15 TRENDIEST UPDOS FOR MEDIUM-LENGTH HAIR

Medium-length hair offers a versatile canvas for creating stunning updos. Whether you’re looking for an elegant style for a special occasion or a quick and easy everyday look, there’s an updo to suit your needs. This collection showcases 15 of the trendiest updos that are perfect for medium-length hair, from classic chignons and romantic braids to playful twists and effortless knots.

Bun with Face-Framing Strands

If you love romantic hairstyles, this dreamy updo inspired by Jane Austen’s films will captivate you. Elevate your look with sparkling accessories, while allowing a few soft tendrils to gently frame your face and enhance the elegance of a high bun.

Low Updo with Loose Waves

A messy updo is timeless. The highlighted waves add texture and effortless detail to chic styles like this one. Complete the look with statement earrings or a necklace, and you’re all set! Loose, wavy strands are essential for achieving that perfectly tousled vibe.

Messy Wrapped Chignon

The messy chignon, a favorite of fashion icons like Lauren Conrad, remains a classic trend. Start by sectioning off a chunky piece on each side, then create a low looped ponytail with the rest of the hair. Wrap the side sections around the chignon, tucking the ends under the elastic or securing them with bobby pins.

Messy Wavy Updo

Attending a more casual, relaxed event? This boho-chic updo with a wavy low bun combines color and texture for an effortlessly stylish look. The highlighted waves take center stage, ensuring you feel like the star of the show.

Buns and Chignons

Minimalism is a major fashion trend, and it effortlessly translates into the beauty industry. The simple yet elegant hairstyles pictured here would make the perfect complement to a polished shift dress or a cashmere sweater paired with a midi skirt.

Deconstructed Roll

Texture is the secret to a cool style. Whether your hair is tied up or flowing down your back, the piecey layered look paired with waves will always draw compliments. The perfect finishing touch? A balayage to enhance the depth and dimension.

Loopy Updo with Bangs


This loopy style with bangs is perfect for medium-length hair. Whether your bangs are cut straight across the forehead or swept to the side, they add a touch of girly delicacy to complete the look.

Messy Bun with Loose Strands


Who doesn’t love a simple, messy bun? No one would ever guess you were rushing to work or class when you gathered your bedhead hair into a low bun. The secret to this style is keeping it deliberately undone, with loose strands adding a flirty, feminine touch.

Low Bejeweled Bun

For the perfect low bun, grab some hair texture powder, bobby pins, a teasing comb, and padding. If you’re not up for a DIY hair adventure, simply bring this as an inspirational photo to your hairstylist. Messy updos never go out of style, but to add a touch of sophistication, accessorize with shiny, elegant details.

Weaved and Looped Style

Intricate details make formal updos truly stand out. The looping and weaving create a visually captivating and refined look. Finish off the style with a couple of soft tendrils around the face for a romantic and endearing touch.

High Tuck-In

If the back sections of your hair are shorter and you’re aiming for a high updo, try tucking and pinning each section at different heights to achieve the desired lift. Loosen a few strands around the face to add softness and balance to the look.

Loopy Twisted Updo

This lovely twisted style adds incredible thickness and volume to fine hair! The next time you have a wedding to attend, let this be your go-to hairstyle. For an extra touch, you can add a small flower or jeweled barrette to enhance the look.

Looped ‘Do with Highlights

If you’re going for a relaxed look like this messy looped style, chunky highlights can really enhance the texture. They’re especially flattering when twisted together, creating a beautiful swirl of caramel and coffee hues.

Bouffant Hairstyle


Fine hair can sometimes appear flat in updo hairstyles, as the strands lack volume and width. In cases of dark hair, the scalp may even peek through. To counter this, add height at the crown with a bold bouffant to create a fuller, more voluminous look.

Chunky Braid Updo

Updos don’t always have to be formal. Take this French braid, for example. The exaggerated weaving adds a cool, effortless vibe. While it’s a more laid-back look, it’s versatile enough for everything from brunch with friends to date night. Add some accessories to dress it up for a formal event.

