Oh wow, it was her big day! Emma stood in front of the mirror, heart racing and eyes wide, not because of the dress, but because of her hair. She had medium-length hair and was worried it wouldn’t look special enough for her wedding.
But then, her stylist worked magic with one of those wedding updos for medium hair, and boom—it looked like something out of a fairy tale! Her smile grew wider as she saw her reflection sparkle, and in that moment, she knew—this was it.
So many brides with medium hair feel stuck. They scroll for hours, wondering what could look good and stay pretty all day. But hey, good news! Wedding updos for medium hair are now super trendy and totally gorgeous.
From soft buns to braided crowns, there’s a whole world of hairstyles made just for you. These updos don’t just hold well—they make you feel like the main character, because you are!
“Always bring hair photos to your trial and try the updo with your veil or hairpiece—it helps you see the full look in advance!” — Ava Torres, Bridal Hair Specialist
And oh, don’t be shy—go ahead and try one! You don’t need long hair to feel like royalty. These wedding updos for medium hair are easy to style and feel super light on your head. You’ll dance, laugh, hug, and take a thousand pictures—and guess what? Your hair will still look amazing. Ready to pick your dream updo? Let’s go!
Also Try: 50 Must-Try Cornrow Braided Hairstyles Ideas
Tips for Wedding Updos for Medium Hair
Here are Tips for Wedding Updos for Medium Hair in simple, engaging language:
1. Start with Clean, Dry Hair
Updos hold better when your hair is washed the day before—not the same day. This helps the style stay in place without slipping.
2. Use Lightweight Products
Don’t overload your hair with heavy creams or oils. Use a light mousse or texture spray to add grip and volume.
3. Add Hair Extensions (If You Want More Volume)
Medium hair is perfect for most updos, but a few clip-in extensions can give that extra fullness for a wow effect.
4. Do a Hair Trial Before the Wedding
Always test your hairstyle a few weeks before. This way, you know what works, and there are no surprises on the big day!
5. Pick a Style That Matches Your Dress Neckline
Low buns look amazing with open necklines, while high updos go well with detailed or high-neck dresses.
6. Secure with Quality Pins and Hairspray
Use strong bobby pins and a flexible hold spray to keep everything in place—yes, even during dancing!
7. Don’t Forget Hair Accessories
Add sparkle with pearls, flowers, or jeweled pins. Accessories can turn a simple updo into a bridal masterpiece.
8. Keep an Emergency Kit
Pack extra pins, a mini spray, and a small comb just in case you need a quick touch-up later in the day.
These tips will help make sure your wedding updos for medium hair are picture-perfect and party-ready!
Also Try: 35 Braided Hairstyles to Make You Shine at Any Event
Ready to find the perfect look for your special day? Here are the most beautiful wedding updos for medium hair that will make you feel confident, elegant, and totally YOU.
1. Low Twisted Bun
Oh wow! This one’s classy and so elegant! The hair is softly twisted on both sides and gathered into a cute little bun at the back near your neck. It looks neat but not boring—perfect for a bride who loves simple beauty. This style shows off your neck and shoulders, so it goes great with off-shoulder dresses. You can even add flowers or sparkly pins to make it look fancier!
How to Get It:
- Brush your hair smooth and part it in the middle or on the side.
- Take sections from both sides and twist them toward the back.
- Gather all the hair at the bottom of your head.
- Twist it into a bun and secure with pins.
- Finish with hairspray to hold it all in place.
Tips:
- Use some shine spray to make it glow.
- Add small pearls or pins for wedding glam.
- Keep it low for a graceful look.
- Leave tiny face-framing pieces for softness.
2. Messy Bun with Braids
Ooh, this one’s so fun and cute! It’s like a mix of pretty and playful. You add little braids on the sides and pull everything into a messy bun—yes, messy is good here! It gives you that chill, boho bride vibe. This is perfect for outdoor weddings or beach vibes. Plus, it works even if your hair’s not super long!
How to Get It:
- Part your hair and make two small braids on each side.
- Tease your crown area to add some volume.
- Pull all your hair back loosely and wrap it into a bun.
- Tug a few strands out to give it that messy charm.
- Pin everything in place and spray lightly.
Tips:
- Don’t make it too tight—it should look relaxed.
- Works best with some texture—use a curling wand first.
- Add a flower crown or clip for a boho touch.
- Let some strands fall out around your face.
3. Classic Chignon
Ah, so timeless and beautiful! The chignon is a low bun that looks smooth and polished. It sits at the nape of your neck and is perfect for a fancy, formal wedding. It gives a royal touch and works great with veils. Whether your dress is modern or traditional, this updo matches everything!
