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Easy updo hairstyles for medium or long hair can be simple to create and flexible enough for both everyday plans and special occasions. These two looks use braids, low buns, and a headband to add detail without requiring complicated styling. Choose the braided low bun for a classic, relaxed finish, or try the double-bun style when you want a more playful look.
A decorative headband can make either updo feel more polished, while a plain one keeps the result casual. If you plan to use a heated styling tool, follow its safety directions and consider applying a suitable heat protectant first. Having elastics and bobby pins ready before you begin can also make styling easier.
Easy Updo Hairstyles for Medium or Long Hair: Braided Low Bun
This braided low bun works well for medium-length hair and can also be adapted for longer hair. Two Dutch braids frame the headband and meet at the back, where the remaining hair is gathered into a low bun. Leaving a few strands around the face gives the style a softer appearance, but you can tuck them away for a neater finish.
- Add texture or loose waves if desired. Place the headband on your head before braiding so you do not need to pull it over the finished braids.
- Take a small section beside your part, just in front of the headband, and begin a Dutch braid. Keep any face-framing strands you want to leave out separate.
- Continue braiding over the top of the headband. As you move past it, add hair from the other side of the band to help cover and hold it in place.
- When the braid reaches the back of your head, secure its end with an elastic.
- Repeat on the other side of the part. Join the braid ends at the back with an elastic.
- Gently pull the braid loops outward to make the braids look wider and fuller. Use a light touch to avoid loosening them too much.
- Gather the remaining hair and braid ends into a low bun, then secure it with a hair tie and pins as needed.
Helpful tip: If your hair is slippery, a little texture can help the braids and bun hold their shape. Keep pins close to the scalp and point them into the bun for a more secure finish.
A Relaxed Double-Bun Updo for Long Hair
For longer hair, two low buns create a dressed-up style that still feels relaxed. The look begins with loose waves and a headband, then divides the hair into two ponytails. Each ponytail is twisted into a bun, making this a practical option for parties or casual outings.
- Create loose waves if you like, then gently brush through them so the texture looks soft rather than tightly curled.
- Put on the headband first. Divide the hair down the middle at the back and secure it into two ponytails with elastics. Leave out face-framing pieces if preferred.
- Lightly back-comb each ponytail to add texture and grip. Avoid pulling too firmly, especially if you want the buns to remain loose.
- Twist one ponytail and wrap it loosely around its elastic, adding pins as you go.
- Once the twist is secured, gently adjust the bun to create a relaxed shape. It does not need to be perfectly smooth or tight.
- Repeat with the second ponytail, aiming for a balanced look. The two buns can be similar without being exactly identical.
Helpful tip: Add pins gradually and check that each bun feels secure before adjusting its shape. If the double-bun look feels too bold, gather both ponytails together and make one low bun instead.
Choosing the Right Updo
The braided low bun offers a simple way to incorporate a headband into a single gathered style, while the double buns make longer hair part of the design. Both can be dressed up with a decorative accessory or kept understated for daily wear. Adjust the amount of face-framing hair and the looseness of the buns to suit your preference.
With a few elastics, pins, and a headband, these easy updo hairstyles for medium or long hair can be adapted to different occasions and hair lengths. — Erin
