Need the hairstyle to rock medium length hair in 2026? No matter what you are heading to do formal, an outing day or just want to have a fresh appearance, there are a great plethora of styles available. These hairstyles are suitable, as there are always chic braids and glamorous waves to choose. And now we will explore some of the best trends of the year, and the styles are classy, comfortable and have a fair share of personality.
Effortlessly Elegant Braided Crown with Loose Waves
It is a smart mix of sophistication and a fun atmosphere, which makes this hairstyle a staple in 2026 with medium-length hair. The braided crown would go round the entire head, and then naturally blends with soft waves cascading down the side. The crown braid gives it a bohemian touch and the loose waves that are beachy make it informal but still classy. It is the best option when you want to get a dress that suits both office wear and a night out and with a little effort, it suits well at the office and at the same time when you are out with friends in the evening.
This style takes some care particularly to the waves. To ensure the waves are not destroyed, a heat protectant must be used before styling them. To hold the braids together without frizzing, I would suggest using a low weight styling gel such as Ouai Texturizing Hair Spray. It puts down without hair-loading. Achieving a softness of those curls at the beach also could be maintained with regular moisturising treatments.
I personally like this appearance because of its flexibility. It is not just simple to do but also it looks so fashionable. This combination of the braids and waves suits any occasion whether you are at the wedding or having a quiet coffee date. It is one of those hairstyles that appear complicated but are extremely easy to wear.
Bold Double Braids with a Retro Twist
You want something that will combine both the youthful power and the statement making style that is bold, then this is what you want in a double braid style. The braids are neat and clear and they begin at the roots and fall into two buns at the top of the head. The hair is smooth, and it has a sort of retro feel to it, as though it was in the 90s but has been brought into the present. It is a hairstyle that is conspicuous and can be worn every day and in nearly all occasions, whether it is at school, an informal outing or even a slightly formal event.
To maintain, one should ensure that the braids are well maintained and tight, in case one wants to keep them intact during the day. Styling gel or an easyweight mousse is helpful to maintain the flyaway Hair and also make the braids sleek. My favorite is Bumble and Bumble Grooming Cream, which provides a comfortable and loose grip and does not become sticky.
The most important thing I love about this style is that it can be changed to suit any mood. You can go the extra mile and add some hair color at the ends, in case you want to make it look even more impressive. It is entertaining, different and modernizes the classic braids into something even better.
Textured Waves with Braids for Added Flair
To achieve a medium length 2026 hairstyle, there is nothing that is more scream of effortless grace than textured waves with braids. The style is a mixture of non-energetic beachy waves and a light braid that is weaved into the hair, so that you will have the volume and texture without much effort on these days. It is perfect when you are going on a casual date or even more of a formal event and it is, say, summer and you need to wear something that is easy to maintain but looks expensive.
Texturizing sprays are miraculous in attaining this appearance such as the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. It makes the hair plump and retains the waves without the stickiness usually authorized by the hairsprays. You also want to make sure you moisturize your hair, so it will be smooth and shiny, so add a leave-in conditioner prior to styling.
It is one of my favourite styles when I need a fresh and, at the same time, timeless appearance. It is childish and rather fashionable and the braids give the texture of the waves a light boost. It is a casual relaxed style that can be used in virtually any circumstance, be it to school or a rendezvous with friends.
Playful Half-Up Braids with Loose Curls
This hairstyle is both fun and flirtatious, but with a sense of sophistication, thus is suitable in 2026 to middle-length hair. The half-up braids are very cute, youthful and the remaining strands fall into curly strands providing volume and texture. It is this contrast of the structured braids and soft curls that make this hairstyle so unique. It suits well in school, casual outings or even during the low-key wedding outfit.
To maintain this style, apply lightly a mousse to make the curls soft without being too hard. An addition of curl cream can also be used in order to make the waves appear bouncy. I would also suggest DevaCurl SuperCream to be used in the curls, since it is made to maintain everything in place and without frizz.
I have used this appearance many times in my life, and I am always amazed that it can be so versatile. It is a half-up, half-down twist with curls, which is relatively casual and works best in summer but can be styled up to a more formal event.
