12 Medium-Length Hairstyles You Need on Your Radar ASAP

Whether you’re trying to grow out your locks or just recently cut them, you’ve probably experienced that awkward phase that everybody dreads. It’s at the length where you really can’t throw your strands into a coil topknot, but they’ve grown out of your short style just enough to hang lifeless. We know — we’ve been there. So what’s a girl to do when you feel like you’re experiencing a hair-mageddon? Well thankfully, you came to the right spot. We’ve gathered 12 ways you can style your awkward medium-length hair. From stylish updos to braided hairstyles, these looks are going to enhance your just-below-the-shoulder hair in no time.

1. Scarf: Instead of just covering your fourth-day hair underneath a baseball cap, it’s time to embrace your locks by wrapping them with a chic scarf. Pull out a few strands for a woke-up-like-this style that looks perfectly messy in all the right ways.

2. Middle Part: Update your naturally straight strands with a girl-next-door middle part. Spritz a bit of beach spray all over to add some texture to your overall look.

3. Holiday Hair Tutorial: While this hair tutorial was designed for the holidays, we say rock this look all day, err’day. With a pop of red on the lips and an all black dress, you’ll be the belle of the ball any day of the week. (Photo via annesage)

4. Spring Hair: Twisted Braid: Take your go-to braid to a whole new level by trying out this inverted, twisted pony. Pull your locks straight back for a sleek, chic finish. (Photo via express-o)

5. Gold-Dipped Festival Braids: Forget the bobby pins — it’s time to update your braids with gold flakes. Add a few around the base of your braids for an artsy take on a messy-chic ‘do. (Photo via Modcloth)

6. 2nd-Day Hair: Whether you’re heading out with your boo or going to brunch with the girls, this look is perf no matter the type of occasion. Finish the look with a spritz of hairspray to keep your tresses on lock for an all-night affair. (Photo via Modcloth)

7. Mermaid Tail Braid: If you can’t do the typical fishtail braid, then this mermaid tail braid is perfect for you. All you have to do is create two regular braids and pin them together for one giant style. Easy peasy. (Photo via A Cup of Jo)

8. The Hidden Braid: If you want a surprising and edgy ‘do, then this teased braided pony needs to be on your radar ASAP. French braid an inch worth of hair down the back of your head and combine it with the rest of your strands for an effortless pony. (Photo via Hair Romance)

9. Braided Crown: This hairdo is meant for second-day hair. Separate your strands into four different sections to create several braids. Wrap them around your head to complete a seamless braided look. (Photo via Treasures and Travels)

10. The Supersized Bob: The bigger the hair, the better, amiright? With a lot of hairspray (and teasing) you can recreate this stunning bob for any special event. (Photo via Refinery29)

11. The Modern Half Up-Do: You don’t need to get frustrated with your medium-length hair when it can look this chic. Complete this swoon-worthy half-up ‘do with a single hair clip to keep your strands lookin’ stylish and in place. (Photo via Style Me Pretty)

12. A Half Up Hair Trick: Don’t let bad hair days get you down in the dumps. Twist your strands into an omg-worthy half-up do and finish it off with a modern hair barrette. (Photo via Say Yes)

Want more hair inspiration? Follow us on Pinterest!

You’re a #girlboss with a ton of stuff on your TDL, so you prob have a couple of go-to hairstyles that you rock on the regular. Even though you adore these faithful looks, sometimes your tresses need a style detox. Kick off 2017 by shaking up your hair game. While you may be tempted by a sleek fishtail braid or the handy dandy chic ponytail, we vote that you try a twisted style that’s easy AF to whip up. Get ready to fall in love with these masterpieces. Trust us: You won’t regret it.

1. Twisted Buns: This look is a must for coarse-haired ladies. Divide your hair into four sections and then twist each away from your face. Gather the left side sections into a bun, then repeat on the right for a simple ‘do that will slay from day to night.

