80 Easy Shoulder Length Hairstyles for Every Hair Type

Shoulder-length hairstyles will eclipse beauty trends this year, with more and more girls and women embracing this haircut. Whether you’re looking for something classy or sassy, check out these shoulder-length hairstyles below to help you get started.

Shoulder-length haircuts can be styled straight, wavy, or curly. Here are some of the most popular shoulder-length and medium haircuts and styles:

• Layered bob: cut your hair into layers of different lengths, the shortest layers being above the shoulders.
• Shag: choppy layers and messy, textured look. Great for those of you that have wavy or curly hair.
• One-length bob: cut your hair to one length, usually above the shoulders. Wear it straight or with a bit of a wave.
• Beachy waves: create loose, tousled waves in your hair for a carefree, beachy look.
• Lobe-length layers: cut your hair so that the longest layers hit the lobes. This style adds volume and is great for those of you who have is great for those with fine hair.

These are just a couple of examples, but there are many other options for you. Just scroll through our list and you will find the right style that you are searching for!

1. Twisted Shoulder Length Hairstyle

We’re all for braids, but we know there isn’t always time for them. For a quick yet memorable style, this shoulder-length look is a great option.

Twist two thick strands on each side and secure them in the middle with a thin hair tie for a simple, elegant finish.

2. Back Braided Crown

If you have time for a quick braid, try a crown-like style at the back of your head. It’s simple to create and adds a soft, romantic touch.

It won’t take long, and the result will have you dazzling like a princess in a fairytale.

3. Messy Medium Length Hairstyle

There’s nothing quite as sexy as a woman who knows how to rock a messy medium-length hairstyle with an attitude. These shoulder-length hairstyles have a unique allure that few other styling ideas can compete with, as you can see. A natural look is perfect for any party that you want to attend.

4. Posh Spice Straight Cut for Medium Hair

Even though the Spice Girls’ era is long gone, the group still stands as 90s-style icons. Posh Spice, played by Victoria Beckham, proved how a statement hairstyle can last for decades.

Her look remains a great example of a timeless medium-length hairstyle that still feels chic today.

5. Half Top Knot

Another way to nail an effortless look is with a messy, half-top knot. This look takes less than two minutes to obtain. All you have to do is wrap half your medium-length hair in a loose ponytail pulled halfway through.

If you’re on the run but want to put a cute hairstyle together, then rock this half-up top knot. On this note, we’ll point out that half-up, half-down hairstyles are some of the most popular and practical ways to style hair when you’re on the go.

6. Cute Side Style

This vintage-inspired look can be worn in two main ways. On the one hand, you can go with the example in the photo above and twist just one side.

But, on the other hand, feel free to mirror the twist on the opposing side for a symmetrical outcome. This is a perfect summer hairstyle that you can try! Check out more hairstyles you can do during the fall season.

7. Simple Updo

We usually associate updos with fancy events and complicated styling. In reality, you can create a picture-perfect updo in just a few minutes.

Simply wrap your hair up and secure it with bobby pins in the right places for a quick, polished look.

8. Professional Hairstyle

If your job calls for a polished look, there are plenty of professional hairstyle options to choose from. For a corporate setting, this classic French twist is always a great choice.

It elegantly sweeps the hair away from your face and toward the back, creating a clean, refined finish.

9. Casual Hairstyle

Not in the mood for excessive styling or just want a natural, effortless look? Part your shoulder-length hair to the side and tuck one side neatly behind your ear.

Take two front strands and pin them back for a quick, easy style, and you’re good to go!

10. Classic Middle Part

Want to impress instantly? Create a middle part and straighten your hair using your preferred method for a sleek, polished finish.

Pair it with your favorite makeup or go all-natural, just make sure you wear the look with confidence.

11. Stacked Hairstyle

If you have naturally curly locks, you can experiment with various types of layering to get even more volume. For instance, this stacked layering option is perfect if you want big, shoulder-length hair. Loosen up your natural wavy hair and make sure to flex it.

12. Boho Tiara Style

Boho girls, we never forget you in our inspiration lists. This free-spirited style has a special place here, especially when paired with a dreamy metallic accessory.

Wear it fearlessly and let the look reflect your personality.

13. Bun with Bangs

Taylor Swift is often featured on best-dressed lists, and it’s easy to see why. She knows how to own every look, from outfits to signature hairstyles.

