Planning the perfect wedding look extends beyond the dress, and choosing the right hairstyle for your bridesmaids can make or break the entire aesthetic.
Medium-length hair offers the perfect canvas for creating stunning updo hairstyles that are both elegant and practical for a wedding celebration.
This comprehensive guide to 30 Trendy Bridesmaid Updo Hairstyles for Medium Hair will transform your bridal party into a vision of coordinated beauty while ensuring each bridesmaid feels confident and comfortable throughout your special day.
This article explores a diverse range of updo styles specifically curated for medium-length hair, from classic chignons to modern braided creations.
You’ll discover detailed styling techniques, professional tips for long-lasting hold, and creative variations that complement different face shapes and wedding themes.
Each hairstyle section includes step-by-step guidance, recommended hair accessories, and maintenance tips to ensure your bridesmaids look flawless from ceremony to reception.
1. Classic Low Chignon
The classic low chignon remains a timeless choice that exudes sophistication and elegance for any wedding setting. This versatile style works beautifully with medium-length hair and can be customized with various textures and accessories to match your wedding theme.
- Start by creating a deep side part and gently teasing the crown area for subtle volume
- Gather all hair at the nape of the neck, securing with a clear elastic band
- Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base, creating a neat bun shape
- Pin the ends underneath the bun using bobby pins that match the hair color
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray for all-day hold
- Add delicate pearl pins or small flowers for an extra touch of romance
2. Romantic Side-Swept Updo
This dreamy hairstyle combines the elegance of an updo with the softness of side-swept styling, perfect for outdoor or garden weddings.
The romantic side-swept updo flatters most face shapes and adds a touch of whimsical charm to any bridal party.
- Create a dramatic deep side part, leaving face-framing pieces loose on one side
- Gently curl the loose sections away from the face using a 1-inch curling iron
- Gather the remaining hair into a low ponytail positioned slightly off-center
- Loosely twist and pin sections of the ponytail to create an asymmetrical updo
- Allow some pieces to fall naturally for a soft, romantic texture
- Secure with bobby pins and finish with flexible hold hairspray
3. Braided Crown Updo
The braided crown updo combines the intricate beauty of braiding with the practicality of an updo, creating a regal look perfect for formal weddings.
This style showcases the versatility of medium-length hair while adding textural interest to the overall bridal party aesthetic.
- Begin by sectioning off the front hairline from ear to ear
- Create a Dutch braid along the hairline, incorporating hair as you move from one side to the other
- Continue the braid until you reach the opposite ear, then secure with a small clear elastic
- Gather the remaining hair at the back into a low bun or chignon
- Wrap the braided section around the head like a crown, pinning it securely
- Tuck the end of the braid into the bun and finish with setting spray
4. Twisted Side Bun
This contemporary take on the classic side bun incorporates twisted elements that add dimension and visual interest to medium-length hair.
The twisted side bun strikes the perfect balance between modern sophistication and timeless elegance.
- Part hair deeply on one side and begin creating loose twists on both sides of the head
- Gradually incorporate more hair into each twist as you work toward the back
- Bring both twists together at one side of the nape, securing with bobby pins
- Twist the remaining length and coil it into a bun shape
- Pin the bun securely, allowing some texture to show through
- Gently pull at the twists to create a fuller, more voluminous appearance
5. Messy Top Knot
The effortlessly chic messy top knot brings a relaxed yet polished vibe to any wedding celebration.
This style is particularly flattering on medium-length hair and works well for both casual and formal wedding settings.
- Brush hair straight back without a part, gathering it high on the crown
- Create a high ponytail, leaving the last pull-through loose to form a loop
- Wrap the remaining hair around the base of the loop
- Gently pull at sections of the bun to create controlled messiness
- Allow some shorter pieces to frame the face naturally
- Secure with bobby pins and use texturizing spray for added grip
6. French Twist with Decorative Pins
The sophisticated French twist gets a modern update with strategically placed decorative pins that add sparkle and personality to this classic updo.
This elegant style showcases the length and texture of medium hair beautifully.
- Start with slightly textured hair for better grip and volume
- Gather hair to one side at the nape of the neck
- Begin twisting the hair upward along the back of the head
- Continue twisting until you reach the crown area
- Tuck the ends under and secure with bobby pins along the twist
- Add decorative pins, crystals, or small flowers at intervals along the twist
7. Half-Up Braided Bun
This versatile style combines the best of both worlds by keeping some hair down while creating an intricate braided element at the crown.
