10 Adorable & Easy Cute Hairstyles for Medium Hair

Medium hair gives you the best of both worlds—easy to manage yet full of styling possibilities. From playful braids to soft waves, there are endless cute hairstyles to show off your personality!

Messy Low Bun

You know those mornings when you just don’t have the energy to go full glam, but still want to look like you actually tried? That’s exactly when I pull out my trusty messy low bun. I’ve done this look on my models countless times—especially for casual shoots or days when the vibe is “effortlessly pretty.” I always start with slightly textured hair; clean hair can be too slippery, so a little dry shampoo works wonders. Honestly, the trick is not overthinking it. Twist, pin, pull out a few face-framing strands, and boom—perfectly undone.

Once, during a quick outdoor shoot, one of my models’ buns came loose because of the wind—and somehow, it made the look even better! That’s what I love about it. It’s forgiving, real, and just plain cool. I always say: the messier, the prettier. Add a scrunchie or silk ribbon if you’re feeling cute, and you’re set.

Half-Up Half-Down Twist

This hairstyle gives me soft romantic vibes every single time. It’s one of those looks that seems like you spent forever on it, but really, it’s just a couple of twists and pins. When I’m styling my models, I often go for this when I want that sweet, dreamy feel—like “oh, I just woke up looking this good.” To be fair, it works best with medium waves or loose curls. I twist two sections from the front, pull them to the back, and secure with a small clip or a few bobby pins.

One time, a model showed up late for a shoot, no time for a full style. I did this in literally five minutes, and the photos looked stunning. It’s simple but elegant—kind of like that friend who always looks put-together no matter what. Add a few tendrils around the face, and you’ve got that soft, effortless finish I love.

Bubble Ponytail

 

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Oh, this one’s fun—and so playful. Whenever I want something that screams “fashion but make it easy,” I go for the bubble ponytail. I remember trying it first on a model for a spring campaign, and we couldn’t stop giggling because it looked so bold yet cute. It’s basically a ponytail sectioned off with elastics every few inches, then gently tugged apart to make “bubbles.” The key? Don’t pull too hard—you want round, puffy sections, not lumpy ones.

In my opinion, this style looks best on medium-length hair that’s straight or slightly wavy. It instantly adds volume and personality, especially when paired with bold makeup or statement earrings. Honestly, it’s one of those styles that make people stop and ask, “How did you do that?”—and I love that reaction. A little hairspray, a smile, and you’re good to go.

Braided Crown

There’s something almost magical about a braided crown—it gives fairy-tale energy but still feels modern. I’ve used it on my models during outdoor shoots, especially in golden hour light, and the results are always dreamy. I usually start by parting the hair down the middle, then create two braids on each side and wrap them around the head like a halo. It’s simple, but the effect is stunning.

Once, during a garden-themed shoot, I tucked tiny flowers into the braids, and honestly, it looked like something out of a storybook. What I love most is how secure it feels—no flyaways getting in the face, just pure elegance. To be fair, it takes a bit of patience, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll want to wear it everywhere. Add a touch of highlighter, and you’ll glow like sunshine.

Beachy Waves

Ah, beachy waves—my forever favorite. They’re relaxed, carefree, and somehow make everyone look effortlessly stylish. When I’m doing hair for shoots, I usually tell my models, “We’re going for that salty-air, sun-kissed vibe.” And honestly, you don’t even need the beach for it. Just a curling wand, a bit of texture spray, and your fingers to break up the curls.

I’ve found that less is more here. Too much curling or product makes it stiff, and that totally ruins the whole “I just woke up fabulous” look. One time, my model ran her fingers through her waves between shots and accidentally created the perfect tousle. It reminded me—imperfection is the charm. Beachy waves don’t need rules, just confidence.

Space Buns

 

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Okay, this one’s pure fun. Space buns are the ultimate playful hairstyle, and every time I do them, I feel a little nostalgic—like I’m back in the 2000s, dancing to pop music. When I do them on my models, I like to make them slightly messy, not too tight. Two buns high on the head, some strands loose around the face—it’s quirky but still cute.

One of my models once wore glitter roots with her space buns for a shoot, and I swear, it was a total showstopper. To be fair, it’s not a “daily wear” look, but for festivals, parties, or when you just want attention (in a good way), it’s perfect. A little hairspray, maybe some hair gems, and you’ve got a whole vibe.

Twisted Chignon

If you ever need a hairstyle that screams “effortlessly elegant,” this is it. I’ve used twisted chignons for weddings, formal shoots, and even simple editorials. It’s that timeless updo that looks chic without trying too hard. I usually start with low twists near the nape, secure with pins, and pull a few strands loose for softness.

One time, a bride model told me she felt like royalty with this hairstyle—and honestly, I get it. It has that graceful, polished look that photographs beautifully. In my opinion, a twisted chignon paired with pearl earrings or soft makeup is unbeatable. It’s that kind of look that makes you stand taller, smile softer, and feel beautiful in the most understated way.

Side Braid with Curls

Side braids are my go-to when I want something feminine but with a little drama. I usually start with loose curls, then braid one side down and let the rest flow naturally. It’s that perfect mix between structured and free. I remember once styling this for a sunset photoshoot—the wind played with the curls, and it looked magical.

What I love is how adaptable it is. You can make it neat for a polished vibe or keep it messy for that boho flair. Honestly, I think this hairstyle flatters almost everyone. Add some accessories like delicate pins or flowers, and you’ll feel like you stepped out of a romantic movie.

Sleek Straight Lob

There’s something about sleek, straight lobs that just oozes confidence. Whenever I do this style on my models, I feel like they instantly transform into runway queens. The shine, the symmetry—it’s pure sophistication. I always use a heat protectant (because seriously, don’t skip it), then a flat iron for that sharp, clean finish.

To be fair, it’s not the easiest to maintain on humid days, but that’s what serums are for. I remember one model telling me she felt “like a boss” with this hairstyle—and honestly, I couldn’t agree more. It’s bold without being loud, simple yet powerful. If you ever need a “I’ve got my life together” look, this is the one.

Headband Half-Up Style

This one takes me straight back to carefree, girly moments. A headband half-up style is such a sweet, easy way to look polished without much effort. I’ve done it on models who needed that “fresh and flirty” look, and it never fails. You just take the top half of your hair, secure it, and slide on a cute headband—it’s almost too easy.

I once used a satin headband on a model during a pastel-themed shoot, and it instantly pulled the whole look together. In my opinion, it’s one of those hairstyles that make you look put-together even on lazy days. Honestly, I wear it myself sometimes when I’m testing looks—it’s comfy, practical, and just adorable.