How to Get It:
- Comb your hair and create a deep side part.
- Pull all your hair to the back of your neck.
- Twist your hair inward and roll it into a bun shape.
- Tuck the ends inside and pin it all securely.
- Smooth down flyaways with a bit of hairspray.
Tips:
- Add a jeweled comb or clip for sparkle.
- Use a smoothing cream for a sleek finish.
- Perfect with or without a veil.
- Works best on straight or slightly wavy hair.
Also Try: 15 Gorgeous Half Up Half Down Wedding Hairstyles for Women
4. Curly Updo with Tendrils
Aww, this one’s romantic and soft! Curls are pinned up loosely while leaving some curly tendrils (little curly pieces) around the face and neck. It feels dreamy and sweet—like something from a fairytale! Great for medium hair because it gives volume and shape even if your hair isn’t long.
How to Get It:
- Curl all your hair with a curling iron.
- Section off the front tendrils and leave them out.
- Pull the rest of your curls back into a loose bun or twist.
- Pin each curl in place, letting them sit softly.
- Let the tendrils frame your face for that soft look.
Tips:
- Use a heat protectant before curling.
- Keep the curls bouncy, not tight.
- Works great with a flower pin or clip.
- Spray gently to hold without stiffness.
5. Braided Crown Updo
Wow, it’s like a princess hairstyle! This updo wraps your braids like a crown around your head—super royal and pretty. It looks detailed but is actually simple to do. You can make it look soft and flowy or neat and polished. Perfect for weddings with a fairytale or garden theme!
How to Get It:
- Part your hair down the middle.
- Braid two sections from each side of your head.
- Wrap the braids across your head like a headband.
- Pin them in place to make a crown shape.
- Tuck in loose ends and spray to hold.
Tips:
- Works great with wavy or textured hair.
- Add small flowers or baby’s breath to the braid.
- Tug the braids slightly for a fuller look.
- Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—it adds charm!
6. Loose Bun with Face-Framing Strands
Ahh, so soft and romantic! This updo is a little messy in a good way, with loose strands falling around the face. The bun is placed at the back, and it’s not tight at all—giving it a relaxed, pretty look. It’s perfect if you want to feel comfy but still look lovely. It suits all face shapes too!
How to Get It:
- Curl your hair lightly to add texture.
- Pull your hair into a low, loose ponytail.
- Twist it into a soft bun and pin in place.
- Gently pull out a few strands around your face.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray.
Tips:
- Use a curling wand for soft waves.
- Let the face strands be thinner, not chunky.
- Tuck in bobby pins well to keep the bun steady.
- A shiny hairpin can dress it up.
Also Try: 30 Coiffure Hairstyles for Weddings and Parties
7. High Bun with Volume
Whoa! This one adds height and glam! A high bun sits on the top of your head and gives you that red carpet look. It’s smooth on the sides but full on top. It’s perfect if you want to look tall and royal on your wedding day. Add a little sparkle to make it extra special.
How to Get It:
- Flip your head and gather hair into a high ponytail.
- Tease the ponytail to add volume.
- Wrap the teased hair into a bun.
- Pin it in place from all sides.
- Smooth the front and spray to finish.
Tips:
- Use a bun donut for a bigger shape.
- Wrap a braid around the bun for style.
- Keep it tight and neat at the base.
- Add a tiara for a wow effect!
8. Fishtail Braid Updo
So stylish and trendy! This one starts with a fishtail braid and ends in a twist or bun. It looks fancy but is actually easy once you know the braid. It gives a cool texture and suits medium hair really well. Great for modern brides who want something a little different.
How to Get It:
- Make a low fishtail braid starting from one side.
- Secure the end with a clear elastic.
- Twist the braid into a bun shape at the back.
- Pin it well with bobby pins.
- Tug the braid slightly for a fuller look.
Tips:
- Fishtail works best on textured hair.
- Use clear or matching bands.
- Don’t worry if some hairs stick out—it adds charm.
- Practice the braid first if you’re new to it!
9. Twisted Crown Updo
Feels just like a fairy queen! This updo is made by twisting sections of hair across your head, like a soft crown. It’s not braided, so it’s easier and quicker. It looks dreamy and gentle, perfect for romantic or vintage weddings.
How to Get It:
- Take sections from both sides of your head.
- Twist them toward the back and pin in the center.
- Keep adding twists from each side until they meet.
- Pin everything tightly and tuck in ends.
- Add flowers or pins for a crown-like look.
Tips:
- Works best on second-day hair.
- Soft waves make the twists stand out.
