Medium-length hair often gets a bad rap for being “in-between” – not quite long enough for elaborate undoes but too long to sport a quick, fuss-free style. Over the years, however, I’ve come to appreciate its unique versatility, especially when you need a polished, glamorous look without the fuss. What I’ve learned through trial and error is that, with the right approach, medium hair can be styled into glamorous, head-turning looks that don’t require hours in front of the mirror.
These 15 styles have been my personal go-to’s, and I’m excited to share them with you. From the sleek and sophisticated to the effortlessly chic, each of these styles adds that much-needed glamour to medium-length hair in an instant.
Table of Contents
1. Textured Beach Waves
source@uptownblowdrybar
Beachy waves are often my first choice when I need a quick yet glamorous look. The texture is key to adding that “wow factor.” Over time, I’ve figured out that the secret is all in the product—especially texture sprays that give hair that perfect tousled, lived-in feel. Medium hair has just enough length to hold the waves without looking too voluminous, and the waves themselves create movement that adds natural volume.
What’s worked best for me is air-drying my hair after applying a sea salt spray. When I’m in a rush, I’ll lightly diffuse it. What I love about this style is how effortless it looks, yet how much it elevates an everyday outfit.
2. Sleek Low Ponytail
source@saydanar_hmua
Sometimes, simplicity is the key to glamour, and a sleek low ponytail is exactly that. For years, this has been my go-to style when I want something polished but don’t have the time or energy for intricate braids or curls. The low ponytail can look just as luxurious as any other hairstyle—especially when the hair is smooth and shining. I always make sure to use a good serum before tying my hair back to ensure it stays sleek throughout the day.
It’s a style that works for just about any occasion. From business meetings to evening dinners, it holds up beautifully. I also love how customisable it is. Sometimes I wrap a piece of hair around the band to hide it, adding a refined touch. Other times, I leave it more natural for a laid-back vibe.
3. Messy Top Knot
source@evapautov
When I need to get my hair off my face but still want to look stylish, the messy top knot is my lifesaver. It’s one of those styles that says, “I woke up like this,” but in the best way possible. The beauty of this look lies in its imperfection—the messier, the better. I find it works best when I leave a few strands loose to frame my face, giving it a more relaxed, effortless appeal.
Medium-length hair has just the right texture to pull off a top knot. Too short, and it won’t hold; too long, and it might look too formal. Medium hair gives the perfect balance, adding both volume and a carefree edge.
4. Retro Curls
source@latesthair
There’s something about retro curls that exudes old-school Hollywood glamour. Whenever I need a little extra drama, I turn to this style. To achieve the look, I wrap sections of my hair around a curling iron and let them cool into soft, vintage-inspired curls. The key is in the technique—keeping the curls soft rather than tight, which helps to create that timeless, luxurious wave.
I usually finish this style off with a flexible hairspray so that the curls hold without becoming too stiff. Retro curls are perfect for formal events or nights out when I want to feel like I’ve stepped out of a glamorous movie scene. They never fail to make me feel like a star.
5. Faux Bob
source@latesthair
The faux bob is one of those tricks that I’ve relied on for years, especially when I’m considering a dramatic change but am hesitant to commit to cutting my hair. The faux bob involves tucking the ends of your hair under and pinning them to create the illusion of a short bob. It’s incredibly flattering and works especially well on medium-length hair because it allows you to experiment with a shorter look without sacrificing the length you love.Whenever I try the faux bob, I add some texturizing spray to give the style a bit of volume and shape. It’s a great option for when I want a more sophisticated, polished look without the permanence of a real cut.
6. Half-Up Bun
source@hairmakeupbymiriam
The half-up bun has made a huge comeback, and I couldn’t be happier. For medium-length hair, it’s the perfect blend of casual and chic. The key to making this style work is volume at the crown. I add a little dry shampoo to my roots and tease them slightly before pulling half my hair into a bun at the top of my head.The result is a fun, playful style that’s great for everything from casual hangouts to a slightly dressier look. I like to leave a few wisps of hair hanging loose around my face to keep it soft and feminine.
