Managing curly hair of medium length can feel tricky when you want an elegant look. You might think your curls are too short or too bouncy to stay put. However, medium length is actually perfect for stunning updos. You get enough volume to create gorgeous shapes without the heavy weight of long hair. Whether you are heading to a formal event or just want a chic everyday look, there are countless ways to style your curls. From messy buns to braided crowns, the options are endless and beautiful. This guide highlights 25 updo hairstyles for curly medium length hair to inspire your next look. Get ready to embrace your natural texture and try something new.
1. Messy Curly Bun For Medium Hair
Have you ever wanted a style that takes almost no effort but looks incredibly chic? The messy curly bun is your go-to option. This look embraces your natural curl pattern while keeping hair securely out of your face. Simply gather your curls at the crown or the nape of your neck. Do not worry about stray hairs or perfect smoothness. The messier, the better. Pull a few tendrils out to frame your face softly. This style works wonderfully for casual outings or relaxed weekend brunches. Medium length hair gives this bun just the right amount of volume without drooping. Use a few bobby pins and a soft scrunchie to hold it all in place.
2. Half Up Half Down Curly Updo
Why choose between wearing your hair up or down when you can enjoy both? The half up half down curly updo offers the best of both worlds. You get the elegance of an updo along with the flowing beauty of loose curls. Take the top section of your hair from the temples up and secure it into a small bun or twist. Let the rest of your medium length curls cascade over your shoulders. This style keeps hair out of your eyes while showing off your gorgeous texture. It is a perfect choice for outdoor events or a day at the office. Add a decorative clip for an extra touch of personality.
3. Curly Pineapple Updo
Looking for a way to protect your curls while you sleep or show off their volume? The curly pineapple updo is a staple for anyone with natural texture. You gather all your medium length curls right at the very top of your head. Use a gentle scrunchie or a silk hair tie to secure them. The result looks exactly like a pineapple. Your curls cascade forward, creating incredible height and volume. This method stretches your curls and prevents frizz while you sleep. It also looks incredibly cute as a daytime style. Wear it to the gym or while running errands. You will love how simple and effective this updo truly is.
4. Braided Crown For Curly Hair
Ever wondered how to achieve a regal look with your natural curls? The braided crown weaves your medium length hair into a stunning halo. You simply create two braids on either side of your head. Then, cross them over the top and pin them securely. The braid adds beautiful texture and keeps your curls neatly contained. This style is incredibly romantic and perfect for weddings or garden parties. Even if your hair is only medium length, the thickness of curly hair makes the crown look full and lush. Tuck any loose ends under the braids to keep the look polished. This updo stays put all day long with the right pins.
5. Space Buns For Medium Curly Hair
Want to add a fun and playful vibe to your everyday look? Space buns are a fantastic choice for medium curly hair. You divide your hair down the middle into two equal sections. Twist each section into a bun on top of your head. The natural texture of your curls makes these buns look wonderfully voluminous and wild. This double bun style is great for concerts, festivals, or just hanging out with friends. It keeps your hair off your neck while showing off your fun personality. Leave a few curls loose around your face for a softer feel. Secure them tightly so the bouncy curls stay in place all day.
6. Curly French Twist Updo
Need a sophisticated style for a formal event? The curly French twist updo brings classic elegance to natural texture. Instead of smoothing your hair flat, you let the curls bubble out of the twist. Gather your medium length hair to one side and pin it vertically up the back. Let the curls spill over the pins naturally. This creates a beautiful contrast between the structured shape and the wild curls. It is a stunning option for weddings, galas, or fancy dinners. The French twist elongates your neck and highlights your collarbone. Use strong hold bobby pins to keep the twist secure. This updo proves that curly hair can look incredibly refined.
7. High Curly Ponytail Updo
Looking for a quick style that still packs a major punch? The high curly ponytail updo is effortlessly chic and powerful. You sweep all your medium length curls up to the crown of your head. Secure it with a strong elastic band. The curls will naturally fall forward, creating a beautiful fountain of texture. This style lifts your face and shows off your bone structure. It is perfect for a workout or a night out on the town. Wrap a small piece of hair around the hair tie to hide it for a polished finish. The height of the ponytail adds instant glamour to your natural curls.
8. Side Swept Curly Updo
Do you want a hairstyle that feels incredibly romantic and soft? The side swept curly updo sweeps all your medium length curls over one shoulder. You pin the hair loosely on the opposite side of your head. Let the curls tumble down naturally. This asymmetrical look is very flattering and draws attention to your neckline. It works beautifully for prom or an anniversary dinner. The side part adds volume at the roots, while the gathered curls create a stunning focal point. Use a few decorative pins to hold the style in place. This updo is all about relaxed elegance and embracing the natural bounce of your beautiful curly hair.
