10 Easy Updos for Shoulder Length Hair That Will Keep You Looking Chic

When it comes to styling shoulder-length hair, mastering a few chic updos can transform your entire look. These versatile styles are perfect for any occasion, blending elegance with ease. Whether you’re aiming for polished sophistication or effortless boho charm, knowing the right updo can make all the difference. Curious about which styles will best complement your features and lifestyle? Keep going—these techniques might become your new go-to.

Sleek Low Bun With a Middle Part

A sleek low bun with a middle part offers a polished and sophisticated look that works perfectly for shoulder-length hair.

For styling tips, smooth your hair with a high-quality serum or smoothing cream to achieve a sleek finish. Create a precise middle part using a fine-tooth comb, then gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.

Twist the ponytail into a tight bun and secure it with bobby pins or a hair accessory like a decorative clip. For extra hold, lightly spray with hairspray.

This elegant updo balances simplicity and refinement, making it ideal for formal or professional settings.

Messy Textured Ponytail

Achieving a stylish messy textured ponytail is simple yet impactful, perfect for casual outings or when you want an effortlessly chic vibe.

To create this look, gather your shoulder-length hair into a ponytail, leaving some strands loose to enhance the messy hair effect.

Tease the crown lightly for added volume, then gently tug at sections to create a fuller, textured appearance.

Finish with a light mist of flexible hairspray to hold the style without stiffness.

This casual styling approach highlights your natural hair’s texture, giving you a relaxed yet stylish look that works seamlessly for everyday wear.

Twisted Half-Updo With Pins

Elevate your hairstyle with a twisted half-updo secured effortlessly with pins, offering a polished yet relaxed look perfect for any occasion.

This half updo tutorial guides you through twisting sections of your hair back, creating an elegant lift at the crown. Use hair pins strategically to keep everything in place, ensuring a secure hold while maintaining a natural appearance.

The technique suits shoulder-length hair perfectly, adding texture and sophistication without complexity. Follow these simple steps to achieve a chic style that’s both functional and fashionable.

With proper pinning, your twisted half-updo remains flawless throughout your day or evening event.

Low Side Chignon

To create a sophisticated look, a low side chignon offers an elegant way to style shoulder-length hair with minimal effort.

Start by applying a light styling product to add hold and smoothness. Gather your hair to one side and twist it into a loose bun, then secure it with hair accessories like decorative pins or a chic hair tie.

Keep a few strands gently framing your face for softness. Use finishing spray to set the style and tame flyaways.

This look combines simplicity with elegance, perfect for formal or casual occasions, ensuring you stay chic without overcomplicating your hair routine.

Braided Crown With Loose Ends

A braided crown with loose ends offers a romantic yet polished look, perfect for shoulder-length hair. This crown styling emphasizes braid variations, such as fishtail or Dutch braids, to create a textured, intricate appearance.

You start by braiding around your head, securing each section to form a seamless crown. Leave some ends loose for a relaxed, effortless vibe that softens the overall look.

This style is versatile, suitable for both casual and formal occasions. It highlights your hair’s natural movement and adds an elegant touch.

Mastering this crown styling guarantees you can achieve a sophisticated, eye-catching updo that’s both easy and chic.

Double Dutch Buns

Double Dutch buns create a striking, symmetrical look that’s perfect for shoulder-length hair.

To achieve stunning double dutch buns styles, master the double dutch buns techniques of sectioning, braiding, and twisting. Start by dividing your hair into two equal sections, then create tight Dutch braids, crossing under as you braid tightly from the roots downward.

Wrap each braid into a bun at the crown, securing with bobby pins. This style balances sleekness with a playful edge, suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

Executing these double Dutch buns techniques guarantees your hairstyle stays neat, voluminous, and effortlessly chic throughout the day.

Elegant Twist Updo

An elegant twist updo elevates shoulder-length hair with its sophisticated yet effortless appearance. This style relies on expert twist techniques to create a polished look, perfect for formal or professional settings.

You can incorporate elegant accessories—such as decorative pins or subtle clips—to enhance the overall aesthetic without overpowering the hairstyle. The key is securing the twists neatly and smoothly, ensuring they stay in place all day.

With a bit of practice, this updo becomes an accessible way to transform simple hair into a refined, chic statement. It’s an ideal choice when you want a timeless style that exudes grace and confidence.

Classic French Twist

The classic French twist remains one of the most timeless and sophisticated updos for shoulder-length hair. To achieve it, you utilize classic twist techniques that pin your hair neatly, creating a sleek, elegant silhouette.

This style can easily be adapted with modern variations, such as incorporating textured finishes or adding decorative accessories. Mastering the French twist requires smooth, secure pinning, ensuring your hair stays in place throughout the day.

Its versatility makes it suitable for both formal events and everyday chic looks. Whether you prefer a traditional or contemporary take, the French twist elevates your style with effortless grace and polished finesse.

Fishtail Braid Updo

A fishtail braid updo transforms simple hair into an intricate, eye-catching style that radiates effortless elegance. Mastering fishtail braid techniques allows you to create a refined, textured look perfect for any occasion.

You can choose from fishtail braid variations—tighter, looser, or tucked—to customize your style. To achieve this updo, divide your hair into two sections, then repeatedly cross small strands from one side to the other, mimicking a fishtail pattern.

Incorporate the braid into a bun or pin it at the crown, ensuring a secure hold. This technique offers both versatility and sophistication without demanding hours of styling.

Boho Side Baux

Boho side baux exude effortless chic with their relaxed, tousled appeal and versatile styling options. You can enhance this look by incorporating boho accessories like delicate hair cuffs or floral pins to add a personalized touch.

The key feature is the side braid, which creates a relaxed, bohemian vibe. To achieve this, gently braid one side of your hair and pin it at the nape, allowing loose strands to frame your face naturally.

This style is perfect for casual outings or festivals, offering a balance of elegance and ease. With a few strategic accessories, your boho side baux become a statement of laid-back sophistication.