Medium wavy hairstyles are the perfect way to perk up your look. Many wavy hairstyles can be adapted for medium-length hair like a textured twist or beachy waves.
Some of these relaxed hairdos can be easily achieved without the use of hot tools, using a few braids and rubber bands instead. Elegant vintage waves are classy and instantly upgrade your hair to star status.
A variety of techniques can be used to achieve waves; from twisty buns, pin curls, braids, or by using a flat or curling iron. Whatever your style, you’re certain to make a statement with one of these medium wavy hairstyles!
#1: Soft Wavy Curls
This look features soft, wavy curls that are great for most hair types. It works well for fine hair because it gives some movement and volume. I love that this style looks effortless. Hair with dimension and curl has that wow factor that people love. It makes them feel beautiful. This look is also easily created on almost any length. Curls are here to stay, especially for those who don’t have the time to wash and style daily.
#2: Retro Waves
Bring your inner screen siren out with this very classic ‘S’ wave style. This look is suitable for most face shapes. This style works best on medium to thick hair. Try Davines Defining Glam Power Hair Spray. This unique and versatile finishing spray shape defines and sets any style. It also provides a strong, long-lasting hold without that stiff or sticky feeling. You can also try this look with a single large barrel curling iron when styling. You’ll have lots of fun with medium-length hair since it’s perfectly suited for a variety of styles. Instant feminine allure is achieved with these soft wavy hairdos when worn loose.
#3: Soft Golden Blonde Balayage
I suggest a soft golden blonde balayage if you’re craving blonde bombshell hair. You can style your long lightened locks with a 1 1/4-inch curling iron at home for that salon-styled feel. Don’t forget your heat protectant!
#4: Sweeping Bangs
Let your hair down when the work week comes to an end with fun waves that will have you ready for the weekend. This look is suitable for oblong and square faces. This style works best on medium to thick hair.
How To Style:
- Dry hair using a round brush and blow dryer.
- Using a medium barrel curling iron; wind vertical sections of hair from the mid-shaft to the ends, leaving the crown area smooth.
- Alternate curl direction for a casual look keeping the face-framing lengths curled away from your face.
- Spray hair with a sea salt spray for added texture and separation.
#5: Vintage Bob
Classic merges with modern in this retro bob and wavy accents. This look is suitable for most face shapes. This style works best on medium to thick hair. Accent this style with a sparkly barrette.
How To Style:
- Dry hair using a round brush and your blow dryer.
- Using a large-barrel curling iron, curl hair in a horizontal direction from the ends up.
- Allow hair to cool, then create a deep side part. Brush hair using a paddle brush to finish the look. Backcomb base for extra volume. Finish with a light-hold hairspray.
#6: Beige Deep Side Part
Gentle waves add a perfect touch of movement to this mid-length hairstyle. Try Kevin Murphy UNDRESSED to create a loose, undone, natural look. This look is suitable for square, oval and heart-shaped faces. This style works best on fine to medium hair. Gather ends up and twists into a simple chignon.
How To Style:
- Dry hair using a round brush and your blow dryer.
- Using a large barrel curling iron, wrap large sections of hair vertically away from the face.
- Allow hair to cool and set, then spray hair all over with a light hold hairspray.
- Once completely cooled, brush hair using a paddle brush to finish the look.
#7: Vibrant & Elegant Copper Red Waves
I would describe this look as vibrant and elegant. My favorite thing about this look is how it is still natural looking, even with the vibrancy of the copper. Copper is a perfect color for fair to medium skin tones. For darker skin tones, go for a deeper and richer copper hue. I recommend Olaplex No.3 to keep the color vibrant, healthy, and glossy.
Medium-length hair suits most face shapes. I used a straightening iron and Lànza Beach Spray to create this stylish wavy hair, which I think is a fabulous look for day or night.
#8: Shoulder-Length Copper Balayage Waves
Balayage is a form of highlighting that gives your stylist creative freedom. All while hand-painting a customized look for you. Did you know that any color can be added to highlighted hair? The number one requested color is copper balayage. This color is so timeless it will look great no matter what season you are in! Just be mindful that this specific hue fades pretty quickly. You’ll either need to come to the salon to get it refreshed, or you can ask your stylist for tips on keeping it fresh at home.