Sleek Braids with a Touch of Glam
Smooth braids would be your savior when you need something more refined. This style has a clean line braid, which flows easily down the back accompanied with a smooth finish to show the natural shine of medium length hair. It is stylish, elegant and ideal to wear during weddings or formalities as it gives one that naturally glamorous appearance.
To ensure smooth braid, it is important that the hair is smooth. This will be assisted by a straightening serum such as Kerastase Discipline Fluidissime which reduces frizz and gives it a nice shine. Moreover, you should make sure that your hair is hydrated and conditioned to prevent the appearance of the braid – it should not seem too stiff or dry.
I have witnessed such an expression on numerous individuals at weddings and I like the fact that such a simplistic style is balanced by the glamour of the finish. It is classy without being too sophisticated and the ideal formal hairstyle.
Stylish Box Braids with Blonde Highlights
This is a daring style with medium length box braids, perfected and blonde highlights added to give the style a fun and catchy appearance. The braids are clean, crisp, and outlined giving out a cool and modern atmosphere. The highlights provide richness and sensations to the hair and make it stand out in the sun. This hairdo is very suitable in summer, because it keeps your hair in a nice and orderly manner, and it is apparently stylish as well. You can wear it to a casual party or a semi-formal party since it gives you the edge as a hairstyle that suits anyone.
Box braids are a bit of work to manage, particularly to ensure they are made to look fresh. I would suggest a nourishing oil such as Jamaican Black Castor Oil to maintain a healthy scalp and scalp looking smooth with the braids. It is also important to make sure that your hair is moisturized to prevent drying. Moreover, box braids are also not high-maintenance, but they do require a touch-up every now and then, and yes, not to mention your hair.
Personally, I am a great lover of this fashion, as it is ideal in hectic days. The braids are an excellent method of keeping the look cool with minimal fuss. And the blonde highlights? They simply give the entire atmosphere an uplift and it becomes fashionable and eternal.
Glamorous Vintage Waves with a Modern Twist
Stunning hairstyle is about sophistication and glamour represent with soft waves vintage-flavored with a new shiny finish. The deep part on the side also provides volume to the hair and the waves are flowing softly into the ends giving it a luxurious and polished appearance. Wearable to any formal occasion, this hairstyle is as smooth as it can get, which is great at a wedding, red-carpet or any special occasion when you want to look like old Hollywood only to have a modern touch.
In order to maintain the appearance of smooth and voluminous waves, a good heat protectant should be applied before styling. One of the products that can be used to add the body and prevent frizz is Living Proof Full Thickening Mousse. Actually, it is advisable to use a light hairspray to keep the waves in place during the day.
It is one of my favourite outfits in case of a formal occasion. It is all about appearing professional without being too clichéd. I have worn it to both weddings and evening galas and it is never too stiff yet always feels glamorous. Also, it can be combined with a bold lip!
Timeless Retro Waves with Statement Accessories
This hair style is a retro waves to the number of centuries with a new look. The waves are tender and massive, gracefully encircling the face. The styling accessories such as pearl earrings and a smooth headband are added to elevate the appearance to another level. It will be the ideal hair style to those that want to have a touch of vintage but with a modern touch. Perfectly suited to a formal occasion, such as, a wedding or a gala, this garment is elegant and not very theatrical.
I would suggest having a curling iron that would resemble the style of the wave to maintain these retro waves. The barrel size would keep the waves in place. Once the hair has been styled, use a light texturizing spray to make the waves look better. Furthermore, wash out all the strands of frizz with a serum, such as Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum, so that everything is slick and under control.
Whenever I have my hair done in such a manner, I think I am coming out of a glamorous movie. It is traditional but fits with the current trends, particularly the accessories. It is suitable on date night out to the red carpet and the waves remain in place throughout the day.
Elegant Braided Updo with Intricate Detailing
Such an advanced braided hairdo will be perfect in a high-end event in 2026. The hair is tightly braided into a French braid at the top head, which flows smoothly into a low bun, which is neatly done. Complex elaboration on the nape provides a sense of elegance, and the whole style is refined and sophisticated. It is an ageless appearance that suits a wedding or any other formal event where one has to look good but not too good.