Take inspiration from her swept-up bun with straight bangs, a simple yet elegant style that’s sure to turn heads.

14. Bangs

This is another stylish way to wear medium-length hair with bangs. The look adds a touch of mystery while still feeling soft and flattering.

It works beautifully with all face shapes, making it a versatile, confidence-boosting style.

15. Braided Hairstyle

Braids are always an option regardless of whether your locks aren’t super long. To adapt them for shoulder-length hairstyles, go for a half-up, half-down approach. Instead of a traditional braid, try mixing a few techniques or layers.

16. Low-Knotted Ponytail

Love keeping things sweet and simple? A low ponytail is always a quick and easy option for shoulder-length hair.

Wrap two strands around the base to cover the hair tie and create a more polished, interesting finish.

17. Waterfall Braid for Thick Hair

A waterfall braid is a lovely way to accentuate your hair texture, whether wavy or straight. This example shows how two waterfall braids connect in the middle, flowing into soft curls.

The many types of braids are so much easier to do and play with if you want the prettiest medium-length hairstyles. For instance, this stylish waterfall braid can be worn at casual outings and fancy events alike.

18. Retro Bridal Hairstyle

Shoulder-length hairstyles for weddings are a sheer joy to behold. Experiment with big, loose curls and a statement piece for a retro touch. An example is this large pearl accessory pinned above the ear.

They say that beauty can be found in simplicity. If you’re getting ready for one of the most important days of your life, then searching for the perfect wedding updo is a must. Also, something as simple as a beautiful hairpin or hair accessory can be enough to make it shine even more.

19. Easy Hairstyle

Only have five minutes to get out the door? No worries—grab a hair tie and twist your hair into a quick half-up, half-down style.

Leave it slightly messy for a casual, charming look that comes together in no time.

20. Side Chignon

Whether you go for a side approach or directly down, chignons are an excellent way of accentuating your shoulder-length locks. In this photo, for instance, you can see how a casual side chignon mixes refinement with coolness.

21. Knotted Bun

Even though it might look complicated at first, a knotted bun is surprisingly easy to create. Start by tying your hair into a ponytail, then braid the ponytail.

To finish, wrap the braid around the base until you form a neat, stylish bun.

22. Low Bun & Braids

If you prefer a softer, low-key style, try a loose bun that rests at the back of your neck. It’s simple, relaxed, and easy to wear all day.

To add interest, include two or three braids flowing into the bun, like a fishtail or rope braid, for an elegant yet playful finish that works for both formal and casual looks.

23. Accessories

You’ve seen how a tiara can elevate shoulder-length styles, but what about other accessories? Sometimes, all it takes is a well-placed hairpin to make a look feel special.

A simple detail like this can create the hairstyle of your dreams without much effort.

24. Half Up Twisted Hairstyle

This example shows how you can branch out with half-up, half-down styles for shoulder-length hair. Instead of a bun or ponytail, try overlapping the strands and pinning them in place.

It creates a soft, unique look while keeping the style simple and elegant.

25. Front Braid

Another way to experiment with braids is by going against the grain. Instead of focusing on the back or sides, try working with the front.

Braid a few strands to frame your face beautifully and add a soft, flattering detail.

26. Teased Hairstyle for Thin Hair

Keep the messy shoulder-length hairstyles coming! This gorgeous look takes a handful of bobby pins, hairspray, and your limitless imagination to tease your locks however you’d like. The messy bun is, without a doubt, one of the hottest hairstyles of these recent years – and make no mistake about it.

One of the reasons why it is so appreciated is the fact that you can wear messy hair of all lengths and types. Above, admire a messy pony on medium-length locks.

27. Middle Part Bangs in a Wavy Hairstyle

For a laid-back vibe, consider keeping your styling to a minimum. You can part your hair down the middle, bangs and all, and tease it a bit until you get loose waves all around.

28. Careless Bun

This is easily the most effortless hairstyle on our list. Grab a hair tie, bend over and wrap your hair into the messiest bun you can think of. You’ll love the natural glam it provides.

29. Pin-Up Ponytail

If you’re fond of the golden age, you can use it as inspiration for your shoulder-length hairstyles. While, in essence, this is a simple ponytail, it has a few details that make it glamorous.

