Medium-length hair offers the perfect canvas for creating stunning updos that strike the ideal balance between elegance and practicality.
Whether you’re preparing for a busy workday, a romantic dinner, or a special occasion, having a repertoire of quick and stylish updo techniques can transform your look in just minutes.
his comprehensive guide to “37 Easy Updos for Medium Hair You Can Master in Minutes” will equip you with versatile styling options that work for every hair texture, face shape, and personal style preference.
This article provides step-by-step instructions for 37 distinct updo styles, ranging from casual twisted buns to sophisticated braided updos.
You’ll discover techniques for creating volume, adding texture, and securing your style to last all day.
Each updo is designed to be completed in under 10 minutes using basic tools you likely already own, making them perfect for those hectic mornings or last-minute styling needs.
1. Classic Low Bun Variations
The low bun remains a timeless choice that works beautifully with medium-length hair. These variations offer sophisticated looks that can transition seamlessly from office meetings to evening events.
- Start with slightly damp hair for better hold and control
- Apply a lightweight mousse from mid-length to ends for added texture
- Gather hair at the base of your neck, leaving face-framing pieces loose
- Twist the ponytail gently before wrapping it around the elastic
- Secure with bobby pins, tucking the ends underneath for a polished finish
- Pull out a few strands around your face for a softer, more romantic look
2. Twisted Crown Updos
Twisted crown updos create an ethereal, romantic appearance that’s surprisingly simple to achieve with medium hair. These styles work exceptionally well for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of elegance to your everyday look.
- Part your hair down the middle or create a deep side part
- Take a two-inch section from each side of your head near the temples
- Twist each section away from your face, securing temporarily with clips
- Gather the remaining hair into a low ponytail or bun
- Wrap the twisted sections around your head like a crown
- Pin the twists into place, allowing some texture to show through
- Gently tug at the twists to create volume and a more relaxed appearance
3. Braided Updo Masterpieces
Braided updos transform medium-length hair into intricate-looking masterpieces that actually require minimal braiding skills. These styles combine various braiding techniques with strategic pinning to create stunning results.
- Begin with textured hair for better grip and hold
- Create three loose braids starting from different sections of your head
- Leave the braids slightly loose rather than pulling them tight
- Wrap each braid around the base of your head in different directions
- Pin each braid in place, tucking the ends under other sections
- Pull gently at the edges of each braid to create a fuller, more voluminous look
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the style throughout the day
4. Chignon Elegance
The chignon represents the pinnacle of sophisticated updo styling, and medium-length hair provides the ideal length for creating this classic look. These variations range from sleek and modern to soft and romantic.
- Brush hair smooth and apply a heat protectant if using heated tools
- Create a low ponytail at the nape of your neck
- Twist the ponytail and fold it up against your head
- Secure the chignon with bobby pins, creating a smooth, rounded shape
- Tuck any loose ends underneath and pin them securely
- For a modern touch, leave a few pieces loose around your face
- Add decorative pins or accessories for special occasions
5. Half-Up Twisted Styles
Half-up twisted styles offer the perfect compromise between wearing your hair up and down, making them ideal for medium-length hair that you want to showcase while keeping it controlled.
- Section off the top portion of your hair from temple to temple
- Divide this section into two parts and twist each away from your face
- Bring both twisted sections to the back of your head
- Secure them together with a clear elastic or decorative clip
- Allow the rest of your hair to fall naturally over your shoulders
- Gently tug at the twists to add volume and texture
- Curl the loose ends for added movement and bounce
6. Sock Bun Techniques
Sock buns create perfectly round, voluminous buns that work beautifully with medium-length hair. This technique uses a simple sock or donut-shaped hair tool to achieve professional-looking results in minutes.
- Cut the toe off a clean sock and roll it into a donut shape
- Create a high ponytail and slide the sock donut to the base
- Spread your hair evenly around the donut, covering it completely
- Secure with another elastic band at the base of the donut
- Tuck any remaining hair ends around the bun and pin in place
- Smooth any flyaways with a small amount of styling gel
- Adjust the bun’s position and tightness to suit your preference
7. Fishtail Braid Updos
Fishtail braids create intricate-looking updos that appear complex but are surprisingly manageable with medium-length hair. These styles work well for both casual and formal occasions.
