7 Medium-Length Hairstyle Ideas For Every Occassion

Whether you're desperately trying to grow out a bob gone wrong or you've recently made a major chop, most everyone has had medium length hair at some point or another. This length takes less time to blow dry than longer locks, can still be tied up into a ponytail or bun, and comes with an endless list of styling possibilities. There's truly no better place to look for medium-length hairstyle ideas than toward your favorite trendsetters. Pump up the drama with Margot Robbie's glamorous bouncy curls, keep it timeless with Rosie Huntington-Whitley's classic slick-back, or try something totally new with Gabrielle Union's choppy bangs. If you've been grappling with the idea of this versatile length, you'll want to check out all your options first and foremost.

Ahead, explore The Zoe Report's medium-length hairstyle roundup along with the products you'll need to create the looks on your own.

Deep Side Part

Kerry Washington stunned in a side part at the 72nd Annual Tony Awards in New York City on June 10. This is an easy way to change up a mid-length haircut, and only requires minimal effort when it comes to styling. Simply create the part on wet hair after the shower, blow dry, and straighten. Wear this sleek style to draw attention to a bold makeup look or an embellished ensemble.

Undone Waves

Priyanka Chopra demonstrated that beachy waves can look polished at a Pre-Grammy Gala in New York City on Jan. 27. The actor accentuated her soft highlights with deliberately-placed messy waves and extra volume at the roots. She tucked one side behind her ear to add even more drama to the look, proving just how easy this hairstyle is to achieve. If your hair is typically stick-straight, create some texture by wrapping large pieces around the barrel of a curling iron in alternating directions. Looking to stray away from the damaging effects of hot tools? Try sleeping with your hair in loose braids or twisting it into two small buns before bed.

Curly Fringe

Gabrielle Union showed up with the perfect curly hair at Refinery29's 29Rooms in Los Angeles on Dec. 6, 2017. The iconic actor sported vibrant curls that sat just past her shoulders as well as piecey bangs that grazed her eyebrows. Working subtle bangs into your look is an exciting hair change that doesn't require the same type of commitment as the addition of blunt fringe.

Easy Slick-Back

Models are no strangers to the bone-structure highlighting power of a simple slick-back. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley wore a tightly pulled back style at the premiere of The Meg in Hollywood on Aug. 6. Not only does this look work with most every hair length, it's also a great way to draw attention to statement earrings, an eye catching necklace, or daring cat-eye liner. This style gives you the freedom to experiment with various finishing touches like a straightened ponytail, a curly pull-back, or a twisted bun.

Bouncy Curls

Margot Robbie's Old Hollywood-inspired curls exude glamour and sophistication. The actor wore this style at the European premiere of her latest film, Mary Queen of Scots, in London on Dec. 10. After styling your hair with a curler, pin up your curls with bobby pins while they're still warm. Once you've allowed them to set for a few minutes, let them down and finish it off with a generous spritz of your favorite hairspray.

Angled Bends

Can't decide between curly and straight? Take a note from Jenna Dewan and opt for the ultimate happy medium. The dancer-turned-actor attended the 2018 Baby2Baby Gala in Los Angeles on Nov. 10 donning a slightly angled haircut and subdued bended waves. Embody Dewan's look by using a straightener to create a muted S-wave throughout your hair.

Parted And Pulled Back

Kristen Bell sported a different version of a slick-back at MTV's Movie and TV Awards in Los Angeles on June 16. Instead of pulling it straight back, Bell parted her medium-length hair down the middle to showcase her face-framing blonde highlights. A little known secret to achieving this celeb-inspired look? Use a round brush to smooth back your hair once you have it perfectly parted.