The half-up braided bun is perfect for bridesmaids who want to showcase their medium-length hair while maintaining an updo element.
- Section off the top third of hair from temple to temple
- Create a Dutch or French braid starting at the crown and working backward
- Secure the braid with a clear elastic at the crown area
- Twist the braided section into a small bun and pin securely
- Leave the remaining hair down in loose waves or straight
- Add volume to the lower section with light backcombing if desired
8. Low Ponytail Updo
The sophisticated low ponytail updo elevates the simple ponytail into an elegant formal style perfect for wedding celebrations.
This refined look works exceptionally well with medium-length hair and can be customized with various wrapping techniques.
- Create a sleek center or side part using a fine-tooth comb
- Smooth hair back into a low ponytail positioned at the nape
- Take a small section from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to hide it
- Gently tease the ponytail for added volume and texture
- Twist or loosely braid the length and coil it into an updo shape
- Secure with bobby pins and finish with shine spray
9. Vintage Victory Rolls
Bring retro glamour to your bridal party with stunning vintage victory rolls that perfectly complement medium-length hair.
This classic 1940s-inspired style adds drama and sophistication to any wedding theme, especially vintage or old Hollywood-themed celebrations.
- Begin with dry, lightly textured hair for better hold
- Section hair from ear to ear, working with the front section first
- Create large barrel curls using a 2-inch curling iron
- Roll each curl backward toward the scalp, pinning in place to form the roll shape
- Repeat on the opposite side, creating symmetrical rolls
- Style the back section into a complementary updo or leave in vintage waves
10. Boho Braided Updo
Perfect for outdoor or bohemian-themed weddings, this relaxed braided updo incorporates multiple braiding techniques to create a textured, organic look.
The boho braided updo celebrates the natural movement and length of medium hair while maintaining an elegant updo silhouette.
- Start with lightly tousled, textured hair
- Create several small braids throughout the hair, varying between Dutch and regular braids
- Leave some sections unbraided for added texture and movement
- Gather all elements into a low, loose bun at the base of the neck
- Pin sections randomly rather than perfectly, embracing the undone aesthetic
- Pull gently at the braids to create a fuller, more voluminous appearance
11. Sleek Center Part Bun
This modern minimalist approach to the classic bun emphasizes clean lines and sophisticated simplicity.
The sleek center part bun is ideal for contemporary weddings and looks stunning on medium-length hair with its refined aesthetic.
- Create a precise center part using a rat-tail comb
- Apply smoothing serum to damp hair before blow-drying straight
- Gather hair into a low ponytail, ensuring perfect smoothness
- Twist the ponytail tightly and wrap into a compact bun
- Secure with bobby pins placed strategically around the base
- Finish with strong-hold hairspray and a shine serum for glossy results
12. Textured Side Chignon
The textured side chignon adds contemporary flair to the traditional chignon by incorporating deliberate texture and asymmetrical placement.
This sophisticated style showcases the versatility of medium-length hair while maintaining bridal elegance.
- Begin by creating loose waves throughout the hair using a diffuser or curling iron
- Part hair deeply to one side, leaving face-framing pieces loose
- Gather hair to one side at the nape, maintaining the natural texture
- Loosely twist and pin sections to create an organic, textured chignon
- Allow some pieces to escape naturally for a soft, romantic finish
- Secure with bobby pins and light-hold hairspray to maintain movement
13. Gibson Tuck
This classic Victorian-era inspired style brings timeless elegance to modern weddings while working beautifully with medium-length hair.
The Gibson tuck creates the illusion of shorter hair while maintaining sophistication and grace.
- Part hair in the center or slightly off-center
- Create a low ponytail, leaving it slightly loose at the base
- Create a gap above the elastic and flip the ponytail up and through the opening
- Continue tucking and rolling the hair under itself
- Pin the tucked hair securely along the nape
- Smooth any flyaways and finish with flexible-hold hairspray
14. Asymmetrical Updo
Make a modern statement with an asymmetrical updo that plays with balance and visual interest.
This contemporary style is perfect for fashion-forward brides who want their bridesmaids to showcase current trends while maintaining wedding-appropriate elegance.
- Create an off-center part, positioning it dramatically to one side
- Sweep the larger section across the head, creating volume at the crown
- Secure the hair in an updo positioned to one side of the head
- Leave the shorter side sleek and close to the head
- Add texture to the updo portion while keeping the swept side smooth
- Balance the asymmetry with strategic bobby pin placement
15. Dutch Braid into Bun
Combine the intricate beauty of Dutch braiding with the practicality of a bun to create this versatile and long-lasting style.
