23 Medium-Length Layered Haircuts to Inspire Your Next Salon Visit
It's one of the most popular lengths for a reason.
Has this happened to you? You're thinking of changing up your hairstyle with a new chop, but if you've got long hair, you might not want to take your hair too far out of your comfort zone. Similarly, if you've got short hair, you might be thinking of growing it out but want to avoid that awkward in-between phase as you transition the length. Thankfully, we've spotted so many medium-length layered haircuts on our feeds, and they are so versatile.
"Medium-length haircuts with layers are the ultimate fail-safe look,” says Jemma Mewies, co-owner of Mewies & Co salon. "It’s perfect because it’s never too drastic. Therefore, if you’ve had long hair for a long time but perhaps get some anxiety around having your hair cut, it’s such an easy transition. Alternatively, if you’re growing out your shorter hair, medium length is normally an achievable length to reach,” she adds.
A mid-length cut also flatters all face shapes and still gives you the versatility to style your hair in several ways, explains Mewies. "Medium-length hair is perfect for updos as well as wearing it down without being too long, too heavy or too short to put up,” she says. Low-maintenance mid-length haircuts? We're here for it.
"Braided, wavy, textured, sleek and shaggy looks are all achievable without being too much work", adds Mewies, meaning medium-length layered hair is a great option for all hair types and textures. "It’s such a versatile look with the bonus of needing a lot less product than longer hair, and even some shorter hair, requires,” says Mewies.
Read on for all the mid-length, layered hair inspo you need for your next salon visit.
1. '90s Supermodel Flips
"Flicky or flippy ends are having a real resurgence. It’s a trend that feels like it’s been gone for a while, so it feels really fresh, clean and perfect to add a little spring to your step,” says expert hairstylist Larry King. "It takes inspiration from the ’60s but with a more modern, smoothed-down finish and just a little lift at the crown. It feels young, modern and energetic, and works brilliantly on a jaw-length bob.”
Ask your hairstylist for face-framing layers and use a straightening iron through the lengths of the hair before curling inwards or outwards at the tips.
Switch up your parting à la Winnie Harlow for a twist on flippy ends.
Camille's chic flicky ends prove that this style looks just as cool when the ends are shaped inwards.
Get the Look:
This new smart hair straightener from GHD will help achieve flicky ends in a flash.
Prep your hair with this lightweight styling foam to help give the shape lasting hold.
2. The French-Girl Fringe
Want a stronger fringe? This visor fringe looks so cool.
Suki's tousled fringe, face-framing layers and red lipstick combination couldn't be more 'French-girl'.
This combination of effortless updo and perfectly parted fringe just oozes French-girl energy.
Get the Look:
This excellent dry shampoo adds cool texture to layers.
If you wake up with a disobedient fringe, this weightless hairspray will help to tame it back into place.
3. The Shag
A shag haircut is great on medium-length hair, and the feathery, razor-cut layers add volume to fine hair.
Volume, texture and root lift are key to styling this iconic haircut.
Julia Stegner's retro style epitomises the laid-back, cool-girl vibe that the shag cut has come to represent.
Get the Look:
Add definition to your layers with this conditioning hair balm.
An essential product for texture and definition, because the key to a successful shag haircut is all in the styling.
4. Medium-Length Braids
If you usually go for longer braids, switching to shoulder-length can refresh your look.
We love these medium-length box braids with loose ends.
Jaw-length braids look so chic. Switch it up with a side parting.
Get the Look:
Protect curls and coils with this deeply hydrating hair oil.
This styling powder is perfect for improving grip and ensuring hair stays in the braid better.
5. The Lob
Fancy the idea of a bob but intimidated by a big chop? The lob—or long bob—is for you. This haircut is usually cut at the jawline or slightly below. Kim Kardashian's glossy lob has framing layers to add dimension and body.
A lob paves the way for effortless texture and body on finer hair.
Alexa has always known how to rock a lob. if you have fine hair, styling the ends helps to create the illusion of thickness.
Get the Look:
Make the most of shorter layers with a texturising spray to enhance your natural texture.
Use a hair oil to add shine, softness, and a sleek finish.
6. Face-Framing Layers
When in doubt, face-framing layers will instantly add polish to medium-length hair. Your hairstylist can guide you on the best layers to enhance your features.
We love this bouncy curtain fringe with face-framing layers.
If you're growing out a fringe, a layered, face-framing style is a great way to do so.
Get the Look:
Keep lengths in good condition with this repairing treatment from K18.
If layers start to look limp and fall flat, dry shampoo will always save the day.
7. The Mullet
Debby Ryan's shorter layers give body and shape to her natural hair.
Trust Miley to rock a mullet and look so good doing it.
Alyssa proves that a micro-fringe is a fun way to keep a mullet looking fresh and modern.
Get the Look:
Define layers with a matte pomade for texture.
Enhance and boost your natural curls with this cult product.
