25 Hairstyles for Medium Length Hair Ideas

Medium length hair sits perfectly between short and long. It offers endless styling possibilities for every occasion. This length flatters most face shapes and hair textures. You can easily switch from casual to formal looks. For even more looks built around this length, browse our full collection of hairstyles for medium length hair.

These styles work wonderfully for shoulder-grazing locks. They provide enough length for updos and braids. Yet they remain light and easy to manage. Explore these fresh ideas for your next look.

Gorgeous Hairstyles for Medium Hair You Can Wear Anywhere

1. Soft Layered Waves with Curtain Bangs

Soft layers are cut through the mid-lengths for natural movement. A curtain bang is shaped to frame the face gently. The overall silhouette is kept light and airy. If you love this fringe, a short wolf cut with curtain bangs offers a bolder, shorter take on the same face-framing idea.

This style is worn beautifully on second-day hair. A little natural texture helps the layers pop. The bangs are easily swept to either side.

Benefits:

• Adds instant volume
• Frames the face softly
• Low-maintenance daily wear
• Grows out gracefully

Pro Tip: Twist damp bangs away from your face and clip them until dry for the perfect curtain swoop.

How To Style: A large round brush is used to blow-dry the bangs while rolling them backwards.

Best For: Oval and round face shapes with fine to medium hair density.

2. Sleek Low Bun with a Deep Side Part

All hair is smoothed back and gathered low at the nape. A deep side part is created for a touch of drama. The bun is wrapped and pinned into a clean shape.

This look is secured with pins and a light-hold hairspray. Flyaways are tamed with a small amount of gel. The finish is polished and sophisticated.

Benefits:

• Perfectly sleek finish
• Ideal for formal events
• Protects hair ends
• Looks very polished

Pro Tip: Use a toothbrush sprayed with hairspray to gently smooth down baby hairs around the hairline.

How To Style: Straightened hair is gathered at the nape and twisted into a tight, low knot.

Best For: Heart and oval face shapes with straight or wavy hair textures.

3. Half-Up Top Knot for Effortless Cool

The top section of hair is pulled up high on the crown. This section is looped into a small, messy knot. The rest of the hair falls in loose waves.

This style is finished with a bit of texturizing spray. It offers a carefree yet stylish look. A few face-framing pieces can be pulled out.

Benefits:

• Keeps hair off the face
• Adds height to the crown
• Quick to create
• Works with all textures

Pro Tip: Only pull hair from above your ears into the knot to maintain fullness on the sides.

How To Style: The top section is twisted into a bun and pinned loosely for an undone finish.

Best For: All face shapes, especially round and square, with medium to thick hair.

4. Textured French Braid Pigtails

Hair is parted cleanly down the center into two equal sections. Each section is then braided loosely into a French braid. The braids are secured at the ends with small elastics.

Softness is added by gently pulling at the braid edges. This creates a fuller and more relaxed appearance. The style feels playful yet put-together.

Benefits:

• Holds hair securely
• Adds playful character
• Works on unwashed hair
• Prevents tangles

Pro Tip: Pancake the braids by tugging the loops gently for a thicker, softer-looking braid.

How To Style: A center part is made and each side is French braided down to the ends.

Best For: Oval and heart face shapes with all hair textures, especially fine hair.

5. Voluminous Blowout with Flipped Ends

A generous amount of volume is created at the roots. The ends of the hair are flipped outwards with a round brush. This shape channels a classic and bouncy vibe.

The look is set with a flexible hairspray for lasting body. A shine spray is applied lightly to the mid-lengths. The hair moves freely and feels luxurious.

Benefits:

• Maximizes hair body
• Flipped ends add flair
• Timeless, elegant look
• Creates lively movement

Pro Tip: Use Velcro rollers at the crown while the hair cools to lock in maximum volume.

How To Style: A large round brush is used to flick the ends out during the final pass of blow-drying.

Best For: Square and diamond face shapes with fine to medium, layered hair.

6. Twisted Halo Crown Updo

Two sections of hair are taken from behind each ear. These sections are twisted and wrapped over the top like a crown. The twisted pieces are pinned securely at the back of the head.

The remaining hair is left down in soft waves. This combination feels romantic and whimsical. The twists can be made chunkier for a bolder effect.

Benefits:

• Romantic, whimsical feel
• Looks intricate but simple
• Elevates casual waves
• Great for special occasions

Pro Tip: Tease the crown hair lightly before placing the twists to give the halo a stable base.

How To Style: Two face-framing twists are pulled back and pinned together at the crown’s top.

Best For: Oval and heart face shapes with wavy or curly hair textures.

7. Low Twisted Chignon for Elegance

Hair is given a subtle side part and gathered at the nape. It is then split into two sections and twisted together. The long twist is coiled into a low, tucked chignon.

