These hairstyles for medium length hair prove that shoulder-length cuts are the most versatile length of all, long enough to style up and short enough to feel light. Medium hair sits right at the sweet spot, where you can wear it loose, tie it back, add waves, or try a sleek finish without the weight of long hair. Below, you will find 23 fresh ideas to love, from textured lobs and collarbone cuts to glossy finishes and soft layers. Each idea comes with a photo and simple styling notes, so you can picture the look and talk it through with your stylist before your next appointment.
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1. Textured Lob Open Waves
A textured lob with open waves is the ultimate medium length cut, with soft, flowing waves that give the hair movement and life. The texture adds fullness without weight, while the open waves keep the look relaxed and effortless. This style suits almost every face shape, because the waves frame the face gently. It is the kind of cut that looks great with minimal styling and even better with a little texture spray.
Style a textured lob with open waves by applying a texturizing spray to damp hair, then rough drying with your fingers for natural movement. Use a large curling iron to add a few loose waves, then brush through gently for a soft, flowing finish. A pea-sized amount of styling cream on the ends adds definition. This cut air dries beautifully, which makes it perfect for busy mornings.
2. Open Waves Textured Lob
Open waves give the textured lob a breezy, lived-in feel, with the hair falling in soft, natural curves past the shoulders. The open wave pattern keeps the cut light and airy, while the texture adds body and movement. This style suits fine and medium hair especially well, because the waves create the illusion of fullness. It is a relaxed, everyday look that still feels polished and put together.
Style open waves on a textured lob with a sea salt spray on damp hair, then scrunch and let it air dry for natural texture. For more defined waves, wrap random sections around a large curling iron, leaving the ends straight for a modern feel. A light texturizing spray adds grip and separation. This cut looks great with a center or side part, depending on your mood.
3. Butterfly Clip Textured Lob
A butterfly clip adds a playful, romantic touch to a textured lob, holding back one side with a delicate, jewel-like detail. The clip catches the light as you move, while the textured waves fall freely past the shoulders. This style suits anyone who loves a little whimsy with their everyday hair. It works beautifully for casual days, parties, and everything in between.
Style a butterfly clip textured lob by adding loose waves with a large curling iron, then brushing through for a soft finish. Gather a small section from one side and secure it with the butterfly clip, leaving the rest loose. A light hold spray keeps the waves in place. For extra charm, add a second small clip just above the first for a layered effect.
4. Shoulder Grazing Blunt Lob
A shoulder grazing blunt lob is clean, modern, and effortlessly chic, with a straight-across cut that sits right at the collarbone. The blunt ends make the hair look thicker and healthier, while the side part adds softness and movement. This style suits straight and slightly wavy hair best, where the clean line really shows. It is the perfect medium length cut for anyone who loves a polished, graphic shape.
Style a shoulder grazing blunt lob with a blow dryer and a paddle brush for a smooth, sleek finish, then run a flat iron over the ends for extra polish. A smoothing serum keeps flyaways in check, while a shine spray adds gloss. The side part gives the cut a soft, sweeping line across the forehead. A quick trim every six weeks keeps the blunt ends looking sharp.
5. Layered Collarbone Lob Volume
A layered collarbone lob is the secret to volume at medium length, with soft layers that lift the hair and add movement through the ends. The layers keep the cut from feeling heavy, while the collarbone length keeps it versatile and easy to style. This version suits fine and medium hair especially well, because the layers create the illusion of thickness. It is a fresh, bouncy take on the classic lob.
Style a layered collarbone lob by blow drying with a round brush, lifting the roots for volume and turning the ends under for a soft curve. A volumizing mousse on damp roots gives lasting lift, while a light texturizing spray adds grip and movement. For a softer look, add loose waves with a large curling iron and brush through gently. This cut grows out gracefully, with the layers softening over time.
6. Root Volume Collarbone Lob
Root volume takes the collarbone lob to new heights, with lifted roots that give the hair a full, bouncy shape. The volume at the crown balances the collarbone length beautifully, creating a silhouette that feels glamorous without being overdone. This style suits fine hair best, where the lift makes the biggest difference. It is the medium length cut for anyone who loves big, beautiful hair.