9. Curly Low Chignon Updo
Are you searching for an updo that feels timeless and grounded? The curly low chignon sits gracefully at the nape of your neck. You gather your medium length curls into a low ponytail. Then, loosely twist and pin the curls into a soft, rounded shape. The natural texture prevents the chignon from looking too severe or stiff. It gives the style a modern, lived-in feel that is very popular right now. This is a wonderful option for the office or a quiet dinner date. It keeps your hair secure without pulling too tightly on your scalp. Finish with a light hold spray to keep the shape intact.
10. Voluminous Top Knot For Curly Hair
Ready to make a bold statement with your natural hair? The voluminous top knot piles all your medium length curls high on your head. Unlike a messy bun, the top knot is intentionally round and prominent. Your curls will naturally provide massive volume for this striking shape. It is a powerful look that draws the eye upward. This style is incredibly practical because it keeps every strand off your face and neck. It is perfect for hot summer days or intense workout sessions. Twist your hair into a loop and let the ends sprout out. Pin it firmly to handle the weight of your thick curls.
11. Curly Faux Hawk Updo
Want an edgy style that shows off your adventurous side? The curly faux hawk updo brings serious attitude to medium length hair. You slick the sides of your hair flat against your head. Then, you pin or tie the middle section into a row of curls running from front to back. It mimics the look of a shaved haircut without the commitment. This style is bold, confident, and surprisingly easy to achieve. Use gel to smooth the sides and plenty of pins to secure the center curls. It is an amazing look for concerts or a night out with friends. Stand out from the crowd with this daring updo.
12. Twisted Curly Updo For Medium Hair
Are you looking for an elegant style that does not require braiding skills? The twisted curly updo relies on simple twists to create a beautiful shape. You take sections of your medium length curls and twist them away from your face. Pin each twist at the back of your head. The curls will naturally overlap and intermingle, creating a stunning textured look. This style is incredibly forgiving and works well on second-day hair. It takes only a few minutes to put together but looks like you spent hours. Wear this to brunch or a casual Friday at work. It keeps your hair tidy while looking effortlessly sophisticated.
13. Halo Braid For Medium Curly Hair
Have you ever wanted a hairstyle that looks completely angelic? The halo braid wraps a single thick braid around your head like a crown. For medium length curly hair, you might need to start the braid lower and pin it up. The texture of your curls makes the braid look incredibly full and soft. This style keeps all your hair secured and out of your way. It is a gorgeous choice for holiday parties or formal portraits. The halo braid frames your face beautifully and highlights your features. Use small elastic bands to secure the ends before pinning them underneath. You will look absolutely ethereal with this stunning updo.
14. Stacked Curly Bun Updo
Do you need a style that maximizes volume at the back? The stacked curly bun updo creates beautiful height and texture at the nape of your neck. Instead of a single flat bun, you pile sections of your medium length curls on top of each other. Pin each section separately to build a stacked, architectural look. The curls bounce off each other, creating incredible dimension. This is a fantastic option for events where you will be photographed from the back. It looks intricate but is really just strategic pinning. The stacked shape stays secure all night long. Let a few curls fall free for a softer, romantic finish.
15. Side Parted Curly Roll Updo
Looking for vintage charm with a modern twist? The side parted curly roll updo combines classic glamour with natural texture. You create a deep side part first. Then, you roll the larger section of your medium length curls inward and pin them into a smooth roll. Let the rest of the curls spill out of the roll in a beautiful burst of texture. This contrast between the sleek roll and the wild curls is visually striking. It is a perfect hairstyle for a fancy dinner or a retro-themed event. The deep part adds asymmetry that flatters every face shape. Secure the roll firmly to maintain the vintage silhouette all evening.
16. Bubble Braid Curly Updo
Want a playful style that takes minutes to create? The bubble braid curly updo adds fun dimension to medium length hair. You gather your curls into a high ponytail first. Then, you add small clear elastic bands down the length of the ponytail. Gently pull the hair between each band to create fluffy bubbles of curls. Finally, wrap the entire bubbly ponytail around the base and pin it into an updo. The result is a stunning, textured bun with incredible visual interest. This is a great style for casual outings or fun photo sessions. It keeps your curls contained while showing off their natural volume beautifully.
17. Romantic Curly Updo For Medium Hair
Are you a bride-to-be or attending a fancy wedding? The romantic curly updo is soft, delicate, and utterly breathtaking. This style focuses on loose, face-framing curls and a softly pinned back section. You do not want anything too tight or structured. Medium length curls naturally lend themselves to this relaxed, romantic aesthetic. Pin small sections of hair back randomly, allowing the curls to intertwine naturally. Pull out pieces around your face and neck to keep the look gentle and soft. This updo pairs beautifully with delicate hair accessories like pearls or small flowers. You will look like a true romantic with this effortlessly beautiful hairstyle.
