60 Trendiest Updos for Medium Length Hair

A medium length may set some restrictions on variability of hairstyles, since some ‘dos really look more advantageous on longer lengths. However, with shoulder-grazing hair you can also afford plenty of gorgeous updos which won’t ever give out your actual length. Updo hairstyles are an urgent topic for summer days when you need to keep your locks off the face and more or less organized. Besides, every formal event suggests an elegant ‘do, preferably a pulled up style. Whether you’ve dropped in to check on fresh ideas for casual looks or formal updos for shoulder-length hair, you are going to find here both. So, better take some minutes to check what we’ve found for you on the subject.

What updos are the best for medium length? It, certainly, depends on the occasion. However, we can sum up the most popular hairstyles for mid length and create a sort of summary on this topic. In brief, we can list these: buns, simple knots and French knots, braided updos and up hairstyles with tucked ends. Read further for a more detailed review.

Best Updos for Medium Length Hair

1. Buns. A bun is probably the easiest updo you can do yourself. With medium length hair that is not thick enough, you may lack body which eventually tells on the bun’s size. Backcombing helps to add body and visually enlarge the bun’s size.
2. Knots. Modern knots are rather loose and messy. Tease your hair at the roots to provide some lift around your face and make a low or high “imperfect” knot. Once it’s ready and fixed, you may pull at occasional strands to make loops. Don’t forget that deliberately messy styles are currently trendy.
3. Braids. A rare casual updo comes these days without a braid. Whether it’s a chunky crown braid or a tight thin braid on one side to complement a bun, braids are very welcome in modern updos.
4. Multi-component styles. Sometimes we do not want to keep it plain. The fanciest hairstyle designs come from multi-component hairstyles, combining, for example, twists and curls, a braid and a bun, a braid and a knot, etc. You may also create your own style, drawing inspiration from the following ideas.

#1: Chunky Braid Updo

Instagram / @sabrinadijkman

Updos can also be casual. Take this french braid for instance. The exaggerated weaving is totally cool and effortless. Even though it’s a more laid-back look, it works for everything from brunch with the girls to days at work. Dress it up with accessories for a formal affair.

#2: Blonde Bouffant Up Do

Fine hair can look incredibly flat in updo hairstyles because the strands have less width than average. In some cases, especially with light-colored hair, you can see the scalp peeking through. To combat this, create some height through the crown with a big bouffant.

#3: Fancy Roll for Medium Hair

If you opt for a simple look like this messy looped style, it would help to have some chunky highlights to add visual interest. They are especially exciting when twisted together to create a swirled mix of caramel and coffee hues.

Instagram/ @alexkhoeunhair

#4: Cute Loopy Twisted Updo

Having medium hair doesn’t mean you can’t pull off a beautiful updo. This pretty twisted style makes fine hair look super thick and voluminous! The next time you have a wedding to attend, make this style your partner-in-crime. You can even stick a small flower or jeweled barrette in for detail!

Instagram / @kellgrace

#5: French Roll for Thin Medium Hair

Beautiful updos for shoulder length hair aren’t few and far between thanks to formal hairstyles like this one. The French Roll will help your thin hair stand out and look even more luscious than it is, even without extensions! Loosen a couple of strands around the face for softness.

Instagram / @kellgrace

#6: Formal Sleek Looped Updo

Intricate details make formal updos standout. Looping and weaving are not only visually intriguing, but also refined. Let down a couple of tendrils of hair around the face as a romantic and endearing finishing touch.

Instagram / @styles_by_reneemarie

#7: Loose Updo with a Diagonal Braid

A cute diagonal dutch braid is the short version of Elsa’s hair. With a wide braid across the back of your head, you’ll feel like a princess. The looseness helps keep the style casual, but it’s formal enough to wear even to prom!

Instagram / @goldplaited_

#8: Voluminous Messy Bun for Medium Hair

Who doesn’t appreciate an easy messy bun? No one would ever guess you were actually rushing to work or class when you gathered your bedhead hair into a low bun. The key to making this style work is not making it look too put together. The loose strands are flirty and feminine.

