21 Wavy Medium Length Hairstyles That’ll Make You Fall in Love With Your Hair
You know what? There’s something special about wavy medium length hairstyles that just works. They’re not too short that you feel limited, and not so long that you’re stuck dealing with tangles every morning. It’s that perfect in-between length that gives you options.
I’ve spent years experimenting with different cuts and styles, and I can tell you this: medium length wavy hair is probably the most forgiving style out there. Whether you’re rolling out of bed or getting ready for something special, these waves have got your back.
Let me walk you through 21 stunning looks that’ll inspire your next salon visit.
Why Wavy Medium Length Hair Works So Well
Here’s the thing about wavy medium length hairstyles – they’re incredibly versatile. In my experience, this length hits right around your collarbone or just past your shoulders, which means you can still pull it back when needed, but you’ve got enough length to make a statement.
What I love about this style is how it adapts to your lifestyle. Got a busy morning? Your natural texture does half the work for you. Want to dress it up? A few minutes with a curling wand and you’re ready for anything.
The natural movement of medium wavy hair creates dimension that flat, straight hair just can’t match. Those waves catch the light differently throughout the day, giving your hair depth without any extra effort from you.
Getting Your Waves Ready: Simple Styling Tips
Now here’s where it gets interesting. You don’t need a complicated routine to make wavy medium length hairstyles look amazing.
Start with damp hair – not soaking wet, but towel-dried. Apply a lightweight mousse or texturizing spray from roots to ends. This is your foundation. If you skip this step, your waves might fall flat by lunchtime.
For air-drying, scrunch your hair gently as it dries. Don’t touch it too much or you’ll create frizz. Just scrunch, walk away, and let it do its thing. If you’re using a diffuser attachment, flip your head upside down and cup sections of hair in the diffuser. Hold for 10-15 seconds, then move to the next section.
Want heat styling instead? Wrap random sections around your curling wand – and I mean random. Don’t make them all the same size. This creates that natural, undone texture that looks effortless. Once they cool, shake them out with your fingers and finish with a flexible hairspray.
You might be wondering about overnight methods. Honestly? Braiding your hair loosely before bed works wonders. You’ll wake up with soft, heatless waves that last all day.
21 Stunning Wavy Medium Length Hairstyles You’ll Actually Want to Try
1. Soft Blonde Lob With Natural Waves
This wavy lob is what I call the “elevated casual” look. It falls right at your collarbone with those soft, lived-in waves that move when you move. The best part? It looks intentional without looking overdone.
A quick pass with your curling wand and some texturizing spray, and you’re done. It works for coffee dates and conference rooms equally well. That’s versatility right there.
2. Sleek Wavy Lob
When you want something polished but not stuffy, this is your go-to. The medium length wavy hairstyle has just enough wave to add movement, but it’s controlled and chic.
Part it in the middle or on the side – both work. What I love about this one is how professional it looks without requiring professional-level styling skills. It’s that balance between put-together and playful that’s hard to find.
3. Half-Up Twisted Crown
Here’s a romantic option that takes about three minutes. Twist two sections from either side of your head and secure them at the back. Leave the rest of your wavy medium hair flowing down.
This style keeps hair off your face while showing off your waves. Perfect for outdoor weddings, brunch with friends, or when you just want to feel a little fancy. Add some loose strands around your face for that soft, romantic vibe.
4. Messy Textured Waves
This is the “I woke up like this” version of wavy medium length hairstyles, except you actually can wake up like this. It’s all about embracing imperfection.
Scrunch in some sea salt spray and let your hair air-dry. Don’t overthink it. The messier, the better. Those undone waves moving naturally? That’s the whole point. Great for casual days when you still want to look like you tried (even though you didn’t).
5. Voluminous Blowout Waves
If you’re into medium wavy hairstyles that scream confidence, this bouncy blowout is calling your name. The soft, full waves frame your face beautifully and give off serious “just left the salon” energy.
Use a round brush while blow-drying, rolling sections away from your face. Add mousse at the roots for extra volume. It’s polished but not perfect – exactly what you want.
6. Classic Hollywood Waves
Nothing says glamour quite like these structured, glossy waves. This wavy medium length hairstyle channels old Hollywood in the best way possible.
The waves are more defined and uniform here. You’ll need a curling iron and some patience, but the result is worth it. Perfect for weddings, fancy dinners, or when you want to feel like a movie star. Finish with shine spray to make those waves gleam.
7. Retro Headband Waves
Comfort meets style with this look. The soft medium length waves paired with a thick headband give off subtle vintage vibes without looking costume-y.
It’s practical too – keeps hair out of your face during busy days. Add a little texturizing spray for volume, and you’ve got a playful, fresh style that feels both nostalgic and current.
