24 Hairstyles for Medium Length Hair Ideas — Your Ultimate Style Guide with Sass, Substance & a Sprinkle of Sarcasm
So, you’ve got medium-length hair—now what?
Let me guess. You’re standing in front of the mirror, brush in hand, muttering, “Why does my hair always look like it gave up halfway?” Trust me, I’ve been there.
Medium-length hair is that confusing middle child—not short enough for pixie-chic, not long enough for dramatic Rapunzel vibes.
But hold that dry shampoo, because I’m about to show you 24 hairstyles for medium-length hair that’ll make you fall in love with your locks all over again.
From casual curls to party-perfect ponies, I’ve rounded up looks that work with your texture, your mood, and your coffee-fueled mornings.
Let’s get real, get creative, and maybe even get a little lazy (because, same).
1. Textured Waves
Low effort, high reward. Think of this as the avocado toast of hairstyles—basic but unbeatable.
- Use a flat iron for those imperfect, beachy bends
- Spritz with sea salt spray for extra grip and volume
- Flip your part for that model-off-duty edge
Bonus Tip: Sleep in two loose braids overnight. Wake up, unravel, toss a smug grin in the mirror.
2. Messy Bun (a.k.a. the “I’m Trying” Bun)
The messy bun is basically the yoga pants of hairstyles—effortless, but suspiciously polished when done right.
- Tease the crown a bit before gathering your hair
- Let a few tendrils fall to frame your face (so casual, so calculated)
- Secure with bobby pins or a silk scrunchie for a chic twist
FYI: This works best on day-two hair. Dry shampoo is your BFF here.
3. Blunt Lob with Center Part
Chic? Yes. Sharp enough to cut through the drama? Also yes.
- Ideal for fine hair types that need structure
- Style with a straightener and some shine serum
- Keep those ends crispy clean with regular trims
IMO: If you’re into minimalist fashion and gold hoops, this is your soulmate hairstyle.
4. Half-Up Top Knot
When you want the best of both worlds (read: lazy and stylish).
- Gather the top third of your hair and twist it into a bun
- Leave the rest flowing naturally
- Works with curls, waves, or even unbrushed hair… I won’t judge 🙂
Hot Take: It’s the “cool girl” look without needing to try too hard (even if you totally did).
5. Side-Swept Curls
Romantic, soft, and full-on red carpet vibes.
- Curl with a 1.5-inch barrel and brush out for volume
- Sweep to one side and pin with a jeweled clip
- Mist with flexible hairspray to hold without helmet-head
Ever wondered why celebrities always go for this look? Because it works every time.
6. Low Sleek Ponytail
Minimalist doesn’t mean boring. It means intentional.
- Part your hair in the middle
- Smooth everything with a fine-tooth comb and serum
- Secure low and tight—think runway, not recess
Pro Tip: Wrap a piece of hair around the elastic for that editorial finish.
7. Curtain Bangs with Loose Waves
These bangs don’t scream “teen drama queen.” They whisper “cool and collected with a chaotic playlist.”
- Frame your face with soft, grown-out fringe
- Pair with waves for an effortless finish
- Works wonders if you’re growing out bangs or feeling ✨ indecisive ✨
8. Slicked-Back Wet Look
Want to feel like a villain in a music video? You need this.
- Comb gel through damp hair from root to mid-length
- Tuck behind ears for that sharp, sculpted effect
- Great for formal nights or days when you forgot to wash your hair. Oops.
9. Braided Crown
Kind of fairy-tale, kind of Pinterest-perfect.
- Part your hair down the middle
- French braid each side, then pin across the back of your head
- Add baby’s breath for wedding guest magic ✨
Warning: Compliments may come in excessively.
10. Bubble Ponytail
This one’s giving Disney Princess meets TikTok. And I’m here for it.
- Secure your ponytail every few inches with tiny elastics
- Gently tug at the sections to create little bubbles
- Works best on medium-to-thick hair
Fact: It’s playful and trendy without looking like you’re trying to join Gen Z.