Instagram / @veronika_belyanko

#9: Fancy Loopy Updo for Medium Hair

Updos for medium hair come in all shapes and sizes, including this loopy style you can wear with bangs. Whether your bangs are cut straight across the forehead or side swept, they will top off this style with girly delicacy.

Instagram / @canaryrocksalon

#10: Messy Updo for Bob Length Hair

Texture is the key to a cool style. Whether your tresses are wrapped up tight or hang down your back, the piecey layered look teamed with waves is always going to be a magnet for compliments. The only thing that could make it better is a balayage.

Instagram / @blushandmane

#11: Elegant Buns and Chignons

Minimalism is a major trend in fashion, and it can easily be applied to the beauty industry as well. In fact, the simple, but elegant hairstyles you see here would be the perfect accent to a polished shift dress or a cashmere sweater and midi skirt.

Source: 1, 2, 3, 4

#12: Messy Wavy Updo for Shorter Hair

Attending an event that’s more casual and relaxed? A boho-chic updo like this wavy mess packs color and texture into one amazing style. Highlighted waves are the focal point and will make you feel like the star of the show.

Instagram / @vlrenteriahair

#13: Messy Wrapped Chignon

The messy chignon, popularized by fashion icons like Lauren Conrad, still remains a consistent trend. For this hairstyle to truly shine, utilize day two or three hair to achieve the optimal level of messiness. Section off a chunky piece on each side, and make a low looped pony from the remaining hair. Wrap the side sections around the chignon and hide their ends under the elastic or pin with bobby pins.

Instagram / @les_allures

#14: Low Wavy Messy Updo

A messy updo will always be in style. The highlighted waves give chic hairdos like this one enhanced texture and easy detail. Pair it with statement earrings or a necklace, and you’re good to go! As always, loose wavy strands are the key to most bedhead looks.

Instagram / @kapsalonploegmakers

#15: Low Messy Knot Updo for Shorter Hair

Simple medium length updos often trick others into thinking you’ve spent more time on your hair than you actually did. The low knot is perfect for a weekend jaunt around town, a night out at a club, or a dinner with your girls.

Instagram / @jodycallanhair

#16: Low Curly Updo with a Small Bouffant

Successful easy updos for medium hair always look like a lot more effort went into creating them. At home, try teasing the crown of the head and styling the hair half up, half down. Then curl the ends and pin the ringlets of the lower half of the hair up without any particular pattern.

Instagram / @hairbybritny

#17: Delicate Curly Updo for Medium Hair

Always cute and always ready for a special event, curls are a classic for a reason. They are charming and flattering on any face shape. Plus, their spirals bring a dose of dimension and texture to your updo.

Instagram / @hairbybritny

#18: Twisted Crown Half Updo

Sometimes it’s tricky to create an updo with mid-length locks. If that’s your case, just go with a half up, half down hairstyle. Make two French twists from either side of your head and join them in the middle with bobby pins. If you want to add a little more oomph, you can’t go wrong with waves.

Instagram / @larougeartistry

#19: Low Flower Bun Updo

The rose tone of this hairstyle adds to the gorgeousness, but you can rock a low flower bun updo no matter what hair color you have. No need to add a faux flower accessory, the petals are built in for maximum detail.

Instagram / @annette_updo_artist

#20: Romantic Updo for Tousled Balayage Hair

When coming up with your dream prom hairstyle, definitely consider an updo. It’s classy and endearing and won’t distract from your gown, while still holding its own merit. The twists and curls are super cute and youthful. But, add in a few loose strands for a touch of much-needed movement.

Instagram / @blushandadore

#21: Loose Messy Updos

One of the shining points of Dolce & Gabbana’s show was the hair and makeup. Not only do they make a striking statement on the runways, but the messy updos for medium hair paired with a dark romantic lip and gilded accessories would be perfect for your next formal event.

