20 Medium-Length Hairstyles That Are Anything But Average

Hairstyles often fall into the two categories of long and short, as if everyone is either rocking 26 inches of hair or has a pixie cut. But actually, medium-length hairstyles are the most applicable for people.
Whether your medium-length hair is intentional or unintentional, one thing's for sure: You get the best of both worlds. You can style it pretty much any way from natural curls to wavy to straight. Plus, we all know the struggle of not being able to throw our hair up and out of our face when we've gone a bit too short.
The biggest pro? Medium hair comes with a whole lot of hairstyle inspiration. So if you've been styling your hair in exactly the same way and are finding yourself in a bit of a rut, here are some pictures you could take to your hairdresser.
Sun-kissed hair is an instant mood lifter year-round.
Highlight your natural hair while also laying down your edges with a silk headscarf.
Microfringes paired with shaggy, tousled ends are where it's at.
The benefit of low-maintenance braids? When you want to switch up the length, just tuck it in and go.
Here's some simple maths. Layered hair + big curling wand = the bouncy look you've been craving.
All the proof you need that a honey hue is the hair equivalent of a two-week holiday.
Volume is the name of the game, and faking a blow-dry with a curling wand will get you there.
Give your curls a refresh with a centre parting that sweeps hair behind your ears.
Everything that's going on here is pretty wonderful. The teddy scrunchie, the loose face-framing tendrils, the ponytail—all of it.
A deep side-parting is the perfect match for natural hair.
Textured sandy hair with a signature swoosh has you covered on both the colour and volume fronts.
Running out of hairstyles for your curly hair? Adding a fringe is the way to go.
A centre sweeping fringe coupled up with mid-length hair and a bottle of sea salt spray is a magical trio.
Forget the side part or a centre part and go for the no part. It works wonders on all hair types.
Ready to update your wig or weave? Get a blunt cut to tidy things up instead of opting for a brand-new one.
For an entry-level hair accessory, you can't beat a nude hairband.
Who said that you need a side-parting to get Old Hollywood waves? The only requirement here is your favourite serum for added shine.
A few cornrows and baby hairs are all you need to elevate your afro.
This plaited ponytail is the sleek upgrade on this popular school style that we've all been waiting for.
Make your top bun count with the helpful addition of a ribbon or scarf.
Up next, Why This Hair Mask Is Basically the Best-Selling Product of the Year
-
TikTok Says Becoming a "Straight Natural" Is a Hairstyling Hack—I Asked an Expert for the Facts
The debate is over.
By Maya Thomas
-
Excuse Me While I Wear Supermodel Buns All Summer Long—8 Sleek Sticks That Make It So Easy
Smooth, polished styles with just a swipe.
By Jamie Schneider
-
I Used to Postpone Workouts to Save My Hairstyles—These Sweat-Defying Tips Changed the Game
They always work.
By Maya Thomas
-
All the Chicest People I Know Have Been Dabbling in This Breathtaking 2025 Hair Trend
Futuristic and stunning.
By Alyssa Brascia
-
Millais's "Ophelia" Has Become My Favorite Spring Beauty Aesthetic—Here's How I'm Bringing It to Life
Pretty as a picture.
By Maya Thomas
-
These Under-$15 Products Are Responsible for Lily-Rose Depp's 1940s-Inspired "Hollywood Icon" Curls
I must re-create them ASAP.
By Jamie Schneider
-
This Regal Hair Trend Is Winning the 2025 Oscars Red Carpet
Ariana Grande, Lupita Nyong'o, and Mikey Madison are proof.
By Jamie Schneider
-
From "Exhaustion Blush" to "Party Lips," NYFW's Best Beauty Trends Are Delightfully Unexpected
They'll define the next 10 months.
By Jamie Schneider