11. Low Bun with Middle Part
Elegant. Understated. Strong CEO energy.
- Smooth hair into a low bun
- Use a fine brush and some gel or pomade
- Finish with sleek edges and statement earrings
It’s giving “I have my life together,” even if you 100% don’t.
12. Mini Braids
Remember? Mini braids are back—and not just for festivals.
- Braid small front pieces or random strands throughout
- Add beads or cuffs for some boho charm
- Pairs perfectly with messy texture or waves
FYI: This is your shortcut to looking artsy but approachable.
13. The Claw Clip Twist
Yes, the ’90s called—and they said keep this trend forever.
- Twist your hair upward and clip with a claw clip
- Let ends flop over for a nonchalant vibe
- Bonus: zero hair ties required = no breakage 🙂
14. Faux Blowout
No, you don’t need a Dyson Airwrap (unless you want an excuse to overspend).
- Use a round brush and blow dryer for volume
- Curl ends under for that classic bounce
- Finish with shine spray and a little volume powder at the roots
Trust me: You’ll walk with a bit more sass after this one.
15. Face-Framing Layers
This isn’t a style—it’s a lifestyle.
- Ask your stylist for soft layers around the face
- Style with waves or curls to accentuate
- Great for adding dimension and movement
Bonus? It gives the illusion of thicker hair. Magic.
16. Dutch Braids
Double trouble—but make it trendy.
- Part your hair down the middle
- Braid each side tightly, starting at the scalp
- Pull gently on braid edges for a fuller look
Perfect for workouts, festivals, or just hiding the fact you skipped wash day (again).
17. Twisted Sides into Ponytail
Here’s one you can do in the car mirror (no judgment).
- Twist both sides of your hair toward the back
- Secure into a ponytail or bun
- Add texture spray for volume and hold
This is the lazy girl’s updo, and it delivers.
18. Pinned-Back Bangs
Got bangs but want them out of your face? Been there.
- Use bobby pins to sweep them to the side
- Cross them in an “X” for a cute detail
- Great for growing them out or switching up your look
19. Vintage Flip Ends
This is giving “Jackie O, but make it Instagram.”
- Straighten your hair and flick the ends upward
- Use a paddle brush and a little hairspray
- Pair with cat-eye liner for full retro vibes
20. Tousled Lob with Layers
Wake up, shake it out, and go.
- Add layers to your lob for texture and movement
- Use a texture spray or light mousse for volume
- Embrace imperfection—it’s part of the charm
21. Headband Glam
Accessories can literally save the day.
- Throw on a bold headband with your hair down or in a bun
- Try velvet, pearls, or metallics for different moods
- Works great when you’re in a rush but still wanna look “styled”
22. Inverted Bob
Business in the back, party in the front—but make it high fashion.
- Longer in the front, shorter in the back
- Gives your hair structure and an edgy twist
- Works best with straight or slightly wavy texture
IMO: If you want to look sharp and modern, this is a go-to.
23. Loose Chignon
Soft, sophisticated, and deceptively easy.
- Twist your hair low and secure loosely at the nape
- Leave out a few face-framing strands
- Pair with soft glam makeup for weddings or dinner parties
24. Air-Dried Natural Look
Because some days, you just can’t.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream
- Scrunch and walk away (seriously)
- Embrace your natural texture with pride
Note: Confidence is the final styling product here 😉
Final Thoughts
Medium-length hair can feel like it’s stuck in the in-between—but oh honey, it’s actually the sweet spot. It’s versatile, manageable, and ridiculously fun once you know how to play it right.
From lazy-day buns to blowout fakes, these 24 hairstyles prove you don’t need an hour, a glam squad, or magic fairy dust to look like you tried. Pick a few faves, try them out, and don’t be afraid to mess up. Worst-case scenario? You throw it in a claw clip and call it “Pinterest-inspired.”