The shape is pinned flat against the nape for a sleek look. A few soft, wispy pieces are loosened near the ears. This style is timeless and perfect for formal events. Brides planning their big day may find plenty of matching inspiration among these bride hairstyles.

Benefits:

• Exudes classic charm
• Keeps neck area clean
• Suitable for updos
• Pairs well with accessories

Pro Tip: Wrap a small section of hair around the hair tie to completely conceal it for a flawless finish.

How To Style: Two low ponytail sections are twisted together and pinned flat into a chignon.

Best For: Round and heart face shapes with straight or smooth wavy hair.

8. Messy Side Fishtail Braid

All hair is swept over to one shoulder for an asymmetrical look. A loose fishtail braid is woven from the gathered hair. The braid is deliberately pulled apart for a messy texture.

Small strands are intentionally left out around the face. This softens the entire look and adds charm. The braid is tied off with a clear or decorative elastic.

Benefits:

• Boho-chic aesthetic
• Tames thick hair easily
• Looks complex but simple
• Ideal for unwashed hair

Pro Tip: After braiding, pinch and pull the edges randomly to create an uneven, highly-textured braid.

How To Style: Hair is swept to one side and a fishtail braid is loosely woven from top to ends.

Best For: Oval and long face shapes with long layers and medium to thick hair.

9. Bouncy Blowout with Curtain Bangs

A center-parted curtain bang is the focus of this style. The rest of the hair is blow-dried with a large round brush. Movement and bounce are concentrated at the mid-lengths and ends.

The style features a glossy and healthy-looking finish. A light hair oil is used to smooth the ends. This creates a luxurious and salon-fresh appearance. That glossy finish shows off color beautifully too, especially on shades like these light brown hair looks.

Benefits:

• Salon-quality volume
• Bangs frame eyes beautifully
• Adds polished shine
• Lifts facial features

Pro Tip: Direct the nozzle of your dryer down the hair shaft to seal the cuticle and maximize gloss.

How To Style: Sections are wrapped around a large round brush and dried vertically for bounce.

Best For: Round and square face shapes with medium to thick, straight or wavy hair.

10. Braided Headband with Loose Curls

A small braid is taken from behind one ear and draped across the top. This braid is pinned behind the opposite ear like a headband. The rest of the hair is styled into relaxed, flowing curls.

The braid adds a sweet, handcrafted detail to the waves. This look is very popular for outdoor daytime events. It keeps hair off the face while looking decorative.

Benefits:

• Sweet, handcrafted detail
• Secures front hair easily
• Perfect for daytime events
• Upgrades simple curls

Pro Tip: Use a texturizing powder on the section you braid to give it extra grip and prevent slipping.

How To Style: A small side braid is pinned across the crown and blended into loose curls.

Best For: Heart and diamond face shapes with fine to medium, textured hair.

11. Slicked-Back High Ponytail

Hair is brushed upwards and gathered high at the crown. A smoothing gel is applied to the sides for a sleek finish. The ponytail falls with natural texture or smooth waves.

The height of the ponytail creates a lifted face effect. This style is both sporty and high-fashion chic. A small section of hair can be wrapped around the hair tie.

Benefits:

• Instantly lifts the face
• High-fashion chic vibe
• Works with any texture
• Stays in place well

Pro Tip: Tilt your head back while gathering the hair to ensure the ponytail doesn’t sag during the day.

How To Style: Hair is smoothed up with a boar bristle brush and secured tightly at the crown.

Best For: Oval and heart face shapes with all hair types, especially thick hair.

12. Twisted Low Ponytail with Volume

Volume is first teased into the crown of the head. Hair is then gathered into a low ponytail at the nape. The sides are twisted and incorporated into the ponytail base.

This adds an intricate touch to a simple ponytail. The teased crown gives a rounded, flattering shape. The overall feel is soft and romantic.

Benefits:

• Elevated basic ponytail
• Creates flattering shape
• Soft and romantic feel
• Hides hair elastics

Pro Tip: Use a texturizing spray on the roots before teasing to give the volume long-lasting hold.

How To Style: The crown is teased, and side sections are twisted back into a low ponytail.

Best For: Round and oval face shapes with fine to medium, layered hair.

13. Tousled Shag with Wispy Ends

Heavily layered cuts are styled with a rough-dry technique. The ends are flicked out and tousled with a texturizing paste. This results in a deliberately undone, rock-and-roll look. If you like this shaggy energy, a wolf cut without bangs pushes the same undone silhouette even further.

The styling is focused on creating a piece-y texture throughout. A matte finish product is best to avoid a greasy feel. The shag looks best when it appears a little slept-in.

