16 Bun Hairstyles for Medium Hair in Low and Braided Knots

Medium hair offers the perfect balance for styling. It is long enough to braid yet light enough to stay secure all day long.

Low knots and braided designs are timeless. They provide a polished look that works for any occasion, from casual outings to formal events.

Explore these 16 versatile styles. Each design highlights the beauty and texture of medium-length locks while keeping everything neatly in place.

1. Classic Low Chignon

This style focuses on a smooth finish at the nape of the neck. It is the ultimate choice for a clean and professional appearance that never goes out of style.

Start by smoothing the hair back into a low ponytail. Gently tuck the ends inward and upward to create a rounded, symmetrical shape that sits flush against the head.

Secure the structure with bobby pins and a light mist of hairspray. This look stays in place throughout the day and provides an elegant silhouette from every angle.

2. Dutch Braided Side Bun

Combining a three-dimensional braid with an asymmetrical placement creates instant visual interest. This style is perfect for those who want to showcase texture and volume simultaneously.

Begin a Dutch braid along the hairline, moving diagonally toward the opposite side of the neck. Once you reach the end, coil the remaining hair into a soft knot.

The “inside-out” nature of the Dutch braid makes the hair appear thicker. It is a fantastic way to add dimension to medium-length hair without needing extensions.

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3. Twisted Fishtail Knot

Fishtail braids offer an intricate, woven look that appears far more complex than it actually is. This style gathers those fine strands into a secure, low-profile bun.

Create a standard fishtail braid starting at the base of the neck. After securing the end with a clear elastic, roll the braid upward into a tight circle.

The tight weave of the fishtail ensures that layers stay tucked away. It creates a sturdy knot that resists frizz and maintains its shape during busy activities.

4. Messy Braided Low Bun

For a relaxed and effortless vibe, the messy braided bun is the go-to choice. It embraces flyaways and soft textures for a romantic, lived-in feel.

Loosely braid the back section of the hair before pinning it into a chaotic knot. Avoid making the braid too tight to allow for natural movement and volume.

Gently pull at the loops of the braid to “pancake” them, making the bun look fuller. This style is incredibly forgiving for those with layered medium hair.

5. French Braid Wrap

This style incorporates the hair from the crown down to the nape, ensuring a secure fit. It is a classic technique that keeps hair away from the face.

Execute a traditional French braid down the center of the head. When you run out of hair to add, finish with a regular braid and tuck it under.

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Pinning the tail beneath the bulk of the braid creates a seamless transition. This results in a low knot that feels integrated and very stable for all-day wear.

6. Double Braided Low Bun

Using two braids instead of one doubles the texture and the security. This look is structured and symmetrical, offering a balanced aesthetic for medium hair.

Split the hair into two equal sections at the back and braid each individually. Cross the braids over each other at the nape before pinning them down.

This method distributes the weight of the hair evenly across the head. It prevents the sagging that sometimes occurs with a single, heavier low knot.

7. Rope Twist Low Knot

Rope twists provide a sleek, cord-like texture that differs from traditional three-strand braids. It is a modern take on the low bun that looks sophisticated and sharp.

Divide a low ponytail into two sections and twist them both in the same direction. Cross them over each other in the opposite direction to lock the twist.

Once the rope is complete, swirl it into a compact knot at the base of the neck. The result is a clean, sculptural look with a high-shine finish.

8. Halo Braid into Low Bun

The halo braid circles the head, acting as a natural frame for the face. It culminates in a low bun that anchors the entire hairstyle beautifully.

Start the braid near the ear and work your way around the back of the head. Incorporate the remaining hair into a soft, textured knot once you reach the center.

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This style is excellent for keeping hair secure during windy days or outdoor events. It provides a 360-degree styled look that is both functional and decorative.

9. Pull-Through Braid Bun

Pull-through braids are actually a series of small ponytails, making them perfect for those who struggle with traditional braiding. They offer incredible volume and height.

Create a vertical row of small sections and loop them through each other. This creates a thick, bubble-like texture that leads down to a voluminous low knot.