CONCLUSION

With a little creativity and the right techniques, medium-length hair can be transformed into a stunning array of updos. These 15 styles demonstrate the versatility of this hair length, proving that you don’t need long locks to achieve elegant and sophisticated looks for any occasion.

30 UNIQUE PROM HAIRSTYLES TO TRY IN 2025

Get ready to make a statement at your prom with these stunning and unique hairstyles. From classic updos to trendy braids and loose waves, there’s a style to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for something glamorous, edgy, or simply elegant, this collection has something for everyone.

VOLUMINOUS BRAIDED PONYTAIL

We can’t get enough of this chunky side plait for prom—it’s both textured and smooth. If you have naturally straight hair that struggles to hold a curl, this hairstyle is perfect for you.

BRAIDED BUN WITH TWISTS

Sophisticated and elaborate hairstyles are the perfect complement to open-shoulder sparkly dresses. We’re particularly drawn to the rope braid details around the front, which add a personalized touch to this stunning look.

HIGH MESSY BUN WITH WAVY WISPY BITS

Thinking about doing your own prom hair? This hairstyle is perfect for you: it’s easy to create but looks sophisticated and elegant, making it ideal for a special night out.

SOFT WAVY PROM HALF UP HAIRSTYLE

A soft, feminine half-up style is a perfect choice for those with medium hair length. To add a touch of glamour, consider accessorizing with crystal bobby pins or a clip for a sparkling and elegant look.

TEXTURED WAVES AND A FLOWER BAND

If none of the prom updos caught your eye, simply curl your hair and leave it down. You’ll need straighteners or a curling iron, along with some strong or medium-hold hairspray to keep your curls in place.

HOLLYWOOD WAVES FOR PROM

This vintage-inspired hairstyle is a fantastic way to showcase your long hair. Set your hair in pin curls and gently brush them out for a classic look. If you’re unsure about doing it yourself, consider asking a professional hairstylist to create this elegant style for your prom.

POLISHED CHIGNON PROM HAIR

Still undecided on a prom updo? Choose a chic, classic chignon and elevate it with a few pearl pins for a touch of elegance and sophistication.

HIGH BUN WITH FRINGE LOCKS

Bun hairstyles continue to be a timeless choice for prom, providing universally flattering elegance. It’s an ideal option for someone who values simplicity with a touch of sophistication and allure.

PULLED BACK BRAIDS AND CURLS

Braids and curls make a lovely combination for romantic dates, birthdays, and, of course, prom night. For a prom look, complement the hairstyle with trendy latte makeup to enhance your overall elegance.

MESSY PROM FRENCH TWIST

By adding texture to your prom hair, you can easily elevate the classic style to a whole new level of sophistication. For this charming French twist, for example, introducing some carefree waves will be enough.

GLAM HOLLYWOOD CURLS

Even if your prom doesn’t involve an actual red carpet, your hair can still have red-carpet-worthy appeal. Choose stunning slick-back waves to infuse your prom look with a touch of Old Hollywood glamour.

HALF UP SOFT CURLS

This style is perfect for women with naturally wavy or curly hair. Bridal hair specialist Sarah Whittaker recommends using hydration lotion and heat protectant to keep your curls moisturized and well-maintained.

HALF PONYTAIL WITH SWEEPING BANG

Choosing a half-up hairstyle is a dependable option for those who are unsure about their prom hair. If your hair is naturally thick and straight, skip the curls and highlight your smooth locks with a half ponytail for a sleek and polished look.

SLEEK AND STRAIGHT PROM STYLE

Those with straight hair don’t need to resort to curls, as long, sleek hair is equally attractive. Plus, you won’t have to worry about whether your curls will last throughout the prom night.

LOVELY TWISTED LOW BUN

This textured updo is perfect for brides and graduates alike. For a bit of edge, add some tousled locks throughout your hair and especially in the bun itself, giving your low bun a stylish and effortless look.

ELEGANT SOFT WAVES AND BANGS

To create a lively and spirited vibe at prom, opt for a hairstyle featuring bouncy curls and bangs that gently frame your face. Enhance the look by choosing a rich hair color that complements your skin tone.

