29 Medium Shaggy Hairstyles That Are Full of Life and Style
When you’re stuck somewhere between short and long hair, medium-length can sometimes feel like the “in-between” zone. But when you bring in a shaggy haircut? Suddenly, medium hair becomes the perfect canvas for movement, volume, and seriously effortless style.
Shag haircuts are all about lived-in texture, wispy layers, and that cool, undone vibe. They’re low-maintenance, super flattering, and full of personality. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, a medium shag can add dimension and make your entire look feel fresh.
Here are 29 medium shaggy hairstyles to inspire your next salon visit—and maybe help you fall in love with your hair again.
1. Classic Medium Shag
This is the shag that started it all. With choppy layers throughout and feathered ends, the classic medium shag adds instant movement. It works best with a bit of natural texture and looks even better as it grows out.
2. Medium Shag with Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs are a dream match for a shag cut. They frame the face gently and blend right into the layers. This look is soft, modern, and gives that effortless “I woke up like this” vibe.
3. Shag with Face-Framing Layers
If you’re not into full bangs, face-framing layers give you a similar effect without the commitment. They draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones, making your features pop.
4. Messy Wavy Shag
Beachy waves and shag cuts are made for each other. This style thrives on a bit of messiness. Use a sea salt spray to enhance your natural texture and give the layers a tousled, carefree feel.
5. Shaggy Lob
The shaggy lob (long bob) is a great middle ground if you like shorter hair but still want room to play with waves or updos. The layered ends keep it light and bouncy.
6. Medium Curly Shag
Curly-haired folks, this one’s for you. A shag cut removes weight, defines your curls, and gives your hair shape without puffiness. It’s a low-effort style that lets your curls be the main event.
7. Shag with Wispy Bangs
Wispy bangs add a delicate, romantic feel to the otherwise edgy shag. They blend softly into the rest of your hair and are easy to grow out if you change your mind later.
8. Layered Shag with Volume
Want a little drama? Ask your stylist to cut layers that build volume at the crown and around your face. This look is great for fine hair, adding the illusion of thickness without too much styling work.
9. Shag with Flipped-Out Ends
This retro-inspired take on the shag uses a round brush or flat iron to flip out the ends. It’s playful, a little vintage, and super flattering on shoulder-length hair.
10. Medium Shag with Blunt Ends
Adding blunt ends to a shag cut gives it structure. It’s the best of both worlds—texture from the layers, and density at the bottom. Great if you want your hair to feel thicker.
11. Textured Shag with Side Part
Changing your part can completely transform a shag haircut. A deep side part adds asymmetry and helps create volume at the roots for a fresh, lived-in look.
12. Shag with Razor-Cut Layers
Razor-cut layers create more extreme texture and separation. If you want that piece-y, rocker-inspired look, a razor is the tool that can take your shag from soft to bold.
13. Medium Shag with Natural Texture
This one is perfect for air-dryers and minimalists. If your hair has a bit of wave or curl, a shag cut lets your texture shine. Just add a little cream or mousse and go.
14. Shag with Highlights
Adding highlights to a shag helps accentuate the layers and depth of the cut. It brings light and movement into your hair, even on the dullest days.
15. Soft Shag with Rounded Layers
If you’re into softer silhouettes, a shag with rounded layers hugs the shape of your head and gives a natural, voluminous finish without harsh lines.
16. Shag with Choppy Bangs
Feeling bold? Try pairing your shag with some choppy bangs for a punkier feel. This cut looks amazing with straight or wavy hair and gives off strong main-character energy.
17. Shoulder-Length Shag with Center Part
This center-parted shag looks balanced and frames the face evenly. It’s a flattering choice for almost every face shape and gives a clean, effortless finish.
18. Shag with Baby Bangs
If you’re ready to make a statement, baby bangs are the edgy cousin of curtain bangs. Pair them with a shag for a standout, fashion-forward look that turns heads.
19. Airy Shag with Layers Throughout
This ultra-layered look has soft, feathered pieces all over the head. It gives the illusion of more volume and movement, and it grows out gracefully over time.
20. Medium Shag with Shiny Finish
Shaggy doesn’t have to mean messy. Add a shine serum or smoothing product to your hair for a more polished, glossy version of the look. It’s chic, not scruffy.
FAQs
Is a shag haircut good for medium hair?
Absolutely. Medium length is perfect for a shag because it allows for multiple layers without making the hair look too thin or choppy. You get the best of both structure and texture.
Will a shag cut work with straight hair?
Yes, shag cuts can look amazing on straight hair. Just make sure the layers are styled with a bit of texture—using a curling wand or salt spray can help bring the style to life.
How do I style a shag cut daily?
The beauty of the shag is that it’s low-maintenance. Let it air dry with a little mousse, or use a diffuser if you have waves. For extra texture, dry shampoo or texturizing spray works wonders.
Does a shag haircut make you look younger?
It can! Shag haircuts frame the face and add movement, which can create a youthful, fresh look. Soft layers and bangs can help highlight your features in a flattering way.
What face shapes look best with a shag?
Shags work on nearly all face shapes. Round faces benefit from the face-framing angles, while square or long faces can soften with bangs. A good stylist can customize the shag to suit your features.
Conclusion
Medium shaggy hairstyles are the perfect mix of fun, functionality, and style. They let your natural texture shine, offer tons of versatility, and require minimal effort to look put-together. Whether you’re going for a subtle layered look or a full-on rocker vibe, there’s a shag style that fits your personality and your hair type.