Skip to content

Top Navigation

Real Simple Logo Real Simple Logo
  • Food
  • Home
  • Life
  • Health
  • Money
  • Style and Beauty
  • Holidays & Entertaining
  • News
  • Shopping
  • About Us

Profile Menu

Your Account

Account

  • My Account
  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletters
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Free Organizing App this link opens in a new tab
Login
Subscribe
Pin FB

Explore Real Simple

Real Simple Logo Real Simple Logo
  • Explore

    Explore

    • How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home

      How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home

      Try one of these three easy methods to make sure your ring fits perfectly, every time. Read More
    • Here's the Right Temperature for Your Refrigerator and Freezer (Because a Few Degrees Makes a Difference)

      Here's the Right Temperature for Your Refrigerator and Freezer (Because a Few Degrees Makes a Difference)

      Keeping foods chilled properly helps them last longer and stay fresher. Sticking to the ideal refrigerator temps can help you avoid potential foodborne illnesses, too. Read More
    • 34 Great Books to Suit Any Mood or Interest

      34 Great Books to Suit Any Mood or Interest

      This list has you covered, no matter how you're feeling. Read More
  • Food

    Food

    See All Food
    9 Cheeses You Can Eat Even If You're Lactose Intolerant

    9 Cheeses You Can Eat Even If You're Lactose Intolerant

    Not all dairy is created equal. 
    • Recipes
    • Real Simple Cooking School
    • Cooking Tips & Techniques
    • Shopping and Storing
    • Kitchen Tools and Products
  • Home

    Home

    See All Home
    • Cleaning
    • Organizing
    • Decorating
    • Gardening
    • Home Improvement
    • Green Living
    • New Uses for Old Things at Home
    • Quick Fix
    • Real Simple Home
  • Life

    Life

    See All Life
    • Family
    • Entertainment
    • Technology
    • Wedding Planning
    • Travel Ideas
    • Career
    • Get It Done
  • Health

    Health

    See All Health
    Feel Like You Don't Enjoy Anything Anymore? There's a Name for That—Here Are 8 Ways You Can Break Through It

    Feel Like You Don't Enjoy Anything Anymore? There's a Name for That—Here Are 8 Ways You Can Break Through It

    Mental health experts explain anhedonia and how you can bounce back from this joyless state of mind.
    • Preventive Health
    • Mental Health
    • Health Coach
    • Crisis Coping
    • Fitness & Exercise
    • Sleep
    • Healthy Eating
    • Well Fed
  • Money

    Money

    See All Money
    Are You Keeping Too Much Money in the Bank? Here's How to Tell

    Are You Keeping Too Much Money in the Bank? Here's How to Tell

    Putting money in the bank is smart, but too much cash savings can actually be a poor use of that money.
    • Money Confidential Podcast
    • Saving Money
    • Money Planning
    • Money Confidential
    • Spending
    • Money Etiquette
    • Invest Better
  • Style and Beauty

    Style and Beauty

    See All Style and Beauty
    How to Measure Your Bra Size at Home

    How to Measure Your Bra Size at Home

    All you need is a tape measure and a little free time.
    • Clothing
    • Skincare
    • Shoes
    • Hair
    • Clothing Care
    • Makeup
    • Hair Body Face
  • Holidays & Entertaining

    Holidays & Entertaining

    See All Holidays & Entertaining
    PowerPoint Parties Are the Party Trend You Have to Try: Here's How to Host One

    PowerPoint Parties Are the Party Trend You Have to Try: Here's How to Host One

    PowerPoint nights are the new fun way to party together—even when you're far apart.
    • All Holidays
    • Gifts
    • Father's Day
    • Passover
    • Entertaining
    • Home for the Holidays
    • Come Together
    • Hanukkah
    • Halloween
    • Thanksgiving
    • Christmas
    • Valentine's Day
    • Easter
    • Mother's Day
  • News
  • Shopping
  • About Us

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
Your Account

Account

  • My Account
  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletters
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Free Organizing App this link opens in a new tab
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. Real Simple
  2. Style
  3. Hair
  4. 40 Gorgeous Celebrity-Inspired Hairstyles for Medium Length Hair