Benefits:

• Maximizes texture and body
• Deliberately cool and undone
• Enhances natural movement
• Requires little precision

Pro Tip: Scrunch hair with a salt spray while air-drying to get the most natural, piece-y shag texture.

How To Style: A matte clay is worked through dry hair to piece out the ends and add separation.

Best For: Oval and heart face shapes with fine to medium, wavy or straight hair.

14. Elegant French Twist for Medium Hair

All hair is gathered at the back and smoothed to one side. It is then rolled upwards vertically and pinned against the head. The top edge of the roll is gently fanned out.

This classic updo is surprisingly achievable on medium length. A firm-hold hairspray ensures the roll stays secure. Loose ends are tucked neatly into the twist’s center.

Benefits:

• Ultimate classic updo
• Surprisingly easy on mid-length
• Perfectly secure hold
• Looks very expensive

Pro Tip: Use a mix of hairpins and U-pins inserted vertically to anchor the twist more securely.

How To Style: Hair is rolled upwards from the nape and pinned vertically to form a sleek twist.

Best For: Square and heart face shapes with straight or smooth, one-length hair.

15. Half-Up Space Buns for Fun

The top half of the hair is split into two sections. Each section is twisted into a small bun on top of the head. The buns are arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically.

This playful style is a festival favorite and widely loved. It works best on hair that has a bit of natural grip. The bottom half can be left straight or curled.

Benefits:

• Playful and youthful
• Great for festivals
• Keeps top hair tidy
• Expresses fun personality

Pro Tip: Use small, colorful snap clips to decorate the base of each bun for a playful touch.

How To Style: The top half of hair is split, twisted, and coiled into two buns on the crown.

Best For: All face shapes, especially round, with medium to thick, textured hair.

16. Blowout Bob with Curled Ends

A shoulder-length bob is given a classic, rounded blowout. The ends are curled under with a medium round brush. This creates a full, C-shaped body through the length.

The roots are lifted for extra volume and a smooth finish. This style suits blunt cuts beautifully. A light oil can be applied for added sheen and softness.

Benefits:

• Creates classic C-shape body
• Smooth and polished look
• Ideal for blunt cuts
• Adds thickness visually

Pro Tip: Pin each hot section into a loop against your head to cool, which sets a deeper curl.

How To Style: Ends are curled under with a round brush and the hair is pinned to cool in place.

Best For: Round and long face shapes with fine to medium, straight hair.

17. Deep Side Part Glam Waves

A very deep side part is created and the hair is sculpted into waves. A waving iron or large curling tong is used on sections. All curls are then brushed out to form soft, smooth S-waves.

One side is tucked elegantly behind an ear. This exudes old Hollywood glamour and sophistication. A high-shine spray is essential for this red-carpet look.

Benefits:

• Old Hollywood sophistication
• Dramatic and eye-catching
• Flatters one side of face
• Creates stunning shine

Pro Tip: Set the waves with pin curls and let them cool completely before brushing out for lasting hold.

How To Style: Deep side-parted hair is curled and brushed into uniform, glossy S-waves.

Best For: Oval and square face shapes with medium to thick, one-length or layered hair.

18. Bubble Ponytail for a Trendy Twist

A mid-height ponytail is secured at the back of the head. Additional elastics are tied evenly down the length of the tail. Each section between elastics is gently pulled to form a “bubble.”

This look is trendy, unique, and very easy to master. It turns a basic ponytail into a statement style. Clear elastics are best to keep the look modern and clean.

Benefits:

• Transforms a basic ponytail
• Trendy and unique look
• Very easy to master
• Adds fun structure

Pro Tip: Wrap a small strand of hair around each elastic to hide them and make the bubbles look seamless.

How To Style: A ponytail is tied and then sectioned with multiple elastics, puffing out each segment.

Best For: All face shapes with long layered or one-length, medium to thick hair.

19. Boho Side Braid with Flowers

A loose, messy Dutch braid is woven along one side of the head. The braid is pulled apart for maximum fullness and texture. Small, fresh flowers or floral pins are tucked into the braid loops.

This style is effortlessly romantic and perfect for outdoor occasions. It looks intricate but feels soft and relaxed. The flowers add a beautiful, natural pop of color. This braid works especially well on natural texture, and pairs nicely with these wavy hair ideas for extra fullness.

Benefits:

• Effortlessly romantic vibe
• Perfect for outdoor events
• Flowers add natural pop
• Looks beautifully intricate

Pro Tip: Use a wax spray on your fingers while pulling the braid apart to give the loops lasting, gritty texture.

How To Style: A loose side Dutch braid is pancaked and then decorated with small floral accents.

Best For: Oval and heart face shapes with long layered, wavy or curly hair.

