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 that we don’t always have time for them. So if you want to whip up a quick yet memorable shoulder-length hairstyle, try this one. Twist two thick strands on each side and use a thin hair tie to unite them in the middle.
2. Back Braided Crown
If you have time for a quick braid, try this crown-like style at the back of your head. It won’t take up much of your time, and you’ll dazzle 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 perfect for any party that you want to attend.
4. Posh Spice Straight Cut for Medium Hair
Even though the Spice Girls days are long gone, the five pop stars who rocked our worlds in the 90s still serve as style icons. Posh Spice, portrayed by Victoria Beckham, is the perfect example of how a statement hairstyle surpasses decades. Great medium hair-length hairstyle.
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 a perfect summer hairstyle that you can try! Check out more hairstyles you can do during the fall season.
7. Simple Updo
We typically associate updos with fancy events and complicated styling. However, you can get a picture-perfect updo in a matter of minutes. First, wrap your hair up and use bobby pins in all the right places.
8. Professional Hairstyle
If your job requires you to approach professional hairstyles, you have plenty of choices at hand. For a corporate environment, try out this French twist hairstyle that elegantly sweeps your hair from your face and to the back of your head.
9. Casual Hairstyle
Not in the mood for excessive styling, or do you want a natural look? Part your shoulder-length hair to the side and tuck the hair on that side behind your ear. After that, take two strands from the front and pin them back. You’re good to go!
10. Classic Middle Part
Want to impress instantly? Create a middle part and straighten your hair through the method of your choice. Then, apply your favorite makeup or go all-natural; make sure you sport your look confidently.
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 you natural wavy hair and make sure to flex it.
12. Boho Tiara Style
Boho gals, you know we never neglect you in our inspiration lists. This category of shoulder-length hairstyles has a special place in this article, complete with a dreamy metallic accessory. Sport it fearlessly.
13. Bun with Bangs
Taylor Swift is frequently found in best-dressed lists, and the reasons are more obvious. The beloved celebrity knows how to own everything she wears, from dresses to hairstyles. Get inspired by her swept-up bun look with straight bangs. A simple yet elegant style that will stun everybody. Try it out!
14. Bangs
This is yet another way to wear medium-length hair with bangs. The appealing hairstyle adds a bit of mystery to your overall look while completely flattering for all face shapes.
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? Low ponytails are readily available for shoulder-length strands at any moment. Cover the hair tie with two strands knotted to make yours more interesting.
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 until you have to be out the door? No worries, grab a hair tie and twist your way to the perfect half-up, half-down hairstyle. Leave it messy; it’s all part of the charming impact.
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 initially seem complex, a knotted bun is easy peasy. For starters, tie your hair in a ponytail. Afterward, braid the ponytail. Then, to finish it off, wrap the braided ponytail around until you get a bun.
22. Low Bun & Braids
If you prefer a low dose, you can try out a loose bun that rests at the back of your neck. To spice up the hairstyle, try out two or three braids that flow into the bun, i.e., fishtail braid and loose rope braid. This hairstyle is elegant enough for formal events but also playful so it’s suitable for casual outfits as well!
23. Accessories
You’ve already seen how a tiara can look with shoulder-length hairstyles, but what about other accessories? Sometimes all you need is a well-placed hairpin to get the look of your dreams.
24. Half Up Twisted Hairstyle
This example shows how you can branch out with half-up, half-down, and shoulder-length hairstyles. Instead of tying the top half in a bun or ponytail, you can overlap the strands and pin them in place.
25. Front Braid
Another way to play around with braids is by going against the grain. In other words, don’t focus on the back or sides. Instead, try braiding a few strands in the front to frame your face flatteringly.
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 hair styles 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 on 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 Lenght Haircut
Is your hair naturally curly? Then don’t hesitate to show it off. Get a shoulder-length hairstyle with layers to let your corkscrews bounce playfully as you walk. In addition, the layers help you cut styling time.
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 per se, then transform your hair into one! Even though we don’t mean this, you can recreate your favorite accessories by braiding your hair. Take this cute tiara braid, for example.