7. Side-Swept Curls
source@thebundleb
There’s something about a deep side part and cascading curls that looks effortlessly glamorous. I find this style works especially well for medium-length hair because it adds volume and movement without overwhelming the overall shape. The key to achieving a polished look is curling the hair in one direction, then loosely pinning it on the opposite side to hold it in place. I tend to let the curls cool before lightly running my fingers through them to soften the look. This style is one of my favorites for more formal occasions or date nights, and it’s one that I get a lot of compliments on.
8. Choppy Layers
source@yukistylist
Choppy layers are the perfect way to add texture and depth to medium-length hair. I’ve been a fan of this cut for years, and it’s one of those styles that works regardless of the season. The key to getting it right is keeping the layers soft and blended—not too harsh. This allows for movement and fullness, especially when styled with a little texturizing product. What I love about choppy layers is their versatility. I can leave them natural for a laid-back vibe or style them with a curling iron for a more structured look.
9. Voluminous Blowout
source@maneandtayl
A voluminous blowout is one of my favorite ways to transform medium-length hair into something truly glamorous. To achieve this, I use a large round brush to lift my roots while blow-drying, followed by a bit of hairspray to lock in the volume. This style adds bounce and fullness, and it gives your hair a shine that screams luxury. The best part? It lasts for hours and holds up beautifully. When I need to feel polished and sophisticated, this is my go-to look.
10. Braided Crown
source@detrashalee
A braided crown is a beautifully regal style that always makes me feel like a princess. It’s perfect for weddings, brunches, or any event where you want your hair to make a statement. To create this look, I braid two sections of my hair from the front and wrap them around my head, securing the ends with pins. This style adds softness and femininity to medium-length hair, and I find that it works best when I leave a few strands loose to soften the edges.
11. Shiny Straight Hair
source@hairkeen
When I want a sleek, sophisticated look, straight hair is my go-to. I usually run a flat iron through my hair, followed by a smoothing serum to add that extra touch of shine. Medium-length hair is perfect for this style because it’s long enough to have movement but not so long that it looks flat or lifeless. Straight hair can be glamorous in its simplicity. The key to keeping it fresh is to use a heat protectant spray before styling, ensuring the hair remains smooth and shiny throughout the day.
12. Textured Bob with Side Part
source@latesthair
The textured bob is an excellent choice for adding definition and movement to medium-length hair. I love this style because it offers a bit of edge while maintaining a refined look. I style mine with a side part and a bit of texturing spray to give it that tousled, windswept appearance. This is one of those cuts that is always in style, and it’s great for when I want a structured look without the rigidity of a perfectly neat bob.
13. Loose Waves with a Twist
source@carlie_pmthesalon
I love mixing up my typical beachy waves by adding a twist. The key is curling my hair in alternating directions to give the waves a more natural, relaxed look. This twist gives the waves more depth and texture, and it creates that perfect mix of effortless and glamorous. What I love most about this style is how customizable it is. I can dress it up with a bold lipstick or keep it casual with minimal makeup. Either way, it’s an instant winner.
14. Pin-Straight Lob
source@pinsalondallas
A long bob (lob) with perfectly straight edges is one of the most timeless, chic styles. To create this look, I use a flat iron to get my hair as sleek as possible, making sure to add a bit of shine serum for a polished finish. This style adds sharpness and elegance, perfect for professional settings or more refined events.I like how the lob works for my medium hair—it offers the sophistication of a short cut without losing all the length.
15. Flirty Layers with Volume
source@glorioso_beauty
When I want my hair to feel playful and full of life, I turn to flirty layers with volume. The layers are key to adding movement and body to medium-length hair, and I always add a bit of hairspray for texture. This style works particularly well for dates or casual get-togethers, offering a fun, feminine touch.The beauty of layered hair is that it’s easy to style yet offers a lot of character. Whether I’m curling or leaving it straight, the layers always give my hair the right amount of bounce.
