25 Hairstyles For Medium Length Hair Ideas That You’ll Actually Want to Try

Medium length hair is one of those sweet spots that gives you endless options without the commitment of super long or super short styles. It’s basically the Goldilocks of hair lengths—not too short, not too long, just right.

But here’s the catch: sometimes you end up doing the same ponytail or messy bun every single day, and then complain about being “bored with your hair.” Sound familiar? Yeah, I’ve been there too.

That’s why I pulled together 25 hairstyles for medium length hair ideas that are versatile, stylish, and actually wearable. No complicated tutorials that make you feel like you need six hands and a PhD in braiding.

Just realistic styles you can do whether you’re heading to brunch, work, or honestly just hanging out on your couch looking cute for no reason.

So grab your brush, maybe a few bobby pins you’ll definitely lose later, and let’s talk hair.

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1. Classic Loose Waves

Loose waves are the ultimate go-to for medium hair. A curling wand or even a straightener can get you that soft, effortless look. And the best part? It looks good on literally everyone.

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2. Sleek Low Ponytail

Want something quick but polished? Pull your hair back into a low pony, smooth it down with a little serum, and boom—instant chic vibes. It’s giving “I have my life together,” even if you don’t.

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3. Half-Up Half-Down Twist

The half-up style is perfect when you can’t decide if you want your hair up or down. Add a little twist or braid at the crown for extra detail without the effort of a full updo.

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4. Messy Bun (But Make It Cute)

Medium hair is the perfect length for a bun that doesn’t look like a bird’s nest. Loosely pin it, leave a few strands out, and call it intentional. Pro tip: hairspray is your best friend here.

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5. Beachy Texture with Salt Spray

Ever wonder why “I just got out of the ocean” hair looks so good? Salt spray. Spray it on damp hair, scrunch, and let it air dry. Done. And IMO, this one looks better the messier it gets.

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6. Braided Crown

This one’s perfect for medium hair because it’s long enough to braid but not so long that you feel like you’re wrapping rope around your head. It’s whimsical, romantic, and looks harder than it is.

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7. Sleek Straight Bob

If you’ve got blunt medium-length hair, flat iron it straight and sleek. It’s giving “editor-in-chief energy” and looks sharp enough to cut glass.

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8. Low Chignon

Need something formal? A low chignon at the nape of your neck is elegant and timeless. Bonus: it works for weddings, fancy dinners, or just when you feel like playing dress-up.

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9. French Braid

Yes, medium hair can absolutely rock a French braid. It’s practical, neat, and makes you feel like you actually know how to do something with your hair.

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10. Side Part with Volume

Sometimes the easiest change is just flipping your part. A deep side part with a little volume at the roots can completely transform your look without cutting a single strand.

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11. Space Buns

Space buns aren’t just for festivals. They’re playful, fun, and perfect for medium hair because you don’t need tons of length to pull them off. Plus, they instantly make you look younger.

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12. Waterfall Braid

This braid looks super intricate, but once you get the hang of it, it’s actually doable. It’s one of those styles that makes people ask, “Wait, how did you do that?”

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13. Curtain Bangs with Loose Waves

Curtain bangs are basically the universal bangs—flattering on everyone and low-maintenance. Pair them with waves and you get that effortless, slightly retro vibe that’s trending everywhere.

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14. High Ponytail

Yes, you can rock a high pony with medium hair. The trick is teasing the crown for volume so it doesn’t fall flat. Add a scrunchie if you’re feeling 90s nostalgia.

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15. Slicked Back Wet Look

Want bold? Go for the slicked-back wet look. It screams confidence and looks straight off a runway. Just make sure you use a good gel, not that crunchy stuff from middle school.

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16. Twisted Half Bun

Half-up buns are perfect for medium length. Twist the top half of your hair into a bun and leave the rest flowing. It’s casual but polished, like you “accidentally” look good.

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17. Braided Ponytail

Upgrade a simple pony by braiding it. It’s sporty, chic, and keeps your hair out of your face. Also, it’s basically sweatproof if you’re heading to the gym.

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18. Glam Hollywood Waves

Think old-school red carpet vibes. Large barrel curls brushed into smooth waves give medium hair instant glamour. You’ll feel like you should be walking into a black-tie event.

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19. Bubble Ponytail

This one’s fun and surprisingly easy. Just add elastics down your ponytail to create bubble sections. It looks like you put effort in, but really it takes five minutes.

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20. Side-Swept Waves

Part your hair to the side and sweep it all over one shoulder. It’s romantic, flattering, and perfect for date night.

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21. Boho Braids

Tiny, random braids mixed into loose waves scream boho chic. It’s effortless, artsy, and perfect for festivals or casual weekends.

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22. Claw Clip Twist

Medium hair is claw-clip heaven. Just twist it up, clip, and go. It’s the easiest lazy-girl hairstyle that somehow looks like you tried.

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23. Low Side Bun

A little side bun adds personality to a classic updo. It’s flirty, fun, and works whether you’re dressing up or just want something different.

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24. Layered Lob with Texture

A lob (long bob) with layers looks amazing on medium length hair. Add some texture spray and you’ve got instant volume and movement without much effort.

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25. Headband Curls

Curl your hair, throw on a statement headband, and you’ve got a polished, girly style in seconds. It’s also a lifesaver for bad hair days when your roots refuse to cooperate.

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Tips to Nail Medium Length Hairstyles

Okay, so you’ve got the ideas, but let’s talk execution. A few things make all the difference:

• Use the right products. Texturizing spray adds volume, serum keeps things sleek, and dry shampoo saves you from greasy roots.
• Don’t overthink it. Messy styles often look better than perfect ones.
• Accessorize. Headbands, scarves, and clips can turn a boring style into something eye-catching.
• Switch it up. Even small changes—like parting your hair differently—keep things fresh.

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Why Medium Length Hair Wins Every Time

Medium hair doesn’t get enough credit, honestly. It’s versatile, easy to manage, and works with almost every style out there. You can curl it, straighten it, braid it, throw it up—whatever mood you’re in, there’s a style that works.

And the best part? It doesn’t take an hour to style. Anyone who’s spent forever curling long hair knows the struggle. Medium length gives you the best of both worlds: enough length to play with, but not so much that you regret your life choices halfway through styling.

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Final Thoughts

So there you have it: 25 hairstyles for medium length hair ideas that prove this length is anything but boring. Whether you’re all about polished looks, messy vibes, or playful styles, medium hair gives you the flexibility to do it all without the drama.

Next time you’re standing in front of the mirror thinking, “Ugh, I always do the same thing,” pull this list up and try something new. Who knows? You might even find your new signature style. And hey, if all else fails, there’s always the trusty messy bun.