18 Up Hairstyles for Medium Length Hair with Buns, Braids and Waves

Medium hair offers the perfect balance for styling. It is long enough for intricate designs yet short enough to manage without constant frustration.

Updos are no longer reserved for formal events. Modern styling allows you to rock buns, braids, and waves in any setting, from the office to the gym.

Finding the right look is all about texture and hold. These ideas prioritize movement and effortless flair to keep your hair looking fresh all day long.

Ready to transform your daily routine? Explore these 18 up hairstyles for medium length hair with buns, braids and waves for your next inspired look.

1. The Classic Messy Low Bun

The classic messy low bun is the ultimate go-to for medium-length hair because it thrives on imperfection. This style sits comfortably at the nape of the neck, providing a relaxed yet intentional aesthetic.

To achieve this look, pull your hair into a loose ponytail and loop it through the elastic. Leave the ends sticking out slightly to create that signature effortless volume that works for any hair texture.

Finish the style by pulling a few thin strands around the face. This softens the overall appearance and ensures the look remains chic rather than overly structured or stiff for daily wear.

2. Dutch Braid Crown with Soft Waves

Combining a bold Dutch braid with loose waves creates a stunning contrast. The braid acts as a natural headband, while the remaining hair flows freely to showcase your length and natural movement.

Start by braiding a thick section of hair along the hairline, pulling from the top and bottom. Once you reach the back, secure it and let the rest of your hair hang loose.

Use a large-barrel curling iron to add soft waves to the unbraided sections. This adds a romantic touch and gives the medium-length hair a boost of volume and sophisticated texture.

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3. Twisted Chignon with Textured Finish

The twisted chignon is a timeless choice that feels modern when paired with textured waves. It involves rolling the hair inward to create a sleek, tucked-under look that hides the hair ends.

For medium hair, this style is particularly effective because there isn’t too much bulk to manage. You can easily secure the twist with a few well-placed bobby pins for an all-day hold.

Spritz the hair with a sea salt spray before styling to give the chignon extra grip. This prevents the hair from slipping out and adds a contemporary, matte finish to the elegant silhouette.

4. Space Buns with Braided Accents

Space buns offer a playful way to manage medium hair while keeping it completely off the neck. Adding small braids to the base of the buns elevates this style from casual to creative.

Divide the hair into two equal sections and create a small Dutch braid starting from the nape of the neck upwards. Once you reach the crown, gather the hair into a bun.

The result is a secure and trendy look that handles layers perfectly. It is an ideal choice for active days or music festivals where you want your hair to stay put and stylish.

5. French Braid into a Side Bun

A French braid that transitions into a side bun offers a beautiful asymmetrical look. This style works exceptionally well for medium-length hair, as the braid helps gather shorter layers efficiently.

Begin the braid on one side of the head and work your way diagonally toward the opposite ear. This creates a sense of motion and keeps the hair from looking flat or one-dimensional.

Secure the remaining hair into a textured bun at the side. You can leave the bun slightly loose to allow waves to peek through, creating a soft and approachable vibe for any occasion.

6. Relaxed Boho Waves with Mini Braids

This style focuses on the natural beauty of waves while incorporating small, hidden braids for a touch of detail. It is a “half-up” approach that keeps the hair out of your eyes.

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Create loose, beachy waves throughout the hair using a flat iron or wand. Then, take two small sections near the temples and create thin, simple three-strand braids that meet at the back.

Fasten the braids with a clear elastic or a decorative clip. This look is perfect for those who want to show off their hair’s length while maintaining a structured, styled element near the face.

7. High Top Knot with Face-Framing Tendrils

The high top knot is a staple for medium-length hair because it creates the illusion of height and volume. It is a quick way to look polished without spending hours in front of the mirror.

Gather all your hair at the crown and twist it into a circular shape. Use a strong elastic to hold it in place, then gently tug at the edges of the bun to make it appear fuller.

Pull out a few wavy tendrils from the sideburn area and the hairline. These soft pieces frame the face and take the style from “gym hair” to a sophisticated everyday look.

8. Waterfall Braid with Loose Waves

The waterfall braid is an elegant technique where sections of hair are dropped through the braid to flow down the back. It is particularly striking on medium hair with highlights or lowlights.

Start the braid on one side and “drop” the bottom strand every time you cross the sections. This allows the hair to cascade down like water, showcasing the texture of your waves.

Once the braid is complete, enhance the dropped strands with a curling wand. The combination of the horizontal braid and vertical waves creates a complex and beautiful visual pattern.

9. Triple Twisted Buns

If you have layers that often fall out of a single bun, triple twisted buns are the perfect solution. By dividing the hair into three smaller sections, you ensure every strand is secured.

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Create three small ponytails in a horizontal line at the nape of the neck. Twist each one into a tiny bun and pin them closely together to create a textured, cohesive look.

This style mimics the appearance of an intricate updo but is much simpler to achieve. It is a great way to handle thick medium-length hair that feels too heavy for a single high bun.

10. Fishtail Halo Braid

The fishtail halo braid is a sophisticated version of the traditional crown braid. The intricate pattern of the fishtail adds a level of detail that makes the hairstyle stand out.

Section the hair down the middle and create two fishtail braids on either side. Wrap them around the top of the head and pin them securely to create a “halo” effect.

For a softer look, gently pull the edges of the fishtail braids apart. This creates more volume and a slightly “undone” feel that pairs perfectly with loose, wavy sections at the back.