- Start with slightly textured or day-old hair for better grip
- Create a loose fishtail braid down the back of your head
- Gently pull apart the braid sections to create a fuller, more relaxed look
- Coil the braid into a bun shape at the base of your neck
- Pin the braid in place, allowing some texture to show through
- Pull out a few face-framing pieces for a softer appearance
- Finish with texturizing spray for added hold and definition
8. French Twist Variations
French twists exude sophistication and work exceptionally well with medium-length hair. These classic updos can be styled sleek and formal or loose and romantic depending on your needs.
- Brush hair to one side and secure with bobby pins along the opposite side
- Gather the loose hair and twist it upward along the pinned side
- Continue twisting until you reach the crown of your head
- Tuck the ends under and secure with bobby pins placed vertically
- Smooth any bumps or flyaways with a fine-tooth comb
- For a modern twist, leave some pieces loose around your face
- Set the style with a medium-hold hairspray
9. Messy Bun Magic
Messy buns embrace the perfectly imperfect aesthetic that’s become increasingly popular. Medium-length hair is ideal for creating these effortlessly chic styles that look sophisticated yet relaxed.
- Start with hair that has some natural texture or use texturizing spray
- Gather hair loosely at the crown or nape of your neck
- Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base in an irregular pattern
- Secure with bobby pins, allowing pieces to stick out naturally
- Pull out face-framing pieces and a few strands from the bun
- Scrunch the loose pieces to enhance their natural texture
- Avoid making it too perfect – embrace the undone look
10. Victory Roll Inspired Updos
Victory rolls bring vintage glamour to modern styling, and medium-length hair provides the perfect canvas for these retro-inspired updos that make a bold style statement.
- Apply strong-hold mousse to damp hair for maximum control
- Create deep side parts to section your hair appropriately
- Roll sections of hair upward and inward using a large barrel brush
- Pin each roll in place with bobby pins inserted from underneath
- Create symmetrical rolls on both sides for a classic look
- Leave some hair loose in the back or create a low chignon
- Finish with strong-hold hairspray to maintain the structured shape
11. Waterfall Braid Updos
Waterfall braids create a romantic, flowing effect that works beautifully when incorporated into updos. Medium-length hair showcases this technique perfectly without overwhelming the overall style.
- Begin with a regular three-strand braid at one temple
- Drop the bottom strand and pick up a new piece of hair to continue
- Continue the waterfall pattern around the crown of your head
- Secure the braid temporarily while styling the remaining hair
- Gather all loose hair including the dropped strands into a low bun
- Incorporate the waterfall braid into the bun by wrapping it around
- Pin everything securely and add texture spray for a natural finish
12. Gibson Tuck Excellence
The Gibson tuck creates an elegant, vintage-inspired updo that’s particularly flattering with medium-length hair. This style offers sophistication with a touch of old-world charm.
- Create a low ponytail with a loose elastic band
- Make a small opening above the elastic and pull the ponytail through
- Continue tucking the hair through the opening until all hair is secured
- Gently pull at the sides to create volume and fullness
- Pin any loose pieces that don’t stay tucked naturally
- Leave a few strands loose around your face for a softer look
- Finish with a shine-enhancing spray for a polished appearance
13. Boho Braided Crowns
Boho braided crowns capture the free-spirited essence of bohemian style while creating practical updos perfect for festivals, weddings, or casual gatherings.
- Part your hair down the middle or slightly off-center
- Create loose braids on both sides starting from your temples
- Cross the braids over the top of your head like a crown
- Pin each braid behind the opposite ear
- Allow the remaining hair to flow naturally or create a loose bun
- Add small flowers or decorative pins for authentic boho flair
- Keep the braids loose and textured rather than tight and neat
14. Pin Curl Vintage Updos
Pin curls create structured, glamorous updos reminiscent of classic Hollywood styling. Medium-length hair holds pin curls beautifully while maintaining the style’s elegant proportions.
