My bathroom vanity is littered with the latest skincare products. I have a collection of fragrances that’s slowly overtaking my apartment, and the number of makeup products I own is roughly comparable to that of a single Sephora aisle. I’m a self-confessed beauty addict, yet I almost never style my hair. Actually, now that I think about it, I almost never even apply product to my strands unless it’s a hair serum or some other tried-and-true favorite. Does that make me a bad beauty writer?
My medium-length hair is naturally wavy and dry, which is why I’ve historically strayed from heat tools. Instead, I wake up, comb through it, grab a hair elastic to sling around my wrist, and, yeah, that’s about it as far as any semblance of a hair routine goes. That’s all well and good most of the time, but lately I’ve been feeling like I’m stuck in a hair rut. I’m bored with my style (or lack thereof). In other words, I’m in major need of some good old hair inspiration—styles that I can turn to when I’m short on time and motivation in the early mornings. That’s why I combed the internet for the easiest hairstyles for medium-length hair. I found 12, and they’re good if I do say so myself. So scroll on to get inspired.
Volumized Low Pony
This low ponytail worn by Erica Lavelanet is a little bit ’60s and a little bit early 2000s (remember the notorious Bumpits styling accessory?). We’re obsessed with its effortless vibe, especially when it’s paired with fresh no-makeup makeup. To us, this is quite literally the perfect, easiest hairstyle to turn to in the hot, languid days of late summer.
Low Chignon
Is there anything more classic (not to mention chicer) than a low chignon? We don’t think so. This one, worn by Stephanie Liu Hjelmeseth of Honey and Silk, leaves just a couple of strands out to flutter in the breeze, giving it an undone and romantic feel.
Textured Topknot
Sure, it’s a far cry from the romantic chignon that we highlighted just before it, but Jasmine Sanders’s textured topknot is just as glorious, don’t you agree? It’s great for busy weekdays, lazy weekends, or the red carpet, as demonstrated here.
Half-Up Half-Down
Here’s yet another easy-to-replicate style from Hjelmeseth. We’ve talked about this style before, but we think it’s worth repeating. After all, it’s proof that a traditional half-up, half-down style only needs a modern hair accessory to become fresh and updated.
Messy Side Braid
Elizabeth Olsen’s side braid is all about volume. Start by parting your hair deep on one side before loosely plaiting your hair and securing it with an elastic. Don’t forget to add a little volumizing mousse along the way. We like Bumble and Bumble Full Form Volume Mousse($30) since it’s lightweight and non-sticky.
Double Buns
We’re hesitant to call these space buns since, to us, those are the tightly coiled glitter-covered ones we see at outdoor music festivals. These ones by Aaryn Christine are bigger and effortless. This style is so quick, so easy, and so cute.
Messy Bun With Bangs
Got bangs? Do as Sienna Miller did at this year’s amfAR Gala, and leave your fringe loose as you gather up the rest of your locks in a high messy bun. Then, take a ribbon or headband and tie it around the crown of your head, disguising your hair part.
Slicked-Back Ponytail
To us, there’s no single easier way to update a tired high ponytail than by slicking it back like Jamie Chung does here. It only makes sense considering glass hair is the newest and buzziest hair trend in Hollywood.
Accessorized Curls
We think natural curls need to be shown off more often, which is why we like seeing them front and center, like in this style by model Jamea. She proves that sometimes a patterned head scarf is all it takes to bump up a look and make your hair brunch-ready.
Breezy Braid
Margot Robbie’s traditional side braid was updated for the red carpet by adding a simple detail—that is, swooping the top part of her hair back to the crown of her head before braiding down. To us, it’s extremely reminiscent of Frozen‘s Queen Elsa, and we’re not mad at all. All it takes is some teasing and maybe a little hair spray for extra staying power. We like Living Proof’s Flex Shaping Spray ($26).
The Wet-Look Style
What, you don’t think wearing your hair all the way down can still be considered a style? Well, it is if it’s the wet look, as demonstrated here by Kourtney Kardashian. Achieving this glistening, tousled look is much easier than you think. For proof, check out our wet-look hair tutorial with Kardashian hairstylist Chris Appleton. Also be sure to see Kourtney Kardashian’s other top hairstyles.
Side-Swept Curls
Yara Shahidi’s curls may be braided back, but her look is easy enough to replicate sans braids if you’re short on time. Simply give your hair a deep side part, twist the hair back on one side, and secure with bobby pins. It will give the same super-chic effect.
