Whether you prefer a timeless and elegant look or a bold and cutting-edge style, medium-length hairstyles offer endless possibilities for transforming your appearance. In this article, we will explore the transition from classic to avant-garde medium-length hairstyles, showcasing the versatility and creativity that can be achieved with this hair length. From sleek and sophisticated bobs to edgy and textured shags, you’ll discover a wide range of options to express your unique personality and enhance your overall look. So, let’s embark on this journey and uncover the exciting world of medium-length hairstyles!
1. Classic Medium-Length Hairstyles
If you’re looking for a timeless and elegant hairstyle, you can’t go wrong with classic medium-length hairstyles. These styles never go out of fashion and are perfect for any occasion. Let’s explore some of the most popular classic medium-length hairstyles.
1.1 Classic Bob
The classic bob is a versatile and chic haircut that never fails to impress. It features a straight and blunt cut that falls just below the chin. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want to showcase their facial features and convey a sense of sophistication. Whether you go for an angled bob or a sleek and straight look, the classic bob is a surefire way to turn heads.
1.2 Layered Lob
The layered lob, or long bob, is a modern twist on the classic bob. This hairstyle is characterized by its slightly longer length, typically reaching the shoulders or collarbone. The layers add movement and texture to the hair, creating a soft and feminine look. The layered lob is a fantastic option for those who want to add volume and depth to their medium-length hair.
1.3 Blunt Cut
For a sleek and polished look, the blunt cut is a go-to choice. This hairstyle features a straight-across cut without any layers or fringes. The result is a sharp and clean appearance that exudes confidence and sophistication. The blunt cut works well with various hair textures and can be worn with a middle or side part, depending on your preference.
1.4 Shoulder-Length Curls
For those with naturally curly hair or those who want to embrace their curls, shoulder-length curls are a fabulous choice. This hairstyle accentuates your natural texture and creates a romantic and playful look. To achieve this style, use a curling iron or hot rollers to define your curls and add movement to your medium-length hair. Finish off with a curl-enhancing product for a long-lasting and bouncy hairstyle.
2. Modern Medium-Length Hairstyles
If you’re looking to stay on-trend and experiment with your medium-length hair, modern hairstyles are the way to go. These styles incorporate contemporary elements and are perfect for those who love to keep up with the latest fashion trends.
2.1 Shaggy Layers
The shaggy layers hairstyle is all about embracing a carefree and effortless vibe. This hairstyle features choppy and textured layers, giving your hair a tousled and undone look. The shaggy layers add volume and movement to your medium-length hair, making it perfect for those who want to add some edge and personality to their style.
2.2 Textured Bob
A textured bob is a modern and stylish take on the classic bob. This hairstyle involves adding layers and texture to the hair, creating a dynamic and multidimensional look. The textured bob works well with various hair types and face shapes, making it a versatile option for anyone who wants to add some flair to their medium-length hair.
2.3 Side-Swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs are a trendy choice for those looking to switch up their hairstyle. This hairstyle involves adding bangs that are swept to one side of the face, creating a soft and feminine look. Side-swept bangs work well with medium-length hair as they frame your face beautifully and add a touch of elegance to your overall style.
2.4 Wavy Lob
The wavy lob combines the modern length of a lob with the timeless appeal of waves. This hairstyle involves adding loose and tousled waves to your medium-length hair, creating a beachy and effortless look. The wavy lob is a fantastic option for those who want a low-maintenance hairstyle that still looks chic and stylish.
3. Edgy Medium-Length Hairstyles
For those who want to make a bold statement with their medium-length hair, edgy hairstyles are the way to go. These styles incorporate unconventional elements and are perfect for those who love to push the boundaries of fashion.
3.1 Asymmetrical Cut
An asymmetrical cut is a daring and unique hairstyle that involves having different lengths on each side of the hair. This asymmetry creates an edgy and avant-garde look that is sure to turn heads. Whether you opt for a shorter length on one side or a drastic difference in lengths, the asymmetrical cut is a fantastic choice for those who want to make a bold statement with their medium-length hair.
