37 Easy Updos for Medium Hair for Beginners You Can Master

Medium-length hair offers the perfect canvas for creating stunning updos that strike the ideal balance between elegance and simplicity.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by complex hairstyling tutorials or worried that your hair isn’t long enough for sophisticated updos, this comprehensive guide will change your perspective entirely.

These 37 Easy Updos for Medium Hair for Beginners You Can Master have been carefully selected and simplified to ensure that anyone can achieve salon-worthy results at home with minimal tools and experience

From quick five-minute styles perfect for busy mornings to more elaborate looks suitable for special occasions, each updo tutorial breaks down seemingly complex techniques into manageable steps that build your confidence and skills progressively.

Whether you’re preparing for a job interview, date night, wedding, or simply want to elevate your everyday look, these versatile styles work beautifully with shoulder-length to collarbone-length hair while requiring only basic tools like bobby pins, hair ties, and perhaps a curling iron.

Discover foolproof methods that accommodate different hair textures, learn professional tricks that ensure long-lasting hold, and master the art of creating effortlessly chic updos that will become your go-to styling repertoire for any occasion.

1. Classic Low Bun with Twist Detail

The classic low bun enhanced with a simple twist detail provides an elegant foundation for mastering updo basics.

This timeless style teaches fundamental techniques while creating a polished look that works for both professional settings and casual outings, making it the perfect starting point for beginners.

Start with day-old hair or apply texturizing spray for better grip and hold
Create a side part and section off a small piece from the front of the heavier side
Twist this front section loosely back toward the ear while gathering remaining hair
Combine the twisted section with the rest of your hair at the nape of the neck
Secure everything into a low ponytail using a hair elastic that matches your hair color
Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base to form a bun
Secure the bun with bobby pins inserted at different angles for maximum hold
Gently tug at the twist and bun to create subtle volume and a relaxed finish

2. Simple Half-Up Bun

The simple half-up bun offers the perfect introduction to partial updos while maintaining the beauty of flowing hair.

This versatile style requires minimal skill but delivers maximum impact, making it ideal for beginners who want to practice basic bun-making techniques without committing to a full updo.

Section the top half of your hair from temple to temple, creating a horizontal part
Gather this top section at the crown of your head where you want the bun positioned
Secure the section with a clear or matching elastic band
Twist the ponytail and begin wrapping it around the base
Continue wrapping until all hair is incorporated into a small bun
Secure with bobby pins, inserting them into the bun at various angles
Leave the bottom half of your hair natural or add loose waves for extra texture
Gently pull at the bun edges to create a fuller, more relaxed appearance

3. Easy Side-Swept Updo

The easy side-swept updo creates asymmetrical elegance through simple gathering and pinning techniques.

This beginner-friendly style teaches the fundamentals of creating height and volume while working with medium-length hair’s natural limitations to achieve sophisticated results.

Create a deep side part and apply volumizing mousse to add body and texture
Sweep all hair to the opposite side of the part, creating dramatic asymmetry
Begin loosely gathering hair at the nape on the side opposite your part
Twist the gathered hair gently upward and begin pinning it in place
Continue adding sections of hair while maintaining the side-swept direction
Pin each section individually, creating a cascading updo effect
Allow some pieces to frame the face naturally for a soft, romantic finish
Finish with hairspray to ensure the style holds throughout the day

4. Messy Top Knot

The messy top knot embraces imperfection to create effortlessly chic style that’s perfect for casual occasions.

This relaxed updo teaches beginners that not every hairstyle needs to be perfectly polished, while providing essential practice with high positioning and texture creation.

Flip your head upside down and gather all hair at the very top of your head
Secure with an elastic band, but don’t pull the hair completely through on the last wrap
This creates a loop of hair that forms the base of your top knot
Wrap the remaining tail around the base of the loop
Pin the wrapped tail in place with bobby pins
Gently tug at the loop and wrapped sections to create desired messiness
Pull out a few face-framing pieces if desired for a softer look
Use texturizing spray to enhance the deliberately tousled appearance

5. French Twist for Beginners

The beginner-friendly French twist simplifies this classic technique into manageable steps that create timeless sophistication.

