Finding the perfect balance between long locks and a pixie cut can be a challenge. Medium short hair offers the ultimate sweet spot for versatility and ease.
This length is currently trending because it provides enough hair to style while remaining low maintenance. These 21 beautiful hairstyles for medium short hair will inspire your next transformation.
Whether you prefer a polished look or something more relaxed, there is a style here for everyone. Let’s dive into these stunning options for your next salon visit.
1. Textured Bob
The textured bob is a timeless choice for anyone wanting a fresh and airy feel. It adds immediate movement to hair that might otherwise look flat or heavy.
To achieve this look, ask your stylist for point-cut ends rather than a blunt finish. This technique thins out the weight while maintaining the overall silhouette of the cut.
Styling is simple with a bit of sea salt spray or texturizing mousse. Simply scrunch the hair while damp and let it air dry for an effortless, modern finish.
2. Shaggy Lob
A shaggy lob, or long bob, brings a cool, lived-in vibe to the medium-short category. It features heavy layering that creates a messy yet intentional aesthetic.
This style works exceptionally well for those with natural wave or curl. The layers help distribute volume so the hair doesn’t look too heavy at the bottom.
Use a light pomade on the tips to define the layers and add a bit of grit. It is a low-maintenance option that grows out beautifully over several months.
3. Half-Up Top Knot
The half-up top knot is the perfect solution for second-day hair that needs a quick refresh. It keeps hair out of the face while showcasing the length in the back.
Simply gather the top section of your hair from the temples up and secure it into a small bun. You can make it sleek or leave it loose for a bohemian feel.
More Amazing Ideas
19 Beautiful Braided Hairstyles for Short Hair — Read more
19 Sleek Hairstyles for Short Straight Hair — Read more
19 Gorgeous Half Up Half Down Hairstyles for Short Hair — Read more
17 Elegant Wedding Hairstyles for Short Hair — Read more
21 Beautiful Natural Short Hairstyles for Black Women — Read moreThis style works for both straight and curly textures. It adds a playful element to your look without requiring a full updos’ worth of effort.
4. Sleek Glass Hair
Glass hair is all about high shine and sharp, precise lines. This look is perfect for medium short hair that is cut to a uniform length.
To get the look, you will need a high-quality flat iron and a smoothing serum. The goal is a reflective, frizz-free surface that looks almost metallic.
This style is sophisticated and works incredibly well for professional settings or formal events. Regular trims are essential to keep the ends looking sharp and healthy.
5. Soft Beachy Waves
Beachy waves aren’t just for long hair; they look incredible on medium short lengths too. They provide a relaxed, sun-kissed appearance that feels very natural.
Use a medium-barrel curling wand, leaving the ends out for a more contemporary look. Brushing through the curls once they cool ensures they turn into soft waves.
Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to keep the movement without the stiffness. This style adds significant volume and dimension to shorter cuts.
6. Braided Side Part
Adding a small braid to one side of a deep side part can completely transform a simple cut. It adds an element of detail and keeps hair tucked back.
A simple three-strand braid or a small Dutch braid works best for this length. Secure it behind the ear with a discreet bobby pin or a decorative clip.
This is a great way to handle growing out bangs or layers. It offers a structured look that stays in place throughout a busy day.
7. Mini French Twist
You might think a French twist requires long hair, but it is achievable with medium short lengths. It creates a highly sophisticated and classic profile.
More Amazing Ideas
Gather the hair at the nape of the neck and twist it upward, tucking the ends inside. Use several U-shaped pins to secure the twist against the back of the head.
Allow a few face-framing strands to fall loose for a softer, more modern interpretation. This is an ideal choice for weddings or formal dinner parties.
8. Space Buns
Space buns are a fun and youthful way to style hair that sits just above the shoulders. They work best on medium short hair because the buns stay small and manageable.
Part the hair down the middle and create two high ponytails. Twist each ponytail into a bun and secure with an elastic or pins.
You can leave the bottom half of your hair down for a “half-up” space bun look. This style is popular for festivals or casual weekend outings.
9. Blunt Cut with Bangs
A blunt cut combined with straight-across bangs creates a high-fashion, editorial look. It frames the face beautifully and highlights the jawline.
This style requires a bit more maintenance to keep the fringe at the perfect length. However, the impact it makes on your overall style is worth the effort.
Use a paddle brush and a blow dryer to keep the bangs lying flat. A shine spray provides the finishing touch for this bold, geometric hairstyle.
10. Asymmetrical Cut
If you want something edgy, an asymmetrical cut is a fantastic option. One side is kept slightly longer than the other, creating a dynamic visual line.
This style works best on straight hair but can also look stunning with a slight wave. It adds an artistic flair to your appearance without being too overwhelming.
Ask your stylist to keep the transition between lengths gradual for a subtle look. For a bolder statement, make the difference in length more pronounced.
11. Messy Low Bun
A messy low bun is the ultimate “effortless” style for medium short hair. It is romantic, soft, and works for almost any occasion.
More Amazing Ideas
Gather the hair at the nape of the neck and pull it through an elastic once. On the second pass, only pull it halfway through to create a loop.
Pull at a few strands around the crown to create volume and texture. This look thrives on imperfection, so don’t worry about stray hairs or flyaways.
12. Wispy Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs are a great way to update medium short hair without changing the entire length. They frame the eyes and cheekbones perfectly.
Unlike blunt bangs, curtain bangs are parted in the middle and swept to the sides. They blend seamlessly into the rest of your hair as they grow out.