3.2 Razor Cut
The razor cut hairstyle involves using a razor instead of scissors to create jagged and choppy ends. This technique adds texture and movement to your medium-length hair, giving it an unconventional and edgy look. The razor cut works well with various hair types and can be customized to suit your personal style and preferences.
3.3 Undercut
The undercut is a daring and bold hairstyle that involves shaving or cutting the hair underneath, while leaving the top layers long. This creates a striking contrast between the longer sections and the shaved or shorter sections, resulting in a dramatic and edgy look. The undercut can be customized with various designs and patterns, allowing you to express your unique style.
3.4 Faux Hawk
The faux hawk is a trendy and edgy hairstyle that mimics the look of a mohawk without shaving or cutting the sides of the hair. This hairstyle involves creating a strip of raised hair in the center, while keeping the rest of the hair relatively short. The faux hawk adds height and dimension to your medium-length hair, creating a fierce and statement-making look.
4. Elegant Medium-Length Hairstyles
If you have a special event or want to elevate your everyday look, elegant medium-length hairstyles are the way to go. These styles exude sophistication and class, making them perfect for formal occasions or when you want to feel your best.
4.1 Vintage Waves
Vintage waves are a timeless and elegant hairstyle that harkens back to the glamorous styles of the past. This hairstyle involves creating soft and romantic waves in your medium-length hair, adding a touch of old Hollywood glamour to your look. Vintage waves can be achieved with a curling iron or by using hot rollers to create that classic, retro-inspired look.
4.2 Half-Up Bun
The half-up bun is a simple yet elegant hairstyle that adds a touch of sophistication to your medium-length hair. This hairstyle involves pulling the top half of your hair into a bun or a twist, while leaving the rest of the hair down. The half-up bun is a versatile option that can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for both formal and casual occasions.
4.3 Braided Updo
For a romantic and intricate hairstyle, the braided updo is a perfect choice. This hairstyle involves weaving braids into an updo, creating a stunning and elegant look. The braided updo can be customized with various braid styles and placements, allowing you to create a unique and personalized hairstyle that complements your medium-length hair.
4.4 Slicked Back
The slicked-back hairstyle is a sleek and sophisticated option for those who want a polished and refined look. This hairstyle involves combing your medium-length hair back and using a styling product to keep it in place. The slicked-back look works well for both straight and curly hair, giving you a clean and elegant appearance.
5. Bohemian Medium-Length Hairstyles
Bohemian hairstyles are known for their effortless and carefree vibe. These styles are perfect for those who want to embrace their natural texture and channel their inner free spirit.
5.1 Beachy Waves
Beachy waves are a staple in bohemian-inspired hairstyles. This hairstyle mimics the look of natural waves after spending a day at the beach, creating a laid-back and relaxed vibe. To achieve beachy waves, use a texturizing spray or sea salt spray on your medium-length hair and scrunch it to create that tousled and effortless look.
5.2 Messy Bun
The messy bun is a quick and easy hairstyle that adds a bohemian touch to your medium-length hair. This hairstyle involves twisting or knotting your hair into a bun, allowing loose strands to fall naturally for that effortless and undone look. The messy bun can be worn high on the head or low at the nape of the neck, depending on your preference.
5.3 Headband Braid
The headband braid is a bohemian-inspired hairstyle that adds a touch of femininity and whimsy to your medium-length hair. This hairstyle involves braiding a small section of hair near your hairline and wrapping it around your head like a headband. The headband braid can be paired with loose waves or a messy bun to achieve a boho-chic look.
5.4 Loose Curls
For a soft and romantic look, opt for loose curls in your medium-length hair. This hairstyle involves creating loose and flowing curls that cascade down your shoulders, creating a natural and effortless look. Loose curls can be achieved with a curling wand or by using soft rollers to enhance your hair’s natural texture.