This fundamental updo style builds confidence while teaching essential skills that form the foundation for more advanced techniques.

Brush hair to one side and gather it loosely at the nape of your neck
Hold the gathered hair with one hand while creating a vertical line of bobby pins up the back
Begin rolling the hair over these pins, working from bottom to top
Continue rolling until all hair is incorporated into the twist
Secure the top of the twist with additional bobby pins
Tuck any loose ends under and pin them invisibly
Smooth the surface with a brush and apply light-hold hairspray
Gently adjust the twist to ensure it sits evenly against the head

6. Braided Low Bun

The braided low bun combines two essential techniques to create textured elegance that’s surprisingly simple to achieve.

This style introduces beginners to the art of incorporating braids into updos while maintaining an approachable skill level that builds confidence progressively.

Create a low ponytail at the nape and secure with an elastic band
Divide the ponytail into three sections and begin a basic three-strand braid
Braid the entire length and secure the end with a small clear elastic
Gently tug at the braid edges to create fuller, more relaxed texture
Begin wrapping the loosened braid around the base of the ponytail
Pin the braid in place as you wrap, securing each section individually
Tuck the braid end under and pin it invisibly
Adjust the bun shape and add hairspray for lasting hold

7. Twisted Side Bun

The twisted side bun creates asymmetrical beauty through simple twisting techniques that work perfectly with medium-length hair.

This elegant style teaches beginners how to create visual interest through directional styling while maintaining an easy-to-master approach that delivers professional results.

Begin gathering hair toward one side, starting from the opposite side of your part
Twist the hair as you gather it, maintaining tension for a smooth appearance
Continue twisting until you reach the desired position behind one ear
Begin wrapping the twisted hair around itself to form a bun
Secure with bobby pins placed at various points throughout the bun
Create a deep side part and apply light-hold styling cream for manageability
Allow some pieces around the face to remain loose for softness
Finish with flexible-hold hairspray that maintains natural movement

8. Simple Chignon

The simple chignon introduces beginners to this classic French technique through an approachable method that creates timeless elegance.

This fundamental updo builds essential skills while producing sophisticated results that work beautifully for both casual and formal occasions.

Brush hair smooth and gather into a low ponytail at the nape
Secure with an elastic band and smooth any bumps or irregularities
Create a small gap above the elastic by gently separating the hair
Flip the ponytail up and through this gap from underneath
Pull the ponytail through completely and smooth the resulting loop
Tuck the remaining tail up and under, hiding it within the chignon
Secure with bobby pins placed strategically throughout the style
Apply light hairspray to maintain the polished finish

9. Sock Bun Method

The sock bun method provides a foolproof technique for creating perfectly round, voluminous buns using a simple sock donut.

This beginner-friendly approach takes the guesswork out of bun shaping while teaching proper distribution techniques that work especially well with medium-length hair.

Cut the toe off a clean sock and roll it into a donut shape
Create a high ponytail and slide the sock donut down to the base
Spread your hair evenly around the donut, covering it completely
Secure the hair over the donut with another elastic band
Take the remaining hair ends and wrap them around the base of the bun
Pin the wrapped ends in place with bobby pins
Adjust the bun shape and smooth any uneven areas
Apply hairspray for hold and to tame any flyaways

10. Pinned Curls Updo

The pinned curls updo transforms curled hair into elegant sophistication through strategic pinning techniques.

This romantic style teaches beginners how to work with texture while creating formal beauty that’s perfect for special occasions and celebrations.

Curl hair in medium sections using a curling iron or hot rollers
Allow curls to cool completely while you prepare bobby pins
Begin pinning curls individually, starting from one side of the head
Pin each curl by inserting bobby pins through the center of the curl
Work systematically around the head, creating a pattern of pinned curls
Vary the height and position of pinned curls for dimensional interest
Leave a few curls loose around the face for romantic framing
Finish with strong-hold hairspray to maintain curl definition

11. Easy Gibson Tuck

The easy Gibson tuck offers a vintage-inspired technique that creates sophisticated elegance through simple tucking and pinning methods.

This classic style teaches beginners foundational skills while producing results that look far more complex than the actual technique required.