#9: Blonde Layered Wavy Bob
This is a layered long bob with movement and texture. If you have very thick hair, this look works best with the blended layers beginning in the mids and continuing through your ends. The layers are what keep the shape of the haircut flattering. For this wavy bob, I recommend a 1-inch curling iron and a good texture spray for styling. I always tell my clients to not try too hard! This style is supposed to look carefree, so don’t stress over curling each piece perfectly. And don’t feel the need to curl every single hair!
#10: Splendid Layered Medium Wavy Hair
These dazzling waves and layers suit tan and warm skin beautifully. Absolutely a high fashion and cool appearance for those looking for a fresh new look.
#11: Gorgeous Loose Waves
Wavy hair is gorgeous. A lot of people think that if you have wavy hair you can just wake up and go that generally is not the case. Keeping your hair looking hydrated and healthy takes a lot of products and time. One of the things I suggest to my clients is to do a hydrating mask once a week. The mask will help you maintain your gorgeous wave pattern.
#12: Slightly Wavy Medium-Length Hair
Make your hair appear thicker with wavy medium-length hair. Having blunt ends will make your locks look fuller. Adding a wave with a curling iron or using your natural wave will give a beachy vibe that looks easy-breezy. If your curls look too tight use your fingers or a wide tooth comb to loosen them up.
#13: Side-Parted Long Bob with Blonde Balayage Waves
A transformation can be subtle or statement-worthy. So you can decide before you visit the salon, a search for inspiration can help. A side part is an option. Or, if you need to do a blonde balayage, or a long bob with waves to add the wow factor, the options are vast.
#14: Lovable Medium Wavy Hair
What better way to show off that super bright blonde hair than by creating these gorgeous beachy waves. Notice how texture starts at eye level and goes smoothly until the ends, a medium-length style that would suit oval faces perfectly.
#15: Fun Beach Waves with Choppy Bangs
The best part about a medium shag is the texture in the fringe which is cut into the desired shape, allowing the client to have an edgy look with minimal effort.
Think about how quickly a fringe grows out. You would have to be consistent with every two-week appointment to maintain the fringe. Also if you have a very active lifestyle, fringe can be challenging.
Style with a sea salt spray like Fashion Waves by Redken to add to the lived-in look. For the fringe, I would recommend using Wax Blast by Redken to enhance the texture.
A medium-length shaggy haircut works well for a heart-shaped face or round-shaped face as it directs your attention to the eyes and away from the chin and cheeks. For a round face shape, the angle of the fringe elongates the face. This cut works well with a fine to medium hair texture as it is easier to manipulate the hair into the desired style.
#16: Spectacular Mid-Length Wavy Hair with Bangs
Spectacular mid-length wavy hair with bangs is so in style! The fringe gives a youthful touch, which makes this hairstyle suitable for women of all ages. If you have a warmer skin tone, add sun-kissed pieces for added elegance.
#17: Blunt Shoulder-Length Layers
This is a blunt, shoulder-length haircut with long piecey layers. You get the feeling of density at the ends with the blunt line and the layers help keep the shape from looking like a “Christmas tree” (i.e. too wide at the bottom of the cut).
I love how this cut looks great with one’s natural waves or with straight hair. It’s very versatile. Medium loose wavy hair provides lots to work with and so many combinations.
As this cut grows, it will start to hit the shoulders sooner than a shorter look. This can make the hair flip out on the sides. If this bothers you, you will want to make sure you are coming in for regular haircuts every seven to eight weeks.
Balayage grows out so beautifully, but in between lightening you may need to come into the salon for a toner to keep the tone fresh and steer clear of feeling brassy.
#18: Silver Grey Waves
This look would be best for clients who have healthy virgin hair, time, and commitment to begin with. Maintenance is not too difficult as there are color conditioners that can be used to refresh colors. This color tone could be tailored to anyone with any skin tone and face shape. I don’t believe in limiting yourself to one type of color because of rules. Break them and rock them. If you really want the color of your dreams, go for it.
#19: Effortless Textured Lob
Opt for an effortless textured lob. It’s easy to wear natural or wavy.
This style and look complement almost every face shape because of the longer lines in the front that frame the face. This layered cut also works with almost every hair type whether thick or fine. The texture on the ends will give it a lot of movement.
Minimal products are used to create the finished look. If you have finer hair, add texture cream or mousse before blow drying and a texture hairspray like L’Oréal Next Day Hair to finish.