40 Gorgeous Celebrity-Inspired Hairstyles for Medium Length Hair

By Wendy Rose Gould and Hannah Norling Updated May 30, 2019
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Skip gallery slides
FB Tweet
medium-length-hair
Credit: Getty Images
Your medium length hair isn't too short or too long; it's sitting pretty in the sweet spot of hairstyles. Whether your hair is thick or fine, pin straight or wavy, natural or processed, there are so many style and updo options out there to try. We've curated a whopping 40 hairstyles for medium length hair to inspire your next cut. And if you've got longer hair, don't worry—making an appointment with your stylist is an easy fix.
Start Slideshow

1 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Thick Bangs and Loose Waves

Medium Length Hairstyle: Thick Bangs and Loose Waves, Jill Winternitz
Credit: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images

Volume is the name of the game with this shoulder length hairstyle worn by Jill Winternitz. She doubles down with loose, hearty waves and long, thick bangs. For even more volume, try a volumizing shampoo, such as Frederic Fekkai The Uplifting One Volume Shampoo ($30; ulta.com).

1 of 40

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Full Body and Tousled Waves

Medium Length Hairstyle: Full Body and Tousled Waves, Lili Reinhart
Credit: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Lili Reinhart's medium length tousled waves can be recreated with a large barrel curling iron and a little bit of volumizing spray at the crown. Try Hot Tools Golden Rose 1-1/4'' Flipperless Curling Wand ($74.99; ulta.com) and Moroccanoil Root Boost ($29; sephora.com).

2 of 40

3 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Deep Side Part

Deep Side Part Hair
Credit: Mike Pont/Getty Images

If you love to rock your natural texture, try a deep side part like Yara Shahidi to create unexpected, notice-me volume on one side. You can also add pretty barrettes or bobby pins to keep things unexpected.

3 of 40

Advertisement

4 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slick, Wet Look

Medium Length Hairstyle: Slick, Wet Look, Kristen Bell
Credit: Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Kristen Bell demonstrates just how chic a wet-look hairstyle can be. To maintain the look long after you’ve showered, use a robust styling gel, such as Paul Mitchell Flexible Style Super Sculpt Gel ($21; ulta.com).

4 of 40

5 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Loose and Casual Chignon

Medium Length Hairstyle: Loose and Casual Chignon, Meghan Markle
Credit: Chris Jackson - WPA Pool/Getty Images

If anyone is the princess (or duchess) of effortless hairstyles, it’s Meghan Markle. This low chignon feels polished but still casual because of the loose, face-framing pieces.

5 of 40

6 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Severe Middle Part

Blunt Middle Part
Credit: John Shearer/Getty Images

Kendall Jenner’s shoulder length, blunt haircut with a severe middle part is the perfect vehicle for super smooth strands. It also feels very minimalist, making it the perfect accessory to almost any outfit.

6 of 40

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Loose All-Over Curl

Blunt Deep Side-Part
Credit: Joe Scarnici/Getty Images

Kerry Washington’s soft curls start at the root for a full-bodied take on an otherwise blunt haircut. Since the curls are loose, you can still see the very defined chop of her hair, giving the look a modern, sexy vibe.

7 of 40

8 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Micro Bangs

Feathery Bangs
Credit: Getty Images

Our prediction: Emma Watson's short, choppy baby bangs will inspire more than one trip to the salon. She’s not the only celebrity rocking micro fringe, either, which looks especially good paired with medium hair.

8 of 40

9 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slicked Back

Slicked Back Hair
Credit: Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images

Nothing says “cool girl” like effortlessly slicked-back hair a la Paris Jackson. This look is also highly achievable for women with medium or shoulder length hair. Rake a styling gel, such as Kenra Professional Styling Gel 17 ($16; ulta.com), through your hair with your fingers and allow to dry.