In this updo, make sure that you have a good, but not stiff, hairspray that can hold the braids and the bun in place without making it be stiff. L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray is a great product to test it provides hold but it does not spoil the shine. Constant deep conditioning will maintain the hair moist, particularly when it has been colored.
It is a wonderful dress to use on a formal occasion such as a wedding or black-tie dinner. I myself have worn it in a couple of weddings, and it always attracts attention. The work of the braid and the tidiness of the bun make it look glam and not garish.
Chic Modern Bob with Soft Waves
To achieve an ideal balance between stylish and effortless in 2026, a cool and sleek bob, with a few gentle waves, is a very nice compromise that will be a medium length hairstyle. The bob is trimmed to a flattering length slightly above the shoulders and adorned with soft flowing waves to make it move and be felt. The hairstyle is also ideal to anyone that prefers to add volume to his or her hair without having to contend with a long length of hair. Wave toil is another form of sophistication and it does not overload the appearance of the look, yet, it remains childish.
In order to achieve the ideal waves, a curling iron with a medium barrel with the curl being opposite the face should be used. Top it by a sea salt spray such as Ouai Wave Spray to give it a more natural texture. To get the shine and smoothness, use a little light-holding styling cream.
Soft Waves with Bright Blonde Highlights
This is the most effortless chic hairstyle. The waves on the face are soft and voluminous, which contributes to the hair having a dynamic and flowing appearance. It has a fresh sun-kisses look in bright since blonde highlights have been added that makes the waves sparkly and gives the style depth. It is an ideal 2026 hairstyle on medium-length hair that is very relaxed and at the same time coaxed. This is a style that fits perfectly on casual outings, parties or even on more relaxed weddings, and it exudes youthful and modern all-in-one style.
To ensure this style appears to be perfect, apply a replenishing leave-in conditioner to keep the shine and moisture in the waves. The product that I would recommend is Oribe Supershine Light Moisturizing Cream because it is soft and controls the frizz. A salt spray can be used to make things firmer and should be finished with a lightweight hairspray that will fix everything in place without much crunch.
The best thing about this appearance is that it can be worn in a simple or fancy way. Regardless of the occasion, be it a brunch or a wedding, these waves will always make one appear casually dressed up. It is a casual everyday, keep it in your back pocket kind of style when you are in the mood to look relaxed and yet beautiful at the same time.
Glamorous Retro Waves with a Bold Look
It is a classic hairstyle with a modern twist which is vintage inspired. The waves are carefully cut and styled in soft sculpted shapes to frame the face and the sleek side part makes the hair look deep. This appearance is unique due to the use of the platinum blonde color that is elegant and classical in its beautiful appearance. It can be a gala, a photoshoot, or a lavish night in, but, in either case, this style will make people look and make you feel like an old-Hollywood.
A round brush coupled with a medium heat amount of a blow-dryer is to be used to make the curls as smooth as possible in order to make the waves look polished. In order to keep your hair shiny, use a smoothing gel or serum such as Kerastase Elixir Ultime, that will prevent that perfect, shiny finish as well.
I love this hairstyle to its untainted grace. Something so sophisticated with these soft and vintage waves that make you feel like a star. It would be ideal at any official event where you would want to shine in a classy fashion. This is an impressive style that will not be forgotten whether it is a wedding or special dinner.
Edgy Textured Bob with a Bold Finish
This textured bob has an easy cool impression. The hair is styled in a fashionable, chin-length bob in gentle, dishevelled waves that make it have that just out of bed look. Platinum blonde color gives this style an edgy and modern feel and the tousled texture brings volume and movement to this style. It is the ideal hairstyle to those who have a taste of rock-and-roll and at the same time upscale style.
To maintain this hairstyle, texturizing sprays which are Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray are useful to maintain its waves bouncy and lively. A dry shampoo would also be of use to make the hair have more volume and texture without making it too stiff. Most of these oils are very light and seem to add a lot of shine when a little bit of argan oil is applied to the hair without it becoming stalem stuck.
I consider this bob one of the most diverse cuts. It is new, cool and not hard to keep. Also it is a style of hair which can be dressed up or down with regard to your mood. This bob always seems to be the right complement whether I am wearing a band tee or a fancy dress.