- Apply setting lotion to damp hair for maximum hold
- Create small sections and curl each piece around your finger
- Pin each curl flat against your head in decorative patterns
- Allow curls to set completely before gently brushing them out
- Arrange the curls into an elegant updo pattern
- Secure each curl with bobby pins placed strategically
- Finish with strong-hold hairspray to maintain the structured look
15. Rope Braid Combinations
Rope braids offer a unique texture that creates interesting visual dimension in updos. These techniques work particularly well with medium-length hair that needs added visual weight and interest.
- Divide hair into several sections for multiple rope braids
- Twist each section in the same direction then wrap them around each other
- Continue twisting until you reach the ends of each section
- Coil the rope braids into a bun or wrap them around your head
- Pin each braid securely while maintaining the twisted texture
- Pull gently at the braids to create fuller, more voluminous appearance
- Use texturizing spray to enhance the rope-like texture
16. Space Buns and Double Buns
Space buns bring a playful, youthful energy to updo styling and work wonderfully with medium-length hair that might be too short for some single-bun styles.
- Part your hair straight down the middle from forehead to nape
- Create two high ponytails on either side of your head
- Twist each ponytail and wrap it around its base to form buns
- Secure each bun with bobby pins and elastic bands as needed
- Leave some pieces loose for a more casual, undone appearance
- Add colorful scrunchies or decorative pins for extra personality
- Experiment with different heights and positions for varied looks
17. Twisted Ponytail Updos
Twisted ponytails elevate the basic ponytail into sophisticated updo territory while remaining quick and easy to create with medium-length hair.
- Create a ponytail at your desired height on your head
- Divide the ponytail into two sections and twist them around each other
- Continue twisting until you reach the ends of your hair
- Coil the twisted ponytail around its base to form a bun
- Secure with bobby pins, ensuring the twisted texture remains visible
- Smooth any flyaways with a small amount of styling cream
- This style works equally well for professional and casual settings
18. Side Braid to Bun Transformations
Side braids that transition into buns create dynamic updos with interesting asymmetrical elements that showcase medium-length hair beautifully.
- Create a deep side part and begin braiding from the heavier side
- Braid along your hairline toward the opposite ear
- Once you reach behind your ear, continue braiding to the ends
- Coil the braid into a bun at the nape of your neck
- Pin the bun securely while maintaining the braid’s definition
- Leave some pieces loose on the lighter side of the part
- This asymmetrical style is perfect for special occasions
19. Rolled Updo Techniques
Rolled updos create smooth, sophisticated styles that work beautifully for formal occasions and professional settings. Medium-length hair provides ideal length for these classic techniques.
- Section your hair horizontally from ear to ear
- Roll the bottom section upward against your head
- Secure the roll with bobby pins placed horizontally
- Repeat with the remaining sections, overlapping slightly
- Tuck all ends under and pin them securely
- Smooth the surface with a boar bristle brush
- Finish with strong-hold hairspray for all-day wear
20. Braided Headband Updos
Braided headbands create a bohemian, romantic look that incorporates your own hair as the decorative element while keeping the rest styled in an elegant updo.
- Section off hair from temple to temple across the top of your head
- Braid this section loosely, creating your natural headband
- Position the braid across your forehead like a traditional headband
- Pin the ends of the braid behind your ears
- Gather the remaining hair into a loose, textured bun
- Allow some pieces to frame your face naturally
- This style is perfect for outdoor events and romantic occasions
21. Knotted Updo Variations
Knotted updos use simple hair knots instead of traditional braids to create interesting textures and shapes that work exceptionally well with medium-length hair.
- Section your hair into multiple pieces of varying sizes
- Tie each section into a loose knot rather than braiding
- Arrange the knotted sections around your head in an artistic pattern
- Pin each knot securely while maintaining its shape and texture
- Allow some pieces to remain unknotted for contrast and movement
- This technique creates a modern, artistic appearance
- Experiment with different knot sizes and placements for unique looks
22. Flower Braid Updos
Flower braids create dimensional, rose-like shapes that add romantic femininity to any updo style, making them perfect for weddings and special occasions.
