Effortless & Stylish Medium Length Wavy Hairstyles

I still remember standing in front of the mirror one rushed morning, half-ready, half-frustrated, wondering why my hair looked great yesterday but completely confused today. If you’ve got waves, you probably know that feeling. Medium length wavy hairstyles can be a blessing… and a tiny headache too. Some days they fall perfectly without trying, and other days? Not so much.

That’s exactly why I wanted to talk about this. Wavy hair has personality. It’s soft, textured, and full of movement, but it also needs the right cut and a bit of understanding. Ever felt stuck between short styles that feel too sharp and long hair that feels heavy? Medium length is that sweet spot most of us don’t talk about enough.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through styles that actually work with your waves, not against them. No overthinking, no salon jargon—just real, wearable ideas to help your hair look good on busy, real-life days.

Medium Length Wavy Hairstyles

Medium length wavy hairstyles are perfect if you want a balanced look that’s stylish yet easy to manage. They show off natural waves beautifully while giving you plenty of options for everyday and special occasions.

Soft Layered Waves

Honestly, soft layered waves are one of those styles I keep coming back to, even after experimenting with trendier cuts. I’ve found that layers make medium-length wavy hair feel lighter and more alive, especially when your waves tend to fall flat. In my opinion, this look works best when the layers aren’t too short—just enough to give movement without turning frizzy. I remember the first time I tried this cut; I walked out feeling like my hair suddenly had a personality.

To style it, I usually scrunch a lightweight mousse into damp hair and let it air-dry halfway. Then I go in with a diffuser, nothing fancy. To be fair, it’s not about perfection here. A little unevenness actually makes the waves look softer and more natural, which is exactly why I love this style so much.

Wavy Lob Cut

The wavy lob is that “safe but stylish” haircut I recommend when someone wants change without panic. I’ve worn a lob during busy phases of my life, and honestly, it saved me time every single morning. It sits right between short and long, which means your waves don’t get weighed down but still have room to move.

What I usually do is add a bit of sea salt spray and twist random sections with my fingers. In my experience, over-styling ruins the charm of a wavy lob. Let it be a little messy. That relaxed, undone finish is what makes people ask, “Did you do something different to your hair?”

Shoulder-Length Beach Waves

Shoulder-length beach waves always remind me of low-effort, high-impact hair days. I’ve found this style works especially well when you don’t want your waves to look too defined or too styled. It’s that in-between look that feels fresh and youthful without trying too hard.

I usually create this by braiding my hair loosely at night when it’s slightly damp. In the morning, I just shake it out and maybe add a touch of oil to the ends. Honestly, it feels like cheating because it looks styled even when I barely touched it.

Textured Wavy Shag

To be fair, the wavy shag isn’t for everyone, but when it works, it really works. I’ve tried this during a phase when I wanted my hair to feel edgy and full of texture. The layers are choppy, the waves are wild, and that’s kind of the point.

Styling-wise, I avoid brushes completely. I scrunch in a curl cream and let the layers do their thing. In my opinion, the messier it looks, the better. If your waves have attitude, this cut lets them show it.

Classic Wavy Bob

A classic wavy bob is one of those hairstyles that never feels outdated. I’ve recommended this to readers who want something polished but still relaxed. Personally, I like keeping it just below the chin so the waves don’t puff up too much.

When I style it, I use a curling wand on a few random pieces and leave the rest natural. Honestly, doing less makes it look more expensive. The goal isn’t perfect symmetry—it’s soft, wearable waves that frame your face naturally.

Layered Shoulder-Length Waves

Layered shoulder-length waves are my go-to suggestion for anyone struggling with heavy-looking hair. I’ve found that layers placed correctly can completely change how your waves sit. Suddenly, your hair feels bouncy instead of dull.

I usually blow-dry with a round brush just at the crown and let the rest air-dry. In my experience, this gives volume without frizz. It’s one of those styles that looks good on day one and even better on day three.

Side-Parted Wavy Cut

Switching to a side part once felt like a small change, but honestly, it made a huge difference. A side-parted wavy cut instantly adds volume and shape, especially if your waves fall flat at the top.

I flip my part while my hair is still damp and let it dry that way. In my opinion, this simple trick works better than most volume sprays. It gives the waves a natural lift that doesn’t feel forced.

Tousled Medium Waves

Tousled medium waves are perfect for days when you want your hair to look effortless but intentional. I’ve worn this style on rushed mornings and even to events, and it somehow fits both.

I usually twist sections loosely with a flat iron and then run my fingers through them. To be fair, I mess it up on purpose. That slightly undone finish is what makes tousled waves feel modern and relaxed.

Wavy Cut with Curtain Bangs

Curtain bangs with medium waves are something I was scared to try, but I’m glad I did. In my experience, they blend beautifully into wavy hair and soften the whole look without committing to heavy bangs.

I style them with a round brush, just bending them away from my face. Honestly, once they’re set, I leave them alone. Curtain bangs look best when they fall naturally and don’t look overworked.

Natural Loose Waves

Natural loose waves are my favorite on days when I want to embrace my real hair texture. I’ve found that fighting your natural wave pattern just leads to frustration and damage.

I usually apply a leave-in conditioner and let my hair dry on its own. In my opinion, this style is about acceptance more than technique. When you let your waves be themselves, they often look better than anything you could force with heat.

Hair Care Tips for Medium Length Wavy Hair