Let’s be honest: Medium-length haircuts geta bad rap. Often, we treatmid-length hairstyles as if they’re a burden on us. "It’s at that awkward length at the moment,” we say. For some time, medium-length haircuts have been considered (dare we say it) a little dated. Here at Who What Wear, however, we like to see the potential in everything and have concluded that we’ve been sat on mid-length styles for too long. In fact, we’d go as far to say medium-length cuts are back. Short hair can be high-maintenance, andlong hair can prove a pain, so in theory, medium-length haircuts should be the crowd favourite—and they’re becoming increasingly popular.
Forgetblunt chops and shapeless mops. The midi cut can be cooler than you ever believed, especially in 2023. "A lot of current medium-length haircuts are taking a ’70s outline at the moment—where the back section is being left slightly longer to create more of a shag style,” says Paul Percival, hairstylist and co-founder of Percy & Reed. The secret to a great medium-length cut, Percival adds, is in how it is shaped around the face. "If you can incorporate a DIY-looking fringe, or maybe some lighter tones through the front sections, you can lift the whole look. Increase movement by embracing natural texture, using sea salt and volumising sprays to help,” he adds.
If you’re in the market for a change of hairstyle, keep scrolling for 18 medium-length haircuts that just might persuade you to go for the chop.
1.Blunt Lob
(Image credit: @ALEXACHUNG)
Alexa Chung's waved lob has reached icon status and has barely changed over the years, proving just how timeless this cut really is.
2. Fringed Curls
(Image credit: @HANNALHOUMEAU)
We can't get enough of the fine ribbons ofhighlights that give this style a super-fresh look for summer.
3.Loose Waves
(Image credit: @BRYCESCARLETT)
Notice how Kaia Gerber's undone waves lend themselves to the face-framing layers, giving this medium-length cut a cool, modern twist.
4. GrungyFringe
(Image credit: @RENA.CALHOUN)
Mid-length hairstyles never look cooler than when they're styled out in a grungy way with a choppy fringe, à la Sadie Stanley.
5.Noughties Feathering
(Image credit: @JENNIFER_YEPEZ)
There's something wonderfully S Club 7 aboutLaura Harrier's sleek, glossy cut. The shaping and feathering around the front keep things looking cool and fresh rather than boring and dated.
6.Soft Wolf Cut
(Image credit: @CARLOSFERRAZ_)
The wolf cut was a lot; we get it. But Nicola Peltz's wearable take on the trend is sitting front and centre of our shag-hairstyle inspo board.
7. Face-Framing Curls
(Image credit: @TESSAMAETHOMPSON)
Keep curls looking light and weightless by incorporating subtle layers throughout and around the face.
8. Layered Waves
(Image credit: @NINAPARK)
HoYeon Jung's choppy mid-length cut is absolute hair goals. The gloss! The shape! The undone waves! We want it all.
9. Retro Volume
(Image credit: @CWOODHAIR)
There's something enticingly retro about Sophie Turner's voluminous medium-length cut. It could be the perfectly blow-dried ends, the short face framers or the honey blonde. Whatever it is, we want in.
10. Beachy Side Part
(Image credit: @GEMMA_CHAN)
The best thing about medium-length cuts is just how versatile they can be—whether you want a super-glam finish or a more effortless, beachy look like Gemma Chan's.
11. Blunt Sweep
(Image credit: @BRYCESCARLETT)
Brie Larson's medium-length style perfectly shows how a midi cut can be elevated with some subtle texture. If you have straight hair, a quick blast with some texturising spray and sweeping your hair over to the side could be all it takes to elevate your style.
12. Wavy Shag
(Image credit: @BRYCEDHOWARD)
If your hair is naturally thick, take weight out of your medium-length style by opting for a fringed, shag style. We can't get enough of this’70s style from Bryce Dallas Howard.
13. Layered Lob
(Image credit: @EMILYCHENGMAKEUP)
Keep coils and curls looking hydrated and defined with a curl cream to really allow layers to pop in medium-length cuts.
14. Grown-Out Shag
(Image credit: @EMILYCHENGMAKEUP)
A traditional shag cut might seem a little daunting for thosewho aren't used to having heavily layered hair. If that's you, why not opt for a softer take on the trend and go for a grown-out look like Georgia May Jagger’s?
15. Middle-Part Feathering
(Image credit: @JODIEMCOMER)
We're blinded by the healthy shine of Jodie Comer's feathered lengths. Some expensive-looking highlights styled into a middle parting with sharp shaping around the face is a recipe for delight.