With thicker medium wavy hair, use Shuemura Essence Oil to help blow dry for a sleek look and, if desired, curl with a wand for that wavy beach look. Finish with L’Oréal Professional Next Day Hair.
#20: Relaxed S-Wave
Opt for a one-length lob styled into a relaxed S-wave. It has the coveted “lived-in” feel while still being unique. The mismatched waves catch your eye, creating an original feel to the style.
For ladies with thicker tresses, ask your stylist to remove some internal bulk to soften the look. For those with fine or thin hair, keep the layers out of the equation as it allows your hair to look nice and full through the bottom.
This is a great style for women on the go that want to look trendy and in style but also want low-maintenance. You can throw in some curling iron or flat iron waves through the top section to add some movement and finish with a texturizing spray for separation.
#21: Golden Sandy Blonde Waves
Opt for a golden sandy blonde wavy hairstyle.
The best thing is the warm tone of this blonde, as well as the natural soft finish. If you love warm colors, this blonde should definitely be one of your favorites.
For clients considering a look like this, take your budget into consideration for maintenance. Any blonde color is high maintenance, so you need to ensure you can afford to have your regrowth done at least every eight to ten weeks, depending on how heavily your stylist foils your hair.
Use the products your stylist recommends to maintain the condition, tone, and style of your hair.
#22: Steel Grey Waves
This is a charcoal grey done with Aveda Colour. The hair was bleached too completely white to avoid a beige undertone which is why it’s such a clear, crisp grey. This look is very high maintenance and will only be achieved if the client is willing to put in time and money to get a perfect platinum blonde color without compromising the condition of the hair. Fashion colors (like grey or lavender) wash out very quickly. So if clients wish to keep their hair from going blonde, they must use a customized color conditioner (I use Evo Fabuloso brand for my clients) or by coming in for tones every few weeks. Color-safe containers and protein treatments are also recommended for home use.
#23: Middle Part Waves
Go for waves with a middle part! This look can be brushed out with little hairspray added to have a neater look, or you can shake your head upside down and add a little texture spray for a more tousled look.
For anyone considering this look, go for a smaller tong with sections that are about an inch wide. Hold the curl for a couple of seconds before letting go. Going a little tighter with the hair on the tong and going for a wider barrel allows the wave to last longer. Whether you are styling for a daytime look or for a night out, you don’t want your hair to drop out after three hours!
This look is ideal if you are low maintenance with your hair because it’s very versatile. Use products by the brand Davines. They have all-natural ingredients with no harsh chemicals and they smell amazing. Try Dry Texturizing spray to help the waves last longer and the Shine Spray for a glossy finish.
#24: Chocolate Brown and Caramel Lob
I’m a huge fan of the bob haircut at any length. My favorite thing about this lob is that it is the perfect length for a daily bun when you don’t have the time for a wavy style, and the bangs frame your face nicely. When you have a special occasion, you can look very original but elegant at the same time by changing your hairdo. There are so many options!
I tell my clients who are thinking about a lob that this hairstyle, in particular, goes with all types of faces. The only thing to consider is the design of the bangs. If you have a round face, I recommend a side bang. For all other face shapes, keep your bangs a little bit below the eyebrows.
#25: Versatile Lob
I love this look more and more and it mostly comes down to the versatility of the length and style. Don’t get me wrong, I love long hair and short pixie cuts and everything in between, but that’s coming from someone who does hair all day every day! This style is versatile. I personally prefer the wavy look because I love the texture and the light and flowy feel of it, but that’s not to say that straight won’t work too. Nothing says classy like sleek, sassy and straight one-length hair.
This medium-length hair or “lob” (long bob) has suited all face shapes as well as all careers of the clients that we’ve had come in. It’s not too short that you have to style it every day, and it’s not too long that it ends up tied up 99% of the time. I’ve always had long hair, but now I have this medium-length hair and I absolutely love it. It’s versatile in that I can wear it middle-parted, side-parted, straight, wavy or wash and wear, and it still looks good. All hair types can pull off this look.
#26: Chestnut Brown with Textured Layers
This is haircut is my most requested look right now. It is a long bob with long textured layers. My favorite thing about this look is that it is short and sassy, but still has some length, so it can easily go up if needed. For all the ladies considering this look, GO FOR IT! It can be customized for all face shapes. For example, if you have a long narrow face, simply add face framing. If you have a round face, don’t frame the face.