Style a root volume collarbone lob by blow drying the roots upward with a round brush, using a volumizing mousse for extra lift. A light tease at the crown adds height, smoothed over with the top layer for a polished finish. A flexible hold spray keeps the volume in place without stiffness. For evening, add a deep side part to emphasize the lift and drama.
7. Center Part Collarbone Lob
A center part gives the collarbone lob a clean, symmetrical shape that feels modern and balanced. The hair falls evenly on both sides, framing the face with a soft, even line. This style suits oval and round faces especially well, because the center part elongates the face. It is a simple, elegant choice that works for any occasion, from the office to a night out.
Style a center part collarbone lob by blow drying the hair smooth with a paddle brush, then creating a precise center part with a comb. A smoothing serum keeps the lengths sleek, while a light shine spray adds polish. For a softer feel, add a gentle bend to the ends with a flat iron. The center part also shows off earrings beautifully, so add a statement pair for evening.
8. Textured Collarbone Lob
A textured collarbone lob keeps the clean collarbone length but adds piecey, lived-in texture that makes the cut feel modern and effortless. The texture breaks up the blunt line just enough to feel relaxed, while the length keeps it versatile. This version suits wavy and fine hair especially well, because the texture adds the illusion of fullness. It is the collarbone lob for anyone who loves a little edge.
Style a textured collarbone lob with a texturizing spray on damp hair, then rough dry with your fingers for natural movement. Use a flat iron to bend a few random pieces in different directions, then shake the hair out for a piecey finish. A pea-sized amount of paste on the ends adds definition without weight. This cut looks even better on second-day hair, when the texture settles in naturally.
9. Money Piece Collarbone Lob
A money piece adds bright, face-framing highlights to the collarbone lob, drawing attention to the eyes and brightening the whole look. The lighter front sections contrast beautifully with the deeper base, giving the cut dimension and movement. This version suits medium to dark bases best, where the contrast really shows. It is a fresh, modern way to add color without a full dye job.
Style a money piece collarbone lob by blow drying the front sections forward with a round brush, so the lighter pieces frame the face. A gloss treatment keeps the highlights shiny and brass-free. Use a purple shampoo sparingly if the money piece is blonde, to keep it bright. This color grows out softly, so you can stretch salon visits and enjoy a low-maintenance grow-out.
10. Low Maintenance Collarbone Lob
A low maintenance collarbone lob is the perfect cut for busy mornings, with a shape that falls into place with minimal effort. The collarbone length is long enough to tie back and short enough to air dry beautifully. This version suits anyone who wants great hair without a complicated routine. It looks polished straight out of the shower and even better with a little texture spray.
Style a low maintenance collarbone lob by applying a leave-in conditioner to damp hair, then letting it air dry for a natural finish. A quick pass with a flat iron on the front pieces adds polish on days when you want it. A texturizing spray adds grip and movement without effort. This cut grows out gracefully, so you can go longer between trims.
11. Special Occasion Collarbone Lob
A special occasion collarbone lob brings a touch of glamour to medium length hair, with polished waves and a sleek finish that photographs beautifully. The collarbone length shows off the neckline and shoulders, while the styling adds volume and shine. This version suits weddings, parties, and any event where you want to feel your best. It pairs beautifully with a statement earring or a delicate hair accessory.
Style a special occasion collarbone lob by blow drying with a round brush for volume, then adding soft curls with a large iron and brushing through for a flowing finish. A shine spray adds gloss, while a light hold spray keeps the style in place through the event. For extra glamour, add a jeweled comb or a few pearl pins on one side.
12. Undercut Nape Collarbone Lob
An undercut nape gives the collarbone lob a hidden edge, with a closely cut section at the back that removes weight and adds a modern, unexpected detail. The undercut is subtle when the hair is down and striking when it is up, giving you two looks in one cut. This version suits thick hair best, where the undercut removes bulk and keeps the shape light. It is the collarbone lob with a secret.
