Rita Ora’s ‘Soft-Serve Ice Cream’ Updo: How to Recreate the Look

Rita Ora has served up a new hair moment that’s as playful as it is polished: a sculpted, soft-serve ice cream–inspired updo with wispy tendrils that frame her face. While celebrity hair looks can feel out of reach, this particular style is surprisingly wearable – and with a bit of patience, it’s possible to recreate a version of it at home or ask for it confidently in the salon. Here’s how to break down the look, adapt it for UK hair textures, and style it in a way that works beyond the red carpet.

What Is a ‘Soft-Serve Ice Cream’ Updo?

The term “soft-serve ice cream updo” refers to an ultra-sculpted bun or twist that spirals upwards, mimicking the swirl of soft-serve on a cone. Rita Ora’s version pairs this structured twist with softer, undone details: delicate tendrils by the temples, subtle movement at the crown and a glossy, almost lacquered finish along the twist itself.

Unlike a classic ballerina bun, which is typically sleek all over, this style balances polish with softness. The base is smooth and controlled, while the edges and tendrils keep everything modern and romantic. UK session stylists have been leaning into this contrast for a few seasons now – think of the “old money” updo meets 90s supermodel pieces around the face.

In practical terms, it’s simply a high or mid-height updo where the lengths are twisted or rolled into a tall, vertical coil, then pinned into place so the profile echoes a soft-serve swirl. The key is that visible curve: it shouldn’t be a flat bun, but a defined wave or spiral.

How to Recreate Rita Ora’s Updo at Home

While an editorial finish is always easier with a professional stylist on hand, many UK hairstylists agree that this kind of updo is achievable at home if you break it down into clear steps. The trick is preparation, good sectioning, and not being afraid of hairpins.

• Start on the right base: This updo works best on hair that isn’t freshly washed – hair washed the day before tends to hold shape better. If your hair is fine or very slippery, many stylists recommend using a lightweight mousse or texturising spray through the mid-lengths before drying to add grip.
• Define your tendrils first: Before you gather the hair up, decide where you want your face-framing pieces. Traditionally, that’s a slim section at each temple and a few shorter pieces around the hairline. Clip these sections out of the way so they don’t get pulled into the updo.
• Create your ponytail foundation: Brush the rest of your hair back into a high or mid-height ponytail, depending on your face shape and where you want the swirl to sit. Secure it tightly with a snag-free band – this ponytail is the anchor for your entire style.
• Sculpt the ‘soft-serve’ swirl: Take the ponytail and apply a light styling cream, gel cream, or pomade to smooth flyaways. Then twist the ponytail upwards, allowing it to coil naturally. As it begins to curve, start pinning it into place with strong bobby pins, working from the base upwards so the twist stands tall rather than lying flat.
• Secure and refine: Once you’re happy with the swirl, tuck the ends neatly underneath or into the centre of the coil and pin discreetly. Use a fine-tooth comb and a touch more product to smooth the base and any uneven patches, but keep some softness at the crown if you like a more relaxed finish.
• Style the tendrils: Unclip your face-framing sections and lightly tong or wrap them around a straightener to create gentle curves rather than tight curls. A tiny amount of serum or lightweight cream can help define them without making them look greasy.
• Set the style: Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to lock the shape while maintaining movement. Many UK stylists prefer a buildable spray so you can layer it without that “helmet” effect.

In real-world terms, set aside at least 20–30 minutes the first time you try this; it’s much easier when you’re not rushing before a train or Uber.

Adapting the Look for Different Hair Types and Textures

One of the strengths of Rita Ora’s soft-serve updo is how easily it can be customised. Whether your hair is fine, coily, relaxed, or naturally wavy, the core technique stays the same – it’s the preparation and product choices that shift.

