Are you looking for versatile and chic ways to style your medium-length hair? Updos are the perfect solution for those days when you want to elevate your look or keep your hair out of your face. Whether you’re heading to work, attending a special event, or just want to switch up your everyday style, these 17 easy updos for medium hair will have you covered. From messy buns to elegant twists, we’ve got a range of options to suit every occasion and personal style.
1. The Messy Top Knot
The messy top knot is a go-to style for many, offering a perfect blend of casual chic and effortless elegance. This versatile updo works well for various occasions, from running errands to attending casual gatherings. The key to this look is embracing imperfection – the messier, the better!
How to achieve the look:
- Gather your hair into a high ponytail
- Twist the ponytail and wrap it around its base
- Secure with bobby pins, leaving some strands loose for a messy effect
- Gently tug at the bun to create more volume and texture
Styling tip:
Use a texturizing spray before styling to add grip and enhance the messy look.
2. Braided Messy Bun
This hairstyle combines the charm of a braid with the ease of a messy bun, creating a look that’s both intricate and effortless. It’s perfect for those who want to add a touch of bohemian flair to their updo.
How to achieve the look:
- Create a loose braid starting from the nape of your neck
- Wrap the braid around itself to form a bun
- Secure with bobby pins
- Gently pull out some strands to create a messy, lived-in look
Styling tip:
If your hair is on the shorter side, consider adding some clip-in extensions for extra length and volume.
3. The French Braided Bun
The French braided bun is a classic updo that adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. This style works well for both formal events and casual outings, making it a versatile option for medium-length hair.
How to achieve the look:
- Start a French braid from the crown of your head
- Continue braiding down to the nape of your neck
- Secure the end of the braid with an elastic
- Wrap the braid around itself to form a bun
- Pin in place and spray with hairspray for hold
Styling tip:
For a more relaxed look, gently tug at the braid to loosen it before forming the bun.
4. Volumized Low Ponytail With Bangs
This chic and simple updo is perfect for those with bangs who want to keep their hair off their neck while maintaining volume. It’s an excellent choice for both professional settings and casual outings.
How to achieve the look:
- Tease the crown of your hair for added volume
- Gather your hair into a low ponytail, leaving your bangs out
- Secure with an elastic
- Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it
- Style your bangs as desired
Styling tip:
Use a volumizing powder at the roots before teasing to create long-lasting lift.
5. Easy Low Bun Updo With Bangs
This elegant yet effortless updo is perfect for those who want a polished look without spending hours styling their hair. The low bun paired with bangs creates a flattering frame for your face.
How to achieve the look:
- Gather your hair into a low ponytail, leaving your bangs out
- Twist the ponytail and wrap it around its base
- Secure with bobby pins
- Style your bangs as desired
- Spray with hairspray for hold
Styling tip:
For a sleeker look, use a smoothing serum before styling to tame any flyaways.
6. Looped Low Knot
The looped low knot is a modern take on the classic chignon. This sophisticated style is perfect for formal events or when you want to add a touch of elegance to your everyday look.
How to achieve the look:
- Create a low ponytail
- Instead of pulling the hair all the way through the elastic on the last loop, leave it half-way to create a loop
- Wrap the loose ends around the base of the loop
- Secure with bobby pins
- Gently tug at the loop to adjust its size and shape
Styling tip:
Use a tail comb to smooth out any bumps or inconsistencies for a polished finish.
7. Easy Updo For Medium Hair With A Chain Braid
This unique updo combines the elegance of a classic bun with the intricate detail of a chain braid. It’s a perfect choice for special occasions or when you want to make a statement with your hairstyle.
How to achieve the look:
- Create a chain braid along one side of your head
- Gather the rest of your hair and the end of the braid into a low bun
- Secure with bobby pins
- Gently loosen the braid and bun for a softer look
Styling tip:
Practice the chain braid technique on a small section of hair before attempting the full style.
8. Volumized Curly Twist Updo With Bangs
This romantic and voluminous updo is perfect for those with naturally curly hair or those willing to add some curls to their medium-length locks. The addition of bangs adds a soft, face-framing element to the style.
How to achieve the look:
- Curl your hair if it’s not naturally curly
- Tease the crown for added volume
- Gather your hair into a high ponytail, leaving your bangs out
- Twist sections of the ponytail and pin them to create a voluminous updo
- Style your bangs as desired
Styling tip:
Use a curl-defining cream before styling to enhance and hold your curls.
9. Loose Low Side Bun
The loose low side bun is a versatile and romantic updo that works well for both casual and formal occasions. This style is particularly flattering for those with medium-length hair as it creates the illusion of longer locks.
