23 Cute Hairstyles for Medium Hair Ideas

Medium hair is the Goldilocks of the hair world – not too short, not too long, but just right for endless styling possibilities. Whether you’re looking to add volume, play with textures, or simply find something quick and chic for the day, the options are abundant.

The beauty of medium-length hair lies in its versatility. You can easily switch between casual and formal looks, from beachy waves to elegant updos, while keeping it practical enough for everyday wear.

1. Textured Lob

The textured lob is the perfect balance between edgy and sophisticated. With its slightly tousled ends, it works for both straight and wavy hair.

To achieve this style, simply add some texturizing spray and scrunch your hair as you blow-dry. The lob (or long bob) works well with any face shape, and it’s an excellent choice for a laid-back yet stylish look.

2. Loose Waves

Loose waves are the epitome of effortless beauty. To get this style, grab a curling iron or wand and wrap sections of your hair around it, leaving the ends out for a more natural, undone look.

This hairstyle is perfect for any occasion and adds volume without making your hair look overdone. Loose waves can give you that “just stepped out of the beach” vibe, making them perfect for warmer seasons.

3. Half-Up Braid

A half-up braid is a fun and flirty way to keep your hair out of your face while adding some texture. To create this style, part your hair in the middle or slightly off-center.

Then, take two small sections from either side of your head, braid them, and secure them at the back with a small elastic. This look is simple but playful and works well for both casual outings and more formal events.

4. Messy Bun

The messy bun is a classic medium hair go-to. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it looks effortlessly chic. To get the perfect messy bun, simply pull your hair into a loose ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with bobby pins.

Leave a few strands loose around your face for a more relaxed vibe. The beauty of this style is that the less perfect it looks, the better it is!

5. Sleek Ponytail

Sometimes, you just want to go sleek. A sleek ponytail is not only professional but also very trendy. To achieve this, straighten your hair with a flat iron, apply some smoothing serum, and pull your hair back into a high or low ponytail. For added glam, wrap a section of your hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic.

6. Braided Crown

The braided crown is a romantic and elegant hairstyle that’s perfect for medium-length hair. To achieve this, part your hair down the middle and create two braids, one on each side.

Once you’ve braided both sections, wrap each braid around your head, securing them with bobby pins. This style is perfect for weddings, parties, or any event where you want to look polished and graceful.

7. Curly Bob

If you have naturally curly hair or love curls, the curly bob is a fantastic option. It’s playful and easy to maintain. To get the look, use a curling iron or diffuser, and curl your hair in small sections.

Once you’re done, apply some mousse to give your curls definition and volume. This style adds a fun, bouncy texture to your hair and works great on medium-length locks.

8. Shaggy Layers

For a laid-back, rock-and-roll vibe, the shaggy layers hairstyle is a great choice. The layers add texture and volume, giving your hair that lived-in, cool-girl look.

You can achieve this by asking your stylist to add subtle layers to your hair that frame your face while keeping the overall length medium. It’s an effortless style that looks great with both straight and wavy hair.

9. Beach Waves with a Twist

If you want to add a little something extra to your beach waves, try the beach waves with a twist. After curling your hair, take a few sections of the waves and twist them before pinning them back with bobby pins. This adds depth and dimension to the classic beachy look while still keeping it relaxed and natural.

10. The Pin-Straight Look

Sometimes the simplest styles are the most striking, and the pin-straight look is no exception. This hairstyle involves straightening your medium-length hair with a flat iron for a sleek, polished finish.

Pair it with a middle part for an edgy feel or a side part for a more classic look. This style is ultra-modern and works great for a formal or business setting.

11. Side Swept Curls

Side-swept curls are a glamorous choice for medium-length hair. To create this look, curl your hair with a large-barrel curling iron and then sweep all the curls over to one side.

Pin them in place for a sophisticated yet romantic style. This is the perfect go-to for a night out, a dinner date, or any event where you want to dazzle.

