Hey there, beauty lovers! Isabella here. I remember back in my mom’s salon, seeing so many clients with gorgeous medium length hair who thought they needed extensions for a fancy updo. Guess what? You absolutely don’t! Medium length hair is actually amazing for creating all sorts of stunning styles.
I’ve spent years playing with different techniques, figuring out how to make shorter lengths work magic. This length offers the perfect balance of manageability and versatility. You can create intricate looks without the weight or hassle of extra hair.
That’s why I’m so excited to share these ideas with you. We’re diving into over 20 fabulous looks. Get ready to see just how beautiful your hair can be. These are truly no extensions needed updo ideas for medium length hair!
Let’s get started and find your next favorite style.
No Extensions Needed! 22 Updos for Medium Length Hair
Okay, let’s get into the fun part! Here are 22 amazing updo ideas perfect for your medium length hair. From super simple to a bit more detailed, there’s a style here for any mood or occasion. We’re starting with an easy one, but keep reading to see my top pick!
22. Simple Twisted Updo
This style is your new best friend on busy mornings. It’s incredibly easy but looks polished. You just twist sections of hair and pin them up. It works beautifully for straight or wavy hair. This twisted updo is perfect for a quick fix.
Tip: Criss-cross your bobby pins for extra hold.
21. Low Bun with Face-Framing Pieces
A low bun is a classic for a reason. It’s elegant and works for literally everything, from work to weddings. Leaving a few pieces around your face softens the look. It feels effortlessly chic.
Tip: Curl the face-framing pieces slightly for a romantic touch.
20. Half-Up Twist
Not ready for a full updo? This half-up twist is a great compromise. You take the top section of your hair, twist it back, and secure it. It keeps hair out of your face while still showing off your length.
Tip: Tease the crown area before twisting for more volume.
19. Messy Top Knot
The messy top knot is the queen of casual cool. It looks like you just threw your hair up, but in a stylish way. It’s perfect for running errands or a relaxed weekend.
Tip: Pull out small pieces around the hairline for that perfectly undone vibe.
18. Braided Crown
This style makes you feel like royalty. You create braids on each side of your head and pin them across the top, like a crown. It’s romantic and pretty for special events.
Tip: Use a little hairspray on your fingers to keep the braid smooth as you work.
17. French Twist
The French twist is a timeless updo. It looks sophisticated and sleek. It takes a little practice, but once you get it, it’s a go-to for formal occasions.
Tip: Twist your hair firmly before tucking and pinning.
16. Side Bun
A side bun is less formal than a center bun but still looks put-together. You can make it smooth for a polished look or textured for a more relaxed feel. It’s versatile and easy to do.
Tip: Secure it well at the nape of your neck on one side.
15. Pin-Up Curls Updo
Channeling vintage vibes? This updo uses pinned curls to create a beautiful, retro look. Curl your hair first, then carefully pin each curl into place. It’s glamorous and fun.
Tip: Let your curls cool completely before pinning them.
14. High Ponytail Wrap
Start with a sleek high ponytail. Then, take a strand of hair from underneath and wrap it around the elastic. Pin it neatly to hide the hair tie. It’s a simple trick that makes a ponytail look instantly fancier.
Tip: Use a clear elastic for the initial ponytail.
13. Braided Ponytail Base
This adds a little extra detail to a basic ponytail. Braid a small section of hair near the base before gathering the rest into a ponytail. It’s a subtle but stylish twist.
Tip: Secure the braid end with a small clear elastic before adding it to the ponytail.
12. Multiple Mini Buns
Feeling playful? Divide your hair into sections and twist each one into a small bun. Pin them all over for a fun, textured look. It’s modern and unique.
Tip: Vary the size and placement of the buns for interest.
11. Voluminous Crown Updo
Want drama? Focus on volume at the top. Tease the hair at your crown before sweeping the rest up into a bun or twist. This adds major height and glamour.
Tip: Use a volumizing spray before backcombing.
10. Knotted Updo
This style uses knots instead of twists or braids. Take sections of hair and tie them like you’re tying a shoe, then pin them in place. It creates a cool, textured effect.
Tip: Use texturizing spray to give hair grip for knotting.
9. Fishtail Braid Updo
Incorporating a fishtail braid adds beautiful detail. You can create a fishtail braid and wrap it around a bun, or make multiple fishtails and pin them up. It looks intricate and lovely.
Tip: Gently pull apart the fishtail sections for a fuller look before pinning.
8. Accessorized Updo
Sometimes, all you need is the right accessory. Create a simple bun or twist, then add decorative pins, fresh flowers, or a pretty clip. Accessories instantly elevate any updo.
Tip: Place accessories strategically where they’ll be seen but won’t interfere with the structure.
7. Twisted Halo Updo
This style wraps twisted sections of hair around your head, creating a halo effect. It’s soft, romantic, and looks beautiful from all angles. It’s perfect for a dreamy vibe.
Tip: Keep your twists relatively loose for a softer look.
6. Textured High Bun
Forget a super sleek bun. Add texture by teasing sections or using a texturizing spray before forming a high bun. This gives it dimension and a more relaxed feel.
Tip: Twist the bun loosely as you wrap it.
5. Braided Low Bun
Combine a braid with a low bun for a sophisticated look. Create a simple braid (like a three-strand or rope braid) and then wrap it around the base of your low bun. It adds a touch of elegance.
Tip: Secure the end of the braid neatly underneath the bun.
4. Elegant Chignon
The chignon is a classic French style, typically a knot or coil of hair at the nape of the neck. It’s incredibly elegant and perfect for formal events. It requires a smooth finish.
Tip: Use a fine-tooth comb to smooth hair before forming the chignon.
3. Updo with Braided Sides
Braid sections of hair along your temples or sides, leading them back into your main updo (like a bun or twist). This adds beautiful detail and keeps hair off your face. It frames your features nicely.
Tip: Make sure the braids are secure before gathering the rest of your hair.
2. Romantic Loose Updo
This style is all about softness and flow. Create a loose bun or twist at the back, letting pieces fall naturally. Pull out strands around your face and neck for a romantic, slightly undone look.
Tip: Use a curling iron to add soft waves to the pieces you leave out.
1. Intricate Braided Updo
This is my personal favorite! It involves using multiple braids (like French, Dutch, or fishtail) and weaving them together to create a complex, stunning design. It takes practice but is so rewarding.
Tip: Work in small sections and use mirrors to see the back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can medium length hair hold an updo?
Absolutely! Medium length hair is actually fantastic for updos. It’s long enough to gather and secure, but not so long that it becomes heavy or hard to manage. You have plenty of hair to work with for twists, buns, and braids.
What products help updos stay in place?
A good texturizing spray gives your hair grip, which is key. Hairspray is essential for finishing and keeping flyaways smooth. Dry shampoo can also add volume and texture before you start styling. Don’t forget bobby pins and elastics!
How do I make my updo look fuller?
Teasing sections at the roots before gathering them adds volume. Using a texturizing product helps too. Gently pulling apart braids or loops in your bun can also make the style appear thicker. Don’t be afraid to mess it up a little!
Conclusion
See? You don’t need extensions to create absolutely beautiful updos with your medium length hair! I hope these 22 ideas have inspired you to try something new. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and your hair texture. Have fun playing around and expressing yourself through your style!