6. Glamorous Medium-Length Hairstyles
Glamorous hairstyles are all about adding that extra wow factor to your medium-length hair. These styles are perfect for those who want to make a statement and bring a touch of luxury to their look.
6.1 Hollywood Waves
Hollywood waves are a signature hairstyle that embodies the glamour and elegance of the golden age of Hollywood. This hairstyle involves creating deep, side-swept waves in your medium-length hair, creating a red-carpet-worthy look. Hollywood waves can be achieved with a curling iron and some hairspray for that extra hold and shine.
6.2 Voluminous Blowout
If you want to add volume and bounce to your medium-length hair, a voluminous blowout is the way to go. This hairstyle involves blow-drying your hair while using a round brush to add lift and volume at the roots. The result is a full and glamorous hairstyle that is perfect for special occasions or when you want to feel like a superstar.
6.3 Side-Swept Updo
The side-swept updo is a glamorous and elegant hairstyle that is perfect for formal events. This hairstyle involves gathering your medium-length hair to one side and creating an updo or a twist. The side-swept updo adds a touch of sophistication to your overall look and showcases your facial features beautifully.
6.4 Retro Glam
For a vintage-inspired and glamorous hairstyle, opt for retro glam. This hairstyle combines elements from the past with a modern twist, creating a unique and stylish look. Retro glam can involve victory rolls, pin curls, or a sleek updo, depending on your personal style and the occasion.
7. Trendy Medium-Length Hairstyles
If you’re someone who loves to stay up to date with the latest trends, these trendy medium-length hairstyles are perfect for you. These styles incorporate current and contemporary elements, ensuring that you always look fashionable and on point.
7.1 Edgy Bangs
Edgy bangs are a great way to change up your hairstyle and add a trendy touch to your medium-length hair. This hairstyle involves cutting your bangs in a way that creates a bold and statement-making look. Whether you opt for blunt bangs, side-swept bangs, or choppy bangs, edgy bangs are sure to make a stylish impact.
7.2 Textured Pixie
For those who want to make a bolder statement, a textured pixie is a trendy and chic option. This hairstyle involves cutting your hair short, keeping the length around the ears, and adding texture and movement with layers. The textured pixie is a low-maintenance and stylish choice for those who want to embrace their edgy side.
7.3 Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid is a popular and trendy hairstyle that adds an intricate and stylish touch to your medium-length hair. This hairstyle involves weaving two sections of hair together in a crisscross pattern to create a beautiful and eye-catching braid. The fishtail braid can be worn loose for a bohemian look or tight for a more polished appearance.
7.4 Twisted Ponytail
The twisted ponytail is a modern and trendy hairstyle that elevates the classic ponytail to the next level. This hairstyle involves twisting small sections of hair and gathering it into a ponytail, creating a unique and stylish look. The twisted ponytail works well with medium-length hair as it adds texture and interest to an otherwise simple hairstyle.
8. Natural Medium-Length Hairstyles
For those who want to embrace their natural hair texture and celebrate their unique style, natural medium-length hairstyles are the perfect choice. These styles enhance your natural beauty and showcase your individuality.
8.1 Afro
The afro is a powerful and iconic hairstyle that celebrates natural hair texture in all its glory. This hairstyle involves letting your medium-length hair grow out and embracing its natural volume and texture. The afro is a symbol of pride and self-expression, making it a fantastic choice for those who want to embrace their natural beauty.
8.2 Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are a stylish and versatile hairstyle that can be worn in various ways. This hairstyle involves sectioning your medium-length hair into small knots or twists, creating a unique and eye-catching look. Bantu knots can be worn as a full head of knots or as accents throughout your hair, allowing for endless creativity and personalization.
8.3 Twist-Out
A twist-out is a popular and versatile hairstyle that involves twisting sections of your medium-length hair and allowing them to unravel, creating defined and bouncy curls. This hairstyle celebrates the natural texture of your hair while adding volume and definition. Twist-outs can be achieved by twisting damp or dry hair and leaving it to set overnight or using a diffuser to speed up the drying process.