Create a low ponytail and secure with an elastic band at the nape
Make a small gap in the hair just above the elastic
Flip the ponytail up and through this gap from underneath
Continue tucking the remaining length up and under itself
Pin the tucked hair in place, working from both sides toward the center
Adjust the tuck to ensure even distribution and smooth appearance
Gently tug at the sides to create subtle volume
Secure with additional pins and finish with hairspray

12. Double Twisted Bun

The double twisted bun combines two twists for added texture and visual interest while remaining accessible for beginners.

This style teaches multiple technique combination while creating elegant results that work beautifully for both professional and social occasions.

Part hair down the center from forehead to nape
Create two low ponytails on either side of the nape
Twist each ponytail individually in the same direction
Begin wrapping the first twisted ponytail around its own base
Secure the first bun with bobby pins
Repeat the wrapping process with the second twisted ponytail
Position the second bun close to the first, creating a connected appearance
Pin both buns securely and adjust their shape as needed

13. Rope Braid Updo

The rope braid updo introduces beginners to this simple two-strand braiding technique while creating textured elegance.

This style builds braiding confidence through an easier alternative to traditional three-strand braids while producing sophisticated results.

Create a low ponytail and divide it into two equal sections
Twist both sections tightly in the same direction
Begin wrapping the twisted sections around each other in the opposite direction
Continue this rope braiding technique down the entire length
Secure the end with a clear elastic band
Wrap the rope braid around the base of the ponytail
Pin the braid in place as you wrap it around
Tuck the end under and secure with final bobby pins

14. Side Part Low Chignon

The side part low chignon creates asymmetrical sophistication through classic technique with modern appeal.

This elegant style teaches beginners how parting placement can dramatically change the overall look while maintaining simple execution methods.

Create a deep side part using a fine-tooth comb
Apply smoothing serum to control flyaways and add shine
Gather all hair to one side at the base of the neck
Twist the gathered hair and begin forming a low chignon
Pin the chignon securely, maintaining its position on the chosen side
Smooth the hair on the heavier side of the part
Allow some softness around the face on the lighter side
Finish with light hairspray for lasting hold

15. Textured Updo with Bobby Pins

The textured updo with bobby pins teaches beginners how to create elegant dishevelment through strategic pinning techniques.

This modern approach to formal styling embraces natural texture while building confidence in pin placement and style manipulation.

Apply texturizing mousse to damp hair and scrunch while air-drying
Once hair is completely dry, begin gathering sections randomly
Pin each section at different heights and angles around the head
Allow pieces to overlap and create organic, textured layers
Continue pinning sections until all hair is incorporated
Leave some pieces intentionally loose for natural movement
Adjust pinned sections to create desired fullness and shape
Use minimal hairspray to maintain the natural, touchable texture

16. Braided Crown Updo

The braided crown updo combines crown braiding with low bun techniques for regal elegance. This style introduces beginners to crown braiding basics while creating sophisticated results perfect for special occasions and formal events.

Part hair down the center and section off hair around the hairline
Begin a Dutch braid starting behind one ear
Continue braiding around the head like a crown, incorporating hair from the top only
Stop braiding when you reach the opposite ear
Gather the remaining loose hair with the braid end
Create a low bun incorporating both the braid and loose hair
Pin the bun securely and adjust the crown braid positioning
Add small decorative pins along the crown braid if desired

17. Twisted Updo with Volume

The twisted updo with volume teaches beginners how to create height and fullness in updos. This technique builds confidence in teasing and volumizing while creating elegant results that work beautifully for formal occasions.

Lightly tease the crown section of hair for added volume
Smooth the top layer while maintaining the underlying volume
Begin twisting hair sections back from the face
Pin each twisted section temporarily while working on others
Gather all twisted sections together at the back of the head
Create a loose bun or chignon incorporating all the twists
Adjust the volume at the crown and throughout the style
Secure with bobby pins and finish with volumizing hairspray

18. Simple Knotted Updo

The simple knotted updo introduces beginners to hair knotting techniques for effortless elegance. This relaxed style teaches fundamental knotting skills while creating modern sophistication that’s perfect for casual and semi-formal occasions.