2. New Twist on the Classic Braid: YASSS KWEEN! Your go-to fishtail braid doesn’t stand a chance against this twisted ribbon of glory. Your friends will totes worship you as the goddess of incredible hair.

3. Messy Low Bun: Whether you have long or medium-length hair, this style will elevate your look for sure. Add a few hair gems for a super glam bun that doesn’t quit.

4. Updo With a Twist: When you’re tired of your typical ponytail, give this elegant updo a shot. Even if it’s only half as twisty as this gorg bundle, your game will be crazy strong. Add flowers or keep it minimal — either way, this style is def one for the books.

5. Half Twist: Lazy girls, this look is for you! This half-up style has the polish of an hour-long style, with the quick, TDL-friendly simplicity you need in your life.

6. Curly Belle: Nothing screams bombshell quite like a healthy amount of curls. Make sure to tease the roots to create extra volume for a totally va-va-voom look.

7. Layered Twist: Tight and structured is the name of the game when it comes to this hairdo. Wrap up the look by twisting the ends together or leave your bottom locks loose for a killer half-up style.

8. Side Pony: You don’t want your long locks getting in the way of your earmuffs or your #girlbossing, but that doesn’t mean your tresses are destined for plain ole ponytails. Twist small pieces of hair into a gorg side pony, then tease the ends and you’re good to go!

Love this twisted ‘do? Follow us on Pinterest for more inspo!

College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.​

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck

For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!

Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Coffee will ​always ​be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.

Great Jones The Starting Lineup

This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.

Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

For many of us, 2016 was a doozy, but we here at Brit + Co are ready to hit refresh in 2017! Follow our Hit Refresh series through January for new ideas, hacks and skills that will help you achieve (and maintain!) those New Year’s resolutions.

New year, new you — new ‘do? A fresh cut is a fabulous way to start the new year off right! Plus, if you book an appointment now, you can be the first of your friends to get scissor happy. Changing it up doesn’t have to be drastic to be fabulously refreshing — although we totally support that. You can easily transform your lob with a few layers or take on a chic bang. Looking for inspo before you hit the salon? Keep scrolling for 10 cuts you can rock in 2017.

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g'day mate 😉

A post shared by Karlie Kloss (@karliekloss) on

1. Blunt Bangs: We all went bananas when Karlie Kloss unveiled her blunt bangs (some might say it was inspired by her BFF, T. Swift). Sadly, it was just a wig, but we really hope she takes the plunge for real in 2017. The good news is, you can do it RN and 20 bucks says you’ll look DDG.

2. Bowl Cut:A modern bowl cut is right on trend and is the mark of a gal with major confidence. Edge it up with a bold color, like this haute red hue. Here’s to making a statement with your strands in 2017!

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Still obsessing over this. 🔲

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3. Sleek Crop: Great for gals with straight strands, this single length style (AKA a blunt bob) looks super chic. Such a clean cut lends itself to a variety of playful color combos. Embrace your natural color or shake things up with an ombre look.

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Courage, dear heart. 🌸🎀💖

A post shared by Lucy Hale (@lucyhale) on

4. Tousled Lob: Lucy Hale slays with this loose, tousled lob, and you can too. If you’re blessed with natural waves, simply spritz in a little salt spray to amp up your texture. Alternatively, if your tresses are pin straight, you can use a wand to create movement.

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🐚🌴🌺 By the sea ...

A post shared by Alessandra Ambrosio (@alessandraambrosio) on

5. Eye-Grazing Bangs: Hesitant to go blunt with your bangs? Why not ease into it with wispy fringe? Ask your stylist to snip tiny strands so they hit right at the eye, à la Alessandra Ambrosio. They’re super easy to style and you can pin them back when you’re putting in your hours at the gym (hey, New Year’s resolutions aren’t gonna keep themselves).

