28 Stunning Hairstyles for Medium Length Hair – Easy, Formal, Braids, Updos and More for Every Occasion

Medium-length hair offers a world of possibilities when it comes to styling, making it the perfect length for those who want versatility without the commitment of long or short hair. Whether you’re preparing for a prom, a casual day out, or a more formal event, there’s a hairstyle that will suit your needs. From elegant updos to playful braids, let’s dive into the best medium-length hairstyles for every occasion. This article highlights styles that work for different textures, occasions, and preferences, allowing you to find the perfect match for your unique personality and look.

Easy Curly Updo for Summer

For a carefree summer look, the easy curly updo offers both style and convenience. Medium-length curls are effortlessly gathered into a loose bun, with tendrils softly framing the face. This hairstyle is perfect for hot summer days when you want your hair off your neck but still want to maintain a polished look. It’s also an excellent choice for formal occasions like weddings or prom, especially if you’re attending outdoor events. The loose curls add a soft, romantic vibe that pairs well with minimal makeup and light, flowy outfits. This style complements those with round and heart-shaped faces, and it’s especially flattering for individuals with natural black 4c hair or those rocking wigs with curly textures. It’s an adaptable style that works for both casual and formal settings, making it a great choice for anyone who wants something elegant but not overly complicated.

To achieve this look, start by applying a curl-defining cream, such as the DevaCurl SuperCream, to damp hair. Once dry, loosely gather your curls into a bun at the crown or nape of your neck, securing them with bobby pins. You can leave a few curls loose to enhance the romantic feel of the style. To maintain your curls, use a sulfate-free shampoo like SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo and refresh with a curl revitalizing spray as needed.

Formal Box Braids with a Dutch Braid Accent

For those seeking a more formal look that still celebrates their natural texture, box braids combined with a Dutch braid offer a sophisticated yet trendy style. This unique combination allows you to showcase the intricate beauty of box braids while incorporating a striking Dutch braid across the crown for an added layer of interest. It’s a perfect hairstyle for occasions like weddings or formal parties, where you want to make a statement while keeping your hair chic and manageable. Medium-length box braids are ideal for this look as they’re long enough to create a full, textured Dutch braid but short enough to remain lightweight and easy to style. This style is especially stunning on those with oval or rectangular face shapes and works beautifully with bold makeup and evening wear.

To achieve this look, first create your box braids using pre-stretched braiding hair. Once your braids are complete, section off the top layer of your hair and create a Dutch braid, which involves braiding underhand rather than overhand. Secure the braid with an elastic and pin it into place for a neat finish. To maintain the style, use a braid spray to keep your scalp moisturized and prevent frizz. Mielle Organics’ Mint Almond Oil is a great option for keeping your hair healthy and shiny.

Classic Ponytail with Layers and Curls

The classic ponytail is a go-to hairstyle that never goes out of style, but adding layers and soft curls can elevate this timeless look. This medium-length hairstyle is ideal for both formal and casual settings, making it versatile enough for a day at the office or an evening out. The layers add dimension and movement, while the curls provide softness and volume, making this a great option for those with fine hair who want to create the illusion of thickness. This style suits individuals with round or oval face shapes and looks particularly stunning on those with light or medium skin tones. It’s a versatile hairstyle that works well with both casual and prom outfits.

To achieve this look, start by curling the ends of your hair using a large-barrel curling iron. Gather your hair into a mid-level ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. For extra volume, gently tease the hair at the crown before securing it. To maintain this look, use a volumizing mousse like John Frieda Luxurious Volume Perfectly Full Mousse, and refresh the curls with a curling wand as needed.

Romantic Updo for Prom

When it comes to prom night, you want a hairstyle that will make you feel like the belle of the ball, and the romantic updo is just that. This elegant style involves pinning your hair into soft rolls or twists at the back of your head, allowing for volume and texture without the need for long hair. The result is a delicate, polished look that pairs beautifully with a gown or cocktail dress, perfect for formal occasions like prom or weddings. It’s an ideal choice for those with oval or heart-shaped faces, and it looks especially stunning on individuals with lighter eye colors, as the contrast between the hair and eyes draws attention to the face.

