π© 13 Updos For Medium Length Hair
Alright, gorgeous humans with that perfect in-between length, listen up! Anyone who tells you medium hair is “just waiting to grow out” clearly hasn’t seen the magic you can whip up. We’re talking about that sweet spot where you get enough length for serious style but not so much that you’re wrestling a lion’s mane every morning. Forget the struggle; we’re diving headfirst into the world of updos that make your medium-length locks the star of the show. Get ready to elevate your hair game without a single moment of hair-pulling frustration (unless it’s for dramatic effect, of course).

1. The Effortless Messy Bun
Who says “messy” can’t be utterly chic? This isn’t just a hair-out-of-my-face move; it’s a statement. You gather your hair loosely at the crown or nape, twist it into a bun, and then artfully pull out a few face-framing pieces. It screams “I woke up like this” but with significantly more effort (don’t tell anyone).
Pro Tip: Tease the roots slightly before gathering your hair to give it extra volume and that perfectly undone vibe. This updo works because it embraces your hair’s natural texture and makes you look effortlessly cool.
2. The Low Chignon Charm
Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn, but make it less intimidating. A low chignon for medium hair brings instant sophistication without needing Rapunzel-length locks. You simply sweep your hair back, twist it, and secure it neatly at the nape of your neck. Itβs polished, itβs elegant, and itβs surprisingly simple.
Pro Tip: Use a fine-tooth comb to smooth the top section for a super sleek finish, then grab a few bobby pins to secure any strays. This style elevates any outfit, making it perfect for both work and weddings.
3. The Twisted Half-Up Delight
Not quite a full updo, but definitely updo-adjacent and totally fabulous. You take two sections from the front, twist them back, and secure them together with a small elastic or cute clip. It keeps hair out of your face while still showing off your length.
Pro Tip: Add a small braid into one of the twisted sections for an extra touch of intricate detail. This look is perfect for casual days or when you want a little more polish without committing to a full updo.
4. The Braided Crown Royalty
Feel like a queen without needing a tiara. A braided crown involves French braiding or Dutch braiding two sections of hair from your temples back and securing them across the top of your head. Medium hair provides just enough length to create this regal look without feeling too heavy.
Pro Tip: Gently pull apart the braid sections after securing them to make them appear thicker and more voluminous. This updo is a stunning choice for festivals or when you want to feel extra special.
5. The Sleek Top Knot
Who said top knots were only for long hair? You absolutely rock a sleek top knot with medium length. Gather all your hair high on your head, twist it tightly, and secure it into a neat bun. Itβs sharp, itβs clean, and it means business.
Pro Tip: Use a strong-hold gel or pomade around your hairline to tame flyaways and achieve that super slick finish. This style is perfect for those days you want to look put-together and powerful.
6. The Bubble Braid Updo
Get ready for some playful volume. The bubble braid updo takes a series of ponytails, spaced out, and then “bubbled” by gently pulling the hair out between elastics. You then coil or pin this bubbly creation into a unique updo. It’s a fun, modern twist on traditional braids.
Pro Tip: Use small, clear elastic bands to make the “bubbles” pop more discreetly. This innovative updo adds a whimsical touch to your look, making it a definite head-turner.
7. The Knotted Low Bun
Simple, elegant, and surprisingly easy. Instead of twisting, you literally tie your hair into a knot (or two) at the nape of your neck, securing it with pins. It creates a unique texture and a sophisticated, undone feel.
Pro Tip: Spritz some texture spray on your hair before knotting to give it more grip and hold. This updo offers a minimalist yet impactful style thatβs perfect for any occasion.
8. The French Roll Flip
A timeless classic, the French roll is totally doable with medium hair. You gather your hair as if for a low ponytail, twist it upwards, and then tuck it into a neat roll against your scalp. Itβs sophisticated and creates a lovely shape at the back of your head.
Pro Tip: Use a hair donut or a small cushion for extra volume if your hair is on the finer side. This elegant updo provides a polished and refined look that never goes out of style.
9. The Double Dutch Braids to Bun
Why have one braid when you can have two? Start with two Dutch braids running from your hairline back to the nape of your neck, then combine the ends into a single messy bun. It’s edgy, it’s cool, and it keeps everything secure.
Pro Tip: Make sure your braids are fairly tight at the scalp for maximum hold, then gently loosen them for a softer look. This updo is fantastic for active days or when you want a sporty-chic vibe.
10. The Pin-Curled Perfection
Embrace vintage glam with some strategically placed pin curls. You curl sections of your medium hair, pin them to your scalp, and then arrange them into a beautiful, textured updo. Itβs intricate but incredibly rewarding.
Pro Tip: Use smaller curling irons for tighter curls that hold their shape better when pinned. This glamorous updo is ideal for special events where you want to make a lasting impression.
11. The Side Swept Updo
Move over, center part. A side-swept updo gathers all your hair to one side, securing it in a bun or a series of twists. It adds an element of asymmetry and drama, highlighting your best angles.
Pro Tip: Create some soft waves or curls in the front section of your hair before sweeping it over for added texture and romance. This updo offers a sophisticated and alluring look, perfect for a night out.
12. The High Ponytail Loop
Okay, technically a ponytail, but loop it through itself and pin it, and boom, instant updo! Gather your hair into a high ponytail, then take the ends and loop them back through the elastic or pin them just above it, creating a chic, contained look.
Pro Tip: Wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic for a more polished finish. This simple updo is quick, stylish, and perfect for when you’re short on time.
13. The Headband Tuck Updo
This one is ridiculously easy and looks way more complicated than it is. Pop on a stretchy headband, then start tucking sections of your medium hair up and over the band, securing with pins as you go. It creates a beautiful, soft roll around your head.
Pro Tip: Use a decorative headband to add an extra touch of sparkle or style to your look. This updo is a fantastic option for a quick transformation and looks incredibly elegant.
Conclusion
See? Told you your medium length hair was anything but basic. From messy buns that scream “I woke up flawless” to elegant chignons that whisper “I’m sophisticated now,” you’ve got a whole arsenal of updos at your fingertips. So go forth, experiment, and remember: your hair is your ultimate accessory. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Now go conquer the world, one fabulous updo at a time!