6. Pixie:2017 is your year to be fierce, so dive in with a bold pixie cut. With this low-maintenence, wash-and-go look, you’ll have more time for slaying at your HBIC game. Just be prepared to schedule an appointment for a trim every four to six weeks to avoid slipping into mullet territory.

7. Deep Side Part: Okay, so you can prob achieve this look without any snip-snipping, but it’s just as statement-making as a fresh cut. Switching up the way you part your hair is a great way to add drama to your ‘do without getting a drastic chop. Slick back the rest of your locks for a style that’s equal parts polished and edgy, or pull hair back for a haute look that’s done in a snap.

8. Mermaid Waves: The latest iteration of beachy waves has more mermaid vibes than ever (and we def approve). Looking to add a little dimension to your lengthy locks? Ask your stylist for balayage highlights and bask in the sun-kissed warmth.

9. Laid-Back Shag: In 2017, it’ll be all about undone ‘dos. The messier, the better. The shag was a top trend in 2016, and we’re happy to report it’s not going anywhere. This versatile, low-maintenance cut works on all hair textures and lengths, giving your new look a super chill vibe.

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goldie👼🏼

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10. Lovely Layers: Kick your cut up to the next level, à la Hailey Baldwin. Layers give this mid-length style lots of movement and texture. Brighten it up with some face-framing highlights and you’re ready to rock this year.

For more hair inspo, follow us on Pinterest!

I have such a love/hate relationship with haircuts. While I love the feeling of a fresh look as much as the next girl, I hate having to spend $100+ for a simple cut and blow dry session. During my recent trim, I talked with my hairdresser, Jack Rehak of Jack’s Hair Design in Hinsdale, Illinois, about ways to keep a haircut looking new and best practices for keeping hair healthy. Here's what he had to say!

Here's How Often You Should Cut Your Hair, According To Professionals

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

I’ll admit it — it had been eight months since my last haircut. My hair had lost its shape, my layers were nowhere to be found, and my ends were begging for mercy. Life got busy over the last few months and I was neglecting my haircare like never before.

My hairdresser could immediately see that I was beyond due for a cut and said I needed to get more taken off than I was hoping. I was definitely disappointed — I'd been working on growing out my hair for a while now, and it just felt like my hard work had completely gone to waste. He explained that getting consistent haircuts is the key to growing out healthy and strong hair, rather than letting it grow and grow until it eventually breaks. So let's dig into the top three things you can do to avoid this scenario!

1. Just Get The Dang Haircut

Photo by RDNE Stock project/PEXELS

Also avoiding a haircut like I was? You might want to schedule one at your nearest salon. Like my stylist said, when you wait too long between trims like I did, you risk your hair becoming heavy, dull, and lifeless. When the hair is dry or even dead, it’s nearly impossible for it to hold a curl or style, essentially collapsing on you and taking on more and more heat damage all the while. I know the pain of spending time on a blowout only for it to fall minutes later — it’s the worst.

According to Jack, getting a haircut every 10-12 weeks is the best time frame or your ends will pay the price. Between blow-drying, curling, straightening, sun, and weather, our ends get dry and start to break without the proper care. Getting consistent haircuts allows hair to bounce back, shine, and perform the way we want in a healthy way.

2. Leave-In Conditioners Are Your Friend

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

His top piece of advice to keep your hair looking and feeling hydrated between trims? Invest in conditioning treatments. Jack swears by the Olaplex conditioning system, specifically the No 3 Hair Perfector. Made with patented OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™, this conditioning treatment repairs and prevents damage in as little as three minutes. No 3 promises to reduce breakage and visibly strengthen hair, so it’s the perfect assistance to keep ends fresh between cuts. Another conditioning treatments I’ve used and loved for years is the Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask, which is designed to restore moisture, elasticity, and shine to dry hair.