34. Prom Hairstyle for Shoulder Length Hair
In high school, prom is one if not the most significant social event 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 of expressing your exotic personality and bringing life to your outfits. A colorful headwrap like this one can complement your shoulder-length hair magnificently.
36. Diagonal Waterfall Braid
Take your waterfall braid to the next level for a funky approach to shoulder-length hairstyles. Instead of creating a horizontal braid like most girls, make yours diagonal. In other words, start from one side at the top and braid at an angle until you get to your tips.
37. Classy Bob
Long bobs can be just as fancy as they are edgy. Here, you can easily see how a finely-sculpted ‘lob’ makes you fit for a red carpet event. You don’t even have to bother with additional styling.
38. Black Hairstyle with Dreadlocks
Afro-textured locks look stunning when they’re cut shoulder-length. If you want to incorporate African hairstyles into your look, think about thin dreadlocks that rest comfortably against your shoulders.
39. Double Dutch Braids
The double braided look is one of the year’s most adorable hair trends. This hairstyle is not only super sweet but also reminiscent of the 90s and the carefree vibes associated with them. Double Dutch, French, or goddess braids are all options. Double Dutch braids will also look marvelous when styled in pigtails. They will give of 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? There are shoulder-length hairstyles that fall under this category too. This complex bun is curled at the tips and topped off with an eye-catching 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 dynamism to your hairstyle, turn your long bob into an angled one. Also known as an A-line bob, this hairstyle is shorter at your nape and continues longer towards your chin.
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 new makeover by combining it with a French braid. Begin your French braid from the top and let it unwrap in your ponytail for a chic impact.
47. Formal Hairstyle
Shoulder-length hairstyles like these are appropriate for all sorts of formal events, from an important meeting at work to a black-tie event or wedding. Consider working with a stylist to get the updo you have longed for.
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 afterward, you can highlight it with a casual bun.
50. Bohemian Flowery Updo
Last but certainly not least, this heart-warming hairstyle combines some of the sweetest elements. From a teased side braid to loose locks in the front, the icing on the cake is provided by pastel flowers sprinkled at the back.
51. Face Framing Layers
Face-framing layers are always a good idea. They help to lengthen your face and leave you looking fresh and beautiful. Here she kept her shoulder-length dark and natural and it looks amazing.
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 Lenght Haircut
Shoulder-length hair is so much fun to play around with and add in funky colors as she has done here. She went with a hot pink color with a white money piece in the front. Style it with messy curls and you are going to look so cool.
54. Fresh Volume Haircut with Bangs
Next up is this fresh volume haircut with wispy bangs. Here she went with a super dark vibe and kept it sleek and straight. This is a fabulous hairstyle to wear during the winter when you are wearing darker tones.
55. Soft Hairstyle
Up next is another way to wear your shoulder-length hair. She has kept her style super simple with a side part and a swept-over style. Keep it straight and you are going to love your new hairstyle.
56. Auburn Hair
Auburn is one of the hottest hair colors to wear for women in 2022. It is a beautiful fall tone and would look so amazing on women with a medium skin tone. In the photo above she has kept her hair long and wispy and it looks beautiful.
57. Warm Fall
Warm fall tones look amazing on women with shoulder-length hair. In the photo above she has styled her freshly colored hair with micro bangs and loose waves and it looks amazing.
58. Summer Cut
Next up is what we are going a summer cut for shoulder-length hair. This is a simple style with a blunt cut and a middle part. You can style it straight with a middle or side part, or on those hot summer days, you can even pull it back into a pony.
59. Big Chop
Big chop haircuts come in all different styles and cuts. Here she has kept her hair styled right at the shoulder line with a few blonde highlights added to it. Style it with waves or keep it straight, it is completely up to you.
60. Shoulder Lenght Bob
Long bangs can reach down to the shoulder, just as they are here. Be sure to add in a few long layers and curtain bangs and you are all set.
61. Shoulder Length Lob
Lobs are another popular way to wear your hair at shoulder-length. In the look above she has kept her hair relaxed and straightened with a simple side part. You could always curl the edges out or in to add a bit of volume.