This look is perfect for the young girl who wants to be trendy but still wants her hair up for sports. It’s also ideal for the mom who is chasing her kids around on a daily basis but still wants to look cute when she might get a night out. It’s also a great option for someone who is sick of having long hair and wants to go shorter but is a little nervous!
#27: Textured Lob for Thick Hair
This is a textured lob, as it is popularly called these days! I love this cut because it has the best of both worlds. It is blunt enough to look thick and full, and the long layers soften the overall look and enhance the waves. This is a great cut for nearly any face shape because the layering around the face can be customized to complement individual features. It’s an ideal choice for someone who likes a low-maintenance style that can easily be worn up or down.
To achieve this look, I recommend Loma Organics Curvy Creme and Nourishing Oil Treatment applied lightly to hair when wet. Blow dry with a round brush, twisting sections away from your face. Place pea-sized amounts of both products in your palms, rub together, then apply to dry hair to get more definition in the waves. Use a curling wand if necessary.
#28: Beachy Angled Lob
This is a medium-length hairstyle that features shorter layers in the back and longer, smoother layers in the front. It’s perfect for women with long, dull hair who want a change without going too short. The style works best for people with a strong jawline or defined cheekbones and a normal to medium face and body shape. This low-maintenance hairstyle is perfect for those who don’t have much time for daily prep and is versatile enough to be worn both casually and formally while still looking stylish.
#29: Modern Medium Wavy Hair
Long bobs can be styled extensively. Most innovations start with this simple ombre fringe fit for all hair types.
#30: Cappuccino Waves
Offset, alternating waves enhance both volume and length with straighter ends.
How To Style:
- Dry hair using a round brush and your blow dryer.
- Using a medium-barrel curling iron and wrap hair away from the face. Keep the ends out for a look that’s straighter on the ends.
- Run fingers through hair for light separation.
- Finish with a light hold hairspray.
Recommended Hair Products:
Try DermOrganic Windswept DEFINING WHIP for separation and definition with bounce and movement.
Best Face Shape and Hair Type:
This look is suitable for square, oval or round face shapes. This style works best on medium hair.
Tip:
Pin ends under for a faux bob hairstyle.
#31: Naturally Wavy Hair with Deep Side Part
There’s no other option but to show off those dazzling dark locks, especially when they are natural. Soft waves heavily parted to one side creates a flattering effect and complement that shoulder-length wonderfully.
#32: Wavy Golden Locs for Thick Hair
Long and lean alternating waves are a great look for thick hair. This look is suitable for square, round or oval face shapes. This style works best on thick hair. Add a few accent braids to dress up this look.
How To Style:
- Dry hair using a round brush and your blow dryer.
- Using a small to a medium-sized barrel curling iron, curl small sections of hair vertically in alternating directions.
- Allow hair to cool and set, then spray hair all over with a light-hold hairspray.
For products, try DevaCurl SET IT FREE to eliminate frizz, add shine and enhance curls.
#33: A-Line Magenta with Side-Swept Bangs
Edgy, deconstructed waves add that rock ‘n roll vibe to an A-line cut.
How To Style:
- Dry hair using a round brush and your blow dryer.
- Using a small to a medium-sized barrel curling iron, curl small sections of hair vertically in alternating directions.
- Run fingers through hair for light separation. Backcomb the interior for extra volume, then spray hair all over with a light-hold hairspray.
Recommended Hair Products:
Try Kevin Murphy FRESH.HAIR for perfect next-day hair.
Best Face Shape and Hair Type:
This look is suitable for most face shapes. This style works best on fine to thick hair.
Tip:
Twist that fringe up and back for a slight pompadour.
#34: Messy Golden Ombre
Messy, sexy bedhead curls look amazing with a layered bob cut. Try Kevin Murphy TEXTURE.MASTER to boost finely textured hair. This look is suitable for most face shapes. This style works best on fine to thick hair. You can also try this look using a straightening iron.
#35: Espresso Coils
Perfect, springy coils are fashion-forward any way you wear them.
How To Style:
- On dry naturally wavy or curly hair, create defined coils by wrapping hair around an extra small curling iron or wand. Slide the curl out, leaving the shape undisturbed. Continue throughout the rest of the hair as desired.
- Run fingers through the interior for light deconstruction and separation.
- Finish with a shine spray.