The teased top and back give an irresistible pin-up glow. Any classic ponytail can go from usual to glam with a bit of teasing. After tying up the hair, pull it a bit on the sides and fluff it on top. If you have bangs, pin them back and keep on teasing until you get all the volume you want.

30. Voluminous Curly Shoulder Length Haircut

Is your hair naturally curly? Don’t hesitate to show off your natural texture. A shoulder-length cut with layers will let your corkscrew curls bounce freely as you move.

The layers also help reduce bulk and cut down on styling time, making your routine easier.

31. Thick and Choppy

Thick hair is a blessing as much as it is a curse. While exploring complex hairstyles with thick strands might be hard, you can venture into edgy haircuts that fall flawlessly into place. This choppy long bob is the perfect example.

32. Shoulder Length Haircut for Black Women

Oh, Keri Hilson, how we adore your beauty choices. Thanks to her inspirational hairstyle, we have presented the R&B singer in other articles on our site. In this shoulder-length style, you can see how she opted for an inverted long bob with honey highlights.

33. Tiara Braid

If you don’t want to use hair accessories, you can turn your hair into one. Braiding can recreate the look of your favorite pieces in a fun, creative way.

Take this cute tiara-inspired braid as an example; it adds charm without needing any extras.

34. Prom Hairstyle for Shoulder Length Hair

In high school, prom is one of, if not the most significant, social events for girls. After finding the perfect dress and accessories, they have to find a hairstyle that is on point, too. So to shine on your special night, get inspired by this smooth and elegant updo, with loose strands on the side. This is a perfect prom hairstyle.

35. Headwrap Hairstyle

Headwraps are a beautiful way to express your personality and add life to your outfits. A colorful wrap can bring a bold, stylish touch to shoulder-length hair.

It’s an easy way to elevate your look while keeping things fun and unique.

36. Diagonal Waterfall Braid

Take your waterfall braid to the next level with a funky, creative twist. Instead of the usual horizontal style, try making it diagonal for a unique effect.

Start from one side at the top and braid at an angle until you reach the tips for a look that really stands out.

37. Classy Bob

Long bobs can be both fancy and edgy at the same time. A finely sculpted lob creates a red carpet–ready look without much effort.

You don’t even need extra styling; the clean cut alone makes a strong statement.

38. Black Hairstyle with Dreadlocks

Afro-textured locks look stunning at shoulder length, offering shape and movement while staying easy to manage. It’s a length that feels both natural and stylish.

If you want to embrace African-inspired styles, consider thin dreadlocks that rest comfortably against your shoulders for a beautiful, expressive look.

39. Double Dutch Braids

The double-braided look is one of the year’s most adorable hair trends, bringing back carefree 90s vibes in the best way. It’s a sweet, playful style that works for many occasions.

Double Dutch, French, or goddess braids are all options. Double Dutch braids will also look marvelous when styled in pigtails. They will give off a boho chic vibe that can be easily styled to look sporty or even elegant, depending on the occasion.

40. Wedding Hairstyle for Shoulder Length Hair

Prefer an elaborate updo for your wedding? Shoulder-length hair can still achieve a beautiful, detailed bun that feels special enough for the big day.

This style features softly curled tips and is finished with a sparkling crystal tiara to match your bridal jewelry.

41. Spiral Braided Bun

Another unique way to style your shoulder-length hair is with a spiral bun. Start with a French braid at the crown of your head and flow into a spiral that ends in a bun. It’s simpler than you think, and the results are breathtaking.

42. Haircut for Round Face

If the shape of your face is round, you know that finding the right haircut proves to be challenging. A long bob can solve all your issues if you have straight hair. This haircut is also brilliant for round-faced women with wavy and curly hair.

43. Pull Through Braid Faux Hawk

Mohawks are awesome, but how many women are willing to shave both sides of their heads indefinitely? You can reproduce the look with a pull-through braid faux hawk.

44. A-Line Blonde Bob

For more shape and movement in your hairstyle, turn your long bob into an angled A-line bob. This cut adds a modern, dynamic touch.

It’s shorter at the nape and gradually becomes longer toward the chin, creating a sleek, flattering silhouette.

45. Loose Fishtail Braid

Fishtail braids are one of the most beloved braiding techniques, no matter how old. As far as shoulder-length hairstyles are concerned, you can create a half-up fishtail braid that loosely falls apart toward the end. Then, add some hairspray to make sure it doesn’t fully unravel.