8. Side-Swept Messy Waves
This wavy medium hairstyle is effortlessly sexy. Deep side part, soft waves cascading over one shoulder, that undone texture that looks naturally gorgeous.
The side part adds instant volume and drama. It’s relaxed but confident – perfect for date nights or whenever you want your hair to make a statement without you saying a word.
9. Soft Layered Waves With Movement
Layers are everything here. They create that bouncy, full-bodied look that makes your wavy medium length hair feel lighter and more dimensional.
The movement is incredible – your hair literally bounces when you walk. Just tousle it with your fingers and you’re good to go. Works beautifully with sundresses, cozy sweaters, or literally anything in your closet.
10. Curtain Bangs With Flowing Waves
You might be wondering if curtain bangs work with medium wavy hair. The answer is absolutely yes. They frame your face perfectly while blending seamlessly into the waves.
This style is super flattering on most face shapes. The bangs add that “just walked out of the salon” polish, but the overall look is natural and flowy. Win-win.
11. Feathered Layers With Volume
The feathered layers in this wavy medium length hairstyle create incredible lift and bounce. Every turn of your head looks like it’s happening in slow motion.
It’s polished yet natural-looking. A little volume spray at the roots or a round-brush blowout brings this style to life. Great for anyone who wants that “effortlessly good hair days” reputation.
12. Half-Up Style With Ribbon Detail
Sweet, simple, charming – this medium length wavy hairstyle checks all the boxes. The half-up portion keeps hair off your face while letting those waves flow naturally down your back.
Adding a ribbon makes it feel special without being over-the-top. Perfect for brunch dates, garden parties, or cozy days when you want to feel a little extra. Prepare for compliments.
13. Polished Loose Waves
This is what “put-together but chill” looks like. The waves are defined enough to look intentional but loose enough to stay casual. This wavy medium hairstyle works for literally everything – work, weekend, wherever.
It’s sleek and timeless. Goes with blazers, goes with t-shirts, goes with everything. A touch of shine spray elevates it instantly.
14. Icy Blonde Soft Waves
These soft, romantic waves have an ethereal quality that feels modern and fresh. The light color makes the medium wavy hair texture really stand out, especially in natural light.
Perfect for nights out or formal occasions, but honestly? It’s gorgeous any time. Keep a serum or shine spray handy to maintain that glossy, frizz-free finish throughout the day.
15. Beachy Textured Waves
Loose, undone, sun-kissed energy – this wavy medium length hairstyle never goes out of style. It’s that perfectly imperfect texture that looks like you just came from the beach (even if you’re nowhere near one).
Salt spray or texturizing mist gets you this natural, tousled look in minutes. It’s easygoing and flattering, the kind of style that just feels right whether you’re running errands or meeting friends.
16. Classic Center-Part Waves
Natural bounce without overthinking it – that’s what this style delivers. The gentle medium length waves catch light beautifully and frame your face with minimal effort.
Simple and chic. Works for the office, dinner reservations, or your morning coffee run. Middle part plus texturizing spray equals effortlessly polished in about five minutes.
17. Undone Mermaid Waves
There’s something carefree about this style that just makes you happy. These loose, imperfect wavy medium hairstyles give major “just came from the beach” vibes without looking messy or unkempt.
Great when you want to feel pulled together without putting in serious effort. Sea salt spray or dry texture mist brings this look to life – and that’s about all the work you need to do.
18. Soft Glossy Waves
Polished yet relaxed, these smooth waves bring old-school glamour with a modern twist. They’re glossy and fall effortlessly around your face – perfect for photos or nights out.
This wavy medium length hairstyle flatters every face shape while adding subtle volume. Finish with shine spray to make every strand glow. You’ll look like you spent hours (even though you didn’t).
19. Tousled Side Part Waves
Deep side parts create instant drama, and paired with tousled medium wavy hair, you get this gorgeous, dimensional look. The waves have different textures and sizes, which makes everything feel more natural.
Run your fingers through to separate the waves a bit. The slightly undone quality is what makes this style so appealing – it’s polished enough for anywhere but relaxed enough for everywhere.
20. Dimensional Layered Waves
Layers upon layers create incredible depth here. The different lengths catch light differently, making your wavy medium length hair look fuller and more dynamic.
This cut works especially well if your hair tends to fall flat. The layers remove weight while adding movement. Style with a curling wand, varying the direction of each curl for maximum dimension.
21. Soft Romantic Waves With Face-Framing Layers
Face-framing layers soften your features while the medium length wavy hairstyle provides that perfect amount of movement and texture. It’s romantic without being overly done.
