Here's the thing about medium-lengthhair—it's incredibly versatile.It's not too short and it's not too long, which means you get the best of both worlds as far as styling is concerned. Do you want tostraighten your hair into a sleek, centre-parted lob? Great.How about showing off yournatural texture in a curly topknot? Or, do you want to replicate the wet-look hairstyle that celebrities like J.Lo and Kim Kardashian have made famous? With medium-length hair, you have all of these options and more (many more).
The best part is that you don't have to be a professional hairstylist to achieve A-list results. There are countless examples of medium-length hairstyles that are both easyandflattering (trust us, those two thingscan coexist). You might just need someproof to believe it. That’s where we come in. Keep scrolling to see 17 ofthe besteasy hairstyles for medium-length hair. These are sure to broaden your hair horizons...
1. Flipped Ends
(Image credit: @lefevrediary)
Flipped ends have been trending for a while now, and they show no signs of stopping. "They'rethe easiest way to instantly update your style if you usuallywear your hair straight—whatever yourhair length," says Who What Wear UK beauty editor Eleanor Vousden. "Simply run a pair of hair straightenersthrough the lengths and curl the ends under for a bit of '90s nostalgia."
Get the look:
Dyson
Corrale Cord-Free Hair Straighteners
Dyson has built quite the reputation over the past few years for itsinnovative, sleekly designed hair tools.
2. Slicked-Back Style
(Image credit: @lilyjamesoffiial)
"Slicked back styles are a versatile for taking yourmedium length hair into evening—whether that be with a slick bun or scraping the hair back with a pomade for a wet-look," says Vousden.
To recreate Lily James's version of the look, we'll use a styling product, a strong-hold hairspray, and our hands—no (damaging) heat tools necessary.
Get the look:
3. Curly Topknot
(Image credit: @zendaya)
Not only is Zendaya's makeup utterly flawless in this picture, but her curly topknot is, too. If you want to keep curls up and out of the way, then a top knot is a great hairstyle to try if you have medium length hair," explains Vousden. "It's ideal if youdon't have loads of time to spend on your hairstyle, and the tumbling curls look so pretty too."
Before tossing your hair up into an elastic, enhance yournatural texturewith a moisture-boosting, curl-defining styling cream.
Get the look:
4. Old-Hollywood Waves
(Image credit: @CWOODHAIR)
Okay, so old Hollywood waves are probably the most difficult of all the hairstyles on this list, but don't despair. If you have a curling iron, hair clips, and a brush, this style is totally doable. (We also recommend applying a classic red lipstick with it, but that's just us).
Get the look:
5. Y2K-Inspired Up-Do
(Image credit: @dualipa)
Dua Lipa is known for her love of Y2K-inspired style, and this up-do fits the bill. The key to achieving this look is to leave a large portion of hair out of the bun to frame the face. Straighten the pieces so they look sharp and structural (but don't forget to use heat protectant).
Get the look:
Bumble and Bumble
Bb. Heat Shield Thermal Protection Mist 125ml
Your hair will thank you for protecting it with this lightweight mist.
6. Piecey Waves
(Image credit: @lauraharrier)
This fool-proof style isexceptionally easy to replicate.'I'm a huge fan of low-maintenance hair styling, so this gets a 10/10 from me. I love the slightlytousled waves and added texture of Harrier's bob, which gives it such a romantic fee', says Who What Wear UK's Managing Editor, Poppy Nash.
Just be sure to use a texture spray togive definition and piecey-ness to the hair, so your strands can look like Laura Harrier's 'do.
Get the look:
Hair by Sam McKnight
Cool Girl Texturising Spray
For the perfecteffortlessly tousled look, this is a fail-safe product.
7. PlaitedFront Pieces
(Image credit: @haileybieber)
Hailey Bieber's plaited front pieces are an opportunity to embrace your natural hair texture, whatever it is. Simply section off two small pieces of hair on either side of your face using a comb, braid them down and secure them with a clear elastic. Voilà, style complete.
Get the look:
8. '60s-Inspired Ponytail
(Image credit: @kimkardashian)
If the flipped endshairstyle morphed with a classic ponytail, this would be the result. We love the volume and lift this look has, as well as the high-shine finish. Do as Kim did (orshould we say as her hairstylist did?) and secure the ponytail with multiple elastics for a dramatic shape.