11. Sleek Low Bun with Center Part

A sleek low bun is the height of sophistication and works beautifully with medium-length hair. The center part adds a modern, architectural feel to the overall silhouette of the style.

Use a smoothing cream to tame flyaways and brush the hair back toward the nape of the neck. Secure it into a tight, neat bun for a clean and professional appearance.

This look is ideal for showcasing bold earrings or a detailed neckline. It proves that medium hair doesn’t need a lot of accessories to look high-end and perfectly polished.

12. Half-Up Braided Rosette

The braided rosette is a creative way to use a simple braid to form a floral shape. It adds a unique focal point to a half-up style, making it look much more complex than it is.

Take a section of hair from each side and join them in a ponytail at the back. Braid the ponytail, then roll the braid into a spiral and pin it flat against the head.

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Let the rest of your medium hair fall in soft, natural waves beneath the rosette. This style is romantic and feminine, making it a popular choice for weddings or special celebrations.

13. Voluminous Textured Bun

A voluminous textured bun is all about creating the appearance of thick, full hair. It relies on teased roots and wavy textures to build a large, eye-catching shape at the back.

Before styling, use a texturizing spray and a curling iron to add waves throughout. Gather the hair loosely and pin it in sections to create a “cloud” of hair rather than a tight ball.

This style is excellent for medium hair that might lack natural density. The added texture provides the necessary grip to keep the pins in place while giving the hair a luxurious look.

14. Side-Swept Braided Updo

The side-swept braided updo is a glamorous choice that shifts the focus to one side of the head. It uses a combination of braids and pins to keep everything securely in place.

Braid the hair starting from one ear and move across the back of the head. Once you reach the other side, tuck the ends under and pin them into a cluster of soft waves.

This asymmetrical design is flattering and adds interest from every angle. It is a great way to keep hair off the neck during warmer months while still maintaining a formal aesthetic.

15. Double Dutch Braid Low Buns

Double Dutch braids that end in low buns are a trendy and functional style. This look is perfect for those who want a sporty yet stylish way to manage medium-length hair.

Braid two Dutch braids from the forehead down to the nape of the neck. Instead of braiding all the way to the ends, secure the hair into two small buns at the base.

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This style keeps the hair very secure, making it ideal for busy days or outdoor activities. The “inside-out” look of the Dutch braids provides a 3D texture that looks great on all hair colors.

16. Scarf-Wrapped Messy Bun

Adding a silk scarf to a messy bun is an easy way to elevate a simple style. The fabric adds color, texture, and a sense of effortless chic to your medium-length hair.

Pull your hair into a standard messy bun and secure it with an elastic. Then, tie a small scarf around the base of the bun, letting the ends hang loose or tying them into a bow.

This is a fantastic solution for “second-day” hair that might need a little extra help. The scarf hides any imperfections at the base while adding a stylish, vintage-inspired touch to your look.

17. Braided Faux Hawk

The braided faux hawk is a bold and edgy style that uses braids to create height along the center of the head. It is a great way to experiment with a more daring look without a permanent cut.

Create tight braids or twists on the sides of the head to pull the hair back. Leave the center section free to be styled into voluminous, wavy peaks that run from the forehead to the nape.

Use a strong-hold hairspray to keep the center section upright and textured. This style is a head-turner and works exceptionally well for medium hair with plenty of natural volume.

18. Elegant Twisted French Roll

The French roll is a classic updo that is surprisingly easy to achieve with medium-length hair. It involves gathering the hair and twisting it upward into a vertical roll against the back of the head.

Since medium hair doesn’t have the excessive weight of longer locks, the roll stays in place much easier. Use large hairpins to anchor the twist and hide any stray ends inside the fold.

Keep the front of the hair slightly loose with a few wavy pieces to modernize the look. This hairstyle is the definition of timeless elegance and is perfect for any formal or professional setting.

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How long does medium hair need to be for these updos?

Medium hair generally falls between the shoulders and the mid-back. Most of these styles require enough length to pull into a ponytail at the nape of the neck, which is typically at least four to six inches from the base of the head.

Can I achieve these looks with fine or thin hair?

Absolutely! Fine hair actually holds some updos better because it is less heavy. Using texturizing sprays, dry shampoo, or light back-combing can help create the illusion of thickness and provide the necessary “grip” for pins and braids.

What tools are essential for styling medium length updos?

To master these looks, you should have a high-quality set of bobby pins, clear elastics, a wide-tooth comb, and a curling wand. A good texturizing spray and a medium-hold hairspray are also vital for keeping the “waves” and “buns” in place.

How do I make my waves last all day in an updo?

The secret to long-lasting waves is styling on hair that isn’t freshly washed. Natural oils provide better hold. Additionally, let your curls cool completely before touching them or pinning them into a bun to ensure the shape sets properly.

Are these styles suitable for beginners to do at home?

Many of these styles, like the messy low bun and the scarf-wrapped bun, are very beginner-friendly. More complex styles like the fishtail halo braid may take some practice, but they can be mastered by following step-by-step movements in front of a mirror.

Can I wear these styles to formal events like weddings?

Yes, many of these hairstyles are specifically designed to be versatile. Styles like the Elegant Twisted French Roll or the Braided Rosette are sophisticated enough for weddings, while the messy bun variants can be dressed up with sparkling hair accessories.