9 of 40

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Pretty Side Part

Pretty Side-Part Hiarstyle
Credit: Amanda Edwards/Getty Images

Margot Robbie sports a pretty, shoulder length hairstyle that’s easy enough for anyone to recreate with a trusty flat iron. Simply straighten with a slight flip inward on the ends to create definition and then tuck bangs behind the ear.

10 of 40

11 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Face Framing Layers

Middle Part and Loose Curls
Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

A layered hairstyle for medium length hair, like Kate Middleton’s, adds body without taking away from length. It's also super flattering and highly versatile, allowing you to play with texture and curl.

11 of 40

12 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Stick Straight

Stick Straight
Credit: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

We love how naturally curly Nicole Kidman went stick straight with razor-sharp blunt ends. The striking middle part adds even more dimension to this medium length hairstyle.

12 of 40

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Shaggy and Undone

Shaggy and Undone Hair
Credit: Noam Galai/Getty Images

If you have medium length fine hair like Alexa Chung, a shaggy cut to the shoulders will give you the body and movement you’re looking for. After washing, apply a finishing cream, such as Ouai Finishing Cream ($24; sephora.com), to damp or dry hair for that done-but-undone look.

13 of 40

14 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Loose Waves

Loose Waves Chrissy Teigen
Credit: Presley Ann/Getty Images

Shoulder length hair with loose, cascading curls looks pretty and pulled together. We love the way Chrissy Teigen uses a single curl to frame her face.

14 of 40

15 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Bouncy Curls

Bouncy Hair
Credit: Jeff Kravitz

Whether you want to accent your natural curls or tame frizz, investing in a calming cream, such as Credo Quiet Calm Curl Control ($29; amazon.com), is key if you've got thick medium length hair like Lorde.

15 of 40

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

16 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Hollywood Glam

Face Framing Waves
Credit: David Crotty/Getty Images

We’re feeling the retro Hollywood vibe of Jessica Biel’s silky, cascading curls that hit at right about the shoulder. She creates movement at the front and ends for the right amount of bounce and classic glamour.

16 of 40

17 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Blunt Bangs

Blunt Bangs Haircut
Credit: Michael Buckner/Getty Images

If you want to pair your medium length hair with blunt bangs, aim for light, choppy bangs like Octavia Spencer. The feathered texture works well with a shoulder grazing 'do.

17 of 40

18 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Beachy Textured Side Part

Beachy-Textured Side Part
Credit: Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images

Kiernan Shipka’s textured, shoulder-length hairstyle mimics the texture you’d get after lounging around beachside for a few hours. It’s windswept but still controlled and just laid-back enough. A bit of texturizing spray, such as Amika Bushwick Beach No-Salt Wave Spray ($25; sephora.com), which doesn’t include hair-drying salt, will give you that piecey, textured look without actually having to go to the beach.

18 of 40

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

19 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Elegant Updo

Elegant Up-do
Credit: Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

It's a total scene-stealer: A curled piece of hair makes Olivia Culpo's simple bun the ultimate Bond girl hairstyle.

19 of 40

20 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Pulled-Out Waves

Controlled Beachy Waves
Credit: Michael Tran/Getty Images

If you love to rock a middle part, Lily Collins’ loose wave hairstyle is one to try out on yourself. After curling small pieces of hair with a curling wand, run your fingers through your hair with a bit of texturizing paste to channel the same casual, undone look.

20 of 40

21 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

All-Natural Curls

Naturally Curly on Drew Berrymore
Credit: Getty Images

If your medium length hair is naturally thick and curly, embrace your natural texture and rock what you’ve got. To get Drew Barrymore’s look, rub in a curl-enhancing balm, like Bumble and Bumble Bb. Curl (Style) Defining Creme ($16; sephora.com), and let air dry.

21 of 40

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

22 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Low Buns

Low Buns
Credit: Jeff Kravitz/Getty Images

Janelle Monáe is known for her amazing hairstyles, but we particularly love this one: two low buns that put a whimsical spin on an otherwise classic style. Don’t worry too much about frizz or texture, the more natural movement your hair has the better.

