20 Easy Updos for Medium Hair to Inspire New Looks

Finding perfect updos for medium hair can sometimes feel like being in the “Goldilocks zone” you have too much hair for short-bob styles, but not quite enough for those massive, Pinterest-perfect floor-length braids. However, medium hair is actually most versatile length for updos. It’s light enough to stay secure all day but long enough to twist, tuck, and braid into stunning looks.

Whether you’re heading to a wedding, a job interview, or just trying to survive a humid Tuesday, these 20 easy updos for medium hair will help you look polished in minutes. Visit our Pinterest for more haircut ideas.

Low Bun Updo

The classic low bun is the “little black dress” of hairstyles. It’s sophisticated, simple, and works on almost any hair texture. Simply gather your hair at the nape of your neck, twist it into a coil, and secure it with a hair tie and a few bobby pins.

Knotted Updo

For a modern, edgy look, try the knotted updo. Instead of a traditional twist, separate your hair into two sections and literally tie them in a gentle knot. Tuck the ends under and pin them in place for a textured, sculptural finish.

Simple Chignon

The chignon is the low bun’s more elegant cousin. To achieve this, create a low ponytail, loop the hair through the elastic halfway, and then wrap the remaining ends around the base. It’s the ultimate “quiet luxury” hairstyle.

Colorful Pins

Sometimes, the updo is all about the accessories. Take a basic twist or bun and elevate it by lining up 5–6 colorful bobby pins in a geometric pattern on the side of your head. It’s a 30-second way to add personality to your look.

Classy Pony

A ponytail becomes an “updo” when you give it some height and polish. Use a volumizing spray at the roots, secure your pony mid-height, and take a small strand of hair to wrap around the elastic to hide it.

Braided Bun Updo

Combine texture and security by braiding your hair into a standard three-strand braid before coiling it into a bun. This is especially great for layers that tend to poke out of a smooth bun.

Tied With A Scarf

Silk scarves are a lifesaver for medium hair. Tie your hair into a messy bun and wrap a colorful scarf around the base, letting the ends hang long. It adds instant volume and a bohemian flair.

Braided French Twist

A traditional French twist can be tricky with medium hair, but adding a braid makes it stay put. Braid a small section from the temple back into the twist to provide an “anchor” for your pins.

Tied With A Bow

Velvet or ribbon bows are trending. Simply pull the top half of your hair back or secure a low bun, then clip a large bow over the elastic. It’s feminine, chic, and covers any styling imperfections.

Quick Curly Updo

If you have natural curls or a 1-day-old blowout, don’t brush them out. Pile your curls loosely at the back of your head and pin individual ringlets in a cluster. The volume does all the work for you.

Easy Double Braid Updo

Divide your hair down the center and create two low braids. Cross them over each other at the nape of your neck and tuck the ends under the opposite braid. It looks like an intricate crown but takes only three minutes.

Knotted With A Turban

For those “bad hair days,” a turban or a wide fabric headband is your best friend. Tuck the ends of your hair into the back of the band for a vintage-inspired look that stays secure all day.

Curly Topknot

Medium-length curly hair is perfect for a topknot because it creates a “pineapple” effect. Gather hair at the very crown of your head and let the curls spill over the front for a playful, voluminous look.

Voluminous Updo

To get that “red carpet” volume, tease the crown of your hair before pulling it into a loose twist. Use a light-hold hairspray to keep the height without making it feel crunchy.

Wrapped With A Braid

Create a standard low bun, but leave two small sections out at the front. Braid those sections and wrap them around the base of the bun for an extra layer of detail.

Dressed Up Low Pony

Take a low ponytail and add a “topsy tail” (looping the pony through itself). This creates a sophisticated “v” shape at the back of the head that looks far more complicated than it actually is.

Bubble Ponytail

Perfect for medium hair that is just hitting the shoulders. Use small clear elastics every 2 inches down your ponytail and “pancacke” (pull apart) the sections to create bubbles.

Braided Topknot

Flip your head upside down and Dutch braid from the nape of your neck up to the crown. Secure the rest of the hair into a bun. It’s the perfect “gym-to-brunch” transition style.

Messy Bun With A Wrap Around Braid

This is the ultimate “cool girl” hair. Keep the bun loose and messy, then wrap a thick side-braid around the base to give it structure and intentionality.

Low Bun With A Headband

A thin, metallic headband can transform a basic low bun into a wedding-ready look. Place the headband about 2 inches back from your hairline to frame your face.

Face Shapes

When choosing an updo for medium hair, consider your face shape:

• Oval: Most updos work; try a high topknot to show off your symmetry.
• Square: Keep pieces loose around the face to soften the jawline.
• Round: Opt for high updos to add vertical length to the face.
• Heart: Low buns with side-swept bangs balance a wider forehead.

Styling Tips

• Don’t wash your hair: Updos work best on “second-day” hair. The natural oils provide the grip needed to keep pins in place.
• Texture is key: If your hair is too silky, use a dry shampoo or texturizing spray before styling.
• The Two-Mirror Trick: Always check the back of your head with a hand mirror to ensure your pins aren’t showing!

FAQs (Updos for Medium Hair)

Conclusion

Medium-length hair is the ultimate canvas for creativity. Whether you prefer the sleekness of a Simple Chignon or the playful vibe of a Bubble Ponytail, these 20 easy updos for medium hair prove that you don’t need hours at the salon to look spectacular. Grab your pins, a bit of texturizing spray, and start experimenting.