12. Messy Fishtail Braid

For a fun and boho-inspired look, the messy fishtail braid is a great option. Start by creating a loose ponytail, then separate it into two sections.

Begin braiding as you would a regular fishtail braid, but keep the sections loose for a messier effect. Pull apart the braid a little to add volume and texture. This look is perfect for a laid-back weekend or a festival.

13. Low Chignon

For a classic yet understated style, the low chignon is the way to go. This elegant updo works best for medium-length hair as it’s simple and sophisticated.

Gather your hair into a low ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with pins. You can leave a few strands loose around your face for a more relaxed feel. This is a great hairstyle for formal events or a chic day at the office.

14. Soft Curls with Volume

If you want a bit more volume without going overboard, try soft curls with volume. Use a medium-barrel curling iron to curl your hair in loose waves and apply a volumizing mousse before styling.

To add extra lift at the roots, you can backcomb your hair slightly. This adds body and bounce while keeping the curls soft and natural.

15. Ponytail with a Twist

The ponytail with a twist adds a fun, modern spin to the classic ponytail. To create the look, take a small section of hair from one side of your head and twist it before pinning it around the base of your ponytail. This gives the ponytail an extra touch of style without being too complicated.

16. Classic French Twist

For an elegant, timeless look, the classic French twist is always a winner. It’s a sophisticated style that works well for medium-length hair. To achieve this, gather your hair at the nape of your neck, twist it upwards, and pin it in place. This style is perfect for formal events, weddings, or any occasion where you want to look put-together.

17. Messy Side Braid

The messy side braid is a simple yet chic style that’s perfect for medium hair. To achieve this look, part your hair to one side and create a loose braid.

Pull some sections of the braid apart to create a voluminous effect. This style is perfect for a relaxed day out with friends or a casual dinner.

18. The Flipped Ends

For a retro-inspired look, consider the flipped ends hairstyle. This style works beautifully on medium-length hair, as it creates volume and a playful bounce.

Use a round brush and blow-dry your hair, flipping the ends outward to create that classic 60s vibe. This is the perfect style for a fun night out or a vintage-inspired look.

19. Twisted Low Bun

The twisted low bun is another elegant and easy updo for medium-length hair. To achieve this, twist your hair into a low ponytail, then twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with pins. This simple yet polished style is great for both casual and formal occasions.

20. Bouncy Curls

For a bold look, go for bouncy curls. This voluminous style adds lots of body and movement to your medium hair. Use a curling iron to create tight curls, then gently comb through them with your fingers for a more natural look. Add some hairspray for hold, and you’re good to go. This is a great style for a glamorous evening out.

21. Soft Waves with a Side Part

Soft waves with a side part is a style that screams effortless beauty. You can achieve this look by curling your hair in large sections with a curling iron, then loosening the curls with your fingers. Add a deep side part for added volume, and you’ve got a soft, chic style that can take you from day to night.

22. Bubble Braids

For a playful and modern look, try bubble braids. This style is a fun twist on the traditional braid. To create bubble braids, braid your hair into sections and then gently pull the sides of the braid to create a bubble effect. This hairstyle is great for casual days when you want something a little out of the ordinary.

23. Vintage Waves

To add some retro charm to your medium-length hair, go for vintage waves. This old-school style involves curling your hair with a flat iron or curling wand and pinning the curls in place as you go.

Once the curls have set, brush them out for soft, glamorous waves. This style is perfect for special events or if you simply want to add a touch of vintage elegance to your look.

Conclusion

Medium-length hair is a blank canvas, waiting to be styled in countless ways. Whether you prefer something sleek and polished or carefree and relaxed, there’s a style for every occasion.

From soft waves to elegant updos, these 23 cute hairstyles for medium hair are perfect for anyone looking to switch things up and add some flair to their everyday routine. Embrace the versatility of medium hair and experiment with different textures, braids, and waves until you find your signature look.

The right hairstyle can elevate your confidence and make you feel like you’ve just stepped out of a salon, and with these ideas, you’re sure to turn heads wherever you go.