22 of 40

23 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Pulled-out Front Layers

Accentuating Front Layers
Credit: Steve Granitz/Getty Images

This hairstyle idea for medium length hair feels romantic, feminine, and best of all, effortless. No matter what kind of updo you’re wearing, pull out a few pieces from the front and curl, as seen here on Salma Hayek.

23 of 40

24 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slicked-Back Pony

Slicked Back Pony
Credit: VCG/Getty Images

Liu Wen upgrades the classic ponytail with chic, slicked-back strands. The on-purpose, wet hair look takes this post-gym hairstyle to the streets.

24 of 40

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

25 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Feathery Bangs and Bouncy Curls

Bangs and Bouncy Curls
Credit: Jean Baptiste Lacroix/Getty Images

The feathered, piecey bangs and barrel curls complement each other without overpowering, which is why Jaime King’s style works so well. We’re getting updated 70s vibes here, so if you recreate this one on your medium length hair, lean into the decade with clothing and accessories.

25 of 40

26 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Soft Layers

Soft Layers
Credit: John Shearer/Getty Images

Felicity Jones' long layers give her medium length hairstyle incredible movement, including a slight flip at the ends.

26 of 40

27 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Easy Low Bun

Easy Low Bun
Credit: Jason LaVeris/Getty Images

Charlize Theron doesn’t let her mid-length hair stop her from pulling off a clean, sophisticated updo. A small bun at the base of the neck is just as elegant as a full top bun.

27 of 40

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

28 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Asymmetrical Waves

Asymmetrical Waves
Credit: Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images

Naomi Watts' cut sits a little bit longer on one side, adding an unexpected edge to a classic long bob. Try soft, tousled waves and a side part to fully recreate this look on medium length hair.

28 of 40

29 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

High Pony

High Pony
Credit: Stephane Cardinale - Corbis/Getty Images

If you’ve got a lot of hair, a high pony is still possible for girls with medium length hair. Secure it and lightly tease it out out for a retro look, like Rihanna’s.

29 of 40

30 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Half-Up

Half-Up
Credit: Darren Gerrish/Getty Images

Shoulder-length hair like Olivia Palermo’s looks fresh and pretty worn half up. The style works, whether hair is straight or curly. Just keep volume down at the sides to avoid the dreaded triangle look.

30 of 40

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

31 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Simple Waves

Face Framing Curls
Credit: Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

Emma Stone’s medium length waves start right at her cheekbones, drawing attention to her face. Copying the look is simple: start curling halfway down the length of hair, then comb through.

31 of 40

32 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Pulled Back and Curly

Pulled Back and Curly
Credit: Steve Granitz/Getty Images

Make a hair statement a la Viola Davis with a smooth base that fans out into big, tight curls. This hairstyle works perfectly on medium length hair that’s natural and thick.

32 of 40

33 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Shiny Waves

Gentle Waves
Credit: Jean Baptiste Lacroix/Getty Images

Winona Ryder’s hairstyle has a lock on shine, thanks to a one-length cut, middle part, and semi-defined waves.

33 of 40

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

34 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Messy Top Bun

Messy Top Bun
Credit: Amy Graves/Getty Images

If you can’t pull all your hair up into a messy bun without it falling out…you're doing something right. Ciara's half-up topknot is a whimsical hybrid of both classic styles.

34 of 40

35 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Deep Side Part and Vintage Curls

Medium Length Hairstyle: Deep Side Part and Vintage Curls, Shannon Purser
Credit: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Shannon Purser's hair looks vintage-chic thanks to a super deep side part and curls that flip in the same upward direction. This is a great medium length hairstyle option for thin hair, too, since all that hair on one side creates the illusion of twice the volume. A volumizing mousse, such as Drybar Southern Belle Volume-Boosting Mousse ($26; ulta.com), can add even more texture and height.

35 of 40

36 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Quirky Double High Buns

Medium Length Hairstyles: Quirky Double High Buns, Billie Eilish
Credit: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Leave it to singer Billie Eilish to throw care to the wind when it comes to her hair. This double high bun feels more laid-back than your standard festival buns thanks to the asymmetry and disheveled effect.