- Add tiny clips or pearl pins for sparkle.
- Set with light hairspray to hold it gently.
10. Rolled Updo (French Roll)
Oh-la-la, so fancy and chic! This hairstyle rolls the hair into a smooth, vertical twist at the back. It gives an old Hollywood look—very polished and graceful. It’s perfect for traditional weddings or elegant themes. You’ll look like a movie star!
How to Get It:
- Comb your hair smooth and to one side.
- Roll the hair inwards from the ends up to the head.
- Tuck in the roll and pin it vertically.
- Smooth out the sides and top.
- Spray to hold everything neatly.
Tips:
- Best on straight or straightened hair.
- Use strong pins to keep the roll tight.
- Add a decorative comb at the side.
- Practice the roll once or twice before the big day.
11. Half-Up Twisted Bun
Yay! This one’s super pretty and sweet! Half the hair stays down, and the top half is twisted into a cute little bun. You get the best of both worlds—updo style and loose flowy hair. It’s perfect if you want to feel relaxed but still done up.
How to Get It:
- Part your hair and take the top half.
- Twist both sides and pull them to the back.
- Tie into a small bun and pin it securely.
- Let the bottom half stay loose and curled.
- Add a floral clip or pin for fun.
Tips:
- Curl the bottom for bounce and beauty.
- Great with or without bangs.
- Add sparkle with a glittery pin.
- Keep the top twist soft, not too tight.
Also Try: 15 Gorgeous Half Up Half Down Wedding Hairstyles for Women
12. Side Bun with Braids
Oh yes, this one’s fancy with a twist! The bun sits on one side near your neck, and braids add a pretty detail. It looks unique and is perfect if you want something eye-catching. It goes well with dresses that have details on one shoulder.
How to Get It:
- Part your hair and braid one or both sides.
- Pull hair to one side and gather into a low bun.
- Wrap the braids around the bun.
- Pin everything securely.
- Leave some strands out for softness.
Tips:
- Works great with flower pins or clips.
- Try a side part for more glam.
- Loose braids look more bridal.
- Keep the bun a little messy for charm.
13. Braided Bun Updo
Yippee! This one’s cool and creative! The whole bun is made from a braid! You braid your hair and then twist it into a bun—it’s neat and textured and looks like you spent hours on it. But guess what? It’s super quick!
How to Get It:
- Pull all your hair into a ponytail.
- Braid the ponytail to the ends.
- Wrap the braid into a bun shape.
- Pin it tightly with bobby pins.
- Smooth the top and spray.
Tips:
- Use a side or middle part—both look good.
- Works great with medium thick hair.
- Try a rope braid instead of regular braid for fun.
- Add sparkly pins for extra shine.
14. Wavy Low Bun
Ahh, so soft and dreamy! This updo is all about loose waves gathered into a low bun. It feels effortless and romantic, like a storybook bride. It’s great for dresses with lace or soft fabrics. And the waves make it super sweet!
How to Get It:
- Curl all your hair loosely.
- Pull it back into a low ponytail.
- Twist the ponytail into a soft bun.
- Pin curls loosely for that bouncy look.
- Leave a few curled strands around your face.
Tips:
- Use big curling iron for soft waves.
- Set curls before pinning the bun.
- Add a flower clip or comb on one side.
- Spray softly to keep it airy.
15. Pinned-Up Curls
Yesss, this one’s full of bounce and beauty! Lots of little curls are pinned at the back of your head in a cute, curly mess. It’s playful, pretty, and perfect for medium hair. Great choice if you love volume and texture.
How to Get It:
- Curl your hair with a medium-sized iron.
- Take small sections and pin them back one by one.
- Let the curls keep their shape.
- Pin them all into a soft bunch at the back.
- Tug some curls out for a natural finish.
Tips:
- Spray each curl before pinning.
- Use flower pins or glitter clips for sparkle.
- Works with natural curls too!
- Don’t over-style—let the curls pop!
16. Side Swept Curls Updo
Ooh, this one is soft and super romantic! All the curls are swept to one side and pinned loosely, letting them fall in pretty layers. It gives a fancy, old-Hollywood vibe but with a soft twist. It’s perfect for shoulder-baring dresses and gives your face a lovely frame.
How to Get It:
- Curl all your hair into soft waves.
- Part it deeply to one side.
- Sweep all the curls to one side near your neck.
- Pin them in layers so they fall nicely.
- Spray gently to keep it in place.
Tips:
- Use a big-barrel curling iron.
- Keep one ear visible for earrings!
- Tuck a floral clip behind one ear.
