Ready to refresh your look with a fresh, manageable style? Medium short haircuts for women are taking over salons everywhere, and it’s easy to see why.
These cuts hit the sweet spot between dramatic pixies and high-maintenance long locks, giving you plenty of styling options without the daily hassle.
If you want to add volume, frame your face beautifully, or simply spend less time on your hair each morning, medium short haircuts offer the perfect solution.
Here are the best medium-short cuts that’ll have you running to book your next salon appointment.
What Counts as Medium to Short Hair?
Medium to short hair falls somewhere between a classic bob and a pixie cut. Think of hair length as a spectrum: long hair flows past your shoulders, while a lob grazes them.
Medium-short styles typically hit between your chin and shoulders, offering more freedom than longer locks but more styling options than ultra-short crops.
A pixie sits at the shortest end with its close-cropped silhouette. This in-between length hits the sweet spot for many women because it’s incredibly adaptable and easy to manage.
You can still pull off updos and braids when you want, but daily styling takes just minutes. It’s the perfect compromise between dramatic short cuts and high-maintenance long hair.
Medium-Short Haircuts for Women
Medium-short hairstyles come in dozens of variations, each with its own personality and styling needs. If you prefer sleek and polished or textured and tousled, there’s a medium-short haircut that fits your lifestyle.
1. Blunt Lob
The blunt lob is a shoulder-length haircut with all the hair cut to the same length. It doesn’t have layers, so it looks clean and sharp. This style works best on straight or slightly wavy hair. The blunt lob is longer than a blunt bob, which is usually cut to chin length.
It gives a smooth, full look that frames the face nicely. The blunt lob is easy to style at home with a flat iron or blow dryer. If you want something simple that still looks fresh, this is a great choice.
2. Textured/Wavy Lob with Curtain Bangs
This haircut combines soft waves with long, face-framing curtain bangs. The wavy lob adds body and movement, while the bangs create a flattering, balanced look.
It suits many face shapes and is relatively low-maintenance. Style it with a curling iron for defined waves, or leave it natural if your hair is already wavy. This is a great option if you want a fresh, trendy look without going too short.
3. A-Line/Angled/Graduated Bob
The A-line bob is shorter in the back and a bit longer in the front. This shape makes the haircut look fuller and adds style without much effort. It works well on different hair types, especially if your hair is straight or slightly wavy.
The longer front pieces help frame the face. You can wear it smooth or with soft waves. It’s a good pick if you want a bob that looks neat but still has some edge.
4. Razored Bob
Arazored bob is a bob cut using a razor instead of scissors. This gives the ends a soft, feathered look and removes bulk from thick hair. It’s perfect if you like a messy or undone style that still looks cool.
The razor adds texture, making the hair feel light and easy to move. It works best on straight to wavy hair and doesn’t need too much styling. Just a bit of product gives it a lived-in, stylish finish.
5. Asymmetrical Bob
An asymmetrical bob is when one side of your hair is longer than the other. This cut adds a bold twist to the classic bob. It works best with straight or slightly wavy hair and helps frame the face in a fun, interesting way.
You don’t need to do much to style it – a quick blow-dry or flat iron works well. If you want something that stands out but is still easy to manage, this bob is a great option.
6. Bob with Micro Bangs
This bob has very short bangs, called micro bangs, that sit well above the eyebrows. It gives a neat and sharp look, perfect for someone who wants something different.
The rest of the hair is cut in a classic bob style, usually ending around the chin. This haircut works well with straight or slightly wavy hair. Micro bangs draw attention to your eyes and eyebrows and add a fun twist to a regular bob.
7. Bob with Blunt Bangs
This style pairs a chin-length bob with full, straight-across bangs. The bangs are cut thick and sit just above the eyes. This haircut is best for people with straight or thick hair.
It gives the face a nice frame and can help make the forehead look smaller. You can wear it flat or with a little wave for texture. This cut is easy to keep in shape with regular trims and a quick styling routine.
8. Curly Bob
A curly bob is a short haircut that works with natural curls. The length is usually around the chin or just below. Layers may be added to help the curls fall nicely and give the style more shape.
This cut helps bring out the bounce in your curls and keeps them from getting too heavy. It’s a good choice if you want your curls to stand out while still having a cut that’s not hard to take care of.
