17 Fun Hairstyles for Medium Hair from Braids to Creative Updos

Medium hair is the ultimate sweet spot. It offers the manageability of short hair with the creative potential of long locks.

Finding the right look shouldn’t be a chore. These styles are designed to be playful, expressive, and surprisingly easy to master.

From intricate braids to sophisticated updos, your mid-length hair is ready for a refresh. Let’s dive into these stunning inspirations.

1. The Bubble Braid Ponytail

The bubble braid is a modern classic that adds instant texture. It works perfectly for medium hair because it keeps strands secure and stylish all day long.

To achieve this, start with a high ponytail and place elastics every few inches down the length. Gently tug the hair between bands to create the signature “bubbles.”

This style is incredibly versatile for various activities. It is a great way to show off your hair’s volume without worrying about constant flyaways or frizz.

2. Space Bun Half-Up

This look combines the playfulness of buns with the flow of a down-style. It keeps the hair away from your face while maintaining a relaxed, casual vibe.

Simply section the top half of your hair and divide it into two equal parts. Twist each section into a small bun and secure them with pins or elastics.

You can leave the bottom section straight, wavy, or curly depending on your preference. It is a foolproof way to add a bit of personality to your daily routine.

3. Dutch Braid Crown

A Dutch braid crown offers a regal yet effortless aesthetic for medium lengths. Unlike the French braid, this technique makes the braid sit on top of the hair.

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Begin at your part and braid along the hairline, incorporating new sections as you go. Pin the ends tucked neatly underneath to create a seamless circular effect.

This style is perfect for those days when you want a polished look that stays put. It works exceptionally well on second-day hair for added grip and texture.

4. Messy Low Bun with Scarf

Elevate a simple low bun by incorporating a colorful silk scarf. This adds a pop of color and a touch of sophistication to a very quick style.

Gather your hair at the nape of the neck and twist it into a loose bun. Tie the scarf around the base, letting the ends hang freely for movement.

This look is ideal for adding visual interest without requiring complex braiding skills. It provides a chic solution for keeping hair organized and off the shoulders.

5. Fishtail Side Braid

The fishtail braid looks intricate but is actually quite simple to execute on medium hair. It produces a dense, textured look that stands out from standard braids.

Pull all your hair to one side and divide it into two large sections. Take a small piece from the outside of one and cross it over to the other.

Repeat this process until you reach the ends and secure it with a clear elastic. Gently pull the edges of the braid to make it look fuller and more relaxed.

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6. The Twisted Halo

If you aren’t confident in your braiding skills, the twisted halo is the perfect alternative. It uses simple twists to create a beautiful, romantic frame for the face.

Take two small sections of hair from the front and twist them back away from your face. Secure them at the back of your head with a small clip.

This style is exceptionally quick and requires minimal tools to look professional. It works beautifully on both sleek straight hair and natural curls for a soft finish.

7. Double Dutch Pigtails

Double Dutch braids are a fantastic way to manage medium hair during active days. They provide a secure hold while looking trendy and well-structured from every angle.

Part your hair down the center and braid each side from the forehead to the nape. You can either finish the braids or leave them as low ponytails.

This style is particularly effective for showcasing different hair colors or highlights. It remains one of the most popular choices for those seeking a sporty yet creative look.

8. Sleek High Top Knot

A high top knot is the go-to for a clean and sophisticated silhouette. It elongates the neck and keeps the focus entirely on your facial features.

Brush your hair upward and secure it into a tight ponytail at the crown. Wrap the length around the base and secure with pins for a smooth finish.

Use a light hairspray or pomade to tame any flyaways around the hairline. This creates a polished appearance that works for both professional settings and formal events.

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9. French Braid Faux Hawk

The French braid faux hawk offers an edgy vibe without the commitment of a haircut. It creates height and drama using only your existing medium-length strands.

Braid a thick French braid down the center of your head, keeping the sides tight and sleek. Secure the end into a small bun or tuck it under.

This style is perfect for those who want to experiment with a bolder aesthetic. It creates an illusion of shorter sides while highlighting the volume on top.

10. Low Chignon with Pearls

A low chignon is a timeless updo that exudes elegance and grace. Adding pearl pins or accessories can transform this simple bun into a stunning focal point.

Gather your hair at the base of your neck and roll it into a neat, horizontal tuck. Secure with bobby pins and insert decorative pearls throughout the twist.