- Works well with layered medium hair.
17. Rope Braided Bun
Wow, so cool and neat! This one uses a rope braid (a twist!) to make a cute bun. It’s smooth, stylish, and not too flashy. It’s a great choice if you want something modern but still special. And it holds well, too!
How to Get It:
- Make a low ponytail.
- Divide it in two and twist both sections tightly.
- Wrap them around each other like a rope.
- Coil the rope into a bun and pin it.
- Spray to lock everything in place.
Tips:
- Great for sleek hair days.
- Use shine spray for a glossy look.
- Try it with a middle part for balance.
- Add a pearl pin in the middle of the bun.
18. Double Braided Updo
Whoa, two braids? Twice the beauty! This style has two braids—one on each side—that meet in the back to form a soft bun or knot. It gives you a cute, fairytale look that’s playful and elegant at the same time. Lovely for garden or rustic weddings.
How to Get It:
- Part your hair in the middle.
- Braid both sides from front to back.
- Meet the braids in the center and tie them.
- Twist into a low bun or knot.
- Pin everything tightly.
Tips:
- Tug the braids to make them look fuller.
- Try a Dutch braid for extra texture.
- Use small flowers along the braids.
- Light hairspray helps hold the shape.
19. Bun with Hair Wrap
Simple but sooo stylish! This bun is just like a normal bun, but a strand of hair is wrapped around its base to hide the hair tie and add a polished touch. It’s sleek and pretty and perfect if you like clean looks. Works for indoor and outdoor weddings!
How to Get It:
- Pull hair into a medium or low ponytail.
- Twist into a bun and pin it well.
- Take a small section of hair from the bottom.
- Wrap it around the bun base to cover the band.
- Tuck the end under and pin it.
Tips:
- Use a smoothing cream to get rid of frizz.
- Curl the wrap piece slightly for a soft finish.
- Match it with dangly earrings.
- It’s a great last-minute style too!
20. Vintage Rolled Updo
Oooh, like a movie star from the 1950s! This updo uses big, smooth rolls to give a vintage, glam look. It’s perfect if you’re going for an old-time bridal style. It looks super fancy and makes your hair look full and rich.
How to Get It:
- Part your hair on one side.
- Take sections from the front and roll them backward.
- Pin each roll neatly.
- Pull the rest into a low bun or French twist.
- Add a vintage pin or clip for effect.
Tips:
- Use a setting spray before rolling.
- Smooth each roll with a comb.
- Practice the rolls beforehand.
- Great match with red lips and classic makeup!
FAQS
| Questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Can you do an updo with medium length hair? | Yes, absolutely! Medium length hair is perfect for many updos like buns, braids, twists, and curls. |
| Is it better to wear your hair up or down for a wedding? | It depends on your style and dress. Hair up looks elegant and stays neat; hair down feels soft and romantic. |
| How long should my hair be for a wedding updo? | Around shoulder-length or longer is great. Even just below the chin is enough for most updos. |
| What do I need for updos? | You’ll need bobby pins, hair ties, hairspray, combs, and maybe some clips or accessories. |
| What length is best for updos? | Medium to long hair works best, but even medium-short hair can be styled with tricks and pins. |
| Which hairstyle is best for medium length hair? | Styles like low buns, messy buns, braids, and twisted updos look amazing on medium length hair. |
| Why do brides wear updos? | Updos look elegant, keep hair out of the face, and hold well all day long—perfect for weddings! |
| How long before your wedding should you get your hair styled? | Usually 2–3 hours before the ceremony is good. Do a trial style a few weeks before the wedding day. |
| Does it matter what you wear to a wedding? | Yes, wear something nice and respectful. Don’t wear white unless the bride says it’s okay! |
Conclusion
Wow, what a hair adventure we just had – right?! 🎉 From soft buns to playful braids, from fancy rolls to curly magic, we went through 20 beautiful wedding updos for medium hair that can totally make you feel like a queen on your big day!
We looked at styles that are classy, fun, romantic, vintage, modern—a little something for every bride out there! And the best part? These hairstyles aren’t super hard to do. With a few twists, pins, and a little hairspray, you’re all set to rock the aisle with confidence and beauty. 💍💕
So now it’s your turn—which hairstyle stole your heart? Did you try one already? Planning to wear one on your big day? Or maybe your best friend’s wedding? 👰
We’d love to hear your story!
Drop a comment, share your fav style, or tell us how your hair turned out. Let’s chat and celebrate all the bridal beauty together!
And hey—if you know someone who’s getting married soon, go ahead and share this article with them. Because good hair days are meant to be shared! 😊💫