36 of 40

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

37 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Tight Afro

Medium Length Hairstyle: Tight Afro, Ashleigh Murray
Credit: Mireya Acierto/Getty Images

The key to achieving Ashleigh Murray's gorgeous, natural hair look is to infuse it with lots of moisture via a product like Moroccanoil Intense Curl Cream ($34; sephora.com) or Mizani True Textures Curl Define Pudding ($18; ulta.com).

37 of 40

38 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Glass Hair

Medium Length Hairstyle: Glass Hair, Lucy Hale
Credit: Rich Fury/Getty Images

Super sleek, almost-too-perfect glass hair is ultra-trendy right now, as seen on Lucy Hale. It takes some patience to recreate, but the right tools can help. Use a texturizing paste on flyaways at the part—R+Co Sand Castle Dry Texture Crème ($29; dermstore.com) is a good one—and then go over it with a baby flat iron. Try Kristin Ess Defining + Detailing Mini Flat Iron ($50; target.com).

38 of 40

39 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Low French Side Braid

Medium Length Hairstyle: Low French Side Braid, Rita Ora
Credit: Stuart Wilson/Getty Images

The low French braid worn by Rita Ora works for all medium length hair types. Dress it up with a glitzy barrette and chandelier earrings at a formal event, keep it casual with a sun hat at the pool, or throw on your favorite romper for some weekend shopping.

39 of 40

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

40 of 40

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

60s French Twist

Medium Length Hairstyle: 60s French Twist, Ashley Graham
Credit: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

We rarely see Ashley Graham in an updo, so it’s a real treat to see her rock this sideswept French twist straight from the 60s. If you recreate this look at home, try a flexible hairspray to keep everything in place, such as Garnier Fructis Style Flexible Control Hairspray ($2.99; target.com).

40 of 40

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Wendy Rose Gould and Hannah Norling

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 40 Thick Bangs and Loose Waves
    2 of 40 Full Body and Tousled Waves
    3 of 40 Deep Side Part
    4 of 40 Slick, Wet Look
    5 of 40 Loose and Casual Chignon
    6 of 40 Severe Middle Part
    7 of 40 Loose All-Over Curl
    8 of 40 Micro Bangs
    9 of 40 Slicked Back
    10 of 40 Pretty Side Part
    11 of 40 Face Framing Layers
    12 of 40 Stick Straight
    13 of 40 Shaggy and Undone
    14 of 40 Loose Waves
    15 of 40 Bouncy Curls
    16 of 40 Hollywood Glam
    17 of 40 Blunt Bangs
    18 of 40 Beachy Textured Side Part
    19 of 40 Elegant Updo
    20 of 40 Pulled-Out Waves
    21 of 40 All-Natural Curls
    22 of 40 Low Buns
    23 of 40 Pulled-out Front Layers
    24 of 40 Slicked-Back Pony
    25 of 40 Feathery Bangs and Bouncy Curls
    26 of 40 Soft Layers
    27 of 40 Easy Low Bun
    28 of 40 Asymmetrical Waves
    29 of 40 High Pony
    30 of 40 Half-Up
    31 of 40 Simple Waves
    32 of 40 Pulled Back and Curly
    33 of 40 Shiny Waves
    34 of 40 Messy Top Bun
    35 of 40 Deep Side Part and Vintage Curls
    36 of 40 Quirky Double High Buns
    37 of 40 Tight Afro
    38 of 40 Glass Hair
    39 of 40 Low French Side Braid
    40 of 40 60s French Twist

    Share & More

    Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print
    Real Simple Logo

    Magazines & More

    Learn More

    • About Us
    • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
    • Help
    • Advertise
    • Content Licensing
    • Accolades this link opens in a new tab

    Connect

    Follow Us
    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    Sign Up
    MeredithAll products and services featured are selected by our editors. Real Simple may receive compensation for some links to products and services in this email on this website. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Real Simple is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2022 Meredith Corporationthis link opens in a new tab. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright Real Simple. All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.realsimple.com

    Sign in

    View image

    40 Gorgeous Celebrity-Inspired Hairstyles for Medium Length Hair
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.