9. Bob with Undercut
This style looks like a regular bob from the front, but the back is trimmed much shorter. The undercut or nape fade means the hair near the neck is shaved or buzzed.
It’s a bold haircut that feels lighter and cooler, especially in warm weather. You can keep the top sleek or add waves for texture. It’s great if you want a bob with a hidden twist that shows when your hair moves or is tied up.
10. Shag with Fringe
A shag with fringe is a layered haircut with a messy, textured look and bangs at the front. The fringe is soft and usually falls across the forehead.
This style adds volume and suits most hair types, especially fine or thin hair. Layers create movement and a casual look. Ideal for low-maintenance, stylish hair with little effort.
11. Wavy Short Shag
The wavy short shag is a layered haircut designed to work with natural waves. The layers are cut in different lengths, which helps add body and shape to the hair.
This cut is great for people who want a carefree style with soft waves that look natural. It works best on hair that is wavy or slightly curly. Styling can be quick with just a little sea salt spray or air drying for a relaxed look.
12. Curly Short Shag
A curly short shag uses lots of layers to make curly hair light and full of life. The length is usually short, near the neck or chin, which helps curls keep their bounce.
This cut removes extra weight, so curls don’t get too heavy or flat. It’s a great option for natural curls that want a fresh shape and more movement. Just use a curl-friendly product and let your curls air dry for the best results.
13. Butterfly Bob
The butterfly bob is a soft, layered bob with lots of movement. It gets its name from the way the layers open up like butterfly wings.
This cut adds volume and looks great on straight or wavy hair. The layers help frame your face gently and give the hair a light, airy feel. It’s easy to style with a blow dryer or let it dry naturally for a casual but pretty look.
14. Mullet with Layers
The mullet with layers is a haircut that is shorter in the front and sides and longer in the back, with added layers for texture. The layers help soften the look and add movement to the hair.
This style works well with straight or wavy hair and gives a fresh twist to a bold cut. It’s a good choice if you want something different that still feels easy to style.
15. Mullet with Bangs
This style combines the classic mullet shape with bangs at the front. The bangs can be straight or slightly messy and help balance the longer hair in the back.
The sides and front are cut shorter, making the longer back stand out more. It works best on straight or slightly wavy hair, adding personality to your look without being hard to manage.
16. Blunt Cut Bob
A blunt cut bob is a straight haircut where the ends are all the same length, usually near the chin. This style works best with straight or slightly wavy hair and gives a full, thick look. The blunt bob is shorter than a blunt lob, which typically falls around the shoulders.
It’s easy to style and maintain because there are no layers or textures. You can wear it sleek or add some waves for a softer look. It frames the face nicely and keeps things simple.
17. Pageboy Bob
The pageboy bob is a rounded haircut that curves under at the ends, usually near the chin. It often comes with straight hair and can have bangs.
This style softens the face and gives a fresh look. It works well on fine or straight hair and is easy to style with a blow dryer and round brush, which helps keep the ends smooth.
18. Italian Bob
The Italian bob is a sleek, chic haircut that sits between the chin and jawline. It’s slightly rounded under and has no layers, giving it a smooth, polished look.
This cut works best on straight hair and highlights facial features beautifully. It’s easy to style with a blow dryer or flat iron, making it a low-maintenance yet modern choice for a fresh haircut.
19. Bixie (Bob + Pixie Hybrid)
The bixie is a mix between a bob and a pixie cut. It’s longer than a pixie but shorter than a classic bob, with textured layers on top and a tapered nape.
This cut gives hair movement and a slightly messy look that feels effortless. Ideal for straight or wavy hair, it’s easy to style with a bit of product and adds personality to your everyday look.
20. Clavicle Cut (Collarbone Bob)
The clavicle cut is a straight-across bob that falls right at the collarbone. Its clean lines give hair a polished and neat appearance. Perfect for straight hair, this cut keeps styling simple while still looking fresh.
You can add subtle waves for extra body or keep it smooth for a classic feel. Regular trims help maintain the shape and prevent the ends from looking uneven.
21. Glass Hair Bob
The glass hair bob focuses on shiny, healthy-looking hair with razor-sharp ends. The smooth, mirror-like finish makes the hair look glossy and sleek. Best for straight hair, this cut requires some styling to keep it smooth and frizz-free.