The Dutch braid into bun works exceptionally well with medium-length hair and provides all-day security for active wedding celebrations.
- Begin with a Dutch braid at the hairline, starting from the forehead
- Continue the braid straight back, incorporating hair from both sides
- Braid until you reach the nape of the neck
- Secure the braid with a clear elastic
- Coil the remaining length into a bun and pin securely
- Gently pull at the braid sections to create fuller, more voluminous appearance
16. Fishtail Bun
The intricate fishtail braid transforms into an elegant bun that showcases advanced braiding techniques while remaining appropriate for formal wedding settings.
This style highlights the texture and movement possible with medium-length hair.
- Start with lightly textured hair for better grip
- Create a low ponytail and divide it into two sections
- Begin the fishtail braid by crossing small sections from outside edge to inside
- Continue braiding until you reach the ends
- Gently pull at the braid to create width and texture
- Coil the fishtail braid into a bun and secure with bobby pins
17. Rolled Updo
This sophisticated rolled updo creates elegant curves and dimensions that flatter the neckline and showcase beautiful earrings.
The rolled technique works particularly well with medium-length hair, providing enough length for substantial rolls while maintaining manageability.
- Section hair horizontally from ear to ear
- Begin with the bottom section, rolling it upward and pinning at the nape
- Continue with successive sections, each rolled slightly higher than the previous
- Create overlapping rolls that build upon each other
- Pin each roll securely before moving to the next section
- Finish with the top section rolled back to complete the style
18. Braided Headband Updo
Combine the charm of a braided headband with the elegance of an updo to create this romantic and practical hairstyle.
The braided headband updo works beautifully with medium-length hair and adds bohemian touches to traditional wedding styling.
- Section off hair from ear to ear across the top of the head
- Create a three-strand braid along the hairline from one side to the other
- Secure the braid end with a small clear elastic
- Gather remaining hair into a low bun or chignon
- Position the braid like a headband across the forehead
- Pin the braid ends into the updo and secure with bobby pins
19. Knotted Updo
This modern approach to formal hair styling uses strategic knotting techniques to create visual interest and contemporary flair.
The knotted updo is perfect for fashion-conscious bridesmaids who want to showcase current trends while maintaining wedding appropriateness.
- Divide hair into several sections working from bottom to top
- Create loose knots by looping sections through themselves
- Stack the knots vertically along the back of the head
- Leave some ends loose for texture and movement
- Pin each knot securely while maintaining the deliberate imperfection
- Finish with texturizing spray to enhance the undone aesthetic
20. Side-Pinned Chignon
This elegant variation of the classic chignon incorporates side-swept elements and strategic pinning for a sophisticated look that flatters various face shapes.
The side-pinned chignon works exceptionally well with medium-length hair and can be customized with different textures.
- Create a deep side part and sweep hair dramatically to one side
- Gather hair at the side of the nape rather than center back
- Twist the ponytail and begin forming the chignon shape
- Pin the chignon securely while allowing some texture to show
- Leave face-framing pieces loose for softness
- Secure with bobby pins and finish with flexible-hold spray
21. Twisted Crown Braid
Elevate your bridal party’s look with this regal twisted crown braid that creates the appearance of a natural hair tiara.
This intricate style showcases advanced styling techniques while remaining practical for long wedding days.
- Section hair from temple to temple across the crown
- Begin twisting small sections, gradually incorporating more hair
- Continue the twist around the head like a crown
- Secure the twist with bobby pins as you work
- Style remaining hair into complementary updo
- Finish by pulling gently at the twist to create fuller appearance
22. Low Braided Bun
This versatile style combines the texture of braiding with the practicality of a low bun, creating a look that’s both sophisticated and secure.
The low braided bun is perfect for outdoor weddings where wind might be a concern.
- Start with a low ponytail positioned at the nape of the neck
- Divide the ponytail into three sections for a traditional braid
- Braid the entire length and secure with a clear elastic
- Wrap the braid around the base to form a bun shape
- Pin the bun securely, hiding the elastic underneath
- Pull gently at braid sections to create fuller, more textured appearance
23. Vintage Finger Waves Updo
Bring old Hollywood glamour to your wedding with sophisticated finger waves that transition into an elegant updo.
This retro-inspired style works beautifully with medium-length hair and adds dramatic flair to formal wedding celebrations.