46. French Braided Ponytail

Give your ponytail a fresh new makeover by pairing it with a French braid. Start the braid from the top and let it flow into the ponytail.

The combination creates a chic, stylish impact while keeping your hair neatly in place.

47. Formal Hairstyle

Shoulder-length styles like these are perfect for formal occasions, from important meetings to weddings and black-tie events. They offer a polished, elegant appearance for any setting.

Consider working with a stylist to create the updo you’ve been dreaming of for the perfect finishing touch.

48. Quick Hairstyle

Another easy hairstyle for shoulder-length hair that won’t take up a lot of your time is this half-up twist. You must take two thick strands on each side and tie them in the middle. Voila!

49. Undercut and Casual Bun

If you have a rebellious personality and are not afraid to show it, dare to adopt an undercut. You can make it as subtle or flashy as you’d like, and afterwards, you can highlight it with a casual bun.

50. Bohemian Flowery Updo

Last but certainly not least, this heartwarming hairstyle brings together some of the sweetest details. A teased side braid pairs beautifully with loose strands in the front.

The finishing touch comes from pastel flowers placed at the back, adding a soft, romantic charm.

51. Face Framing Layers

Face-framing layers are always a great choice. They help lengthen the face and create a fresh, flattering look.

She kept her shoulder-length hair dark and natural, letting the simple, soft layers do all the work.

52. Curtain Bangs

Here is another shoulder-length haircut for women with a few longer layers added in. She is also wearing the fashionable curtain bangs here and curled them back just a bit. Adding in long layers helps to create texture, and it looks amazing. Straight bangs are often associated with medium-length hairstyles, but what about curtain bangs?

53. Pink Highlights on Medium Length Haircut

Shoulder-length hair is so fun to experiment with, especially when adding funky colors. She chose a bold hot pink shade with a white money piece in the front for contrast.

Style it with messy curls to show off the colors and create a cool, playful vibe.

54. Fresh Volume Haircut with Bangs

Next up is a fresh, voluminous haircut with soft wispy bangs. She kept the look sleek, straight, and super dark for a bold finish.

It’s a fabulous style for winter, especially when paired with darker outfits and tones.

55. Soft Hairstyle

Up next is another simple way to wear shoulder-length hair. She kept it easy with a soft side part and swept-over style.

Wear it straight for a clean, effortless finish you’ll love.

56. Auburn Hair

Auburn is one of the hottest hair colors, especially for fall. It’s a rich, warm tone that looks stunning on medium skin tones.

She kept her hair long and wispy, letting the natural texture shine and giving the style a soft, beautiful finish.

57. Warm Fall

Warm fall tones look beautiful on shoulder-length hair, adding depth and richness to the overall style. The shades create a cozy, seasonal vibe that stands out.

She paired the fresh color with micro bangs and loose waves, which help highlight the texture and make the look even more eye-catching.

58. Summer Cut

Next up is what we’re calling a perfect summer cut for shoulder-length hair. It features a simple, blunt cut with a middle part for a clean, easygoing look.

Wear it straight with a middle or side part, or pull it back into a ponytail on hot days for a quick, practical style.

59. Big Chop

Big chop haircuts come in many different styles and lengths. Here, she kept her hair right at the shoulder line with soft blonde highlights added for dimension.

Style it with waves or keep it straight, it’s a versatile look you can wear any way you like.

60. Shoulder Length Bob

Long bangs can reach all the way to the shoulders, just like they do here. The length creates a soft, face-framing effect that looks effortless.

Add a few long layers and curtain bangs, and you’ll have a balanced, stylish finish.

61. Shoulder Length Lob

Lobs are a popular choice for shoulder-length hair, offering a clean and modern look. She kept hers relaxed and straight with a simple side part for an easy finish.

You can curl the ends inward or outward to add a touch of volume and change up the style.

62. Copper Hair

Copper is one of the prettiest, trendiest hair colors to try. She kept her thick hair at shoulder length and styled it with soft, natural waves.

Add a bit of hairspray to hold the volume and shape, and make the style last.

63. Blonde Hairstyle

Every woman should try going blonde at least once to see if the blonde-hair fun is real. Here, she styled her fresh color with curled side bangs and a long inverted bob.

The combination gives the cut a playful, glamorous finish that stands out.