Use a round brush when blow-drying to give them a slight lift and outward curl. This adds a 70s-inspired touch that is very popular right now.
13. Voluminous Curls
Medium short hair can carry a lot of volume when styled with tight or medium curls. This look is glamorous and adds a lot of “oomph” to your silhouette.
Use a smaller curling iron and pin each curl to your head until it cools. This “pin-curl” method ensures the style lasts all day and night.
Once the curls are set, use your fingers to gently separate them for a fuller look. This is a classic “Old Hollywood” style that never goes out of fashion.
14. Slicked Back Look
The slicked-back look is a high-fashion staple that is surprisingly easy to pull off. It opens up the face and creates a very polished, powerful vibe.
Apply a strong-hold gel or pomade to damp hair and comb it straight back from the forehead. You can keep the sides tight or let them flow naturally.
This style is perfect for showing off statement earrings or a bold makeup look. It stays in place through wind and weather, making it very practical.
More Amazing Ideas
15. Deep Side Sweep
A deep side sweep adds instant drama and volume to the top of the head. It is a simple way to change your look without a haircut.
Part your hair much further to the side than you usually do. Use a bit of volumizing powder at the roots to give the sweep some height.
This style works beautifully with waves or curls, as it creates a cascading effect. It’s a great way to fake a bit of extra length and fullness.
16. Twisted Crown
A twisted crown is a beautiful alternative to a traditional braided crown. It is easier to execute on shorter hair because it requires less intricate weaving.
Take two sections of hair from the front and twist them back, adding more hair as you go. Secure the two twists together at the back of the head.
This creates a “halo” effect that looks very ethereal and soft. It is a wonderful choice for outdoor events or casual daytime wear.
17. The Bixie (Pixie-Bob Hybrid)
The Bixie is the perfect hybrid for someone transitioning between a pixie and a bob. It has the shagginess of a pixie but the length of a bob.
It features many short layers that provide texture and height at the crown. The perimeter is kept long enough to tuck behind the ears.
This is a very versatile cut that can be styled messy, spiked, or smooth. It is an excellent choice for those who want a “short” look with “medium” options.
18. Face-Framing Highlights
Sometimes the best “style” for medium short hair is all about the color. Face-framing highlights, or “money pieces,” can brighten your entire look.
These highlights focus on the strands immediately surrounding the face. They add dimension and draw attention to your eyes and smile.
Because the hair is shorter, these highlights stand out more than they would on long hair. It’s a low-commitment way to experiment with color.
More Amazing Ideas
19. Scarf-Wrapped Ponytail
Medium short hair makes for a cute, stubby ponytail that looks great with accessories. Wrapping a silk scarf around the base adds a touch of vintage charm.
Keep the ponytail low or at mid-height, depending on your layers. Let the ends of the scarf hang down to add a sense of length.
This is a practical way to keep hair back while still looking very put-together. You can match the scarf to your outfit for a coordinated aesthetic.
20. Finger Waves
Finger waves are a retro style that looks incredibly chic on medium short lengths. They create an “S” shaped pattern that sits flat against the head.
This style requires a good amount of setting gel and some patience with a fine-tooth comb. It results in a very structured, artistic look.
While it takes some practice, finger waves are the ultimate statement style for a formal event. They offer a unique vintage glamor that stands out.
21. Undercut Bob
An undercut bob involves shaving or cutting the hair very short at the nape of the neck. The longer top layers then fall over it, creating a hidden surprise.
This is a great option for people with very thick hair, as it removes excess bulk. It allows the bob to sit flatter and move more freely.
You can even have a design buzzed into the undercut for extra personality. It is a modern, edgy choice that remains professional when the hair is down.
How do I know if medium short hair will suit my face shape?
Most medium short hairstyles are highly adaptable to different face shapes. For example, those with round faces often benefit from a long bob (lob) that adds length, while heart-shaped faces look great with textured bobs that add volume around the jawline. Consult with your stylist to adjust the layers and length to highlight your best features.
More Amazing Ideas
How often should I trim medium short hair to maintain the style?
To keep a medium short style looking sharp, you should generally aim for a trim every 6 to 8 weeks. Shorter styles tend to lose their shape faster than long hair as the layers grow out. Regular maintenance prevents the ends from becoming heavy and ensures that “wash and go” styles stay easy to manage.
Is medium short hair easier to maintain than long hair?
Generally, yes, because it requires less drying time and fewer products. However, some medium short styles may require more frequent heat styling to sit correctly compared to long hair that can be thrown into a bun. The “shaggy” or “textured” versions of this length are typically the easiest for daily maintenance.
What are the best products for styling this length?
A texturizing spray or sea salt spray is essential for adding volume and “grit” to medium short hair. For sleeker looks, a lightweight smoothing serum or a light-hold pomade works best. Avoid heavy waxes or oils that might weigh down the hair and make it look greasy rather than styled.
Can I still do updos with medium short hair?
Absolutely! While a high ballerina bun might be difficult, low buns, half-up styles, and twisted crowns are perfect for this length. Using small bobby pins and clear elastics makes it easier to secure shorter layers that might otherwise slip out of a traditional ponytail.
Does medium short hair work well for thin or fine hair?
This length is actually one of the best choices for fine hair. Long hair can often look stringy or flat when it is thin, whereas medium short cuts like the blunt bob or the bixie create the illusion of thickness. Adding layers and texture can significantly boost the perceived volume of your hair.