62. Copper Hair
Copper is one of the prettiest and trendiest hair colors to try. Here she has styled her thick hair right at shoulder length and kept the hair wavy. Be sure to add plenty of hairspray to get the most out of this style.
63. Blonde Hairstyle
All women should go blonde at least once in their life, to see if they do have more fun. Here she has styled her fresh blonde hair with curled side bangs and a long inverted bob.
64. Soft Bob
Soft bobs will leave you looking and feeling so beautiful. Here she has kept her style so simple with a middle part, a few highlights, and a few waves and it looks amazing.
65. Wavy Hair
This next long bob hairstyle would be perfect for women with naturally wavy hair. In the photo above she added in the right amount of wave and highlight and she looks like a million bucks.
66. Peekaboos
Peekaboo hairstyles are always a fresh and fun way to create a brand-new style. To get the style in the photo above keep most of the hair brown and add a few pops of pink underneath. They kept it straight but you could always go with a half-up half-down style or try spiral curls to help show off your new color.
67. Cool Blonde Tone
Next up is this cool-tone blonde look for shoulder-length hair. Here she has kept the base of her hair dark with a few cool-blonde highlights added in. Brush it all back or style it messy and you are going to love your new look.
68. Ashier Blonde
Blonde shoulder-length hair is one of the most popular hairstyles for women. She has kept her hair parted right down the middle and left it simple and natural. You could always throw your hair up in a pony or messy bun with this length too.
69. Textured Bob
Textured hairstyles will give your hair a brand-new look with very manual effort. In the photo above she kept her style simple with an inverted bob and left it straight.
70. Warm Orange Hair
Warm orange hair color is the perfect tone for fall. Here she is wearing her warm orange hair color with dark roots and they left it right at shoulder length. Try curling it under as she has done here and you are going to love your new orange hairstyle.
71. Silver Blonde
Silver and blonde hair is such a vibe. Here she has left her hair right around the shoulders and kept it soft and straight. This is a perfect cut and color for summertime.
72. Pastel Pink Streaks
Sunset pink is one of those colors that will always be around because it is girly and so fierce. In the look above she has kept her hair right above the shoulders and parted it down the middle. Add in a few messy waves to show off your fresh pink color and you are all set.
73. Classic Bob
Classic bobs are such a fun way to style your hair, they will leave you looking like a Hollywood a-lister. In the photo above she dyed her hair jet black and styled it super straight. She went with a middle part with the slightest swept-over style and it looks amazing.
74. Shabby Hair
This next short hairstyle would look amazing on women who have thick hair. In the photo above she added in face framing layers with the edges curled away from the face.
75. Dark Chocolate Hair
Next up is a chocolate look with a few blonde highlights added. She has also added a perfect amount of wispy layers and it looks so pretty. If your hair does not naturally curl out you can achieve this style with a curling iron or wand.
76. Layered and Swept Back Hairstyle
You can always boost the dynamism of your hair by also cutting in some layers. Layering adds volume to all types of hair and can also make it easier to style the locks. All you have to do is to brush and blow-dry them back. Consider using a bit of hairspray to keep them 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 out afro, then tame your curls a bit and tie two small buns on top. Afros are some of the most stunning natural hairstyles African-American women can opt for no matter if they have long or short hair. Embrace your roots with this gorgeous hairstyle and let your hair bounce around and be free!
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 to anyone looking to sport unique medium length hairstyles. For example, consider combining elements from different styles, such as the half up half down look above that also incorporates a braided center part that ends in a top knot. While the hair above is long, this hairstyle can be recreated on medium-length tresses as well.
80. Easy Medium Length Hairstyle
This hairstyle is so easy, 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 Lenght Hairstyles FAQs
Yes, a shoulder-length haircut with layers will definitely add volume to your hair. Because the layers are cut at different lengths, will create the illusion of volume, especially on thin or fine hair.
A shoulder-length haircut could look great on any face shape. The secret is in playing with the bangs!
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.
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Lorene Kendall is a professional hairdresser who has been around in the industry for quite some time. She has traveled to different countries and cities because of her undeniable passion for styling. Her creativity and eyes for fashion are what make her stand out the most. With her talent, she provides service that will beautifully translate what her clients want into actual art.
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