- Begin with damp hair and apply strong-hold styling gel
- Create S-shaped waves using your fingers and a fine-tooth comb
- Work systematically from hairline back, creating uniform waves
- Allow waves to set completely before styling the back section
- Gather the back hair into a low chignon or victory roll
- Finish with strong-hold hairspray to maintain the sculptured look
24. Braided Side Sweep
This romantic style combines braiding techniques with side-swept styling to create movement and texture while maintaining formal elegance.
The braided side sweep showcases the versatility of medium-length hair beautifully.
- Create a dramatic deep side part
- Begin a loose side braid starting from the larger side of the part
- Incorporate hair gradually as you braid toward the opposite ear
- Continue braiding loosely to maintain soft, romantic texture
- Pin the braid behind the opposite ear
- Style remaining hair in loose waves or straight depending on preference
25. Double Dutch Braids into Bun
Create intricate braided detail with double Dutch braids that converge into a sophisticated bun.
This athletic-inspired style adapted for formal wear provides excellent security while showcasing advanced braiding skills.
- Part hair down the center from forehead to nape
- Create Dutch braids on each side, starting from the hairline
- Continue braiding until you reach the nape of the neck
- Secure both braids with clear elastics
- Twist the braids together and form into a bun shape
- Pin securely and pull gently at braids to create fuller appearance
26. Textured Low Updo
This effortlessly elegant style emphasizes natural texture and movement while maintaining the sophistication required for formal weddings.
The textured low updo works particularly well with medium-length hair that has natural wave or curl.
- Begin with hair that has natural texture or create waves with a curling iron
- Loosely gather hair at the nape, maintaining the natural movement
- Pin sections randomly rather than creating perfect structure
- Allow some pieces to frame the face naturally
- Focus on creating controlled messiness rather than perfect precision
- Finish with light-hold spray to maintain natural movement
27. French Braid Crown
This intricate braided crown creates a halo effect that’s both romantic and regal, perfect for outdoor or garden weddings.
The French braid crown showcases detailed braiding work while maintaining bridal elegance.
- Begin with a French braid at one ear, working along the hairline
- Continue the braid around the head like a headband
- Incorporate hair from the outside only, creating the crown effect
- Complete the circle by connecting back to the starting point
- Pin the connection point securely and hide ends
- Style remaining hair in loose waves or a complementary updo
28. Pinned Back Waves
This classic Hollywood-inspired style combines the elegance of finger waves with modern pinning techniques for a timeless look.
Pinned back waves work beautifully with medium-length hair and complement vintage or formal wedding themes.
- Create uniform waves throughout the hair using hot rollers or curling iron
- Brush waves gently to create smooth, connected curves
- Pin one side back dramatically, creating asymmetrical styling
- Leave the opposite side loose to cascade over the shoulder
- Use decorative pins or combs to secure the pinned section
- Finish with shine spray for glossy, polished appearance
29. Basket Weave Bun
This intricate braiding technique creates the appearance of a woven basket in bun form, showcasing advanced styling skills while maintaining wedding-appropriate elegance.
The basket weave bun is perfect for bridesmaids who want to display unique braiding artistry.
- Begin with a ponytail positioned where you want the bun
- Divide ponytail into four equal sections
- Weave sections over and under each other in basket pattern
- Continue weaving until you reach the ends of hair
- Coil the woven length into a bun shape
- Pin securely while maintaining the visible weave pattern
30. Romantic Twisted Updo
Complete your collection with this dreamy romantic twisted updo that combines multiple twisting techniques for a soft, ethereal look.
This style celebrates the natural movement of medium-length hair while maintaining formal sophistication.
- Create loose waves throughout the hair for added texture
- Begin twisting small sections from various points around the head
- Pin twists at different heights to create organic, flowing movement
- Allow some shorter pieces to frame the face naturally
- Focus on creating romantic imperfection rather than structured precision
- Finish with light-hold spray to maintain natural movement and softness
The world of bridal hair styling offers endless possibilities, and these 30 Trendy Bridesmaid Updo Hairstyles for Medium Hair provide the perfect foundation for creating a coordinated, beautiful bridal party.
Each style has been carefully selected to work specifically with medium-length hair while offering varying levels of complexity to suit different skill levels and time constraints.
From timeless classics like the low chignon to modern innovations like the basket weave bun, these hairstyles ensure your bridesmaids will look stunning while feeling comfortable and confident throughout your wedding celebration.
Remember that the key to successful wedding hair lies in choosing styles that complement both your wedding theme and your bridesmaids’ individual features, creating a harmonious look that enhances the beauty of your special day.
