13 Pinterest-Worthy Updos for Medium Hair to Try Now: Glam Guide
Ready to give your mid-length locks a glow-up that looks effortlessly chic? These 13 updos are designed to be doable, flattering, and totally shareable. FYI: you’ll want a few bobby pins and a trusty hairspray on standby.
1. The Whispering Low Bun With Soft Waves
This look is the comfy sweater of updos: polished but never fussy. The secret lies in a gentle wave that gives dimension without turning into a slick finish.
Why it works: medium hair sits perfectly between sleek and loose, so you get romance without overdoing it. Trust me, it photographs beautifully from every angle.
Key Elements:
- Low, slightly off-center bun
- Soft, face-framing waves
- Minimal accessories
Tip: tease the crown just a touch to create volume before pinning the bun. Benefits: sophisticated, everyday-friendly, and party-ready with a quick spritz.
2. The Half-Up Twist With Pearls
Romantic and playful, this style screams “festive yet casual.” You get the best of both worlds—a half-up tease with a twist that stays put all day.
Why it shines: it highlights your cheekbones and keeps hair away from your face for clarity in photos.
Who Should Try It:
- Party-goers
- Wedding guest vibes
Pro tip: secure the twist with a couple of pins parallel to each other for extra hold. Benefits: versatile, camera-friendly, and easy to transition into evening glam.
3. The Mini Braided Crown You Can Actually Do
Yes, you can wear a crown without going full fairy tale. A tiny braid along the hairline creates a sweet, regal silhouette without stealing the show from your face.
Why it’s awesome: braids add texture and keep hair from getting flat on the crown.
Quick Setup:
- Two small French braids along the temples
- Soft bun at the back
Try it when you want an elegant daytime look that still feels modern. Benefits: easy to recreate, long-lasting, and surprisingly versatile for denim or dresses.
4. The Sleek Mid-Part Pony With a Twist
Sleek, sharp, and statement-making—this is your power look. A mid-part pony with a subtle twist at the base feels fresh and modern.
Why it works: elongates the neck and gives a clean line that reads polished in photos and real life.
How-To:
- Mid-part, smooth hair
- Tucked base with a small loop or knot
Benefits: bold and chic, perfect for meetings or date night. FYI, a shine spray helps keep it from looking flat.
5. The Messy Ballet Bun That Belongs on a Mood Board
That just-left-the-classroom vibe but upgraded. A messy ballet bun looks intentional even when it’s not perfect.
Why it’s cool: it balances structure with a little chaos—perfect for peppy day-to-night transitions.
Tips & Tricks:
- Loosen the bun slightly for volume
- Pull a few wisps around the face
End note: this style lasts through coffee dates and spontaneous twirls. Benefits: ultra-comfy, flattering texture, and camera-ready shine.
6. The Double Knot Half-Up Do
Two little knots, big impact. This playful take keeps hair off your neck while adding a quirky edge to any outfit.
Why it works: it creates interesting silhouettes and stays secure without feeling stiff.
What You Need:
- Two small elastics
- A few bobby pins
Bonus: easy to customize with accessories like ribbons or colorful pins. Benefits: effortless magnetism, adaptable for work or weekend brunches.
7. The Soft Low Pony With a Ribbon Accent
Soft, sweet, and totally Pinterest-worthy. A low pony with a delicate ribbon elevates date-night vibes without trying too hard.
Why this is special: ribbons catch light and create a playful, feminine finish.
Materials:
- Low ponytail
- Thin satin ribbon
Tip: tie the ribbon around the base and let the ends trail for bonus movement. Benefits: approachable glam, easy to reproduce on rushed mornings.
8. The Classic Bun With a Modern Twist
A timeless go-to gets an upgrade with a deep-side part and a wrapped section for drama. It’s classic, but not cookie-cutter.
Why it clicks: clean lines and timeless appeal—goes from office to after-hours without a hitch.
Pro Elements:
- Deep side part
- Wrapped strand at the bun base
End note: timeless style that plays nicely with statement earrings. Benefits: versatile, durable, and flattering for most face shapes.
9. The Rom-Com Quick Updo: Pin-Top Knot
Think of this as “the roommate-friendly version of a dramatic updo.” A quick pin-top knot keeps hair off the neck and feels adorable.
Why it’s awesome: super fast to achieve and surprisingly secure with a few strategic pins.
How to Do It:
- Gather top hair into a small knot
- Secure with pins and a touch of hairspray
Benefits: ideal for hot days, casual events, and days you want “done” without effort.
10. The Boho Side-Swept Braid With Volume
Flowy and carefree, this looks like you woke up curated. A side braid with lofted volume gives a boho-luxe finish.
Why it shines: movement and texture add depth, especially on medium hair that can sometimes lie flat.
Key Points:
- Loose braid near the temple
- Volume at the crown
Tip: pull small pieces loose along the braid for a lived-in vibe. Benefits: effortless festival vibes, great for photoshoots or beachy dates.
11. The Pin-Tinned Twist With a Hidden Braid
Secretly intricate, openly chic. The hidden braid adds a hint of complexity that looks impressive in close-ups.
Why it’s appealing: you get drama without a full celebrity stylist entourage.
Notes:
- Twist the crown, then tuck a thin braid beneath
- Secure with discreet pins
End result: a sophisticated twist that holds up through long events. Benefits: unique, photogenic, and conversation-starting.
12. The Modern Faux Hawk Updo
Bold and fashion-forward, this one says you’re here for style, not sympathy. A subtle faux hawk adds height without shouting.
Why it works: height elongates, while soft sides keep it wearable for work or weekend concerts.
How-To:
- Pull hair up into a shallow crest
- Loosely secure sides with pins
Benefits: striking silhouette, great for those who want an edge without going full punk.
13. The Velvet-Chic Knotted Pony
Last but not least, a velvety, knot-forward pony that feels luxe even on a rushed morning. It’s sleek, but somehow warm.
Why you’ll love it: it pairs surprisingly well with velvet dresses and tailored jackets for instant polish.
What To Do:
- Low side pony
- Wrap a strand around the base to hide the hair tie
End note: a boosted confidence booster that lasts all day. Benefits: refined, simple to replicate, and endlessly chic.
Ready to experiment? Each of these 13 looks brings something different to the table, so pick a vibe that matches your mood, outfit, and plan for the day. Seriously, you’ll be surprised how a small tweak can change your entire outfit narrative.
Have fun, try variations, and don’t forget to share your favorite moments. You’ve got this—your medium-length hair just found its new best friends in updos!
