Medium-length wavy hair is one of the most versatile textures to work with. It holds volume naturally, offers beautiful body, and is perfect for creating both casual and formal updos. Whether you’re styling your hair for a summer wedding, an important meeting, a dinner date, or simply want to change up your everyday look, updos bring a touch of polish and charm to your wavy texture.
What makes wavy hair particularly special for updos is its natural movement. It doesn’t need excessive teasing or product to look full and textured — which is ideal when creating buns, twists, and braided styles. In this post, we’re highlighting 12 chic updos designed specifically for medium-length wavy hair, complete with styling tips, best occasions to wear them, and hair accessory suggestions to enhance your look.
Let’s get started on your ultimate guide to elegant updos!
1. Textured Low Bun
Why it’s a favorite:
A classic low bun gets a modern twist with wavy texture, making it ideal for everything from casual brunches to formal events.
How to style:
- Start with dry, naturally wavy or loosely curled hair.
- Pull your hair into a low ponytail and twist it into a loose bun at the nape of your neck.
- Use bobby pins to secure, allowing some strands to fall naturally.
- Gently tug sections of the bun to add volume and softness.
Best for: Weddings, work, or romantic evenings.
Style tip: Add a pearl pin or floral accessory for a chic finish.
2. Romantic Twisted Updo
Why it’s stunning:
This soft, feminine updo works beautifully with medium waves and gives a dreamy, vintage-inspired look.
How to style:
- Part your hair in the center.
- Take two sections from each side and twist them toward the back.
- Pin them in place and twist the rest of the hair into a low bun or chignon.
- Loosen a few strands to frame the face.
Best for: Garden parties, bridal showers, or date nights.
Pro Tip: Curl the front tendrils slightly to enhance the romance.
3. Half-Up Wavy Top Knot
Why it’s versatile:
This hybrid style keeps hair out of your face while letting your waves shine.
How to style:
- Gather the top half of your hair (from temples upward).
- Twist it into a messy bun and secure with a small elastic or pins.
- Let the rest of your wavy hair flow freely.
Best for: Casual outings, beach days, or work-from-home video calls.
Style tip: Spritz with sea salt spray for added texture.
4. Braided Crown Updo
Why it’s elegant:
Gives a bohemian flair that’s perfect for festivals, weddings, or special occasions.
How to style:
- Create two small braids from each side of your head.
- Wrap them across the top of your head like a crown and pin in place.
- Tuck the rest of the hair into a bun or leave it wavy and loose.
Best for: Outdoor events, bridal hair, or music festivals.
Pro Tip: Loosen the braids slightly to add fullness and softness.
5. Messy French Roll
Why it’s timeless:
A chic French twist that embraces the effortless, tousled finish of wavy hair.
How to style:
- Gather your hair as if making a low ponytail.
- Twist it upward and tuck the ends into the roll.
- Secure with bobby pins, leaving a few strands out for softness.
Best for: Office settings, cocktail parties, and formal functions.
Style note: Works best with second-day hair for better hold.
6. Side-Swept Wavy Bun
Why it’s polished:
This romantic bun placed to one side creates visual interest and flatters most face shapes.
How to style:
- Part your hair to one side.
- Pull your hair into a loose side bun near your ear.
- Let a few curls or waves fall around your face for softness.
Best for: Evening events, date nights, or wedding guest looks.
Pro Tip: Use a decorative pin or comb to secure the bun.
7. Curly Chignon with Face-Framing Strands
Why it works beautifully with waves:
Combines elegance with soft, face-framing movement.
How to style:
- Use your fingers to loosely pull hair into a low chignon at the back.
- Leave a few front sections out, curl them lightly if needed.
- Pin the chignon in place while maintaining a slightly undone look.
Best for: Weddings, engagement parties, or photoshoots.
Style tip: Add a touch of serum to front strands for shine.
8. Dutch Braided Updo
Why it’s a statement style:
Perfect for medium hair, the Dutch braid adds volume and texture while keeping hair secure.
How to style:
- Create a Dutch braid (inside-out braid) starting at the crown.
- Continue braiding to the nape and twist the rest into a bun.
- Pin everything in place and gently pull braid sections outward.
Best for: School, summer events, or active days.
Pro Tip: Works great on medium-length hair that’s been curled the day before.
9. Low Bubble Bun
Why it’s playful and modern:
This trendy style adds texture and flair to a basic low bun.
How to style:
- Create a low ponytail.
- Place small clear elastics a few inches apart down the pony.
- Gently pull each section to form “bubbles.”
- Twist the bubble ponytail into a bun and pin in place.
Best for: Brunch, fashion-forward events, or fun nights out.
Style tip: Use a velvet scrunchie for added softness.
10. Claw Clip Wavy Twist
Why it’s quick and on-trend:
The claw clip comeback is perfect for wavy hair and looks chic without effort.
How to style:
- Gather hair into a twist and secure with a medium or large claw clip.
- Let a few waves spill naturally from the top and sides.
- No pins required!
Best for: Casual days, errands, or workwear with edge.
Pro Tip: Use a tortoiseshell clip for a classy touch.
11. Twisted Half-Updo with Volume
Why it adds height and shape:
Great for shorter medium lengths where a full bun isn’t ideal.
How to style:
- Take two front sections, twist them backward, and pin at the back of your crown.
- Tease slightly at the crown before pinning for added lift.
- Let the rest of the hair fall naturally.
Best for: Everyday elegance or soft glam looks.
Style tip: Finish with light hairspray to hold volume in place.
12. Boho-Inspired Knotted Bun
Why it’s unique and artistic:
Perfectly imperfect, this bun suits your natural waves while giving a laid-back, chic finish.
How to style:
- Divide hair into two sections.
- Tie them into a loose knot and then another.
- Tuck ends under and pin in place to form a soft bun.
Best for: Weekend outings, creative events, or beachy days.
Style tip: Pair with a lace headband or beaded hair pin.
Bonus: How to Make Updos Last on Wavy Hair
1. Prep with the right products:
Use a light mousse or sea salt spray to define waves and add grip.
2. Work with second-day hair:
Updos tend to hold better when the hair isn’t freshly washed — use dry shampoo for volume.
3. Use the right tools:
Keep bobby pins, clear elastics, texture powder, and flexible hold hairspray nearby.
4. Avoid over-brushing:
Preserve wave definition by styling with fingers or wide-tooth combs.
5. Add accessories strategically:
Claw clips, scrunchies, hair vines, and pearl pins not only enhance style but also improve hold.
Conclusion: Let Your Waves Work Their Magic
Medium wavy hair is a dream texture for creating chic updos — soft, full, and effortlessly beautiful. From romantic chignons and braided crowns to trendy claw clip styles and knotted buns, these 12 updos prove that you don’t need long or super-straight hair to pull off elegant hairstyles.
So whether you’re heading to a summer wedding, a casual coffee run, or just want to switch things up at home, these styles are guaranteed to elevate your everyday hair game.
💬 Which of these updos will you try first?
Tag us in your recreations, or pin your favorite styles to your hair inspiration board!