Get the look:
9. The Wet-Look
(Image credit: @jlo)
Nothing mades a simple hairstyle look more elevated and red carpet-ready than styling it to have a wet finish."If there was ever a queen of red-carpet hairstyles, it would be Jennifer Lopez. I'll be copying this for my next night out to add a little something special to my go-to jeans and nice top look", says Nash.
Simply run a product that has a glossy, high-shineeffect fromroot to tip.
Get the look:
10. Half-Up Half-Down
(Image credit: @JOANNACOOPS)
No matter your hair type, whether straight, wavy, or curly, a half-up half-down hairstyle will alwayswork.
"Ok, now this is a style I actually already replicate and love. I have long hair, and sometimes when it just isn't playing ball I like to throw the front of it up and away from my face. This is especially great in the summer, when you're out for dinner, or when you want to show off some amazing earrings! Plus, it works well if you have bangs or a fringe", explains Nash.
Get the look:
11.Ballet Bun
(Image credit: @selenagomez)
"With medium-length hair, you get the best of both worlds by it being long enough to wear down, but to also tie up into a bun," says Vousden. "A ballet bun is such a versatile look that suits everyone."
Selena Gomez proves a ballet bun is (and always will be) classic.We think the secret is in the sectioning. Making sure your hair is parted in the centre makes it feel polished and elegant.
Get the look:
12. Slick Low Pony
(Image credit: @jourdandunn)
When in doubt, go for a low, slicked-back ponytail. It works with any aesthetic—pairing perfectly with natural makeup as well asdramatic makeupand from athleisure all the way to formal wear. "I see this hairstyle time and time again backstage at fashion week–it's a testament to how chic the style is," says Vousden. "It really goes with any look and suits medium length hair really well."
Just make sure you seal in the style with a non-crunchy hairspray.Bonus points if you use one that offers long-lasting hold, a boost of shine, and UV protection.
Get the look:
13. Effortless Claw ClipStyle
(Image credit: @rosiehw)
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley is the queen of minimalism, and that goes for her hair, too. All you need to replicate this look is a claw clip and a few tendrils of hair left out at the front to frame your face. It only takes seconds to acheive, and the less perfect it is, the better.
Get the look:
14. Sleek, Centre-Parted Lob
(Image credit: @patrickwilson)
"If I was getting a bob, this would be the image I show my hairdresser. Effortless yet polished, it's just beautiful. And look at the shine! Hair goals", says Nash.
We're loving Charithra Chandran's short haircut which just skims her shoulders. Take heed from her and dust off your flat iron to create a soft bend in the hair.Finish with a healthy amount of shine serum.
Get the look:
R+Co
Waterfall Moisture & Shine Lotion
With glowing reviews, we're pretty sure you hair will love this lotion.
15. Bubble Ponytail
(Image credit: @gabunion)
A bubble ponytail is so flattering and so easy. Just look to Gabrielle Union for proof. Simply tie your hair backand place elastics evenly down the length of it. It will take all of five minutes.
Get the look:
16. Curly Ends
(Image credit: @CHRISSYFORD)
If your medium-length hair is starting to verge on the side of long and you want to create the impression that it's shorter, focus your styling on the ends. This helps to lift the length and add more movement—and cuts down on styling time.Simplycurl from the mid-lengths to the ends of your haironly. It's that easy.
Get the look:
Color Wow
Cult Favorite Firm + Flexible Hairspray
You'll need a good hairspray to keep this style in place— look for one that promises flexibility to ensure movement isn't lost.
17. '70s Waves
(Image credit: @CHASEMARIEEE)
There are a few things that will never change. One of them is that we will always love voluminous '70s style waves. That's probably because they're so flatteringto all face shapes and help to boost thin and fine hair.
Get the look:
Drybar
Full Pint Medium Round Ceramic Brush
A round brush and plenty of heat are all you need to achieve this iconic hairstyle.