3. Switch Up Your Shampoos

Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

Switching shampoos frequently is a pretty hot tip that I honestly hadn't thought of. Our hair gets used to the same products and grows tired of them, resulting in lackluster locks. Jack’s advice is to switch brands after finishing every bottle of shampoo to bring life back to your hair. Have two brands that you’re loyal to? Even switching back and forth between them after every bottle should make a big difference in your hair. I’m a huge fan of the R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo, which makes my hair look thick and full, as well as the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo, which is so hydrating and gives so much shine.

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

In the end, navigating your back-and-forth relationship with haircuts often feels like a rollercoaster ride between wanting that fresh look and cringing at the receipt. Luckily, by using conditioning treatments and switching up your products,, you can keep your locks healthy, shiny, and full of life between trims. But take a newly learned lesson out of my book: don't let your ends pay the price for procrastination and just book the haircut.

If you need some more hair inspo and advice, be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Nataliya Vaitkevich/PEXELS

With Mother's Day around the corner, it's time to celebrate moms of all kinds, and step moms deserve some special recognition, too! If you're grappling with finding the perfect gift that expresses your love and gratitude for your step mom, these 20 gifts are the way to go. This curated list of thoughtful step mom gifts for Mother's Day will get you going on a gifting kick and make any step mom's heart swell with joy and appreciation. 💓

Rinna Beauty Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil

The glossiness of this lip oil alone will feel like a total gift! One swipe using the soft, sizable wand delivers a sheer tint of color, all while encouraging plumpness and moisture with its peptide formulation.

The Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil from Rinna Beauty comes in 5 other shades for $24 on Amazon.

Anthropologie Faye Planter

For the step mom with an undeniable green thumb, this decorative purple planter from Anthropologie makes repotting process super fun! Dotted in adorable outdoor creature and plant motifs, the pot is not only practical, but looks good, too. It measures about 8 inches in diameter to fit a variety of small house plants.

The Faye Planter is currently on sale for $31 (was $44) for a limited time.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Cotton Checkered Throw

She's gonna want to live in this cozy throw blanket 24/7. It's crafted from a blend of Barefoot Dreams' CozyChic material and a light cotton for added breathability. The light, neutral checkered pattern makes it the perfect match for any space!

This stylish throw, made to last a lifetime, goes for $148 from Barefoot Dreams.

DedCool Room & Linen Spray

Think of this spray as an instant refresh for any bedroom, bathroom, or living room, supplying a saturated scent of bergamot, vanilla, and amber. It's also compatible to spritz on sheets, blankets, and pillows to create a soothing atmosphere every time your step mom comes home!

The DedCool Room & Linen Spray comes in two other scents for $40.

Compartés Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers 20-Piece Truffle Gift Box

When all your other gift ideas fail, there's nothing wrong with chocolate! This truffle box is perfectly elevated to give as a standalone gift – it's impressively decorated and seamlessly packaged for a memorable Mother's Day treat. Some of the spring-inspired flavors included are: raspberry rose, lavender, poppy seed, and passionfruit.

The Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers gift box is $60 and comes with 20 gourmet truffles.

Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer

This moisturizer delivers 24-hour hydration with a dense formula of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin. It has a lightweight yet creamy feel, perfect for slathering on under SPF and makeup. Your step mom's skin will absolutely soak this clinically-proven cream up, and she'll be feeling like a new woman every single time she puts it on!

The Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer goes for $32 and is also refillable once it's fully used up.

Little Secret Round Sunglasses

Keep her lookin' so cool with a pair of trendy sunnies! This timeless style from Free People channels the 90's and makes for chic everyday eyewear with any outfit.

The Little Secret Round Sunglasses are shoppable in 5 other colors for $30.

The Pioneer Woman 3-Piece Floral Check Ceramic Lidded Bowl Set

Your step mom's serving, baking, and cooking projects just got such a stylish upgrade! This trio of checkered ceramic bowls designed by The Pioneer Woman make every dish look stunning, plus each one comes equipped with a decorative wooden lid for convenient storage.