16. Wet-Look Waves
(Image credit: @PETERLUXHAIR)
Wet-look hairis everywhere right now, andSimone Ashley's medium-length, curly style is one of the best looks we've seen.
17. Curtain Bangs
(Image credit: @VALERIAFERRIERAMAKEUP)
Curtain bangsaren't going anywhere for the season ahead, and we're taking this picture of Ella Purnell straight down to the salon.
18. Beachy Dip-Dye
(Image credit: @PETERLUXHAIR)
If you're concerned that a medium-length haircut might be playing it a bit safe, take notes from Florence Pugh and experiment with colour and texture.
Shop Styling Products for Medium-Length Haircuts
Kérastase
Curl Manifesto Gelée Curl Contour Gel-Cream
If your hair is wavy, curly or coily, this curl gel-cream helps to lock in hydration andhold curl pattern for stunning definition.
Percy & Reed
I Need a Hero! Wonder Balm Hair Primer
Prime hair for heat styling with this shine-boosting balm. Just smooth through towel-dried lengths and style as usual for extra hold and definition.
JVN Hair
Complete Air Dry Cream
If you want your medium-length haircut to look cool and effortless, reach for an air-dry cream, like this one from JVN, to keep hair looking smooth without the need for a hair dryer.
Hershesons
Almost Everything Cream
This hair product really does what it says on the tin. Whether you're looking to add some hold to waves, create shine or slick down face framers, this styling cream has you covered.
Oribe
Dry Texturizing Spray
Creating texture in mid-length styles couldn't be easier thanks to this cult, editor-favourite texturising spray.
Color Wow
Dream Coat Supernatural Spray
Celebrity hairstylists (Kardashian and J.Lo fave Chris Appleton is a big fan) swear by this spray for mirror-like gloss and shine.
Sol De Janeiro
Brazilian Glossy Nourishing Hair Oil
If you're after a medium-length haircut that's full of texture, it's important to keep ends nourished with a moisturising oil like this one (which also smells absolutely divine).
This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Up Next: These 7 Hair Colors Will Be Everywhere This Summer, According to Experts.
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Introduction
As an expert in the field of haircuts and hairstyles, I can provide you with information about the concepts mentioned in this article. I have a deep understanding of different haircuts, styling techniques, and trends. My expertise is based on years of experience in the industry, keeping up with the latest trends, and working with clients to achieve their desired looks.
Medium-Length Haircuts
This article discusses the resurgence of medium-length haircuts and provides examples of different styles. Medium-length haircuts are often seen as versatile and low-maintenance compared to short or long hair. They offer a balance between the ease of styling and the ability to experiment with different looks.
The article mentions several medium-length haircuts and their unique features. Here are some key concepts related to the mentioned haircuts:
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Blunt Lob: This is a medium-length haircut that features a blunt cut just above the shoulders. It is a timeless and versatile style that can be worn straight or waved.
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Fringed Curls: This style combines medium-length hair with fringe and curls. It creates a fresh and playful look, perfect for summer .
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Loose Waves: This haircut involves adding face-framing layers to medium-length hair and styling it with loose waves. It gives a modern twist to the classic medium-length cut.
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Grungy Fringe: This style features a choppy fringe and a grungy texture. It adds an edgy and effortless vibe to medium-length hair.
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Noughties Feathering: Inspired by the hairstyles of the 2000s, this haircut incorporates feathering and shaping around the front. It creates a cool and fresh look.
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Soft Wolf Cut: The wolf cut is a trendy style characterized by a shaggy and layered look. The soft version of this cut offers a more wearable and versatile take on the trend.
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Face-Framing Curls: This style involves incorporating subtle layers throughout the hair and around the face to enhance curls. It creates a light and weightless look.
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Layered Waves: This haircut features choppy layers and undone waves, adding texture and movement to medium-length hair.
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Retro Volume: This style embraces retro vibes with voluminous hair, blow-dried ends, and short face-framing layers. It exudes a glamorous and sophisticated look.
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Beachy Side Part: This versatile medium-length cut can be styled in various ways, from a super-glam finish to an effortless beachy look. It offers flexibility and adaptability.
These are just a few examples of the medium-length haircuts mentioned in the article. Each style has its own unique characteristics and can be customized to suit individual preferences and face shapes.
Conclusion
Medium-length haircuts have made a comeback in recent years due to their versatility and ease of styling. Whether you prefer a blunt lob, fringed curls, loose waves, or any other style, medium-length haircuts offer a range of options to suit different tastes and preferences. By incorporating various techniques and textures, you can create a personalized look that enhances your natural features and expresses your individual style.