The layers around your face create a flattering shape that works with your natural features instead of against them. This is one of those styles that makes people ask, “Did you just get your hair done?” even weeks after your salon visit.
What Hair Experts Actually Say About Medium Length Waves
Now here’s where professional insight comes in handy. According to hairstylists, layers are crucial for wavy medium length hairstyles. They prevent that dreaded triangular shape that can happen when all your hair is one length.
Removing some weight from the bottom creates a more balanced, flattering silhouette. The layers showcase your natural wave pattern instead of weighing it down. It’s not just about looking good – it’s about working with your hair’s natural texture instead of fighting against it.
Comparison: Different Wave Styles and Their Benefits
| Wave Style | Best For | Styling Time | Maintenance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loose beachy waves | Casual, everyday wear | 10-15 minutes | Low |
| Hollywood waves | Formal events, special occasions | 30-40 minutes | High |
| Tousled messy waves | Weekend, laid-back looks | 5-10 minutes | Very low |
| Polished waves | Professional settings | 20-25 minutes | Medium |
| Layered voluminous waves | All occasions | 15-20 minutes | Medium |
The Products That Actually Work for Wavy Medium Hair
Let’s talk products, because the right ones make all the difference for wavy medium length hairstyles.
Start with OUAI Wave Spray for bringing out your natural texture without that crunchy, stiff feeling. It enhances what’s already there without fighting against your hair’s natural pattern.
If you use heat tools, TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray is non-negotiable. It protects your medium wavy hair from damage while keeping everything smooth and frizz-free.
For finishing touches, L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray gives you hold that lasts without making your hair feel like cardboard. Your waves can still move naturally – they’re just locked in place.
Dealing with frizz or dryness? A tiny amount of Moroccanoil Treatment adds shine and softness without weighing down your wavy medium length hair. Seriously, a little goes a long way.
Common Mistakes to Avoid With Wavy Medium Hair
In my experience, most people make the same few mistakes with medium length wavy hairstyles. Let me save you some trouble.
First, don’t over-wash. Washing every day strips natural oils that your waves need to stay defined and bouncy. Aim for 2-3 times a week max. Use dry shampoo between washes.
Second, stop using regular towels. They create frizz. Switch to a microfiber towel or even an old t-shirt to squeeze out excess water. Pat, don’t rub.
Third, don’t brush dry waves unless you want a frizzy mess. Use a wide-tooth comb on wet hair with conditioner in, or just finger-comb once dry.
Finally, avoid touching your hair too much while it’s drying. I know it’s tempting, but every time you touch it, you disrupt the wave pattern and create frizz. Hands off until it’s completely dry.
How to Choose the Right Wavy Style for Your Face Shape
Not every wavy medium length hairstyle works for everyone, and that’s okay. Here’s how to find your perfect match.
For round faces, try styles with height at the crown and longer layers that elongate. The side-swept waves or deep side parts work beautifully. Avoid too much volume at the sides.
If you’ve got a square face, soft, flowing medium wavy hairstyles help soften angular features. Curtain bangs or face-framing layers are your friends here.
Heart-shaped faces look amazing with styles that add width at the jaw. Layered waves that start around chin level balance everything out perfectly.
For oval faces? Lucky you – pretty much any wavy medium length hairstyle works. Experiment with different partings and layer placements to find what you love most.
Making Your Waves Last Longer
You might be wondering how to keep your medium length wavy hair looking fresh beyond day one. Here’s what works.
Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase. Cotton creates friction that flattens waves and causes frizz. The smooth surface of silk helps your waves maintain their shape overnight.
Try the pineapple method: gather your hair loosely on top of your head before bed. Secure with a scrunchie (never a tight elastic). In the morning, shake it out and refresh with a bit of texturizing spray.
Between washes, dry shampoo is your best friend for absorbing oil at the roots without disturbing your wave pattern. Spray it in the night before for best results – gives it time to absorb while you sleep.
Final Thoughts on Wavy Medium Length Hairstyles
Wavy medium length hairstyles really are that perfect sweet spot. Long enough for versatility, short enough to stay manageable. Whether you’re into effortless beachy texture, polished Hollywood glamour, or something in between, there’s a style here that fits your life.
The best part? You don’t need to be a professional stylist to make these work. Most of these looks come together with basic tools and minimal products. It’s about working with your natural texture, not against it.
Play around with different partings, try various texturizing products, experiment with heat and no-heat methods. The best hairstyle is the one that makes you feel confident when you catch your reflection – that’s when you know you’ve found your match.
Your wavy medium hair has so much potential. These 21 styles are just the beginning. Find what works for your lifestyle, your skill level, and most importantly, what makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
