard ballerina bun off-center and keeping it low prevents the "severe" look that high buns often create.18. Side Fishtail Updo
The intricate texture of a fishtail braid wrapped to the side adds complexity and width.19. The Deep Side Sweep with Volume
Creating significant volume on just one side of the part balances a strong jawline.20. The Roaring 20s Side Roll
Vintage finger waves pinned to the side offer horizontal lines that are incredibly flattering for long faces.Category 3: Braided Crowns and Halos (Styles 21-30)
While height is generally discouraged, width is encouraged. Halo braids and milkmaid braids wrap around the head, adding volume to the sides which helps the face appear wider and more oval.
21. The BoHo Milkmaid Braid
Two braids wrapped over the top of the head. Keep them slightly loose to avoid adding too much vertical height.22. The Chunky Halo Braid
Pancaking (pulling apart) the braid makes it wider, adding volume to the sides of the head.23. Double Dutch Braid Updo
Two low dutch braids pinned up creates a wide, textured look at the back and sides.24. The Waterfall Braid Updo
Incorporating a waterfall braid into a bun allows for loose strands to frame the face.25. Crown Braid with Bangs
A full crown braid paired with heavy fringe is the ultimate face-shortening combination.26. The Half-Crown
Braiding only the sides and pinning them back keeps the volume focused near the temples.27. Fishtail Halo
A finer, more intricate texture that sits flatter against the head but still provides side interest.28. The Messy Crown
A deliberately disorganized braid crown with plenty of flyaways softens angular features.29. Ribbon-Woven Braids
Weaving ribbon through the braids adds horizontal visual interest and color contrast.30. The Greek Goddess Updo
Loose twists combined with braids wrapped around the head, often accessorized with leaves or gold bands.Category 4: The Power of Bangs and Face Framing (Styles 31-40)
For rectangular faces, the updo itself matters less than what happens around the face. Integrating fringe is the most effective way to modify face shape perception. These styles prioritize the front view.
31. Updo with Heavy Straight Bangs
A blunt bang cuts the length of the face dramatically, hiding the forehead completely.32. Wispy Top Knot with Face Framing
If you must wear a high bun, ensure you have significant wispy layers pulled out around the face and ears.33. Bardot-Inspired Beehive
A lower, wider beehive paired with curtain bangs channels retro glamour while balancing proportions.34. The Shag Updo
Pulling shaggy, layered hair back loosely ensures texture remains around the cheeks and jaw.35. Side-Banged French Roll
A classic French roll, but with a long, sweeping side bang that covers one eye slightly.36. The "Wet Look" with Tendrils
A modern, sleek low bun, but with two distinct, styled waves framing the cheeks.37. Bottleneck Bangs Updo
Similar to curtain bangs but shorter in the middle, creating a flattering frame for the eyes.38. The Pompadour (Wide Version)
Instead of a high pomp, style the front hair into a wider, rolled pomp that adds volume to the sides.39. Curly Fringe Updo
Allowing natural curls to fall over the forehead softens the sharpest rectangular angles.40. Long Layered Faux-Pony
Pinning hair up but leaving the bottom layers down around the neck to create a widening background for the jaw.Category 5: Wedding and Formal Glamour (Styles 41-50)
When the occasion calls for high glamour, these styles combine the principles of width and softness with intricate styling techniques suitable for brides and black-tie events.
41. The Wide Chignon with Pearl Pins
Structuring the chignon to be horizontally wide rather than round.42. Hollywood Waves Pinned Under
Creating a faux-bob look using deep, glossy Hollywood waves.43. The Floral Garden Updo
Using fresh flowers specifically placed behind the ears to create lateral volume.44. The Retro Pin-Up Roll
Victory rolls placed on the sides of the head (rather than the top) to widen the upper face.45. The Soft Bouffant
A half-up style with a slight tease at the crown, balanced by significant width in the curls.46. The Knotted Mohawk (Modified)
A series of knots that are pulled wide, resembling a mohawk but with a focus on width rather than height.47. The Sculptural Side Sweep
A highly hair-sprayed, artistic shape that defies gravity on one side of the head.48. The Bubble Ponytail Updo
A low ponytail banded into "bubbles" and then pinned up for massive texture.49. The Victorian Twist
Soft, rolled hair at the temples leading into a low, complex bun.50. The Ultimate Texture Bomb
A style that utilizes crimping or texturizing spray to maximize the volume of every strand before pinning loosely.Expert Tips for Maintaining the Look
Creating the style is only half the battle; maintaining it throughout an event is key. For rectangular face shapes, the longevity of volume on the sides is crucial. If the hair falls flat, the face-balancing illusion can be lost.
1. Product Selection: Use a high-quality texturizing spray or dry shampoo before styling. This gives the hair "grip" and helps maintain the volume created at the sides of the head. Avoid heavy oils that will weigh the hair down and make it cling to the skull.
2. The Teasing Technique: When creating width, gently backcomb the hair at the sides (near the ears) before smoothing the top layer over. This creates a structural cushion that keeps the silhouette wide.
3. Secure but Soft: While you want the updo to stay in place, avoid pulling the hair too tight. Use spiral pins or U-pins rather than just bobby pins to anchor buns without compressing the hair against the head too tightly.
FAQ: Updos for Rectangular Faces
Q: Can I wear a high ponytail with a rectangular face? A: You can, but it is best to modify it. Avoid a sleek, tight high pony. Instead, add texture to the tail and, most importantly, pull out face-framing layers or bangs to break up the forehead and soften the jawline.
Q: Are center parts bad for rectangular faces? A: Center parts can sometimes accentuate the length of the face and the symmetry of the jaw. A slightly off-center or deep side part is generally more flattering as it disrupts the vertical line, but a center part can work if paired with face-framing layers or curtain bangs.
Q: What is the biggest mistake to avoid? A: The biggest mistake is adding significant volume directly on top of the crown (like a high poof) without adding volume to the sides. This creates a cone-head effect that elongates the face.
Q: How do I know if I have a rectangular face? A: If your jawline is strong and roughly the same width as your forehead, and the length of your face is noticeably longer than the width, you likely have a rectangular (or oblong) face shape.
Q: Do these styles work for fine hair? A: Yes, but fine hair may require more prep work. Using volumizing mousse and curling the hair before pinning it up is essential to create the necessary width and texture mentioned in these trends.
Q: Should I hide my jawline? A: You don't need to hide it—a strong jawline is beautiful! The goal is to soften it. Soft tendrils that fall near the jaw can help break up the sharp angle without completely concealing your bone structure.
Conclusion
Having a rectangular face shape opens the door to some of the most sophisticated and editorial hairstyles available. By focusing on the "Top 50" trends listed above, you can see that the versatility is endless. Whether you prefer the bohemian vibe of a messy braid or the classic elegance of a side chignon, the key takeaway is always balance.
Remember to prioritize width over height, embrace texture, and never underestimate the power of a well-placed bang or tendril. Professional salons and stylists are well-versed in these architectural principles, so when you book your next appointment, bring these ideas with you to collaborate on a look that celebrates your unique features.