Style an undercut nape collarbone lob by blow drying the lengths smooth and letting the undercut stay hidden for a polished everyday look. For a bolder feel, gather the hair into a high ponytail or a top knot to show off the undercut. A texturizing spray adds grip to the lengths. Keep the undercut trimmed every four to five weeks to maintain the clean shape.
13. Bold Color Collarbone Lob
A bold color turns the collarbone lob into a statement, whether you choose a vivid red, a deep plum, or a striking pastel. The color shows off the clean collarbone line beautifully, while the medium length keeps the look wearable and fresh. This version suits anyone who loves to stand out and is not afraid of a little drama. It is the collarbone lob at its most expressive.
Keep a bold color collarbone lob vibrant with a color-safe shampoo and cool water rinses, which slow fading and keep the gloss intact. Blow dry with a round brush for smooth, shiny lengths that show off the color. A gloss treatment every few weeks refreshes the tone. Bold colors fade faster than natural shades, so a color-depositing conditioner helps between salon visits.
14. Face Framing Collarbone Lob
Face framing layers soften the collarbone lob beautifully, with shorter pieces around the face that highlight the cheekbones and jawline. The layers add movement and dimension, while the collarbone length keeps the cut versatile. This version suits almost every face shape, because the framing pieces can be tailored to flatter your features. It is a gentle, flattering take on the medium length cut.
Style a face framing collarbone lob by blow drying the front layers forward with a round brush, turning them under for a soft curve. A smoothing serum keeps the layers sleek, while a light texturizing spray adds movement. For a softer feel, add loose waves with a large curling iron and brush through gently. Ask your stylist to start the shortest layer at the cheekbone for the most flattering frame.
15. Collarbone Lob Square Faces
A collarbone lob is a wonderful choice for square faces, because the length softens the jawline and the soft layers add gentle curves. The collarbone length draws the eye downward, balancing a strong jaw with flowing movement. This version works best with a side part and soft waves, which break up the angles and add softness. It is a flattering, face-balancing cut that feels both modern and easy to wear.
Style a collarbone lob for square faces by blow drying with a round brush, adding soft waves that curve away from the face. A side part adds asymmetry, which softens the jawline further. Avoid a blunt, straight-across fringe, which can emphasize angles, and choose soft, wispy pieces instead. A texturizing spray adds movement and keeps the waves looking natural.
16. Collarbone Lob Round Faces
A collarbone lob flatters round faces beautifully, because the length elongates the face and the soft layers add definition. The collarbone length draws the eye downward, creating a longer, leaner silhouette. This version works best with a center or deep side part and a little volume at the crown, which adds height. It is a slimming, face-lengthening cut that feels fresh and modern.
Style a collarbone lob for round faces by blow drying with a round brush, lifting the roots for volume and smoothing the lengths for a sleek finish. A center part elongates the face, while soft waves through the ends add movement. Avoid too much width at the sides, which can add roundness, and keep the volume at the crown instead. A light texturizing spray adds grip without bulk.
17. Choppy Collarbone Lob
A choppy collarbone lob is full of personality, with uneven, piecey layers that give the cut a modern, edgy feel. The choppy texture adds movement and volume, while the collarbone length keeps it versatile and easy to style. This version suits wavy and thick hair especially well, because the choppy layers remove weight and add shape. It is the collarbone lob for anyone who loves a little attitude.
Style a choppy collarbone lob with a texturizing spray on damp hair, then rough dry with your fingers for natural, piecey texture. Use a flat iron to bend a few random pieces in different directions, then shake the hair out for a lived-in finish. A pea-sized amount of paste on the ends adds definition. This cut looks great with a messy, undone finish that shows off the choppy layers.
18. Deep Side Part Collarbone Lob
A deep side part gives the collarbone lob instant glamour, sweeping the hair across the forehead in a bold, dramatic line. The deep part adds volume at the roots and creates a beautiful asymmetry that flatters the face. This version suits anyone who loves a polished, red-carpet feel, and it works on straight, wavy, and curly hair alike. It is the collarbone lob dressed up for a night out.
Style a deep side part collarbone lob by blow drying the hair over to one side with a round brush, lifting the roots for volume and smoothing the lengths for shine. A light hold spray keeps the sweep in place all evening. For extra glamour, add a soft curl to the front pieces with a large curling iron and brush through gently. Pair it with a bold lip or a statement earring to complete the look.
