14 Medium-Length Wavy Hairstyles
Medium-length wavy hair is one of the most versatile textures and lengths you can work with. It walks that perfect line between short and long—easy to manage, yet long enough to be playful. Whether you have naturally wavy hair or use heat tools to get the look, the possibilities for creative, flattering styles are endless. These 14 styles are not only beautiful but also low-fuss, trendy, and totally wearable for both casual and formal occasions.
1. Tousled Beach Waves
Tousled beach waves are the gold standard for effortless style. They give off a carefree, relaxed vibe that looks great year-round. To achieve this look, use a sea salt spray on damp hair, scrunch it lightly, and either air dry or diffuse for texture. If your hair doesn’t hold a natural wave, a curling wand or flat iron can mimic the beachy bends. The beauty of this style lies in its imperfection—so don’t worry about symmetry or precision.
2. Wavy Lob with Face-Framing Layers
The wavy lob (long bob) is the haircut that flatters nearly everyone. When paired with subtle face-framing layers, it softens your features and brings attention to your eyes and cheekbones. The layered texture gives body and movement, making it especially great for finer hair. You can wear it with a middle part for a more modern look or a side part for extra volume and a classic feel. It’s chic, timeless, and requires very little daily styling.
3. Half-Up Twisted Crown
This romantic style is ideal for brunches, picnics, and even casual weddings. Start by taking two small sections from either side of your head, twist them backward, and secure them with bobby pins at the back. Let the rest of your hair fall naturally in waves. The half-up twisted crown works best with loose, natural texture—it’s a pretty way to keep hair out of your face while still showing off your waves.
4. Textured Shag
The textured shag is a bold, edgy cut that has made a huge comeback. It’s characterized by lots of layers, usually starting around the cheekbones, and tapered toward the ends. On medium wavy hair, it creates effortless volume and a cool, undone vibe. Use a light texturizing spray to enhance the choppy layers, and consider adding curtain bangs for that iconic ’70s rockstar look. It’s rebellious, stylish, and surprisingly easy to maintain.
5. Side-Parted Retro Waves
Retro waves with a deep side part bring vintage glam to your everyday style. Use a curling iron with a large barrel to create structured S-shaped waves, then brush them gently for a smoother finish. The deep side part adds elegance and works especially well for evening events or formal occasions. This style suits medium-length hair perfectly because it holds its shape without weighing down the curls.
6. Curtain Bangs with Natural Waves
Curtain bangs are a soft, flattering way to change up your look without a full fringe commitment. They blend seamlessly into medium-length waves, giving your hair more shape and softness around the face. They work especially well with center parts and look great even as they grow out. Pair with a bit of styling cream or wave spray for a tousled finish that feels youthful and easy.
7. Loose Low Bun with Face-Framing Waves
For a classy yet relaxed look, try a loose low bun. Leave a few face-framing pieces out to keep things soft and feminine. This style is great for when you want to look put together without spending a lot of time. It works beautifully for weddings, dinners, or just when you want to elevate a regular day. Bonus: it hides second-day hair while still showing off your texture.
8. Messy High Ponytail
The messy high ponytail is the ultimate blend of sporty and flirty. Flip your head over to gather all your waves into a ponytail at the crown, then gently tug at the roots to loosen the base and create volume. Pull out a few strands near the front to keep it casual. It’s an ideal style for days when you want to look cute with minimal effort—and it transitions easily from gym to brunch.
9. Deep Side Part with S-Shaped Waves
S-shaped waves mimic the natural wave pattern of healthy, bouncy hair. A deep side part brings structure to this free-flowing style and makes it feel more polished. You can use a flat iron to create the S-shape by twisting the wrist back and forth as you move down the hair. This look is ideal if you’re heading to a meeting, dinner, or any event where you want a little extra elegance without going full glam.
10. Layered Cut with Soft Balayage
A layered medium cut paired with a soft balayage gives your hair depth, shine, and movement. The painted highlights catch the light beautifully on wavy textures, making your waves look even more defined and vibrant. Layers help reduce bulk and create a more dynamic, voluminous shape. This is a fantastic low-maintenance option that grows out gracefully and works with almost every natural color base.
11. Wavy Bob with Blunt Ends
If you’re looking for a style that feels both sleek and soft, the wavy bob with blunt ends is a great choice. The blunt ends give your hair structure and a clean finish, while the waves soften the overall look. It’s especially flattering for round or oval face shapes and gives a very modern, editorial vibe. Add a shine serum or smoothing cream to finish the look with a bit of gloss.
12. Braided Crown with Loose Waves
The braided crown is an enchanting way to style your medium-length waves for special occasions or festivals. You can do a single braid around the crown or two smaller ones meeting at the back. The combination of braids and waves gives off a dreamy, almost fairy-tale aesthetic. It keeps your hair out of your face while still looking intricate and feminine.
13. Voluminous Blowout Waves
A voluminous blowout gives your waves a smooth, bouncy lift that lasts for days. Use a round brush and a blow dryer to curl the ends slightly under while lifting the roots. For extra hold, set your hair in large rollers after blow-drying. This look is polished, professional, and ideal for work events, interviews, or anytime you want to look a little extra put-together.
14. Slicked Back with Wavy Ends
If you like to experiment with contrast, this look is bold and editorial. Slick back the roots of your hair with gel or styling cream and let your waves flow naturally from mid-length down. The result is sleek and structured at the top, with soft, textured movement at the bottom. It’s a fashion-forward style that works well for night outs, photo shoots, or if you just want to channel runway energy for a day.
FAQs About Medium-Length Wavy Hairstyles
Can I get wavy hairstyles if I have naturally straight hair?
Yes, absolutely! While having natural waves helps, there are tons of ways to create waves using curling wands, flat irons, or even braids. Heatless wave methods like overnight twists, sock curls, or foam rollers also work wonders. Use wave-enhancing products like mousse or salt spray to help hold the texture throughout the day.
Are layers good for medium wavy hair?
Yes, layers are fantastic for medium wavy hair. They help distribute volume and enhance natural movement. Layers can also remove weight from thicker hair and add bounce to finer hair. Just make sure your stylist understands your hair’s texture and wave pattern to avoid unwanted frizz or uneven volume.
How do I maintain waves overnight?
To keep your waves intact while you sleep, try wrapping your hair in a loose braid or bun. Sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase reduces friction, helping your waves stay smooth and defined. You can also use a silk scarf or bonnet to protect your style.
Is medium-length hair easy to manage?
Definitely. Medium-length hair is known for being easy to style and maintain. It dries faster than long hair, is less prone to split ends, and still allows for a variety of updos and styling options. It’s the ideal length if you want versatility without the extra effort.
How often should I trim medium-length hair?
A good schedule is every 6 to 8 weeks to keep your ends healthy and prevent split ends. Regular trims also help maintain the shape of your hairstyle and make sure your layers continue to blend well with your waves.
Conclusion
Medium-length wavy hair opens up a world of styling options—whether you want something relaxed and natural or sleek and structured. From the carefree vibe of beach waves to the bold look of a slicked-back style, there’s a wave-friendly haircut or updo that fits every mood and moment. What makes this length and texture so special is its balance—it’s easygoing but still polished, and it doesn’t take hours to style. So whether you’re embracing your natural wave or creating it with a little help, the styles above are your go-to guide for hair that’s full of life and personality.
