24 Hairstyles for Medium Length Hair Ideas
Medium-length hair is like the “middle child” of hairstyles—sometimes overlooked, but secretly the most versatile.
Honestly? Medium hair is the sweet spot where you can get creative, stylish, and practical all at once.
And if you’ve been staring at your shoulder-length locks thinking, “What on earth do I do with this?”—don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
Grab a coffee (or maybe a hairbrush) and let’s chat about 24 killer hairstyles for medium-length hair that will have you feeling like a total hair goddess.
1. Classic Beach Waves
Let’s start with the OG. Beach waves look good on literally everyone. They add texture, volume, and that effortless “I woke up fabulous” vibe.
Pro tip? Use a curling wand, but alternate directions for a more natural wave. Oh, and spritz some salt spray—because nothing screams cool like slightly messy waves.
2. Sleek Straight Look
Sometimes simple wins. A sleek, straight style on medium-length hair looks chic and polished. Flat iron your strands and finish with a shine spray.
Ever notice how this hairstyle instantly makes you feel like you should be strutting through an office lobby in heels? Yeah, it’s that powerful.
3. Low Messy Bun
Perfect for lazy days or when you’re so done with your hair. Gather it at the nape of your neck, twist, and pin. Pull out a few face-framing strands, and boom—effortless chic.
4. Half-Up Top Knot
It’s the hairstyle equivalent of multitasking: half up, half down. Tie the top section into a messy bun and let the rest flow free. Great for casual hangouts or hiding greasy roots.
5. Textured Lob
The long bob (lob) is practically made for medium hair. Add some choppy layers, and you’ve got texture for days. It’s modern, cool, and works whether you go curly or straight.
6. Side Part Waves
Switching your part is the cheapest hair transformation ever. A deep side part with waves adds drama and gives you that Hollywood red carpet vibe without the stylist’s bill.
7. Braided Crown
Want to feel like a fairy princess on a random Tuesday? A braided crown is your answer. Take two small braids from each side, wrap them across, and pin. Magical, right?
8. Low Sleek Ponytail
Minimalist, sleek, and powerful. A low ponytail with straight, smoothed-out strands is the definition of classy. Perfect for work, date nights, or when you need to look like you’ve got your life together (even if you don’t).
9. Voluminous Blowout
Medium hair LOVES a blowout. Big, bouncy curls give off glam vibes without being overwhelming. Think “movie star on her way to brunch.”
10. Messy Half-Up Braid
This one’s like your flirty best friend. Braid half your hair, leave the rest down, and pull gently to loosen it up. Perfect for festivals, coffee dates, or pretending you live in a rom-com.
11. Space Buns
Yes, space buns aren’t just for TikTok teens. Medium hair makes them super easy to style—two buns, high or low, and you’re instantly playful. Warning: may cause sudden urges to dance.
12. Loose Curls with Center Part
Sometimes all you need is a middle part and some loose curls. It frames your face beautifully and gives that soft, romantic vibe. Honestly, this is my go-to when I want compliments without trying too hard.
13. Sleek Low Bun
If messy buns are casual, then low sleek buns are their sophisticated cousin. Add some gel or serum for extra polish. Think wedding guest, job interview, or bougie dinner date.
14. French Braid
Medium-length hair is actually perfect for a classic French braid. Not too long to get tangled, not too short to fall apart. Functional and pretty.
15. Flipped Ends
Channel your inner retro queen with flipped-out ends. Straighten your hair, then curl just the tips outward. It’s vintage, it’s fun, and it looks adorable with oversized sunglasses.
16. High Ponytail
Yes, you can totally rock a high pony with medium hair. Add a little tease at the crown for volume. Bonus: it doubles as an instant facelift.
17. Soft Waves with Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs + medium hair = chef’s kiss. Pair them with soft waves, and suddenly you’re Pinterest-worthy without even trying.
18. The Wet Look
Not everyone’s cup of tea, but IMO, the wet look is sleek and edgy. Use gel or mousse for that fresh-out-of-the-shower style. Perfect for nights out when you want to look like a fashion magazine cover.
19. Loose Side Braid
Keep it casual with a side braid. Pull it loose for a boho vibe, or keep it tighter for a neater look. Great for hot days when you just want hair out of your face.
20. The Shag Cut
Edgy, layered, and cool. A shag haircut on medium hair adds tons of movement and looks effortless. Pair with messy waves for maximum impact.
21. Braided Ponytail
Level up a basic ponytail by adding a braid into the mix. You’ll look sporty yet stylish. Honestly, it’s perfect for workouts or running errands when you still want compliments.
22. Tucked Behind the Ear
It sounds too simple, but trust me: a sleek, tucked-behind-the-ear look with some glossed-up strands screams runway chic. Throw on some bold earrings, and you’re golden.
23. Half-Up Twist
Not a braid person? Try a half-up twist. Just twist two sections from each side, pin them at the back, and let the rest flow. Easy, cute, and works for basically anything.
24. Medium-Length Curls
And finally, embrace your natural curls (or fake it with a curling iron). Medium-length curls are bouncy, youthful, and full of personality. Honestly? This one deserves a mic drop.
Quick Tips to Nail Medium Hair Styling
- Invest in good tools: A solid flat iron and curling wand are lifesavers.
- Use products wisely: Texturizing spray, heat protectant, and finishing serum make all the difference.
- Play with accessories: Headbands, clips, and scarves can upgrade even the simplest look.
- Experiment with parts: Side, middle, zigzag—changing your part can totally refresh your look.
Final Thoughts
Medium-length hair is honestly the MVP of the hair world. You can wear it sleek, wavy, braided, curly, up, down, half-up—you name it. The best part? None of these styles take hours to pull off.
So, next time you stare in the mirror wondering, “What do I even do with this?”—bookmark this list and pick one of these 24 medium hair ideas. Trust me, whether you want casual, glam, or somewhere in between, you’ll never run out of options again. 🙂