This look is particularly well-suited for medium hair because the length is easy to tuck. It provides a high-end look that is surprisingly easy to achieve at home.

11. Wrapped Bubble Pigtails

Wrapped bubble pigtails take the traditional pigtail and give it a creative, modern update. This style is playful and keeps medium hair from tangling during the day.

Create two high pigtails and use elastics to create sections just like a single bubble braid. Wrap a small piece of hair around each elastic to hide the band.

This detail adds a professional touch to an otherwise whimsical hairstyle. It is a great way to add structural interest to your look with very little effort.

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12. Topsy Tail Pull-Through

The topsy tail technique is a classic trick that creates the illusion of a complex twist. It is achieved by looping a ponytail back through itself at the base.

You can stack multiple topsy tails on top of each other for a cascading effect. This creates a beautiful “pull-through” braid look that is very secure and sturdy.

This style is excellent for medium hair as it creates a lot of visual volume. It looks like you spent hours on your hair when it actually takes minutes.

13. Side-Swept Braided Waterfall

The waterfall braid is a stunning way to incorporate braids while letting your hair hang loose. It involves dropping strands through the braid to create a “falling” effect.

Starting from one side, begin a horizontal braid and drop the bottom strand every time you cross. Pick up a new piece from the top to continue.

This creates a romantic and airy look that is perfect for outdoor events. It highlights the movement of medium hair while keeping the front sections neatly pinned back.

14. Knotted Low Ponytail

A knotted ponytail is a creative twist on a basic style that adds immediate flair. It uses the hair itself to create a knot-like structure at the base.

Divide your hair into two sections at the nape and literally tie them in a simple knot. Secure the underside with a clear elastic or a few bobby pins.

This creates a unique texture that looks modern and architectural. It is a fantastic option for those who want to look put-together with a minimal tool kit.

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15. Braided Space Buns

Braided space buns offer extra security and texture compared to the standard bun version. By braiding the hair before pinning it up, you ensure the buns hold their shape.

Create two high ponytails and braid each one down to the ends. Wrap the braids into circular buns and secure them firmly to the top of your head.

This look is fun, energetic, and keeps every strand of medium hair perfectly in place. It is an excellent choice for festivals, workouts, or creative weekend outings.

16. The Criss-Cross Updo

The criss-cross updo is a clever way to pin up medium hair so it looks longer and more complex. It involves crossing sections of hair over each other at the back.

Take small sections from the left and right, crossing them over the center and pinning them. Repeat this until all your hair is gathered into a low, textured bun.

This method provides a lot of grip, making it ideal for hair that usually slips out of updos. The finished result is a sophisticated and woven appearance.

17. Voluminous Half-Up Bouffant

A bouffant adds a touch of retro glamour by creating height at the crown of the head. It is a fantastic way to give medium hair a boost of volume.

Tease the hair at the crown slightly and smooth the top layer over it. Pin the section at the back of the head, leaving the rest to hang freely.

This style is perfect for those who want a bit of “oomph” without a full updo. It frames the face beautifully and works well with any hair texture or fringe.

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What hair tools are best for medium hair?

For medium hair, a high-quality 1-inch curling iron and a variety of clear elastics are essential. Bobby pins with a strong grip and a fine-tooth comb for sectioning will also make creative styling much easier.

How do I keep braids from slipping?

If your hair is very smooth or clean, use a dry shampoo or texturizing spray before braiding. This provides the “grit” necessary for the strands to hold onto each other without sliding out of the style.

Can these styles work on thin hair?

Absolutely, many of these styles are designed to create the illusion of thickness. Techniques like “pancaking” a braid—gently pulling on the loops—can make thin hair look significantly more voluminous and full.

How long do these updos usually take?

Most of these styles can be completed in 5 to 15 minutes once you master the basic techniques. Styles like the topsy tail or the knotted ponytail are particularly fast for those on a tight schedule.

What products help hold creative styles?

A medium-hold hairspray is vital for keeping updos in place without making the hair feel crunchy. Additionally, a light hair oil can help smooth down flyaways and add a healthy-looking shine to your finished look.

Is it better to style clean or dirty hair?

Most creative styles and braids actually hold better on “second-day” hair. The natural oils in the hair provide better grip, whereas freshly washed hair can often be too slippery to maintain intricate shapes.