• Fine or flat hair: Build volume first. Blow-dry with a round brush or use velcro rollers at the crown. A volumising spray or light mousse from roots to mid-lengths can help, and you might find backcombing the ponytail slightly before twisting gives the swirl more structure.
• Thick or heavy hair: You may need extra grip. Many stylists recommend applying a texturising powder at the roots and through the ponytail. You can also split the ponytail into two twists that you then wind together – this reduces bulk and gives more control.
• Curly or coily hair: You have beautiful natural texture that can make the swirl look incredibly sculptural. You can either stretch the hair first with a blow-dry or silk press for a sleeker effect, or work with your texture, smoothing only the outer layer with a cream or gel and allowing the twist itself to show off your curls.
• Wavy or frizz-prone hair: Use a smoothing cream or light oil before blow-drying, and always work in sections. Don’t chase absolute smoothness – a little natural texture around the crown keeps the style modern and prevents it looking too “bridal”.

For those wearing wigs or extensions, this look also translates well to a high ponytail unit or a leave-out ponytail on a sew-in. Just make sure the base is secure and that you’re not putting unnecessary tension on the hairline – many UK hairstylists stress the importance of protecting edges, particularly for those with fragile or textured hair.

Face-Framing Tendrils: The Detail That Makes It Modern

The tendrils in Rita Ora’s look are what keep the updo fresh rather than overly formal. They nod to 90s and early-00s styling, but the finish is softer, less gelled and not as heavily defined as the classic “baby hair art” we’ve seen in recent years.

There are a few key principles that stylists often follow for modern tendrils:

• Less is more: Rather than pulling half your fringe out, keep to slim, deliberate sections. Overdoing it can quickly feel costume-like.
• Work with your haircut: Use naturally shorter layers or long fringes where you can, rather than dragging down long lengths that don’t want to sit nicely.
• Keep the finish soft: Opt for light creams or sprays instead of heavy gels, particularly if you’re prone to oiliness or scalp sensitivity. Dermatologists often suggest avoiding product build-up directly on the scalp, so apply styling products mid-length to ends where possible.
• Consider your jawline and cheekbones: Place tendrils where they flatter your features – often just at the temples and slightly in front of the ear, curving towards the cheekbone.

If you’re not used to styling tendrils, practise on a loose ponytail day. You’ll quickly see what length and placement feels comfortable for everyday wear, whether you’re heading to the office or a winter drinks party.

Key Takeaways

• Rita Ora’s “soft-serve ice cream” updo is a sculpted, spiral bun with a glossy finish and delicate face-framing tendrils that keep it modern and romantic.
• The look is built around a secure high or mid ponytail, a twisted swirl pinned vertically, and softly tonged tendrils – a structure you can replicate at home with patience and grip.
• This updo is versatile across textures; the main changes involve how you prep the hair, from volumising fine hair to smoothing or stretching coily and curly hair.
• Modern tendrils should feel intentional and soft rather than crunchy or over-styled, using lightweight products and placement that flatters your face shape.
• In day-to-day life, the style works brilliantly for parties, weddings, and evenings out – practise it on a quiet night in so you’re confident before your next big event.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a ‘soft-serve’ updo typically last?
With a strong base ponytail, good-quality hairpins, and a flexible-hold hairspray, many people find this kind of updo will last an evening comfortably. If your hair is very silky or heavy, you may want to carry a few spare pins and a mini hairspray for touch-ups, especially in damp UK weather.

Can I do this style on very short hair?
This look is easiest on hair that reaches at least the collarbone when straightened. If your hair is shorter, you can create a similar effect using clip-in ponytails, a bun extension, or a wig styled into the swirl, but it’s worth working with a professional stylist the first time to ensure a natural blend.

Is this updo suitable for natural Afro-textured hair?
Yes. You can either stretch the hair for a sleeker finish or embrace your natural texture for a more sculptural, editorial take. Many stylists recommend avoiding excessive tension at the hairline and using edge-friendly gels around the perimeter to protect baby hairs and prevent breakage.

What products should I avoid if I have a sensitive scalp?
If your scalp is easily irritated, try to keep heavier oils, waxes, and strong-hold gels away from the roots and skin. Instead, focus product on the mid-lengths and ends, and choose lighter, fragrance-minimised formulas where possible. If in doubt, dermatologists often suggest patch testing a new product on a small area before full use.

How can I make the updo feel less formal for daytime?
Loosen the crown slightly for a softer silhouette, reduce the height of the swirl, and keep the tendrils more relaxed and barely styled. Skipping the ultra-glossy finish and opting for a softer texture spray instead of strong shine products will also make it look more daytime-appropriate.