Sophisticated Waves with Rich Color Accents
It is a sophisticated but daring version of medium-length hair that is provided with soft waves, which are a bit more organized. The caramel highlight on the rich brown base is very depth-creating and the waves shine. This high-end appearance is good in the cases of people who want to introduce a certain luxury into their everyday life or official occasions. The movement has been given by the waves, and the color gradient has given it a smooth and creamy finish ideal during evening event or a fancy dinner.
In order to have the hair looking rich and vibrant, I would recommend that a sulfate free shampoo and conditioner be used to retain the color. To style, follow the steps of a curling iron with the large-barrel to have the ideal soft wave. Separate the hair with a fake wedding ring and finish the appearance by applying some light hairspray to fluff and maintain the volume of the cartoon rotary hairstyle all day long.
This is my favorite appearance when it comes to any semi-formal event. It is smooth, glamorous and not difficult to keep. Whenever I am out on a fancy date or I am at a wedding, I feel that these waves are making me look better than I have worked, and I like that.
Casual and Chic Curled Ponytail
This curled ponytail is a great choice to have a more relaxed, though professional appearance. The voluminous curls are left loose and piled in the high ponytail, which produces a dynamic and fresh appearance full of playfulness and chic. The warm blonde is a natural glow colour and is best worn during summer or when you just need to feel light and free and in the fashion. It is the hair style that you can wear to brunch or any other chance that involves a casual get-together and you can dress up with the correct accessories.
Styling requires a lightweight mousse to be applied first to achieve a voluminous look of the curls. Once the curls have been curled, apply a hairspray which has a flexible-hold so that the curls can hold their shape without being too stiff. The ponytail can also be shined by applying serum which will render it smooth and shiny.
Chic Messy Pigtails for a Fun Look
The hairstyle in this case is a casual upscale version of the pigtails, fancied to the latter with a casual contemporary style. The medium hair is divided into two high pigtails, which gives a witty touch to a traditional style. The texture and natural waves of the hair creates a careless and purposeful appearance that is ideal to a person who wants to have some fun with their hair and still make it look fashionable. The hairstyle is brought forward with the help of the delicate blonde highlights. Combined with a plain white long-sleeve crop top and high-waisted jeans, this outfit is incredibly youthful in its energy – perfect to go on a date or spend the day with friends.
This type of medium-length hair is also easy to care about and can be sculpted within a short period of time to attend different events. This appearance is more than just fresh and bouncy so to maintain this appearance I would suggest a texturizing spray such as Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray that gives your pigtails just the right level of volume and grit without making the hair heavy. With finer hair, a bit of dry shampoo can also work towards giving texture and also absorbing too much oil.
I find the pigtails so laid back and cool. It is a type of style which is easy to wear and at the same time cool and can be simply made at home. The trick here is that the hair should be unkempt in that I awoke like this fashion. A cute headband would be a nice addition as well!
Simple Braids for a Relaxed Vibe
This is a plain but fashionable style that is just appropriate in school, a casual day out or a relaxing weekend. The hairstyle consists of two loose braids, which are well brought down on each side of the head, with the hair cut in between. The braids serve to add the texture and volume, and the general impression is quite relaxed yet still elegant. The hair is smooth and natural blonde hair with darker roots that adds to the simplicity and ease of the appearance. It looks so good with a casual off-shoulder sweatshirt, it looks fresh and easy-going.
This hairstyle is very easy to maintain. A lightweight styling cream would be the advice I would give in order to keep the braids in order and eliminate any flyaways. One such product would be the Ouai Hair Cream that would serve to give your hair a certain shape, but not make it too firm and hard. These types of braids are great since they can last all day and they are the best to use as a low maintenance way of style.
Personally, I am fond of this style due to its versatility as it is cute and simple, however, it may be dressed up or down. Wear a hoodie to look casual or wear it with a stylish dress to look more stylish. It is a hairstyle one would resort to when she needs to have something comfortable, yet fashionable.
Soft Curls for Effortless Elegance
The hairstyle is soft and romantic and it does not seem too formal. The hair is softly turned so as to make loose, bouncy waves that naturally cascade down the back. The shade of the light brown is rich and warm, and the ends of the hair turn to a beautiful caramel ombré and adds depth and motion to it. The hair has a half-up half-down style, with subtle twists that make hair look presentable without taking away curls. The hair would be an excellent style in the wedding, prom or any other occasion that you wish to appear graceful without any excessive work.
