So You Think Your Shoulder-Length Hair Can’t Create Chic Updos? Allow Me to Prove You Wrong

As anyone who has grown out their hair would know, the shoulder-length stage can sometimes feel like that awkward or in-between phase that doesn’t lend itself to cute styling options. Needless to say, we’ve taken this cut for granted over the years, neglecting the countless chic updos suited for shoulder-length hair.

When I consider how I wore my collarbone-grazing mane the last time I had it short, I remember feeling so envious when I saw my friends twist their long locks into braided hairstyles, plaits and high ponytails. I could only toss mine into a low bun or simply leave it out, looking like some sort of frizzy Hermione Granger in the process.

That just points to my total lack of ignorance towards the amount of sophisticated updos for shoulder-length hair. I’ve since landed on a layered look that falls just above my waist. But, ever since I’ve swapped big chops for regular trims, I can’t help but notice how elegant updos for shoulder-length hair have become. From Kendall Jenner wearing a messy bun with a metallic bronze Jean Paul Gaultier dress to Zendaya’s honey blonde soft French twist, there’s no shortage of coiffures, chignons and knots particularly flattering for shoulder-length hair.

“Shoulder-length hair is key for versatility,” explains celebrity hairstylist Pete Burkill. Based in London but the creator of some of Hollywood’s most memorable hair looks, Burkill agrees with me that classy updos are on the rise—especially for mid-range lengths. “You have got enough length to play with, but it’s not so long that styles become heavy or unmanageable,” he says.

So, what updos work best for shoulder-length hair? From the stars parading more glamorous takes on the style to the expert-approved looks to try, keep scrolling ahead for everything you need to know about the hair trend, including inspiration to take your next salon appointment and the tools you need to replicate it at home.

What Updos Suit Shoulder-Length Hair?

"The updo that suits shoulder-length hair best is a mid bun," says celebrity hairstylist and owner of his self-titled haircare brand Jay Birmingham. "Your look should not be too high as you will get hairs falling down from the nape of your neck," he explains.

This is something that Burkill has observed throughout time with his A-lister clientele, which includes Kim Kardashian, Millie Bobby Brown and Anna Kendrick.

"For an effortlessly chic look, a textured chignon or low, undone bun works beautifully, especially when paired with face-framing pieces for a soft, romantic feel," Burkill notes. "If you’re after something more structured, a sleek twisted bun or French twist feels more red-carpet-ready," he adds. "We also never forget about a half-up do—perfect for the cool, effortless aesthetic."

Why Does Hair Length Impact the Kind of Updo You Can Create?

Ultimately, your hair length will impact how far you can bring the updo up your head, as those with shorter cuts will only be able to wear it closer to the bottom of their neck.

"If you desire a high pony or high updo, you may struggle with shoulder-length hair due to your strands at the nape of the neck falling down" explains Birmingham.

On the flip side, if you have hair that sits around the middle of your back, you'll also struggle to style it into an updo due to the sheer amount of hair you have to work with. "Extremely long hair is hard to put up into a bun as you have so much hair to hide," the Jay B Haircare owner adds. "Getting the right updo for your length is very important for the final look."

What Specific Events Do Updos for Shoulder-Length Hair Look Best At?

While celebrities have gravitated towards updos for shoulder-length hair of late, it doesn't exclude wearing this style on more mundane occasions. Still, the expensive-looking nature of the updo does lend itself to specific special moments.

"Updos on shoulder-length hair are a go-to for anything from weddings and black-tie events," notes Burkill.

"A polished, more sculpted bun is a perfect fit for something elegant, like an awards night, and for a more boho occasion, a messy bun or soft waves pinned up is perfect. Even a power ponytail, sleek or tousled, works wonders for a night out."

What Is the Best Way to Style Shoulder-Length Hair?

There are numerous sleek updos that benefit shoulder-length hair, but it all comes down to the desired texture when deciding what updo looks best, as Burkill explains.

"If you want a sleek, glossy finish, prep the hair with a lightweight smoothing serum, blow-dry with a round brush, and finish with straighteners for a glass-like shine," he recommends.

"For a more tousled look, work with your natural texture—use a sea salt mist or a dry texturizing spray and give your hair a quick shakeout with your fingers. Creating loose waves with a curling wand and then brushing out gives an effortless effect. "

While you might not feel compelled to cut your hair to get this look, those of us with shoulder-length hair can revel in the range of glamorous updos available. Ahead of your next event, date night or significant milestone, take note of these sophisticated updos for shoulder-length hair below.

17 Sophisticated Updos That Suit Shoulder-Length Hair

1. Slicked Back Bun

Style Notes: Rochelle Hume's updo is the definition of a slicked-back bun, and the addition of the one glossy tendril makes it feel all the more expensive.

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2. Undone Top Knot

Style Notes: Don't be afraid to pile on strands and pin back haphazardly for that classic '90s updo pioneered by the likes of Pamela Anderson.

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3. Messy Twist Up

Style Notes: Case in point: Kendall Jenner's hairstyle from the 2023 Vanity Fair Oscars After Party.

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4. Parisienne Low Pony

Style Notes: For shoulder-length hair or shorter, don't be afraid of styling in a pony. Just place slightly above the nape of your neck or risk looking like you stepped out of the 1800s.

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5. Bantu Knots

Style Notes: You don't need a lot of hair to wear bantu knots, making it a great updo option for shoulder-length hair.

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6. Slick Middle Part

Style Notes: Sofia Richie Grainge is the queen of nonchalant luxury and this centre part is the hair equivalent.

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7. Eclectic Wrap Arounds

Style Notes: You can always rely on London Fashion Week street style for inspiration. We love these industrial hair clips pinning a twisted updo that we spotted on Day 2.

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8. Soft Side Bangs

Style Notes: An updo can also be defined by the way you're styling the front section of your hair. Such is the case with this fuss-free bun and soft face-framing side fringe.

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9. Effortless Low Bun

Style Notes: Other times, the best updos for shoulder-length hair are the most simple, like this effortless low bun.

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10. Sweeping Pull-Back

Style Notes: This look proves exactly why updos for shoulder-length hair look as classy for everyday errands as they do for evenings out.

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11. Divided Updo

Style Notes: Take a more sculptural route to your updo with a look featuring multiple parts and divided sections.

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12. No Part Bun

Style Notes: Or, just sweep everything back for that throw-on-and-go finish.

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13. Voluminous Chignon

Style Notes: A chignon is a look that's fallen out of fashion recently, but who better than Eva Longoria to bring it back?

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14. Gentle Coils

Style Notes: For those of us with textured hair, a bun placed around the crown of your hair will be substantial enough to make an impact without need for further volume.

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15. Romantic Hair Clips

Style Notes: Swap out your hair elastics and bands for some organic-shaped and gilded claw clips.

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16. Choppy Layers

Style Notes: Bring some dimension to your cut with choppy layers à la Millie Bobbie Brown.

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17. Elegant Twist

Style Notes: Take note of Rochelle Hume's swooping updo for your next wedding guest look.

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