Recommended Hair Products:
Try DevaCurl MIRROR CURLS for maximum curl reflection.
Best Face Shape and Hair Type:
This look is suitable for most face shapes. This style works best on medium to thick hair.
Tip:
Add some sparkle with Kevin Murphy’s Shimmer Bug.
#36: Twisty A-Line
Upgrade your A-line Bob cut with a few spiral waves for fullness with soft volume. Try Sebastian Whipped Crème. This light conditioning style whip lifts deliciously nourished curls and waves to perfection. This look is great for oblong and diamond-shaped faces. This style is perfect for fine hair. Add a volume boost at the root area by using your fingertips and rubbing in a circular motion.
#37: Asymmetrical Cranberry
Add some French-inspired pizzazz with luscious, waves.
How To Style:
- Work a light hold gel into damp hair.
- Starting with the top layers; wind small sections of hair into curls and pin into place. Continue down the head until all hair is pinned into place.
- Let hair air-dry or use a diffuser on a low setting.
- Once hair is completely dry, remove pin curl clips and softly shake hair.
Recommended Hair Products:
Try Redken Soft Spin 05 Curl Enhancing Gel. A great product to boost curls or waves, control flyaways and add shine to your hair.
Best Face Shape and Hair Type:
This look is suitable for diamond or oval-shaped face shapes. This style works best on medium hair.
Tip:
Brush curls out using a paddle brush for a soft french wave style.
#38: Boho Chic
Add some bohemian flair with loose curly waves that work wonders on light layers. This look is suitable for oval or long face shapes. This style works best on fine to thick hair. Work some Aquage Illuminating Gelade through the ends for added shine and definition. Try Aquage Working Spray for a firm hold. This workable hairspray allows you to style and texturize with fingers or brush as you build hold. Locks in style give a radiant shine and work great for thermal styling.
#39: Brunette Glam
Simple loose waves add a voluminous body to finely textured locks. This look is most suitable for heart-shaped faces. This style works best on fine hair. Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to add instant body. Try Redken Body Full Instant Bodifier Volumizing Foam. This foam works great on baby fine hair for lasting anti-gravity volume, conditioning, and shine.
How To Style:
- Finger dry hair with a blow dryer.
- Use a medium barrel curling iron and wind horizontal sections of the hair working from the bottom to the top.
- Allow hair to cool and lightly brush hair with a wide-tooth comb to create loose waves.
- Spray with a light-hold hairspray to keep hair touchably soft.
#40: Blonde Relaxed Textured Waves
This relaxed textured look is great for the girl on the go.
For styling, try Pureology Anti-Fade Complex Spray Gel. This alcohol-free spray gel provides flexible hold for color-treated hair. The versatile formula adds weightless body, control, and shine with UVA/UVB sunscreens to help maximize color retention and thermal protection.
This look is suitable for oval and diamond-shaped faces. This style works best on fine hair. Refresh this style by adding a few twists or a face-framing braid and pin away from the face.
#41: Auburn Elegance
Try different fringe styles from side-swept to full bangs to create a different look. Try Sebastian Shaper Plus Hair Spray. Shape your hair into fashion with this strong holding hairspray. Terrific for medium and heavy hair textures. This look is suitable for oblong and square-shaped faces. This style works best on medium to thick hair.
#42: Vintage Allure with Thick Bangs
Add a touch of class to this beautiful brunette shade with gorgeous Old Hollywood waves. This look is most suitable for round-shaped faces. This style works best on medium hair. Pin sides up into victory rolls for more of a retro look.
How To Style:
- Dry hair using the blow dryer and a round brush.
- Use an extra-large barrel curling iron and wrap horizontal sections from the mid-shaft to the ends leaving the crown and fringe area smooth.
- Spray hair with a shine spray.
#43: Golden Side Part
From the boardroom to the dance club, this sexy style will have you meeting all the right people in all the right places. Try Davines Defining Invisible Hairspray for instant volume, hydration, and weightless shine. Wrap hair in a low bun for a chic daytime style and let loose later for a fresh, bouncy look. This look is suitable for oval and diamond-shaped faces. This style works best on medium hair.
How To Style:
- Dry hair using a blow dryer and round brush.
- Using a large barrel curling iron take horizontal sections and wrap hair from the ends upward toward the midshaft.
- Wrap the fringe area using the curling iron back and away from the face for a side-swept finish.
- Spray with a light-hold hairspray.