Next Up:From J.Lo to Jennifer Aniston, These Are the '90s Hairstyles We'll Never Forget
This storywas previously published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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Hairstyles
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Introduction
As an expert and enthusiast, I have access to a vast amount of information on various topics, including hairstyles for medium-length hair. I can provide you with information and tips on different hairstyles mentioned in this article. Let's dive in!
Flipped Ends
Flipped ends are a trendy and easy way to update your hairstyle. To achieve this look, you can use a pair of hair straighteners to straighten your hair and then curl the ends under for a bit of '90s nostalgia [[1]].
Slicked-Back Style
A slicked-back style is a versatile option for taking your medium-length hair into the evening. You can create a slick bun or scrape the hair back with a pomade for a wet-look. To achieve this style, you'll need a styling product, a strong-hold hairspray, and your hands. No heat tools necessary [[2]].
Curly Topknot
A curly topknot is a great hairstyle to try if you want to keep your curls up and out of the way. It's ideal if you don't have much time to spend on your hairstyle. Before tossing your hair up into an elastic, enhance your natural texture with a moisture-boosting, curl-defining styling cream [[3]].
Old-Hollywood Waves
Old Hollywood waves are a classic and glamorous hairstyle. While they may be a bit more challenging to achieve, you can create them with a curling iron, hair clips, and a brush. Adding a classic red lipstick can complement this style [[4]].
Y2K-Inspired Up-Do
A Y2K-inspired up-do is a stylish choice. To achieve this look, leave a large portion of hair out of the bun to frame your face. Straighten the pieces for a sharp and structural appearance. Don't forget to use heat protectant before styling [[5]].
Piecey Waves
Pieciness waves are an effortlessly romantic style that is easy to replicate. Use a texture spray to give definition and piecey-ness to your hair. This will help you achieve a tousled look similar to Laura Harrier's hairstyle [[6]].
Plaited Front Pieces
Plaited front pieces are a great way to embrace your natural hair texture. Simply section off two small pieces of hair on either side of your face, braid them down, and secure them with a clear elastic. This style is easy to achieve and can complement any hair type [[7]].
'60s-Inspired Ponytail
A '60s-inspired ponytail is a chic and voluminous hairstyle. You can secure the ponytail with multiple elastics for a dramatic shape. To achieve a high-shine finish, use a high-quality shine spray [[8]].
The Wet-Look
The wet-look hairstyle can elevate a simple hairstyle and make it red carpet-ready. To achieve this look, use a product with a glossy, high-shine effect from root to tip. This will give your hair a sleek and polished appearance [[9]].
Half-Up Half-Down
A half-up half-down hairstyle is versatile and works well with any hair type. It's a great option when you want to keep the front of your hair away from your face. This style is especially suitable for showcasing earrings or during the summer [[10]].
Ballet Bun
A ballet bun is a classic and versatile look that suits everyone. To achieve this look, make sure your hair is parted in the center for a polished and elegant appearance [[11]].
Slick Low Pony
A low, slicked-back ponytail is a chic and timeless hairstyle. It goes well with any look, from athleisure to formal wear. Seal in the style with a non-crunchy hairspray for a long-lasting hold and a boost of shine [[12]].
Effortless Claw Clip Style
An effortless claw clip style is a minimalistic and classy option. Use a claw clip to secure your hair and leave a few tendrils at the front to frame your face. The less perfect the style, the better it looks [[13]].
Sleek, Centre-Parted Lob
A sleek, center-parted lob is a beautiful and effortless style. Use a flat iron to create a soft bend in the hair and finish with a shine lotion for a healthy and shiny finish [[14]].
Bubble Ponytail
A bubble ponytail is a flattering and easy hairstyle. Simply tie your hair back and place elastics evenly down the length of it. This style can be achieved in just a few minutes [[15]].
Curly Ends
If your medium-length hair is starting to verge on the side of long, focusing on the ends can help lift the length and add more movement. Curl only the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair for a shorter appearance [[16]].
'70s Waves
Voluminous '70s waves are timeless and flattering for all face shapes. They can also help boost thin and fine hair. Use a round brush and heat to achieve this iconic hairstyle [[17]].
I hope these hairstyle ideas for medium-length hair inspire you to try something new and experiment with different looks. Remember, the best part is that you don't have to be a professional hairstylist to achieve A-list results. Have fun exploring these hairstyles!