Source: 1, 2, 3, 4

#22: Contemporary French Roll Updos

Despite the previous look, there is some advantage to wearing a more traditional updo, like a French twist — especially if you are a busy woman who has to juggle many different kinds of events in one day. Easy updos, which can be done in 10 minutes or less, are your best bet.

Source: 1, 2, 3, 4

#23: Loose Messy French Braided Updo

Enliven your locks and try an updo with bangs. This way your coif looks good in the front and back. The thin tendrils and fringe are sweet finishing touches that perfectly complement the romantic allure of a braided chignon.

Instagram / @sunkissedandmadeup

#24: Messy Chignon for Medium Hair

Hairdos for medium hair are not restricted to loosely waved bobs. Elevate your locks with a chignon. Feather out small sections of the updo to create texture, dimension and body. Without long locks or extensions, your bun might be lacking those key traits.

Instagram / @shelbyweatherholtzhair

#25: Lovely Twisted and Tied Updo

The weaving and knotting are neat and sophisticated. A few twists and pins are not difficult to do yourself on a daily basis but if you want something special for a special occasion it’s better to trust your locks to a trustworthy stylist.

Instagram / @rootedhairstudiolq

#26: Swirled and Pinned Updo

Up styles are great because you have so many styling options. A big barrel swirl gives the look of movement to your coif even though it’s held perfectly in place. The swooping and curves bring in that whimsical-yet refined-allure.

Instagram / @sova_hair

#27: Romantic Loose Curly Updo

Easy hairstyles for medium hair can really be as simple as styling big curls and creating a half up, half down style. Or experiment with a small chignon and curls spiraling out of it. The beauty of curls is that even if your hairdo isn’t perfectly neat, it will still look fabulous.

Instagram / @krystlewaiviohair

#28: Low Twisted and Tucked Updo

If you have the wedding in the nearest future, you need to make sure your look is ready! The tucked and braided low updo is an elegant formal option to consider. Set with hair spray so you can dance the night away!

Instagram / @heatherchapmanhair

#29: Twist and Pin Messy Updo

Sometimes the main attraction of updo hairstyles is in details. Several twisted rows of hair will make you look like you’re wearing a crown. Experiment with twists and braids to come up with your own lovely low updo. Loose tendrils on the sides are a nice finishing touch.

Instagram / @hair_by_laurasteiner

#30: Wavy Messy Low Bun Updo

Refreshing second day hair is easy: a little dry shampoo and a curling wand will give you a quick, textured beach wave. The third day after a wash is a little trickier, a little oiler, and has a few more unruly strands. The solution for this is a wavy updo; one that extends your previous style.

Instagram / @morganhairco

#31: Classy Bob Half Updo with Chain Braids

If your hair is too short to be pulled into easy updos for medium hair, master a few quick half updos. It also works well for those who don’t feel comfortable with all of their locks away from the face but want to change up the casual downdo style. Pairing the braid with a mini-bouffant contributes a sophisticated vibe.

Instagram / @annettewilkinsondesigns

#32: Textured Chignon Updo with Braided Elements

A sleek, shiny updo is made seemingly effortless by the incorporated braided elements. The strategic placement of plaits makes or breaks the look. In this case, it adds a detail around the crown and breaks up the formality of the hairstyle.

Instagram / @shelbyweatherholtzhair

#33: Tuck Updo with a Big Bouffant

The bigger the better, especially when it comes to bouffants! Big sexy hair comes to life with maximum volume on top. Loose textured locks make the look messy but magnificent. Try this updo with bangs swept to the side.

Instagram / @ashandcobridalhair

#34: Messy Low Chignon

This is a versatile coiffure for a semi-formal event or everyday wear! Show off the multiple tones of your hair color, whether you have highlights or balayage, and play around with your messy-chic chignon!