- Create multiple small braids throughout your hair
- Gently pull apart each braid to create fuller, more textured pieces
- Coil each loosened braid into a flower-like shape
- Pin each “flower” to your head in a clustered arrangement
- Vary the sizes of your flower braids for more natural appearance
- Leave some loose pieces to frame your face softly
- This technique creates stunning bridal or formal event hairstyles
23. Infinity Braid Updos
Infinity braids create figure-eight patterns that add mathematical precision and visual interest to updo styles, working beautifully with medium-length hair.
- Divide your hair into sections for multiple infinity braids
- Cross sections over and under in figure-eight patterns
- Continue the infinity pattern until you reach the hair ends
- Arrange the infinity braids into an updo formation
- Pin each braid while maintaining the distinctive pattern visibility
- This technique creates a sophisticated, almost architectural appearance
- Perfect for those who appreciate geometric beauty in hairstyling
24. Pancaked Braid Updos
Pancaked braids involve gently pulling apart braid sections to create fuller, more voluminous appearance that works wonderfully in updo formations.
- Create loose braids in various sections of your hair
- Gently pull apart each loop of the braid to “pancake” it
- Work from the bottom of the braid upward for best results
- Arrange the pancaked braids into your desired updo shape
- Pin the enlarged braids while maintaining their fuller appearance
- This technique adds significant volume to fine or thin hair
- Creates a more relaxed, bohemian aesthetic than tight braids
25. Celtic Knot Inspired Updos
Celtic knot patterns translate beautifully into hair styling, creating intricate-looking updos that showcase the artistic potential of medium-length hair.
- Section hair into multiple strands of equal thickness
- Weave the strands over and under each other in Celtic patterns
- Follow traditional knot designs or create your own variations
- Pin each intersection point securely to maintain the pattern
- Allow some texture to show through rather than making it too smooth
- This style works particularly well for themed events or cultural celebrations
- Research traditional Celtic knot patterns for authentic inspiration
26. Faux Hawk Updos
Faux hawk updos bring edgy, contemporary style to medium-length hair while maintaining feminine elegance and professional appropriateness.
- Section your hair down the middle from forehead to nape
- Tease the center section to create height and volume
- Smooth the sides back and pin them low behind your ears
- Style the center section into a series of small buns or twists
- Create height variation along the center line for authentic faux hawk shape
- Keep the sides sleek for contrast with the textured center
- This style bridges the gap between edgy and elegant
27. Rosette Roll Updos
Rosette rolls create romantic, rose-like shapes in your hair that cluster together to form stunning updo styles perfect for special occasions.
- Section your hair into multiple pieces of varying sizes
- Roll each section into a tight coil, then allow it to relax into a rosette shape
- Pin each rosette to your head in a clustered arrangement
- Vary the sizes and positions for a natural, garden-like appearance
- Allow some pieces to remain loose for softness and movement
- This technique is ideal for weddings and romantic events
- Add fresh flowers or decorative pins to enhance the romantic theme
28. Spiral Pin Updos
Spiral pins create structured, architectural updos that showcase precision and artistry while working beautifully with medium-length hair’s natural volume.
- Create small sections throughout your hair
- Curl each section tightly around your finger to form spirals
- Pin each spiral flat against your head in geometric patterns
- Vary the direction and size of spirals for visual interest
- Maintain the spiral shape while securing them firmly
- This technique creates a very modern, almost sculptural appearance
- Perfect for avant-garde fashion events or artistic celebrations
29. Wrapped Ponytail Updos
Wrapped ponytails disguise the elastic band while creating sophisticated updos that appear more complex than their simple construction suggests.
- Create a ponytail at your desired height and secure with elastic
- Take a small section from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic
- Continue wrapping until the elastic is completely hidden
- Pin the wrapping section securely underneath the ponytail
- Style the remaining ponytail into a bun or leave it as an elegant tail
- This technique instantly elevates any basic ponytail
- Suitable for both professional and social occasions
30. Ladder Braid Updos
Ladder braids create the illusion of a ladder pattern in your hair, adding geometric interest to updo styles while showcasing intricate braiding techniques.