8.4 Protective Styles
Protective styles are a fantastic way to keep your hair healthy and minimize damage. These hairstyles involve tucking your ends away and protecting your hair from harsh elements and manipulation. Popular protective styles for medium-length hair include braids, twists, and updos. These styles not only protect your hair but also allow for low-maintenance styling.
9. Professional Medium-Length Hairstyles
For the workplace or formal settings, it’s important to have a hairstyle that is polished and professional. These medium-length hairstyles are perfect for those who want to look put-together and sophisticated.
9.1 Sleek Straight
A sleek straight hairstyle is a classic and professional choice for medium-length hair. This hairstyle involves straightening your hair using a flat iron and adding a shine serum for a polished and refined look. The sleek straight hairstyle works well for all hair types and is a timeless option for the office or any professional setting.
9.2 Low Bun
The low bun is a simple yet elegant hairstyle that is perfect for the workplace. This hairstyle involves gathering your medium-length hair at the nape of your neck and twisting it into a bun. The low bun is chic and sophisticated, giving you a polished and put-together appearance.
9.3 Polished Ponytail
A polished ponytail is a sleek and professional hairstyle that is suitable for medium-length hair. This hairstyle involves gathering your hair into a high or low ponytail and using a brush and styling product to smooth out any flyaways. The polished ponytail is simple yet sophisticated, adding a touch of elegance to your professional look.
9.4 Classic Chignon
The classic chignon is a timeless and sophisticated updo that is perfect for formal occasions or professional settings. This hairstyle involves twisting your medium-length hair into a low bun at the nape of your neck and securing it with pins. The classic chignon exudes elegance and grace, making it a go-to choice for those who want a refined and polished hairstyle.
10. Playful Medium-Length Hairstyles
Sometimes, you want to have fun and experiment with your medium-length hair. These playful hairstyles are perfect for those who want to embrace their playful side and add a touch of whimsy to their look.
10.1 Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail is a fun and playful hairstyle that adds a unique and eye-catching element to your medium-length hair. This hairstyle involves tying your hair into a high ponytail and using hair ties or elastics to create sections or “bubbles” along the length of the ponytail. The bubble ponytail is a trendy and creative style that is perfect for those who want to stand out.
10.2 Space Buns
Space buns are a cute and playful hairstyle that involves splitting your medium-length hair into two sections and twisting or coiling them into buns on either side of your head. This hairstyle adds a youthful and whimsical touch to your overall look, making it perfect for festivals, parties, or when you want to have some fun with your hair.
10.3 Mohawk Braid
The Mohawk braid is a trendy and bold hairstyle that combines the edginess of a Mohawk with the femininity of a braid. This hairstyle involves braiding a section of your medium-length hair from the front to the back, creating a Mohawk-inspired look. The Mohawk braid is a statement-making style that is perfect for those who want to express their unique style.
10.4 Colorful Highlights
For those who want to add a pop of color to their medium-length hair, colorful highlights are a playful and trendy choice. This hairstyle involves adding vibrant and bold hues to your hair using temporary hair color or hair chalk. Colorful highlights allow you to experiment with different shades and combinations, adding a fun and lively element to your overall look.
From classic to avant-garde, medium-length hairstyles offer a world of possibilities for anyone seeking a new look. Whether you prefer timeless elegance, trendy styles, or playful and bold choices, there is a medium-length hairstyle out there for you. So go ahead and explore the options, have fun, and embrace your unique style!
35 Trending Medium-Length Hairstyles for Women Over 50(Opens in a new browser tab)
Long Hair Trend: Low Maintenance and Versatile Men’s Hairstyles(Opens in a new browser tab)
Styling Made Simple: A Guide To Hairstyles For Every Texture(Opens in a new browser tab)