In these types of curls, a light mousse or a curling cream is important in making the curls bouncy. I would suggest using the Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream which can be applied to your natural curls and make them soft and frizz-free. Once the hair is styled, then apply a light hairspray to keep the curls in place but not too hard.
Soft curls specifically appeal to me since I like how they present a person as casually dressed. They are not so expensive to maintain as other types, and they can be worn in almost all occasions. The caramel accents in this fashion actually bring the appearance higher, making the curls shining beautifully.
Trendy Half-Up with a Touch of Volume
It is a medium length hairstyle that is an ideal combination of edgy and classy. The hair is divided in the centre and arranged in a large half-up half- down. The upper part of the hair is pulled back and attached, whilst the lower is left loose with few natural and slightly dishevelled waves. The darker roots are replaced with honey-blonde gradient, and the result is an impressive contrast. The features are enclosed by the soft layers that extend around the face giving it movement and depth to the entire appearance. It is a multifunctional style that is easy to wear during the day and night.
In order to get this half-up look that is so voluminous, I would recommend a root lifting spray or mousse. Such a product as Living Proof Full Thickening Mousse will aid in providing the hair with the bulk at the top without adding weight. It can also be curled at the ends using a curling iron or a straightener to improve the texture.
It is such a flattering half-up style on medium length hair, it makes you have that natural but sleek appearance without having to work hard. It is perfect when you have to have a hairstyle that is not that posed but makes a statement.
Playful Double Braided Buns
These are double braids which go hand in hand with buns in this cute and fashionable hairstyle when you want to feel funky fabulous. The hair is separated into two parts and the parts are tightly braided and finally twisted into a cute little bun. The dress is well-groomed and informal and the hair is long and straight with a slight wave that gives it volume and movement. The general atmosphere is young and easy going, which could be the right choice during a simple day out or even during a fun-filled festival appearance. The dress itself is plain but sleek, a comfy sweater is available to suit the mood.
In this appearance, everything is about what to do with the braids so that they are smooth and secure. I suggest using a good-strong hold hairspray, such as, Kenra Volume Spray, so that your braids do not feel stiff. A small spray of texturizing spray can also be used to add more volume to the buns and make them look their fuller.
Elegant Braided Ponytail with Soft Waves
This is a very beautiful hairstyle that balances between the stylishness and the casual one. The hair is also styled in a fancy side braid which runs along the crown to the back of the neck and flows quite well into loose and soft curls that are cascading at the back. The gentle brunette shade of the hair with a slight shine gives it a soft, but sleek appearance. The waves are clear and do not seem to be tight thus providing a natural and relaxed feel. It is a flexible dress at all events such as on a school day, a free day at the office or a casual party.
This style is not hard to keep up with in the event you wish to have up-to-date hair and oily hair. In order to hold the braid in place and to make the waves remain soft, I would suggest to use a light hairspray such as L’Oréal Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold. It gathers it in one but does not leave the hair sticky or heavy. In the case of waves, I would recommend soft sea salt spray or the light mousse to add some texture to the waves, but not too crunchy.
I have always liked the fact that this hairstyle just blends the high-fashion and casual. It is one of the styles that leave you looking good without being too formal. And, speaking of which, it looks fabulous with any type of clothing, a casual tee to a dressier one.
Classic Braids with Voluminous Curls
This hairdo is a combination of boho-chic and classical beauty where two well-crafted braids are present. The braids beginning at the crown are well worked and tightly woven, creating some piqueroity and contrast to the careless, bulky curls running down. The golden brown hair is also very shiny due to the natural waves and makes it lush and textured. This hairstyle will do miracles on any given day whether it is a simple day at school or something serious such as a wedding date or the prom. The entire appearance is harmonized and easily attractive.
To maintain this appearance I would suggest applying a curl cream such as Ouai Wave Spray to provide texture because it gives the hair its natural curls and makes it soft and light. A good texturizing product will ensure that the braids do not get loose. To ensure any additional hold, spray on top with a spray on hairspray, like Oribe Superfine Hair Spray, that will not stiffen the curls or the braids, but will keep them in place.