- Create a regular braid but leave small sections unbraided at intervals
- Thread these loose sections through the braid loops to create ladder rungs
- Continue this pattern throughout the length of your hair
- Coil the ladder braid into an updo formation
- Pin the braid while ensuring the ladder pattern remains visible
- This advanced technique creates stunning visual impact
- Perfect for showcasing your braiding skills at special events
31. Twisted Halo Updos
Twisted halos create ethereal, angelic updos that frame your face beautifully while incorporating all of your medium-length hair into the style.
- Part your hair in the middle and section it from temple to temple
- Twist each side section away from your face
- Bring both twists to meet at the back of your head like a crown
- Secure the twisted halo with bobby pins
- Gather the remaining hair into a low bun or leave it flowing
- This style creates a soft, romantic frame around your face
- Ideal for weddings, proms, or any occasion requiring angelic beauty
32. Origami-Inspired Fold Updos
Origami fold updos use precise folding techniques rather than braiding to create geometric, architectural styles that showcase the artistry possible with medium-length hair.
- Section your hair into geometric shapes
- Fold each section over itself in precise angles
- Pin each fold to maintain sharp, clean lines
- Create patterns reminiscent of origami paper folding
- Maintain geometric precision throughout the styling process
- This avant-garde technique creates truly unique updos
- Perfect for fashion-forward events and artistic occasions
33. Bubble Ponytail Updos
Bubble ponytails add playful dimension to traditional ponytail updos by creating bubble-like segments that work wonderfully with medium-length hair.
- Create a high ponytail and secure with a clear elastic
- Add additional elastics down the length of the ponytail at regular intervals
- Gently pull apart each section between elastics to create bubbles
- Coil the entire bubble ponytail into an updo formation
- Pin the bubbled ponytail while maintaining the dimensional effect
- This fun technique adds texture and visual interest
- Great for casual events and youthful, playful styling
34. Feather Braid Updos
Feather braids create the illusion of feather-like texture and movement within updo styles, perfect for adding organic, natural elements to your look.
- Create loose, irregular braids that mimic feather barbules
- Vary the tightness and direction of each braid section
- Pull apart sections of the braids to enhance the feathery texture
- Arrange the feather braids into an organic, nest-like updo
- Pin the braids while maintaining their natural, flowing appearance
- This technique creates connection with natural, organic styling
- Perfect for outdoor events and bohemian fashion
35. Waterfall Twist Combinations
Waterfall twists combine the romantic flow of waterfall techniques with the structure of twisted updos, creating styles that appear to cascade while remaining securely pinned.
- Begin with twisted sections that cascade like flowing water
- Allow pieces to fall naturally while maintaining the twist structure
- Gather falling pieces into lower twists that continue the cascade effect
- Pin each level of the cascade while preserving the flowing illusion
- Create multiple levels for enhanced waterfall effect
- This technique combines romance with structural beauty
- Ideal for events where you want movement and elegance
36. Sculpted Wave Updos
Sculpted waves create the appearance of frozen ocean waves in your hair, bringing dynamic movement and artistic flair to updo styling.
- Use strong-hold styling products to create moldable texture
- Shape sections of hair into wave-like curves and peaks
- Pin each wave in place while maintaining the flowing shape
- Create varying wave sizes for natural ocean-like movement
- Build layers of waves to create depth and dimension
- This advanced technique requires patience and artistic vision
- Perfect for avant-garde fashion and artistic expression
37. Combination Masterpiece Updos
Combination updos incorporate multiple techniques from this guide to create truly unique, personalized styles that showcase the full potential of medium-length hair.
- Choose three to four favorite techniques from this guide
- Plan the placement of each technique within your overall design
- Execute each technique in sequence, building upon the previous elements
- Ensure each component complements the others rather than competing
- Secure all elements thoroughly while maintaining each technique’s integrity
- This approach allows for maximum creativity and personalization
- Perfect for special occasions where you want a truly unique look
Conclusion
Creating these 37 different updo styles demonstrates that medium-length hair offers incredible versatility for styling.
Each technique in 37 Easy Updos for Medium Hair You Can Master in Minutes provides you with tools to transform your look quickly and confidently, whether you’re preparing for a casual day out or a formal celebration.
With practice, these styles will become second nature, giving you the freedom to experiment and create your own signature looks that reflect your personal style and the occasion at hand.