Instagram / @kellymccormickhair

#35: Side Braid-to-Bun Updo

This classic side-braided updo looks like something from a romantic black-and-white movie. Show the world you’re a classy lady when you shape rolled waves into a side bun. Whether you’re a bridesmaid or the bride, this style can work for you!

Instagram / @sweethearts_hair

#36: Low Messy Wavy Bun for Shorter Hair

When it comes to updos for medium length hair, it’s comforting to know the low bun is always there for you. A bit of pulling at waves creates easy texture, while the wavy tendrils near the face are a soft touch.

Instagram / @oliviahalpin

#37: Loose Curly Updos

Women who are fans of the romantic updo hairstyles in period movies like Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice will love these looks. These styles are pretty formal on their own, but you can take them up a notch with accessories like flowers or barrettes.

Source: 1, 2, 3, 4

#38: Loose Rolled Bun

When it comes to updos for medium length hair, buns are not only a classy choice, but they also protect your ends from damage. As the hair rubs against clothing, friction breaks the cuticles and moisture is drawn away from the hair shafts, especially if you like to wear cotton tops, shirts, T-shirts, etc.

Instagram / @sarahwhair

#39: Knotted Mohawk Updo

Something you don’t see everyday, eh? Mohawk braids become more creative! If a low bun isn’t your thing, such a fancy braided Mohawk can work as a casual ‘do or a formal hairstyle. A few well-placed rhinestones or other accessories take the look up a notch.

Instagram / @fairclothfancy

#40: Messy Curly Updo with Face-Framing Tendrils

Commonly polished and neat updos compliment mature ladies, and younger women more often prefer a less refined finish. Pulling face-framing tendrils out and embracing an untamed curl can take medium length updos from polished to age-appropriate.

Instagram / @anyaganea

#41: Big Bouffant Updo for Shorter Hair

Short-haired girls unite! You may not have the length, but a bouffant updo is not out of reach for you. An easy style with not much effort, it’s a cute way to express your playful side.

Instagram / @gracestarbeauty

#42: Bob with Half Up Mohawk Braid

Looking for medium hair updos that don’t involve a bun? How about this half up fishtail braid? From the intricate braiding on the top to the loose flowing curls on the bottom, there are a few levels of awesome in this hairstyle.

Instagram / @cathie.mills

#43: Rosette Side Updo

Sometimes it’s the details that matter. At first glance this appears to be a simple side bun, but upon further inspection one notices that it resembles the petals of a blooming bud. This look can be casual or classy and can easily take you from work to happy hour.

#44: French Braid and Low Bun

Take the standard chignon to the next level by French braiding along the center of your head and overlapping the side sections at the nape of your neck. This style will work better if you have longer layers that won’t stick out of the braid, but shoulder length hair will work with it, too! Simply pull up the remaining hair into a smaller, cute roll!

Instagram / @harleyannartistry

#45: French Knot with Low Ponytail

Learning new updos for medium hair will add some spice, elegance, and interest to your routine style. One example is the French knot pony – a modern, simple, and sleek take on the low ponytail. The wrap-around technique gives a polished look while simultaneously covering that pesky hair elastic.

Instagram / @chantellemareehair

#46: Low Twisted Updo for Shorter Hair

Simple hair doesn’t have to be boring. It can still have eye-catching details, while also being understated. Updos for medium-length hair can’t offer many inches to work with, so a more minimalist approach is a win-win for those with shorter locks.

Instagram / @hairandmakeupbysteph

#47: Half Updos with Braided Details

Half updos are the best of both worlds; they can pull hair out of your face while still retaining some length to frame it. Braids and twists can take the basic style to the next level; from date night to a debutante ball, this look is a no brainer.

Source: 1, 2, 3, 4

#48: Curly Pinned Updo for Shorter Hair

Are bobs your thing? Don’t worry; there are updos for shoulder-length hair too. Add some barrel curls to your cut, roll your ends upwards around your finger, and then tuck them with a bobby pin. For a touch of edge, bring in a thin braid going across the updo.