To create this updo, start by sectioning your hair and curling it to add texture. Then, twist and pin the sections at the back of your head, allowing some loose strands to frame your face. Secure the style with bobby pins and finish with a light-hold hairspray. To keep your updo fresh throughout the night, use a shine serum like Moroccanoil Treatment to add luster and prevent flyaways.

Textured Lob with Beachy Waves

The textured lob is the ultimate cool-girl hairstyle, combining the perfect length with effortless beachy waves. This style is versatile enough for both casual outings and formal events, making it a favorite for women with medium-length hair. It’s ideal for those who want a laid-back yet polished look. The loose waves add volume and texture, creating a sun-kissed vibe that’s perfect for summer. This hairstyle is particularly flattering for heart and oval face shapes and works beautifully with any eye color, making it universally appealing. Whether you’re heading to the beach, brunch, or a formal event, this style can easily be dressed up or down.

To achieve this look, use a texturizing spray or sea salt spray on damp hair, then dry it with a diffuser for natural waves. If your hair is naturally straight, use a curling wand to create soft waves, then run your fingers through them to break them up. For maintenance, a dry texturizing spray like Oribe’s Dry Texturizing Spray will help keep the waves looking fresh throughout the day.

Half-Up Braided Crown with Locs

A half-up braided crown combined with locs is a striking way to showcase medium-length hair’s versatility. This style is perfect for anyone who wants a unique and intricate look that still feels wearable for everyday occasions or special events. The braided crown adds an element of regality, while the locs keep the style grounded and relaxed. This hairstyle works well for those with round or oval face shapes and complements dark, deep skin tones beautifully. It’s also a great way to add a bohemian touch to your look, making it ideal for summer festivals or casual outings with friends.

To create this look, section off the top half of your hair and braid it into a crown around your head, securing it with bobby pins. Let the rest of your locs flow freely, either down your back or over your shoulders. A light hair oil like Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Moisture & Shine Hair Sheen will keep your locs looking glossy and hydrated.

Box Braids with Beaded Ends

Box braids are a protective style that not only helps to preserve your natural hair but also offers a stunning and versatile look. Medium-length box braids are easy to manage while still allowing you to create a variety of styles. Adding beads to the ends of the braids gives the look a playful, bohemian edge that is perfect for summer festivals or casual days out. This style is particularly popular among black women and works well for 4c and other natural hair types. It’s a great choice for those with square or rectangular face shapes, and it can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

To achieve this look, section your hair into small squares and braid each section using pre-stretched braiding hair. Once the braids are complete, add beads to the ends and secure them with elastic bands. To maintain your braids, use a scalp oil like Taliah Waajid Healing Oyl to keep your scalp moisturized and your braids looking fresh.

Curly Frohawk with Twists

The curly frohawk with twists is a bold and edgy hairstyle that’s perfect for medium-length natural hair. This style features tight twists on the sides, leading into voluminous curls that create the signature mohawk shape. It’s a stunning look for those who want to make a statement and show off their curls while keeping their hair off their face. This style works best for individuals with oval or heart-shaped faces and is particularly suited for those with 4c curls. It’s perfect for formal events or a night out with friends, as it exudes confidence and style.

To create this look, start by twisting the sides of your hair tightly and pinning them down with bobby pins. Leave the center section of your hair free and define the curls using a curl cream like Aunt Jackie’s Curl La La Defining Curl Custard. Refresh your curls with a spray bottle filled with water and leave-in conditioner to maintain the look throughout the day.

Dutch Braid Low Bun

The Dutch braid low bun is a classic, elegant hairstyle perfect for formal occasions like weddings, prom, or any other special event. This medium-length hairstyle starts with a sleek Dutch braid along the top or side of the head, leading into a polished low bun at the nape of the neck. The braid adds a touch of intricacy, while the bun keeps the look sophisticated and sleek. This style works best for oval and long face shapes and can be worn with both casual and formal attire. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a timeless, chic hairstyle.

To achieve this style, create a Dutch braid by braiding your hair underhand rather than overhand, starting at your hairline and working your way back. Once the braid reaches the nape of your neck, gather the remaining hair into a low bun and secure it with bobby pins. Use a medium-hold hairspray like L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray to keep everything in place without sacrificing softness.

