How to Style Medium Length Hair
Medium length hair offers a versatile canvas for a wide range of styles, from sleek and sophisticated to casual and carefree. Whether you're looking to dress up your hair for a special occasion or just want a new everyday look, styling medium length hair can be both fun and challenging. In this article, we'll explore various ways to style medium length hair, drawing inspiration from popular culture, fashion trends, and expert advice.
1. The Elegant Updo
For a formal event or a night out, an elegant updo can transform your medium length hair into a chic and sophisticated style. Start by brushing your hair smoothly and spraying it lightly with water or a texturizing spray to add some grip. Then, gather your hair into a low ponytail at the back of your head, securing it with an elastic band. Twist the ponytail into a bun shape and pin it securely in place with bobby pins. Finish by spraying the bun with hairspray to keep it in place all night long.
Variation: For a more romantic look, try a messy bun instead of a sleek one. Simply gather your hair into a ponytail, twist it loosely, and pin it into a bun shape, allowing some strands to fall loosely around your face.
2. The Braided Headband
Braids are a timeless hairstyle that can add a touch of bohemian charm to medium length hair. To create a braided headband, start by parting your hair into two sections: a small section at the front of your hairline and the rest of your hair. Braid the front section tightly and secure it with a small elastic band. Then, wrap the braid around the top of your head like a headband, pinning it in place with bobby pins. Let the rest of your hair fall loosely around your shoulders for a casual yet stylish look.
Variation: Try a fishtail braid for a more intricate and unique headband style.
3. The Half-Up, Half-Down Style
This style is perfect for those days when you want to keep your hair out of your face but still show off your lengths. Start by brushing your hair smoothly and then gather the top layer of hair from your ears up into a small ponytail at the back of your head. Secure it with an elastic band and let the rest of your hair fall naturally. You can even add a bow or a ribbon to the ponytail for a girly touch.
Variation: For a more romantic look, try curling the loose hair around your face with a curling iron or hot rollers.
4. The Side Braid
The side braid is a classic hairstyle that looks great on medium length hair. Start by brushing your hair to one side and then begin braiding it from the top of your ear down towards the nape of your neck. Secure the end of the braid with an elastic band and tuck any loose strands behind your ear. This style is perfect for a casual day at the office or a trip to the beach.
Variation: Try a French braid for a more intricate and elegant look. Start by taking a small section of hair at the top of your head and begin braiding it, gradually adding more hair from each side as you go down.
5. The Tousled Waves
For a casual and effortless look, try creating tousled waves in your medium length hair. Start by spraying your hair with a saltwater-based texturizing spray or beach waves spray. Then, use your fingers to scrunch up your hair and create loose waves. You can also use a curling iron or wand to create more defined waves if desired. Finish by running your fingers through your hair to separate the waves and spray with hairspray to hold the style in place.
6. The Slicked-Back Style
For a sleek and sophisticated look, try slicking back your medium length hair. Start by applying a smoothing cream or pomade to damp hair and then use a comb to slick it back towards the crown of your head. You can even add a bit of shine spray to give your hair a glossy finish. This style is perfect for a formal event or a business meeting where you want to look polished and put-together.
7. The Ponytail with Bangs
If you have bangs or a fringe, you can easily incorporate them into a stylish ponytail. Start by brushing your hair smoothly and gathering it into a ponytail at the back of your head. Secure it with an elastic band and then use a small amount of hairspray to keep any flyaways in place. Your bangs should naturally fall around your face, framing it beautifully.
Variation: Try a high ponytail for a more youthful and energetic look. Simply gather your hair at the crown of your head and secure it with an elastic band. This style is perfect for showing off your neck and highlighting your features. You can even wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it and add a more polished look.
8. The Messy Bun
For those days when you're in a rush or just want a casual hairstyle, the messy bun is a great option. Start by gathering your hair into a ponytail, but don't pull it all the way through on the last loop of the elastic. Instead, fan out the hair above the elastic to create a bun shape. Secure any loose strands with bobby pins and finish by lightly tugging at the bun to create a messy, effortless look.
9. The Twisted Bun
This stylish bun takes the classic updo to the next level. Start by dividing your hair into two equal sections. Twist each section tightly and then wrap them around each other, forming a bun shape at the back of your head. Secure the bun with bobby pins and finish by spraying it with hairspray to hold the style in place.
10. The Curly Updo
If you have naturally curly hair or are willing to curl your hair, this curly updo is a great way to show off your locks. Start by curling your hair with a curling iron or hot rollers. Then, gather your hair into a loose ponytail at the back of your head and secure it with an elastic band. Wrap the ponytail around itself to create a bun shape and pin it in place with bobby pins. Finish by gently tugging at the curls to create a more voluminous look.
Styling medium length hair offers endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression. Whether you prefer sleek and sophisticated styles or more casual and romantic looks, there's a hairstyle that's perfect for you. Experiment with different techniques and products to find the look that best suits your personal style and lifestyle. With a little practice and patience, you'll be able to achieve gorgeous hairstyles that will make you feel confident and fabulous every day.