These 17 Updos For Shoulder-Length Hair Are The Definition Of Classy

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.