How to achieve the look:
- Part your hair to one side
- Gather your hair into a low side ponytail
- Twist the ponytail and wrap it around its base
- Secure with bobby pins
- Gently pull out some face-framing pieces for a softer look
Styling tip:
Use a texturizing spray before styling to add grip and prevent the bun from slipping.
10. Easy Flat Twisted Updo For Medium Length
This sleek and sophisticated updo is perfect for those who want a polished look that stays put all day. It’s an excellent choice for professional settings or formal events.
How to achieve the look:
- Part your hair into two sections
- Flat twist each section towards the back of your head
- Secure the ends of the twists with bobby pins
- Tuck any loose ends under and pin in place
Styling tip:
Use a edge control product to smooth down any baby hairs for a neat finish.
11. The Pencil Knot
The pencil knot is a quick and easy updo that’s perfect for those days when you’re short on time but still want to look put-together. This style works well for various hair textures and is a great way to keep your hair off your neck on hot days.
How to achieve the look:
- Gather your hair into a high ponytail
- Twist the ponytail tightly
- Wrap the twist around itself to form a tight bun
- Secure with bobby pins
- Use a pencil or chopstick to tuck in the ends and create a sleek finish
Styling tip:
For a smoother look, apply a small amount of hair gel or pomade before styling.
12. Easy Twisted Halo Updo For Medium Hair
This angelic updo is perfect for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of whimsy to your look. The halo effect created by the twist is both flattering and eye-catching.
How to achieve the look:
- Part your hair down the middle
- Take a section of hair from each side and twist towards the back
- Continue twisting and pinning around your head
- Tuck the ends under and secure with bobby pins
Styling tip:
Use clear elastic bands to secure the twists before pinning for extra hold.
13. The Pin Curl Bun
The pin curl bun is a retro-inspired updo that adds a touch of vintage glamour to any outfit. This style is perfect for those who want to create the illusion of more volume in their medium-length hair.
How to achieve the look:
- Create pin curls all over your head and secure with bobby pins
- Allow the curls to set (you can speed up this process with a hair dryer)
- Gently brush out the curls
- Gather your hair into a low bun
- Shape the bun to create a voluminous, curled effect
Styling tip:
Use a heat protectant spray before creating pin curls with a curling iron for a quicker version of this style.
14. Easy Braided Ponytail ‘Do For Medium Length
This playful updo combines the ease of a ponytail with the intricate detail of braids. It’s a great option for those who want to keep their hair off their face while still maintaining a stylish look.
How to achieve the look:
- Create two or three braids on one side of your head
- Gather all your hair, including the braids, into a high ponytail
- Secure with an elastic
- Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it
Styling tip:
Use different braiding techniques (French braid, Dutch braid, fishtail) for added interest.
15. Low Roll With Braids
This elegant updo combines the sophistication of a low roll with the playful detail of braids. It’s perfect for formal events or when you want to add a touch of romance to your look.
How to achieve the look:
- Create two or three braids on one side of your head
- Roll the rest of your hair, including the braids, into a low roll at the nape of your neck
- Secure with bobby pins
- Gently tug at the roll to create a softer, more voluminous look
Styling tip:
Use a small amount of hair wax or pomade to smooth down any flyaways for a polished finish.
16. Twisted Glam Bun Updo For Mid-Length Hai
This glamorous updo is perfect for special occasions or when you want to make a statement with your hairstyle. The twisted elements add interest and texture to the classic bun shape.
How to achieve the look:
- Divide your hair into several sections
- Twist each section and pin it to create a voluminous, textured bun
- Secure any loose ends with bobby pins
- Spray with hairspray for hold
Styling tip:
Add some sparkly hair accessories for extra glamour.
17. Easy Colorful Braided Bun Updo For Medium Hair
This fun and vibrant updo is perfect for those who want to add a pop of color to their hairstyle. It’s a great way to express your personality and stand out from the crowd.
How to achieve the look:
- Add some colorful hair extensions or clip-ins to your hair
- Create several braids, incorporating the colorful pieces
- Gather the braids into a bun
- Secure with bobby pins
- Arrange the braids to show off the colorful elements
Styling tip:
Choose temporary hair color sprays or chalks for a commitment-free way to add color to your updo.
Conclusion
These 17 easy updos for medium hair offer a variety of styles to suit any occasion, from casual everyday looks to glamorous evening styles. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t turn out exactly as planned. With a little patience and some bobby pins, you’ll be creating beautiful updos in no time.
Whether you prefer sleek and polished styles or more relaxed, messy looks, there’s an updo here for everyone. Don’t be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on these styles – the best hairstyles are those that make you feel confident and beautiful. Happy styling!