64. Soft Bob

Soft bobs can leave you looking and feeling beautiful with very little effort. She kept the style simple with a clean middle part, a few highlights, and soft waves.

The result is a natural, polished look that works for any occasion.

65. Wavy Hair

This next long bob is perfect for naturally wavy hair. She added just the right amount of soft waves and subtle highlights for a balanced look.

The result is a glamorous, effortless style that truly stands out.

66. Peekaboos

Peekaboo styles are a fresh and fun way to create something new. Keep most of your hair brown and add pops of pink underneath for a playful surprise.

Wear it straight, try a half-up, half-down look, or add spiral curls to show off the hidden color even more.

67. Cool Blonde Tone

Next up is a cool-toned blonde look for shoulder-length hair. She kept the base dark and added soft, cool blonde highlights for contrast.

Brush it back or style it messy to create a relaxed, modern finish you’ll love.

68. Ashier Blonde

Blonde shoulder-length hair is one of the most popular styles for women. She kept it simple with a clean middle part and a natural finish.

With this length, you can easily pull it into a ponytail or messy bun for a quick, everyday look.

69. Textured Bob

Textured hairstyles can give your hair a fresh new look with very little effort. She kept things simple with an inverted bob and wore it straight.

The cut alone adds movement and shape for a clean, modern finish.

70. Warm Orange Hair

Warm orange is the perfect hair color for fall, bringing a rich, cozy feel to your look. She paired the shade with dark roots and kept the length right at the shoulders.

Curl the ends under as shown to add shape and depth and make the color stand out even more.

71. Silver Blonde

Silver and blonde hair is such a striking combination. She kept her hair right at shoulder length and styled it soft and straight for a clean finish.

It’s a fresh, light look that works perfectly for summertime.

72. Pastel Pink Streaks

Sunset pink is a timeless color that combines girly vibes with a touch of fierceness. She kept her hair just above the shoulders and parted it down the middle for a simple, sleek look.

Add a few messy waves to bring out the vibrant pink and give it that effortless, chic finish.

73. Classic Bob

Classic bobs are a fun, timeless style that will have you looking like a Hollywood A-lister. She dyed her hair jet black and styled it super straight for a sleek, polished finish.

With a middle part and just the slightest swept-over style, it’s a chic and sophisticated look that’s absolutely stunning.

74. Shabby Hair

This short hairstyle is perfect for women with thick hair. She added face-framing layers and curled the edges away from the face, which helps to create a soft, flattering shape.

75. Dark Chocolate Hair

Next up is a rich chocolate-toned style with a few blonde highlights added for dimension. She included just the right amount of wispy layers, and the result looks soft and pretty.

If your hair doesn’t naturally curl outward, you can easily recreate the look with a curling iron or wand.

76. Layered and Swept Back Hairstyle

You can boost the movement and volume of your hair by adding layers. They work well on all hair types and also make styling much easier.

Just brush and blow-dry them back, then use a bit of hairspray to keep everything in place.

77. Medium Afro-Textured Hairstyle

Natural shoulder-length hair is always a joy to style. If you don’t want to go full afro, you can gently tame your curls and tie two small buns on top for a playful, easy look.

Afros are among the most stunning natural styles and work beautifully at any length. Embrace your texture, let your hair bounce freely, and enjoy a look that feels both bold and authentic.

78. Long Bob on Medium-Thick Hair

A long inverted bob is so pretty as a haircut that it rarely needs additional styling. Still, this subtle A-line cut also uses medium-length layering to add some extra volume and texture to this already great cut.

79. Medium Length Blonde Hairstyle

Creativity is key for anyone looking to sport unique medium-length hairstyles. For example, try combining elements from different styles, like a half-up, half-down look that features a braided center part ending in a top knot.

Even though the example may show longer hair, this style can easily be recreated on medium-length tresses as well.

80. Easy Medium Length Hairstyle

This hairstyle is so easy that it can be achieved in minutes. Simply loosely French braid the hair on top of the head and then, at about mid-level, tie all the hair in a high and pouffy ponytail.

Shoulder Length Hairstyles FAQs

To conclude, you can choose from numerous shoulder-length hairstyles that cater to all occasions and hair types. It doesn’t matter if your hair is curly, wavy, or straight – there are braids and buns galore that you can have endless fun with. As a final piece of advice, try to adapt your shoulder-length hairstyle to context to get the perfect look.