This technique is ideal for medium hair that is on the finer side. The structural nature of the loops adds significant mass to the final bun.

10. Reverse French Braid Bun

This “upside-down” style starts at the nape and moves upward toward the crown. It is a unique way to display a braid on the back of the head.

Tip the head forward and French braid from the neck toward the middle of the head. Secure the ends and the remaining hair into a compact low knot.

The reverse braid provides a surprising detail when seen from behind. It also helps keep the short hairs at the nape of the neck perfectly in place.

11. Sleek Low Donut Bun

When a perfect circle is the goal, the donut bun is the most reliable method. It uses a foam shaper or padding to provide a consistent, full shape.

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Pull the hair into a low ponytail and thread it through the center of a hair donut. Spread the hair evenly over the foam to hide it completely.

Secure the edges with pins to create a flawless, polished sphere. This style is favored for formal settings where a tidy appearance is mandatory.

12. Accent Braid Low Knot

You don’t need to braid all of your hair to get the effect. A small accent braid can transform a simple low knot into something much more detailed.

Braid a small section of hair from the side of the head before gathering everything into a ponytail. Wrap the small braid around the base of the knot.

This adds a touch of intricacy without requiring a lot of time. It is a great way to elevate a daily look with minimal extra effort.

13. Three-Strand Braid Coil

The three-strand braid coil is the foundation of many braided updos. It is simple to execute and provides a sturdy base for a low-profile hairstyle.

Braid a low ponytail all the way to the ends and secure it with a small elastic. Roll the braid onto itself like a cinnamon roll at the nape.

This style is particularly effective for medium hair because the length allows for exactly two or three rotations. It creates a flat, comfortable bun that isn’t bulky.

14. Looped Low Bun

A looped bun is a modern variation that focuses on folded shapes rather than traditional coils. It creates a more architectural and contemporary silhouette.

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Pull the hair halfway through an elastic on the last wrap to create a loop. Take the remaining tail and wrap it around the base to hide the band.

This style is quick to achieve and looks very high-fashion. It works best on medium hair because the loop size is manageable and easy to pin.

15. Braided Rosette Bun

The rosette bun uses the texture of a braid to mimic the petals of a flower. It is a soft, decorative style that adds a feminine touch to the hair.

Braid the hair loosely and then begin coiling it, keeping the flat side of the braid facing outward. Secure it tightly against the head to maintain the “petal” look.

Using a slight tugging motion on the edges of the braid before coiling enhances the floral effect. It is a beautiful choice for special gatherings.

16. Scarf-Wrapped Low Braid

Adding an accessory can completely change the vibe of a braided knot. A silk scarf woven into a braid adds color, pattern, and extra bulk.

Tie a small scarf around the base of a low ponytail and treat the ends as one of the braid strands. Braid as usual and coil into a knot.

The scarf protects the hair from friction while adding a stylish element. It is the perfect solution for days when you want a pop of personality.

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How do I keep my low bun from falling?

To ensure a secure hold, use “U” shaped hairpins in addition to standard bobby pins. Always spray your hair with a texturizing product before braiding to give the strands more grip.

Can I do these styles with shoulder-length hair?

Yes, most of these styles are designed specifically for medium lengths. If your hair is on the shorter side of medium, focus on the low knots and use smaller braids to ensure everything fits.

Do I need special tools for braided knots?

While not required, clear elastics and a tail comb are very helpful. A tail comb helps with precise sectioning, while clear elastics remain invisible within the intricate braided patterns.

Is it better to style on clean or dirty hair?

“Second-day” hair usually has more natural oils and texture, which makes braiding much easier. If your hair is freshly washed and slippery, use a dry shampoo or sea salt spray to add some “grit.”

How can I add more volume to my braided bun?

Gently pull at the outer edges of your braids before you pin them into a knot. This “pancaking” technique spreads the hair out and makes even thin braids look significantly thicker and more voluminous.

Are these styles suitable for outdoor events?

Braided low knots are excellent for the outdoors because they are aerodynamic and secure. They keep hair from blowing into your face and are less likely to become messy in the wind compared to loose styles.