Twisted Half-Updo for Wedding Guests

The twisted half-updo is a romantic and feminine hairstyle that’s perfect for medium-length hair, especially for attending weddings or other formal events. This style involves twisting the sides of the hair and pinning them at the back while leaving the rest of the hair loose and flowing. It’s a great way to show off your natural texture or curls, and it adds a touch of elegance without being overly complicated. This style works well for round and oval face shapes and pairs beautifully with dresses and formal wear.

To create this style, start by twisting sections of hair from both sides of your head and pinning them at the back. You can leave the rest of your hair natural or curl it with a curling iron for added volume and texture. A lightweight shine spray like OGX Renewing Argan Oil of Morocco Weightless Healing Dry Oil will keep your hair looking glossy and smooth throughout the day.

Locs in a High Bun

For those with locs, a high bun is a simple yet elegant style that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. This style is perfect for medium-length locs as it keeps your hair off your face and neck while still showing off the beauty of your natural hair. It’s an ideal choice for summer days when you want to keep cool but still look put together. The high bun works best for those with oval or heart-shaped faces and is particularly flattering for individuals with dark or medium skin tones. This hairstyle can be worn to prom, weddings, or even casual outings.

To achieve this look, gather your locs into a high ponytail and wrap them into a bun, securing them with hairpins as needed. A hair tie with strong hold is recommended to keep the bun in place all day. Use a moisturizing spray like SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Conditioning Shine Spray to keep your locs hydrated and frizz-free.

Braided Ponytail with Box Braids

A braided ponytail is a sleek and modern style that combines the elegance of a high ponytail with the intricate beauty of box braids. This medium-length hairstyle is perfect for anyone looking for a bold, structured look that is both stylish and functional. The high ponytail creates a lifted appearance, elongating the face, making it ideal for those with round or heart-shaped faces. It’s perfect for formal events, but also works well for casual days when you want to keep your hair out of the way.

To achieve this style, gather your box braids into a high ponytail and secure them with a strong elastic. Braid the ponytail down to the ends and wrap a few braids around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic. Use a lightweight oil like Design Essentials Almond & Avocado Hair Oil to keep your braids looking shiny and smooth.

Classic Twist-Out for Natural Hair

A classic twist-out is one of the most popular styles for natural hair, especially for those with medium-length hair. This style allows you to show off your curls in all their glory, creating defined, voluminous twists that can last for days. The twist-out is versatile enough for both casual and formal events, making it a go-to for many women with 4c hair. It’s perfect for round, oval, and square face shapes and complements all skin tones.

To create a twist-out, apply a twisting cream like Camille Rose Almond Jai Twisting Butter to damp hair. Twist small sections of hair and allow them to air dry or sit under a hooded dryer. Once dry, unravel the twists and fluff them with your fingers to add volume. Maintain your twist-out with a daily refresher spray like TGIN Rose Water Curl Refresher to keep your curls looking fresh and hydrated.

Prom-Ready Curly Half-Up Half-Down Style

For those preparing for prom or a similar formal event, a curly half-up, half-down style offers the best of both worlds. The hair is pulled back in a soft, romantic half-updo, while the rest is left loose in cascading curls. This style is ideal for medium-length hair, providing volume and movement while keeping the face open and framed. It’s a great look for anyone with an oval, heart, or round face shape, and it works well for light or medium skin tones. Pair this style with a gown or cocktail dress for a truly stunning look.

To achieve this style, curl your hair using a 1-inch curling iron, then section off the top half of your hair and pin it back with decorative clips or bobby pins. For added volume, tease the crown of your hair before pinning it. Finish the look with a medium-hold hairspray like Kenra Volume Spray 25 to keep the curls in place all night.

Conclusion

Medium-length hair offers endless possibilities for styling, from playful braids to elegant updos. These versatile styles work well for various occasions, whether you’re looking for something simple and casual or more formal and polished. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments and let us know which hairstyle you plan to try next. We’d love to hear about your experiences and suggestions!