HALF UP HALF DOWN PROM HAIRSTYLE WITH TWISTS

A romantic and feminine half-up style is a versatile choice that complements various outfits and occasions. Its textured look and elegant appeal make it a popular option for prom hairstyles, especially for those with long or medium hair.

BRAIDED BUN WITH FACE FRAMING TENDRILS

A voluminous and textured hairstyle with chunky French braids and loose curls around the face is a stunning choice for prom. Pair it with an open-back dress and complete the look with elegant dangly earrings for a glamorous and sophisticated appearance.

LOW MESSY BUN

For a sophisticated and ladylike look, consider this elegant prom updo. Its soft, textured style is both chic and understated, making it a perfect complement to your gown.

SOFT BRAID WITH REAL FLOWERS

Embrace your inner mermaid with this tousled and free-spirited braid prom hairstyle. Combining multiple braiding elements, this look is perfect for those seeking a bohemian and whimsical style. Complete the ensemble with wildflowers that match your dress for a truly enchanting appearance,

CROWN BRAID PROM HAIRSTYLE

A crown braid, with its textured and voluminous style, is a popular choice for those seeking a romantic yet rustic look. Suitable for various hair lengths and textures, this hairstyle involves creating two Dutch or French braids on each side of the head and joining them at the back to form a crown-like effect.

FULL GLAM BRUNETTE BUN

A large, textured bun is a popular choice for prom hairstyles, especially when paired with a ballgown. This elegant updo perfectly complements a formal dress, giving you a red carpet-worthy appearance.

MESSY BUN WITH TWO FISHTAIL BRAIDS

If you’re unsure how to style your hair for prom, consider this stunning combination: a braided crown paired with a loose, messy bun. This dreamy duo will create a show-stopping look that’s both elegant and effortlessly chic.

TOUSLED FISHTAIL BRAID DUO

If updos aren’t your style and half-up hairstyles feel too casual for the big night, try a relaxed and effortless look. Consider using clip-in extensions to add fullness and length, giving your hair a touch of extra glamour without the fuss.

TEXTURED HIGH BUN WITH LOOSE CURLS

Add some oomph to your hair with this adorable updo that features plenty of volume and texture. Loose tendrils around the front will frame your face and soften your features, creating a flattering and stylish look.

LOW PONYTAIL HAIRSTYLE FOR PROM

Ponytails are a top choice for prom hairstyles right now. Versatile and trendy, they work beautifully with medium to long hair. To perfect the look, go for loose, brushed-out waves rather than tight curls for a more relaxed and stylish finish.

LOW TWISTED BUN

Buns are a top choice for prom hairstyles for long hair due to their versatility and elegance. This charming updo keeps your hair neatly in place, so you won’t have to worry about curls falling out or feeling overheated.

BIG AND BEAUTIFUL CURLY HAIR

If you’re lucky enough to have naturally curly hair, enhance your curls by blow-drying with a diffuser and using a curl-enhancing serum. Sweep your hair to one side for a striking and stylish look that highlights the natural texture of your locks.

SOPHISTICATED HIGH PONYTAIL FOR PROM

We adore this super sleek Hollywood waves high ponytail. Ideal for prom or any special occasion, this elegant and understated hairstyle is sure to make a stunning impression.

HALF UP STYLE WITH LOOSE CURLS AND FISHTAIL BRAIDS

The half-up, half-down style is a perfect compromise for those who prefer not to wear all their hair up but want something more elegant than just letting it fall freely. Enhance this look with a fishtail braid and a small plait on one side for added charm and sophistication.

CONCLUSION

In short, exploring the many unique prom hairstyles for 2025 will provide endless possibilities for you to express your personal style and make a memorable impression. Whether you choose an elegant bun, a chic braid or voluminous curls, there is always the right hairstyle that can completely enhance your prom look and boost your confidence. From timeless classics to modern trends, there is a perfect hairstyle for everyone to shine on their special night. Choose a hairstyle that reflects your personality from these 30 hairstyles and enjoy a truly unforgettable prom night.