20. Classic Half-Up with a Velvet Bow

The hair from the temple area is pulled back and secured. This half-ponytail is then tied with a large, statement velvet bow. The rest of the hair falls naturally or in soft waves.

This simple addition elevates the entire look instantly. The bow becomes the focal point of the hairstyle. It’s a charming look for holidays and special gatherings.

Benefits:

• Instantly elevates style
• Charming and feminine
• Quick holiday-ready look
• Bow is a focal point

Pro Tip: Choose a bow with a clip backing instead of a tie for easy placement and perfect fluffing.

How To Style: Front sections are pulled back and a large velvet bow is clipped over the half-ponytail.

Best For: All face shapes, especially oval and round, with smooth or slightly wavy hair.

21. Wet Look Pulled-Back Style

A generous amount of styling gel is distributed through damp hair. All hair is combed straight back and away from the face. The hair is left to air-dry or set with a diffuser.

The result is a glossy, high-fashion finish with no visible part. This sleek style is bold, confident, and runway-ready. A strong-hold gel is needed to maintain the shape without crunch.

Benefits:

• Runway-ready bold look
• High-gloss finish
• Keeps hair off face securely
• Very quick to create

Pro Tip: Mix a few drops of hair oil into your gel to prevent the wet look from turning stiff or crispy.

How To Style: Hair is combed back with gel and set flat against the head with a fine-tooth comb.

Best For: Oval and diamond face shapes with medium to short, one-length hair.

22. High Volume Curly Ponytail

A curly ponytail is positioned high on the crown for maximum lift. A curl cream is applied to the ponytail to define ringlets. The hair at the base is fluffed up to hide the elastic.

This look celebrates natural curl patterns and big texture. It’s a joyful, energetic, and statement-making style. A scarf can be tied at the base for an extra pop.

Benefits:

• Celebrates natural texture
• Full of joyful energy
• Statement-making shape
• Defines ringlets beautifully

Pro Tip: Use an afro pick to gently lift the ponytail at the base for an instantly fuller look.

How To Style: Curly hair is gathered high and the ponytail is fluffed with a pick and curl cream.

Best For: All face shapes with naturally curly or coily, medium-length hair.

23. Side-Swept Roll and Tuck

Hair is given a strong side part and then smoothed. One side is sectioned and rolled inwards towards the head. This roll is secured with crisscrossed pins at the nape area.

The opposite side’s hair is tucked behind the ear. This look is refined, unique, and beautifully asymmetrical. It is a wonderful alternative to a classic updo.

Benefits:

• Refined and unique style
• Beautifully asymmetrical
• Alternative to classic updo
• Looks professionally done

Pro Tip: Use a shine-enhancing pomade on the rolled section to make the twist look ultra-sleek.

How To Style: One side is smoothed and rolled inward, then pinned flat against the nape.

Best For: Oval and heart face shapes with smooth, straight, or slightly wavy hair.

24. 90s Blowout with Chunky Highlights

A round brush is used to blow out the hair with voluminous body. The look is styled to feature bold, face-framing chunky highlights. The ends are slightly flipped and full of bounce.

This nostalgic style brings a fun, retro energy back. The contrast of the highlights emphasizes the hair’s movement. A root lifter is key for achieving that sky-high volume.

Benefits:

• Full of nostalgic fun
• Highlights show movement
• Maximum bounce and body
• Very camera-friendly

Pro Tip: Apply a root-lifting spray directly to the roots on the top section only for targeted 90s volume.

How To Style: Hair is blown out with a large round brush to showcase face-framing chunky highlights.

Best For: Round and oval face shapes with layered, medium to thick hair types.

25. Braided Low Bun with a Middle Part

A clean center part is created from front to nape. The hair is then split and two Dutch braids are woven backwards. The braids are gathered into a single low bun at the nape and secured.

The style is sleek, practical, and visually symmetrical. It’s perfect for active days or a sleek office look. The braids add an eye-catching geometric detail to the bun.

Benefits:

• Symmetrical and sleek
• Perfect for active days
• Eye-catching detail
• Long-lasting hold

Pro Tip: Braid in a small satin ribbon for an elegant touch that also helps with grip.

How To Style: Hair is parted in the middle, Dutch-braided down, and gathered into a single low bun.

Best For: Square and oval face shapes with medium to long, straight or wavy hair.

Frequently Asked Questions About Medium Length Hairstyles

Conclusion

Medium length hair offers the best of both style worlds. It provides the freedom to try intricate updos and flowing waves. Your styling options remain vast and endlessly creative.

Experiment with these ideas to discover your favorite new look. A simple change in styling can transform your entire appearance. Find the shapes and textures that make you feel most confident.