Lightweight products and a flat iron can help keep the shine and shape. It’s a bold style that makes even simple haircuts look polished and clean.
22. Box Bob
The box bob is a 90s-inspired cut that’s chin-length, super blunt, and perfectly symmetrical. Its sharp edges create a bold, structured look that works well with straight hair.
This style is easy to maintain with regular trims and can be worn sleek or with a soft wave for a slight variation. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a clean, strong-lined haircut with a touch of attitude.
23. French Bob
The French bob is a chic, chin-length haircut with a micro-fringe or soft fringe that lightly brushes the forehead. Slightly tousled, it gives off a relaxed, Parisian vibe that feels effortless.
Works best on straight or slightly wavy hair and can be styled with a bit of texturizing spray for soft movement. It’s perfect for those who want a low-maintenance cut that still looks modern and stylish.
24. Mixie (Mulleted Pixie-Bob)
The mixie blends a pixie and a short mullet for a modern, edgy look. The top is shaggy and layered, the sides are tapered, and the back is slightly longer but not a whole mullet.
This cut adds texture and movement while staying manageable. Great for straight, wavy, or fine hair, it’s a fun choice for someone wanting a bold, playful haircut without going too extreme.
25. Wolf Cut Bob (Short Wolf)
The wolf cut bob is a choppy, heavily layered bob that gives hair a wild, piecey appearance. Shorter than a full shag, it creates texture and volume, making it perfect for thin or fine hair. It’s low-effort and works well on straight, wavy, or slightly curly hair. Styling is simple: add a bit of product for definition, or leave it messy for a carefree, edgy look.
26. Octopus Cut (Medium-Short Version)
The medium-short octopus cut features a layered crown with longer, curved pieces around the face and neck, resembling tentacles. Layers create movement and a playful, dynamic shape.
Best for wavy or straight hair, it adds dimension without feeling heavy. Easy to style with a curling wand or air dry for natural waves, this cut gives hair a fun, textured, and modern appearance.
27. Sleek One-Length Midi Bob
The sleek one-length midi bob sits halfway between the chin and shoulders with no layers at all. Its clean, straight cut gives a sharp and polished appearance.
Perfect for straight hair, it’s simple to style with a flat iron or blow dryer for a smooth finish. This cut creates a minimal, modern look that is easy to maintain while still feeling fresh and put-together every day.
28. Curtain Bangs Lob with Face-Framing Tendrils
This collarbone-length lob combines classic curtain bangs with long, wispy pieces left out to frame the face. The soft tendrils add movement and a gentle touch, balancing the structured length of the lob.
Works best on straight or slightly wavy hair and can be styled with a curling iron or air-dried for natural texture. It’s an easy way to add personality without losing length.
29. Bottleneck Bob
The bottleneck bob is a classic bob paired with unique “bottleneck” bangs – shorter in the middle and gradually longer toward the sides. This cut frames the face in a modern, flattering way and adds a subtle twist to a traditional bob.
Works well on straight or slightly wavy hair and is low-maintenance. A quick blow-dry keeps it neat, or add a bit of texture for a softer, lived-in look.
30. Kitten Cut (Short Version)
The kitten cut is a soft, layered haircut that falls between a bob and a lob. The layers hug the face gently, creating a light, airy feel.
It’s a shorter, subtler version of the butterfly cut, giving movement without being heavy. Works on straight or slightly wavy hair and is easy to style with a bit of texturizing product for soft, natural waves.
31. Scandi Bob
The Scandi bob is a minimalist, slightly below-chin cut that looks sleek and clean. Often worn ice-blonde or natural, it’s super straight and blunt with no layers.
This style is perfect for women who like a simple yet modern look. It’s easy to maintain with regular trims, and a flat iron keeps the lines sharp and smooth, giving a crisp, Scandinavian-inspired vibe.
32. Curtained Jawline Bob
The curtained jawline bob is a blunt cut that ends at the jaw, paired with a deep center part. The hair naturally falls in a curtain shape without cutting bangs.
This style frames the face and adds subtle softness to a sharp bob. Works well on straight or lightly wavy hair and can be styled quickly with a round brush or air-dried for a natural fall.