Divide hair into two sections at the nape of the neck
Tie these sections together in a simple overhand knot
Continue knotting the remaining length if hair permits
Begin tucking and pinning the knotted sections upward
Create an organic, textured updo shape through strategic pinning
Allow some pieces to escape naturally for relaxed appeal
Adjust knots to create desired fullness and texture
Secure with bobby pins and apply light-hold styling product

19. Low Twisted Bun with Side Sweep

The low twisted bun with side sweep combines asymmetrical styling with classic bun techniques.

This elegant approach teaches beginners how to create sophisticated looks through simple directional changes and twisting methods.

Create a deep side part and sweep hair dramatically to one side
Begin twisting the swept hair as you gather it toward the nape
Continue twisting until you reach the desired bun position
Wrap the twisted hair around itself to form a bun
Pin the bun securely with bobby pins inserted at various angles
Smooth any bumps on the swept side using a brush
Allow some face-framing pieces to remain soft around the lighter side
Finish with flexible-hold hairspray for natural movement

20. Pinned Back Waves

Pinned back waves create vintage glamour through simple pinning techniques that showcase natural wave patterns.

This style teaches beginners how to work with their hair’s natural texture while creating formal elegance perfect for special occasions.

Create loose waves throughout hair using a large barrel curling iron
Allow waves to cool completely before beginning to pin
Begin pinning wave sections back on one side of the head
Pin each wave individually, maintaining their natural shape
Work systematically from front to back, creating a swept-back appearance
Leave waves on the opposite side flowing naturally
Use bobby pins that match your hair color for invisible hold
Finish with hairspray that maintains wave definition

21. Fishtail Braid Bun

The fishtail braid bun combines trendy braiding with classic bun techniques for textured sophistication.

This style introduces beginners to fishtail braiding basics while creating elegant results that work beautifully for both casual and formal occasions.

Create a low ponytail and secure with an elastic band
Divide the ponytail into two sections for fishtail braiding
Take a small piece from the outside of the left section
Cross it over to the right section
Repeat on the right side, taking a piece from the outside edge
Continue this alternating pattern down the ponytail
Secure the braid with a clear elastic
Wrap the fishtail braid around the base and pin in place

22. Rolled Updo Technique

The rolled updo technique teaches beginners classic Hollywood styling methods for sophisticated glamour.

This vintage-inspired approach creates elegant height while building essential rolling skills that form the foundation for advanced styling techniques.

Set hair in large rollers or create loose curls with a curling iron
Allow curls to cool completely before beginning the rolling process
Begin rolling sections of curled hair toward the head
Pin each rolled section as you work around the head
Create height and volume through strategic roll placement
Continue until all hair is rolled and pinned into an updo
Smooth any uneven areas and adjust roll positioning
Apply strong-hold hairspray for lasting vintage elegance

23. Asymmetrical Twisted Updo

The asymmetrical twisted updo creates modern sophistication through off-center styling and twisted elements.

This contemporary approach teaches beginners how to embrace asymmetry while building confidence in advanced pinning techniques.

Create an off-center part extending from forehead to crown
Begin twisting hair sections from the heavier side back toward the ear
Continue creating twists at different heights and angles
Keep the lighter side of the part smoother and closer to the head
Pin twisted sections to create an asymmetrical updo shape
Allow some texture variation between the two sides
Adjust twists to create desired volume and asymmetrical balance
Secure with bobby pins and apply modern-finish hairspray

24. Simple Braided Updo

The simple braided updo introduces beginners to incorporating basic braids into elegant styling.

This approachable technique builds braiding confidence while creating sophisticated results that work beautifully for various occasions and skill levels.

Create three sections of hair: two at the temples and one at the back
Braid each temple section using basic three-strand technique
Gather the back section into a low ponytail
Incorporate the two braids into the ponytail
Braid the entire ponytail and secure with an elastic
Wrap the braided ponytail around its base to form a bun
Pin the braided bun securely in place
Adjust braids and bun for desired shape and fullness

25. Loose Romantic Updo

The loose romantic updo embraces imperfection to create effortless elegance perfect for romantic occasions.

This relaxed styling approach teaches beginners that sophisticated updos don’t require perfect precision while building confidence in organic styling techniques.