19. Highlighted Collarbone Lob
Highlights add dimension and light to the collarbone lob, with sun-kissed strands that follow the movement of the cut. The lighter pieces brighten the face and give the hair a multi-tonal, natural look. This version suits medium to dark bases best, where the highlights create a beautiful contrast. It is a fresh, summery take on the medium length cut that grows out gracefully.
Style a highlighted collarbone lob by blow drying with a round brush for smooth, shiny lengths that show off the highlights. A gloss treatment keeps the highlights bright and brass-free. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to protect the color, and add loose waves with a flat iron for a relaxed weekend look. The highlights grow out softly, so you can stretch salon visits.
20. Balayage Collarbone Lob
Balayage softens the collarbone lob with hand-painted color that melts from a deeper root to lighter ends. The graduated color adds dimension and movement, while the collarbone length keeps the cut fresh and modern. This version suits anyone who wants low-maintenance color, because balayage grows out naturally without a harsh line. It is the perfect pairing of cut and color for medium length hair.
Style a balayage collarbone lob by blow drying with a round brush, smoothing the lengths so the color melts beautifully. A gloss treatment every few weeks keeps the balayage warm and shiny. Use a color-safe shampoo to protect the tones, and add a few soft waves with a flat iron for a relaxed, sun-kissed finish. The balayage looks even better as it grows out.
21. Curly Collarbone Lob
Curly hair gives the collarbone lob a whole new energy, with the natural curls adding volume, movement, and a soft, romantic shape. The collarbone length keeps the curls from feeling heavy, while the layers let each curl fall into place. This version suits brides and everyday wear alike, because the curls soften the cut beautifully. It is proof that curly hair makes some of the most beautiful medium length styles.
Style a curly collarbone lob with a curl-defining cream on damp hair, then diffuse on low heat or let it air dry for natural texture. Avoid brushing the curls out, since that can add frizz and blur the shape. A light oil scrunched into the ends adds shine and separation. Ask your stylist to cut the layers while the hair is dry, so the curl pattern and the shape work together perfectly.
22. Thick Hair Collarbone Lob
Thick hair and the collarbone lob are a natural match, because the length removes weight while the layers keep the shape light and airy. This version tames bulk without thinning the hair to nothing, so the cut still feels lush and substantial. The collarbone length is long enough to tie back on hot days and short enough to feel light. It is a smart, flattering choice for anyone with thick, heavy hair.
Style a thick hair collarbone lob by blow drying in sections with a round brush, smoothing the lengths and turning the ends under. A smoothing cream applied to damp hair helps control volume, while a light oil on the ends adds shine without heaviness. Ask your stylist for subtle internal layers to keep the shape from going triangular. This cut air dries well too, with a little mousse for definition.
23. Wavy Long Blunt Bob
A wavy long blunt bob sits right at the edge of medium length, with soft waves that give the blunt cut movement and life. The blunt ends keep the shape clean and modern, while the waves add a relaxed, effortless feel. This version suits wavy and fine hair especially well, because the waves add volume and texture. It is the perfect bridge between a bob and a lob, and it works for any occasion.
Style a wavy long blunt bob with a sea salt spray on damp hair, then scrunch and let it air dry for natural waves. For more defined texture, wrap random sections around a large curling iron, leaving the ends straight for a modern feel. A texturizing spray adds grip and separation. This cut looks great with a center part, which gives the waves a balanced, symmetrical shape.
Conclusion
These hairstyles for medium length hair prove that the mid-length cut is the most versatile length of all, from textured lobs and collarbone cuts to glossy finishes and soft layers. Medium hair gives you the freedom to wear it loose, tie it back, add waves, or go sleek, all without the weight of long hair. Save the styles you love, show them to your stylist, and talk through the length and layers that suit you best. If you want more lob inspiration, explore our 24 Collarbone Lob Haircuts That Are Trending and 21 Blunt Lob Ideas for a Bold Modern Look for even more ways to wear the cut. Your perfect mid-length look is waiting.
