How to Style Velvet Hair Bows With a Wedding Updo
By Harriet Wilde: Designer Wedding Shoes - Wedding Shoes UK ... | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to wear a velvet hair bow with a wedding updo, from placement to pinning, plus tips for brides and bridesmaids.
Quick answer
To style a velvet hair bow with a wedding updo, position it at the nape or side of the bun, secure it with bobby pins through the bow's center, and adjust the ribbon tails for a polished finish.
Why velvet bows work with updos
Velvet adds a rich, tactile contrast to sleek updos and soft chignons. Because velvet catches light differently than satin or silk, it creates a subtle focal point without competing with your dress or veil.
A velvet bow can also tie your whole look together: if your shoes feature the same velvet ribbon, the bow echoes that detail and makes the ensemble feel intentional.
Choosing the right placement
Where you place the bow changes the silhouette. At the nape of the neck, it reads classic and understated; at the side, it adds a playful, vintage touch; higher on the crown, it draws attention upward and suits shorter updos.
Consider your veil or headpiece. If you're wearing a veil, a nape or side placement avoids interference. If you're wearing a tiara or comb, skip the bow on the crown to prevent clutter.
How to pin a velvet hair bow into an updo
- Prep your updo: Finish your updo and secure it with pins as usual. Make sure the area where you'll place the bow is smooth and firm so the bow has a stable base. A common mistake is placing the bow on loose hair, which causes it to slip or sag. Test the bow's grip by gently tugging it before the ceremony.
- Position the bow: Hold the bow against the updo at your chosen spot (nape, side, or crown). Tilt it slightly for a relaxed look, or keep it upright for a more formal feel. Avoid placing it directly on a bump or a large pin cluster, as this can make the bow sit unevenly. Step back and check the bow's angle in a mirror from the front and side.
- Secure with bobby pins: Open two bobby pins and slide them through the center knot of the bow, crossing them in an X shape. Push them into the updo at a slight downward angle. Use pins that match your hair color so they stay hidden. A common mistake is pinning only the ribbon loop, which can pull the bow out of shape. Use extra pins if the bow feels heavy or if you'll be dancing for hours.
- Adjust the tails and finish: Gently fluff the bow loops and arrange the ribbon tails so they fall naturally against your updo or neck. Mist with a light hairspray to tame flyaways, but avoid spraying directly on the velvet, as it can dull the nap. Check that the bow stays put when you shake your head gently. Carry a couple of spare pins in your clutch for quick fixes.
Product spotlight
- Belle Hair Bow Velvet: The Belle Hair Bow Velvet is available in forest green and bordo, and uses the same velvet ribbon as the Hetty shoes. Matching your hair bow to your shoes creates a coordinated bridal look without extra effort.
Belle Hair Bow Velvet