Apply texturizing product to enhance natural hair texture
Loosely gather hair sections without creating perfectly smooth surfaces
Twist and pin sections at different heights around the head
Allow pieces to escape naturally for romantic, soft appeal
Create organic shape through varied section sizes and pin placement
Leave face-framing pieces loose for feminine softness
Adjust pinned sections to achieve desired romantic fullness
Use minimal product to maintain natural, touchable texture

26. Side Braid into Bun

The side braid into bun combination creates flowing elegance through directional braiding that transitions into classic bun styling.

This technique teaches beginners how to combine multiple skills while creating sophisticated results perfect for formal occasions.

Create a deep side part and begin braiding from the heavier side
Start the braid at the hairline and work diagonally toward the opposite ear
Continue braiding, incorporating hair as you work across the head
When you reach the nape area, secure the braid temporarily
Gather any remaining loose hair with the braid
Create a low bun incorporating both the braid and loose hair
Pin the bun securely and adjust the braid positioning
Smooth any bumps and finish with light hairspray

27. Textured Low Ponytail Updo

The textured low ponytail updo transforms a simple ponytail into sophisticated elegance through strategic texturing and pinning.

This beginner-friendly approach teaches fundamental updo conversion while creating polished results suitable for professional settings.

Create texture throughout hair using mousse or texturizing spray
Gather hair into a low ponytail at the nape
Secure with an elastic and gently tug at the ponytail base for volume
Begin loosely pinning sections of the ponytail upward
Create an organic, textured updo shape through varied pin placement
Allow some pieces to maintain natural movement and texture
Continue pinning until desired updo shape is achieved
Finish with flexible-hold product that maintains natural texture

28. Crown Twist with Low Bun

The crown twist with low bun creates regal elegance through simplified crown styling combined with classic bun techniques.

This sophisticated approach teaches beginners essential crown styling while maintaining approachable execution methods.

Section hair around the crown area from temple to temple
Begin twisting this section back from the forehead
Continue the twist around the crown like a natural headband
Secure the crown twist with bobby pins
Gather the remaining hair into a low ponytail
Create a classic bun with the ponytail
Ensure the crown twist and bun connect seamlessly
Adjust both elements for balanced, elegant appearance

29. Wrapped Ponytail Updo

The wrapped ponytail updo teaches beginners how to elevate simple ponytails through strategic wrapping and pinning techniques.

This versatile approach creates polished sophistication while building essential updo conversion skills that work with various hair lengths.

Create a ponytail at your desired height
Take a section from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic
Pin the wrapped section in place to hide the elastic
Begin wrapping additional sections of the ponytail around the base
Pin each wrapped section individually as you work
Continue until the desired updo shape is achieved
Adjust wrapped sections for fullness and texture
Secure final elements and apply finishing hairspray

30. Vintage Pin Curl Updo

The vintage pin curl updo introduces beginners to classic Hollywood styling through simplified pin curl techniques.

This glamorous approach creates sophisticated elegance while teaching fundamental skills that form the basis for advanced vintage styling.

Create loose curls throughout hair using a large curling iron
Allow curls to cool completely in your palm before releasing
Begin pinning curls individually around the head
Vary the direction and placement of pinned curls for dimensional interest
Create a pattern that builds from the sides toward the back
Pin each curl securely through its center
Leave a few curls loose around the face for softness
Finish with strong-hold hairspray for lasting vintage appeal

31. Bohemian Twisted Crown

The bohemian twisted crown creates relaxed elegance through organic twisting techniques that embrace natural texture.

This free-spirited approach teaches beginners how to create sophisticated looks without perfect precision while building confidence in textural styling.

Apply texturizing product to enhance natural hair movement
Begin loosely twisting sections from around the hairline
Work twists back toward the crown area
Pin twists organically, allowing for natural variation
Continue around the head, creating a relaxed crown effect
Allow pieces to escape naturally for bohemian appeal
Leave the remaining hair flowing or loosely gathered
Use minimal product to maintain natural, touchable texture

32. Elegant Chignon Variation

The elegant chignon variation builds upon basic chignon techniques with sophisticated refinements.

This advanced beginner style teaches precision styling while creating formal elegance suitable for the most special occasions and celebrations.