33. Micro-Layered Lob
The micro-layered lob sits at collarbone length and features hundreds of tiny, almost invisible layers. From afar, it looks like one straight length, but movement reveals soft, flowing texture.
Perfect for fine or straight hair that needs volume and lightness. Easy to style with minimal effort, it creates a natural bounce and movement, giving medium-short hair a full, lively look without heavy layering.
34. Liquid Bob
The liquid bob is a glossy, wet-look haircut that falls between the chin and jawline. Its perfectly beveled ends reflect light like glass or metal, giving hair a smooth, polished shine.
There are no visible layers, keeping the style clean and sleek. Best for straight hair, it can be styled with a flat iron or serum for a high-fashion, modern look that feels fresh and bold.
Short Haircuts for Older Women
Age brings wisdom, and your hair should reflect that confidence. Medium-short haircuts are especially flattering for older women because they’re easy to maintain while still looking polished and youthful.
35. Jawline Bob with Rounded Underflip
This chin-length bob features ends gently flipped under all the way around, creating a soft, rounded silhouette. Inspired by 60s and 70s retro styles, it frames the face beautifully and adds subtle volume at the tips.
Works best on straight or slightly wavy hair. A quick blow-dry with a round brush helps maintain the underflip, giving hair a polished yet playful look.
36. Sabotage Bob (Birkin Bangs Bob)
The sabotage bob pairs a chin-length blunt cut with long, eye-skimming fringe inspired by Jane Birkin. The straight-across fringe softens the face while the blunt ends keep the style structured.
Works well on straight hair and is easy to style with minimal effort. A flat iron can help smooth both the bob and bangs, giving a sleek, chic appearance reminiscent of 60s French icons.
37. Flippy Layered Bob (60s Mod Revival)
This chin-length bob has short, sliced layers with dramatic outward-flipped ends around the perimeter. It’s stronger and more structured than a regular underflip, creating a playful, bouncy effect.
Perfect for straight or slightly wavy hair, it gives a retro 60s mod vibe while feeling modern. Quick styling with a round brush or light product keeps the flips in place and adds lively movement.
38. Amélie Bob
The Amélie bob is a sleek chin-length style with a heavy, brow-skimming fringe, inspired by Amélie Poulain. The straight fringe frames the eyes, while the smooth, blunt bob keeps the cut clean and polished.
Works best on straight hair, and a flat iron helps maintain the sleek finish. It’s a chic, easy-to-wear style with a quirky, playful edge that draws attention to facial features.
39. Layered Lob
The layered lob is a shoulder-length haircut with soft layers added for movement. This style works well for older women because the layers help add volume and avoid a flat look.
It’s easy to style and can soften facial features. The length is long enough to tuck behind the ears or pull back if needed. It suits most hair types and adds a fresh, natural feel without much effort.
40. Stacked Bob
A stacked bob features short, stacked layers at the back that add height and fullness. This style is great for older women who want a haircut that feels light but full.
It helps lift the hair near the crown and makes fine hair look thicker. The front is usually longer and can be styled smooth or with some waves. This cut is easy to keep looking fresh with regular trims.
41. Soft Shag Bob
The soft shag bob is a layered haircut that adds gentle texture and volume around the head. This style is great for older women because the layers create movement and help hide thinning spots.
It works well on straight or wavy hair and gives a relaxed, natural look. The length usually falls near the chin or just below, making it easy to style without much effort.
42. Bob with Side Swept Bangs
This bob features bangs that sweep gently to one side, softening the face. Side-swept bangs are good for older women because they add shape without covering too much of the forehead.
The bob length is usually around the jawline or chin. This cut works well with most hair types and can be styled smooth or with light waves for a softer finish.
43. Bob with Face-Framing Layers
A bob with face-framing layers has longer pieces around the front that help highlight the face. These layers add softness and shape, which is flattering for older women.
The rest of the hair is cut to a classic bob length, often near the chin. This style works on straight, wavy, or fine hair and can be styled simply with a brush or fingers.
44. Pixie Cut
The pixie cut is a short hairstyle that is cropped close to the head. It’s easy to maintain and great for older women who want a fresh, light style.
The cut can be shaped to fit different face shapes and hair types. Because it’s so short, it’s perfect for hot weather and busy days. A little product can help add texture or smooth the hair as needed.