Instagram / @ashleyglazerhair

#49: Pinned Up Vintage Wavy Updos

Waves are so versatile – they can be used in a variety of ways within medium hair updos; slicked down finger waves give a retro Old Hollywood vibe, while more intricate loops can appear modern and futuristic.

Source: 1, 2, 3, 4

#50: Loose Braid-to-Bun Updo

Got a wedding coming up? Whether you’re the bride or a guest, an updo should be your go-to hairdo. Make yours unique by combining a fishtail braid with a cute bun. It’s a sleek look that still has volume and texture – the perfection trifecta.

Instagram / @kamalova

#51: Halo Fishtail Braid

Welcome a stunning version of braided updo on the base of fishtail braid. Halo braids are so perfect and at the same time they can look casual thanks to the texture and cute flyaways!

id68672009 / vk.com

#52: Voluminous Platinum Blonde ‘Do

Make a statement on your wedding day with gorgeous platinum blonde hair and a delicate wispy side bang. Add some volume with a bouffant. This is an ideal option for women with thinner hair.

id197408593 / vk.com

#53: Side Curly Bun with Braided Accent

Keep a formal updo from appearing too sweet by adding an interesting braided detail. Flatten the curls into creative coils and gather them into a low voluminous bun for a slightly updated take on the expected look. This is a worthy option for women with medium to long hair.

turnitskaya / vk.com

#54: Loose Low Braided Bun

You have to be strategic with formal hairstyles for medium hair, because you have minimal length to use. Create a small braided bun to make the most out of your locks. It’s much chicer than your usual lob, and will keep your locks off your face during a night on the dance floor.

Instagram / @sarahwhair

#55: Low-Key Loose Updo

Updos for medium hair do not always have to be polished and sleek for formal settings; they are perfect for everyday wear as well. Try a look that’s as low maintenance as possible so that you can spend more time enjoying your day and less time getting ready.

#56: Mid-Ponytail with Sparkled Comb

Gathering curls neither too low, nor high – somewhere in the middle creates the cutest fullness and a ponytail-like effect. Let the tendrils hang for a loose and lush look, leaving a few out around the front to frame the face. A small comb adds visual interest and makes this the perfect look for a prom or school dance.

tkudina / vk.com

#57: Twisted Medium Updo

Let this cute hairstyle for medium length hair inspire you on trying creative ‘dos that look simple yet special! Skip the classic chignon, and roll pieces of twisted hair into an intricate design. A small hairpin partly hidden by your creation will add some extra intrigue.

Instagram / @styles_by_reneemarie

#58: Messy Braid Medium Updo

Ladies with straight, medium length hair, this one is for you! Step away from the curling wand and try out this loose, messy braid. It’s effortlessly gorgeous, and relatively easy to DIY— leave out some pieces to frame your face, create a large braid on one side of your hair and loosely gather the remaining hair at the nape of your neck with bobby pins. Fan out some loops and you are good to go!

Instagram / @tonyastylist

#59: Wavy Pulled Back Bun

This is an excellent example of how to work with medium layered hair! Create this easy hairstyle by styling your hair wavy, and softly gathering it all back sans part. Depending on the length of your hair, arrange what’s left in a messy bun and voila!

Instagram / @sunkissedandmadeup

#60: Gathered Mid-Length Updo

Gathered updos are a go-to hairstyle for many occasions since they are delicate and flattering on all types of hair. It’s also an easy updo for medium hair! Curl your locks with a large barrel wand and gather them into a loose, curly chignon. The beauty of this ‘do is that it doesn’t need to be arranged perfectly to achieve the desired effect.

Instagram / @braidstudio

Well, these were pulled up styles for your shoulder-grazing locks. As you see, medium length provides you with multiple choices in modern updos. Some of them you can do yourself in a matter of minutes and others can be duplicated by a good stylist. Just pick the picture you like and be ready to try on a new stunning look…