This 3-piece bowl set goes for $33 at Walmart.

Sand + Fog Pistachio Dream Eau De Parfum Oil

This perfume oil can be used sparingly – meaning it'll last a long time – and delivers delicious notes of pistachio, vanilla, brown sugar, and cream to make step mom smell like a total treat. She won't want to go a day without putting some on!

This perfume is $13 at Marshall's.

Versed Total Package SPF 30 Body Lotion

This body lotion is really a 2-in-1 deal: hydrating and protective against the sun. It's packed with SPF 30 to give the skin a light shield against harmful UV rays, all while replenishing moisture with a delightfully-smelling mix of cupuaçu butter and grapeseed oil. It's not sticky or oily at all!

The Versed Total Package body lotion is $20 at Target.

Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals

These trendy slip-on sandals from Maeve are the epitome of cool girl style for summertime. Your step mom will be stepping out looking so good with these as a gift! The upper is made from durable leather, while the sole is a comfortable rubber material to withstand walking.

The Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals are shoppable in 4 other colors and are on sale for $104 (was $130) for a limited time.

Chamberlain Coffee Strawberry Matcha Latte Mix

Switch up her morning routine with this deliciously sweet matcha mix from Chamberlain Coffee! It's earthy, fruity, and made with oat milk for otherworldly creaminess. All it requires is some hot water, a good froth, and from there, your step mom can customize her sip with more milk or creamer.

This drink mix goes for $19 at Target.

L.L. Bean Open-Top Boat and Tote

This classic tote bag from L.L. Bean is the perfect vehicle for carrying work essentials, groceries, clothing, and more! It can be ordered in small, medium, large, or extra-large sizes, with the option for short or long straps.

This bag comes in 11 other colors. The small size is $30 and the extra-large is $45.

Ban.do Oven Mitt Pot Holder Set

For the step mom that loves all things colorful, this oven mitt + pot holder set will bring some joy into her kitchen set-up. Both are crafted from cotton with quilted stitching and feature small loops for easy hanging.

The duo is shoppable for $30 from Ban.do.

Auburn Home 3-Piece Glass Taper Candle Holders

These funky candle holders can go together as a set, or spread out around the house for a unique touch. Bundle them with some taper candles to complete the gift!

This colorful trio goes for $25 at Marshall's.

Verloop Raffia Phone Sling

Any on-the-go step mom will appreciate this convenient phone sling for its carrying capabilities, but it's also supremely stylish! The bright colorway is summertime's perfect match, so she can take it along for vacations and outdoor outings alike. The thin shoulder strap is adjustable in length so she can find the best fit for her needs.

The Verloop Raffia Phone Sling is shoppable in three other colors for $38.

Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set

Gift sets are always a good bet if you're stuck on what to get your step mom for Mother's Day. This luxe 4-piece set from Osea comes complete with body butter, body oil, body balm, and body scrub (all inside a cute zip bag) so she can treat herself to a full-on spa day right at home!

The Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set is $52 (a $78 value).

UrbanStems The Parade Bouquet

Flowers are welcome any time of year, but a gorgeous bouquet like this one is so fitting for Mother's Day. With UrbanStems, you can select a specific delivery date, and your step mom will receive a fresh grouping, ready to display at home!

The Parade Bouquet is $60, with the option to add a vase for $15+.

Material Kitchen The Cloud Pitcher

Whether it's used for a batched cocktail or a big serving of iced coffee, this stylish glass pitcher from Material Kitchen is a statement piece to be reckoned with. The glass is surprisingly light for transport, and it's dishwasher-safe for added convenience after the fact!

The Cloud Pitcher comes in three other colors for $95.

Ban.do Meal Planner

This meal planner pad is *the* way to keep track of what she'll make and when she's gonna eat it. It has three lines for each day of the week, plus a roomy list for ingredients she may be missing.

This meal planner is $15 from Ban.do and has 50 sheets.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Image via brands.