45. Textured Pixie
A textured pixie has short layers cut throughout to add volume and movement. This style is great for fine or thinning hair, as the layers create a fuller look.
It’s easy to style by using your fingers and a bit of product to lift the hair. The textured pixie keeps hair looking lively and fresh, making it a popular choice for older women who want a stylish but low-maintenance cut.
46. Pixie with Bangs
This pixie cut features a longer fringe that falls softly over the forehead. The longer front adds a gentle frame to the face and balances facial features nicely.
It’s a good choice for older women who want a short haircut but still like some hair to style around the face. This cut is easy to care for and can be worn smooth or with a bit of texture for a relaxed, everyday look.
47. Feathered Bob
The feathered bob uses light, thin layers to create a soft, airy effect around the hair. The ends are cut in a way that gives the hair natural movement, almost like feathers.
This style is ideal for fine or straight hair, as it helps add volume and keeps hair from looking flat. It’s simple to style and maintain, making it a good choice for older women who want a gentle yet stylish haircut.
48. Tousled Short Shag
The tousled short shag is a messy, layered cut that adds lots of texture and movement. It works well on straight, wavy, or fine hair and gives a casual, fun look.
The layers help create volume, making the hair look fuller. This cut is easy to style by scrunching with a bit of product or letting hair air dry. It’s perfect for older women who want a relaxed, low-effort hairstyle.
49. Soft Feathered Layers
Soft, feathered layers are gentle, thin layers that create a light, airy feel. This style adds volume without making hair look heavy. It works well for fine or thin hair and gives the hair a soft shape around the face.
Feathered layers are easy to maintain and style, usually with just a quick blow-dry or finger combing. It’s a simple way to add some life to shorter haircuts.
50. Cropped Bob with Textured Ends
This cropped bob is cut just above the shoulders with textured, slightly uneven ends. The textured edges add softness and prevent the bob from looking too harsh or straight.
It works well for most hair types and adds volume to fine hair. This style is easy to manage and can be worn sleek or with light waves for a more casual look. Regular trims keep it looking fresh.
51. Short Hair with Wispy Bangs
Short hair with wispy bangs features soft, thin bangs that gently fall across the forehead. The wispy bangs add a light, airy touch and soften the face.
This style works well for older women with fine or thin hair and helps add volume around the front. It’s easy to style with just a quick blow-dry or finger-combing. This cut feels fresh without needing much effort.
How to Choose the Right Medium-Short Cut for You?
Choosing the perfect medium-short haircut starts with understanding your unique features.
Your face shape matters – round faces often look great with layered cuts that add height, while angular faces soften with textured styles. Consider your hair’s natural texture, too.
Fine hair benefits from blunt cuts that add fullness, while thick hair needs layers to reduce bulk. Consider your lifestyle and routine. As hair ages, thinning or graying, certain cuts work better.
When visiting your stylist, bring multiple photos of styles you love and use specific terms like “choppy layers” or “textured ends” to communicate clearly and get exactly what you want.
Styling Tips & Maintenance for Medium-Short & Short Cuts
Getting a great haircut is just the beginning – keeping it looking fresh requires some simple daily care and the right products. Medium-short styles are easier to maintain than long hair, but they do need regular attention.
- Blow-dry with a round brush for volume, then add texturizing spray or wax for definition.
- Use a curling wand or flat iron to switch between sleek, wavy, or tousled looks quickly.
- Sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce frizz and prevent bedhead overnight.
- Get trims every 6-8 weeks to maintain your shape and prevent split ends.
- Adjust products seasonally – use anti-humidity spray in summer and hydrating serum in winter.
With these simple habits, your medium-short haircut will always look polished and feel manageable, no matter how busy your schedule gets. Taking just a few minutes each day to care for your hair will keep it healthy and stylish.
Final Thoughts
Medium short haircuts for women prove you don’t need long hair to feel confident and stylish.
These cuts offer the perfect balance of flexibility and easy maintenance, letting you look polished without spending hours styling.
You might choose a blunt lob, layered bob, or textured shag – the right cut can completely refresh your appearance and simplify your routine.
Remember to consider your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle when choosing your style, and don’t forget those regular trims to keep everything looking fresh. Ready to take the leap?
Share your favorite medium-short style in the comments below, or tell me which cut you’re planning to try next!