18. Braided Low Bun For Curly Hair
Need a reliable style that looks polished but remains practical? The braided low bun combines the best of braids and buns. You create a simple three-strand braid with your medium length curls at the nape of your neck. Then, wrap the braid around itself to form a secure bun. Pin it flat against your head. The braid adds lovely texture to the bun, making it look much more intricate than it actually is. This style is incredibly sturdy and will survive a long day of activities. It is perfect for professional settings or busy days running errands. You get the elegance of an updo with the security of a braid.
19. Curly Bow Updo Hairstyle
Want a quirky and cute style that stands out from the rest? The curly bow updo turns your medium length hair into an adorable shape. You gather your hair into a half-up ponytail. On the final loop, do not pull the hair all the way through. Split the loop into two halves to form the bow loops. Take the remaining ends and pull them up between the two halves to create the center knot. The natural curls add amazing volume and texture to the bow shape. This style is incredibly fun for parties or playful weekend outings. Pin it securely and enjoy the compliments on your creative look.
20. Curly Mohawk Updo For Women
Looking for an updo that screams confidence and edge? The curly Mohawk updo takes the faux hawk to the next level. You shave or tightly slick the sides of your head. The strip of hair down the center is left long and full of curls. You can pin it up or let it stand tall naturally. This look is fiercely bold and incredibly modern. It highlights your facial features beautifully by removing all the hair from the sides. This style is perfect for those who love to push fashion boundaries. The contrast between the sleek sides and the towering curls is absolutely striking. Wear it with pride.
21. Rope Twisted Curly Updo
Are you tired of traditional braids and buns? The rope twisted curly updo offers a simple but stunning alternative. You divide your medium length hair into two sections. Twist both sections in the same direction. Then, wrap them around each other in the opposite direction to form a rope. Coil this rope into a bun at the back of your head and pin it down. The twist creates a beautiful spiral pattern that looks especially striking on curly hair. It is a quick and easy updo for busy mornings. The rope holds together well, keeping your curls secure and frizz-free throughout the day.
22. Loose Curly Updo For Medium Hair
Want an updo that feels as relaxed as your weekend? The loose curly updo is all about effortless beauty. You do not need precise partings or tight pulls. Simply gather your medium length curls at the nape of your neck. Twist them loosely and pin them in place, letting the ends sprout out naturally. Allow curly pieces to fall around your face and ears. This style embraces the lived-in, carefree vibe of natural curls. It is ideal for beach trips, barbecues, or casual coffee runs. The looseness prevents tension on your scalp, making it very comfortable to wear. It celebrates the natural chaos of curly hair.
23. Curly Updo With Face Framing Pieces
Do you want to soften your features while wearing your hair up? The curly updo with face framing pieces is the perfect solution. You pin the bulk of your medium length hair into a beautiful bun or twist at the back. The key is leaving out a few select curls at the front. These pieces should be long enough to brush against your cheekbones. They draw attention to your eyes and jawline. This style looks incredibly elegant and works for any formal occasion. It also helps balance out the volume of the updo at the back. Use a tiny bit of gel to keep those front curls defined.
24. Sleek Curly High Bun
Looking for a style that contrasts smooth roots with bouncy ends? The sleek curly high bun delivers major drama. You use gel or edge control to slick the sides and front of your hair completely flat. Gather all your medium length curls up to the crown. Secure them into a tight, perfect bun. The curls on top will spring out beautifully, creating a striking contrast against the sleek base. This style is incredibly polished and sophisticated. It is a fantastic choice for important meetings or upscale events. The sleekness protects your edges, while the bun shows off your gorgeous curl pattern. You will look powerful and put together.
25. Messy Curly French Braid Updo
Ever wanted to combine the charm of a braid with the ease of a messy bun? The messy curly French braid updo does exactly that. You start a French braid at the front of your head. Braid it back loosely, pulling in sections of your medium length curls. Stop the braid at the crown and tie it off. Take the remaining loose curls and pin them into a chaotic, beautiful bun. The combination of the structured braid and the messy bun is visually captivating. This is a great everyday look that can easily transition into evening wear. Pull out a few tendrils for a softer finish.
Conclusion:
Finding the perfect updo for your natural texture does not have to be a struggle. Medium length curls offer a fantastic canvas for so many creative and beautiful styles. From playful space buns to elegant French twists, there is an option here for every occasion and mood. You can embrace the messy look or go for something sleek and structured. The key is working with your natural bounce instead of fighting against it. Use good pins, gentle elastics, and the right styling products to keep your look in place. Try out these 25 updo hairstyles for curly medium length hair and discover just how versatile your gorgeous curls truly are.
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