Create a low ponytail with perfectly smooth surface
Divide the ponytail into two sections
Twist one section and wrap it around the ponytail base
Pin the first twisted section securely
Twist the second section and wrap it in the opposite direction
Pin the second section, ensuring both twists create a balanced chignon
Smooth any irregularities and adjust the chignon shape
Apply strong-hold hairspray for lasting formal elegance

33. Layered Pinned Updo

The layered pinned updo creates dimensional beauty through strategic layer placement and varied pinning heights.

This technique teaches beginners how to work with hair’s natural layers while creating sophisticated results that showcase texture and movement.

Apply volumizing product to enhance natural layer separation
Begin pinning the shortest layers first, working systematically
Pin each layer at slightly different heights for dimensional effect
Allow longer layers to drape over shorter pinned sections
Continue pinning layers, creating organic overlap and texture
Adjust pinned sections to achieve desired fullness and shape
Leave some layer ends loose for natural movement
Finish with flexible-hold product that maintains layer definition

34. Simple French Pleat

The simple French pleat offers an approachable version of this classic technique perfect for beginners.

This streamlined approach creates timeless sophistication while teaching fundamental pleating skills that build confidence for more advanced styling techniques.

Brush hair to one side and gather loosely
Begin rolling the hair inward from the gathered side
Continue rolling until hair forms a vertical pleat up the back
Pin the pleat in place working from bottom to top
Ensure the pleat sits evenly against the head
Tuck the top end under and pin invisibly
Smooth any irregularities and check the pleat alignment
Apply firm-hold hairspray for lasting classic elegance

35. Twisted Side Chignon

The twisted side chignon combines asymmetrical placement with classic chignon techniques for modern sophistication.

This elegant style teaches beginners how directional styling can transform basic techniques while creating polished results perfect for contemporary formal occasions.

Create a deep side part and sweep hair dramatically to one side
Begin twisting the hair as you gather it toward the chosen side
Continue twisting until you reach the ear area on the heavier side
Start forming a chignon with the twisted hair at this side position
Pin the chignon securely, maintaining its off-center placement
Smooth the hair on the opposite side for sleek contrast
Allow subtle face-framing on the lighter side for balance
Apply hairspray focusing on hold without stiffness

36. Casual Knotted Half-Up

The casual knotted half-up style creates effortless elegance through simple knotting techniques that work perfectly for everyday sophistication.

This relaxed approach teaches beginners that elegant styling doesn’t require complex methods while building confidence in organic hair manipulation.

Section the top half of hair from temple to temple
Divide this section into two equal parts
Tie these sections together in a simple overhand knot
Gently tug at the knot to create subtle volume and texture
Leave the remaining hair flowing naturally or add loose waves
Allow some pieces around the face to remain soft and natural
Pin the knot if additional security is needed for longer wear
Apply light texturizing spray to enhance the relaxed finish

37. Elegant Gathered Updo

The elegant gathered updo represents the culmination of beginner updo skills, combining multiple techniques for sophisticated mastery.

This comprehensive style incorporates twisting, gathering, and pinning methods while creating formal elegance that showcases newly developed skills and confidence.

Apply volumizing mousse and blow-dry hair with a round brush for body
Create subtle height at the crown through gentle backcombing
Begin gathering hair sections from around the head
Twist each section slightly as you bring it toward the back
Pin sections at varying heights to create dimensional gathered effect
Continue until all hair is incorporated into the elegant updo
Adjust pinned sections for balanced shape and desired fullness
Finish with professional-quality hairspray for lasting formal elegance

These comprehensive 37 Easy Updos for Medium Hair for Beginners You Can Master provide the perfect foundation for developing your personal updo repertoire while building confidence in formal hairstyling.

Each technique has been carefully selected and simplified to ensure success at every skill level, from absolute beginners taking their first steps into updo styling to those ready to tackle more complex combinations and variations.

With practice, patience, and the right tools, these versatile styles will become your go-to solutions for any occasion that calls for elegant, sophisticated hair that looks professionally styled but remains comfortably achievable at home.

Remember that mastering updos is a journey of skill-building where each technique learned makes the next one easier, ultimately giving you the confidence to create beautiful, lasting styles that enhance your natural beauty for every special moment in life.