15 Quick Updos for Medium Length Hair That Stay All Day
You need updos that actually hold up through work, errands, and happy hour without constant pinning. Medium length hair can be tricky: too short for some styles, too long for others.
But these 15 updos are designed to stay put from morning coffee to evening plans. Each style takes minutes to create and uses simple tools you already own.
The Twisted Low Knot
Start by pulling your hair into a low ponytail. Split the ponytail into two sections and twist each one tightly.
Wrap the twists around the base and secure with bobby pins. This style stays secure because the twists grip each other.
It works for work, dinner, or a casual day out. The low knot looks polished without effort.
The Messy Bun with Face-Framing Pieces
Gather your hair into a high ponytail. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base to form a bun.
Pull out a few strands around your face to soften the look. Secure with pins and let some pieces fall naturally.
This updo stays all day because the bun is tight enough, but the loose pieces add movement. It is perfect for when you want a relaxed yet put-together style.
The Braided Crown
Part your hair down the middle. French braid each side from the temples to the nape.
Cross the braids over the top of your head and pin them to form a crown. This style holds tight because the braids are woven close to the scalp.
It looks elegant and keeps hair off your face all day. Great for special events or a chic everyday look.
The Sleek Low Ponytail with a Wrap
Brush your hair back into a low ponytail at the nape. Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to hide it.
Secure the wrap with a pin underneath. This style stays sleek all day because the wrap keeps the elastic in place.
It is simple but refined, perfect for professional settings or a night out.
The Half-Up Twisted Bun
Take the top half of your hair and twist it into a bun at the crown. Leave the bottom half loose.
This style stays because the bun is secured with pins and the twist creates tension. It gives you volume on top while keeping length.
Ideal for days when you want some hair down but still need it controlled.
The Faux French Twist
Gather your hair to one side and roll it inward toward the nape. Pin the roll in place with bobby pins.
This mimics a classic French twist but works faster on medium hair. The roll stays secure because of the pins and the hair tension.
It looks sophisticated and works for both casual and formal occasions.
The Double Dutch Braid Updo
Part your hair down the middle. Dutch braid each side from the hairline to the nape.
Bring both braids together and pin them into a low bun. The braids hold tight because they are inverted, and the bun secures everything.
This style lasts all day and keeps hair completely contained. It is great for active days or humid weather.
The Bubble Ponytail
Pull your hair into a high ponytail. Secure elastics every two inches down the ponytail, then gently tug each section to create bubbles.
This style stays because the elastics hold each section in place. It is playful and modern, and the bubbles add volume.
Perfect for a fun day out or a casual event.
The Low Braided Bun
Braid your hair into a simple three-strand braid. Wrap the braid around the base at the nape and pin it.
The braid texture helps the bun stay secure. This style is neat and classic, lasting through any activity.
It works for work, school, or a relaxed weekend.
The Twisted Halo
Part your hair to one side. Twist the front section on the heavier side and pin it across the top of your head like a halo.
Repeat on the other side. The twists stay because they are pinned securely.
This style looks intricate but takes five minutes. It keeps hair off your face and adds a romantic touch.
The Side Swept Low Bun
Sweep your hair to one side and gather it into a low ponytail near your ear. Twist the ponytail into a bun and pin it.
The side placement adds interest and keeps the style secure. This updo works for both day and night, and it stays in place because of the pins and tension.
The Knotted Updo
Divide your hair into two sections. Tie them into a knot at the nape, then tuck the ends under and pin.
Repeat the knot for more texture if desired. This style stays because the knots create friction.
It is a no-heat, no-tool updo that looks chic. Perfect for when you want something different fast.
The Pinned Back Curls
Curl your hair with a curling iron. Take sections from the front and pin them back at the crown, leaving the rest loose.
The pins hold the curls in place all day. This style gives you volume and movement while keeping hair out of your face.
It is romantic and easy to refresh.
The Low Ponytail with a Twist
Create a low ponytail. Take a section from the top of the ponytail, twist it, and wrap it around the base.
Pin the twist underneath. This adds detail and keeps the ponytail secure.
It is a simple upgrade that stays all day. Great for when you want a polished look fast.
The Braided Low Bun with Ribbon
Braid your hair into a three-strand braid. Wrap the braid into a low bun and secure with pins.
Tie a thin ribbon around the base for extra hold and style. The ribbon adds grip and keeps the bun from slipping.
This updo is feminine and lasts through any activity.
