12 Medium Hairstyles That Look Great with Side Bangs

The Classic Blunt Lob with Wispy Side Bangs

The blunt lob is a timeless icon in the world of hair. This sharp, clean-cut style that typically falls at or just above the shoulders exudes sophistication and health. When paired with wispy, side-swept bangs, the look instantly becomes softer and more approachable. The wispy texture prevents the bangs from feeling too heavy or severe, creating a beautiful contrast with the precise line of the lob.

This combination is incredibly low-maintenance. The wispy bangs grow out gracefully and can be easily styled with a round brush and a blow dryer for a sleek finish, or with a curling wand for a slightly piecey, textured effect. It’s a universally flattering style that works beautifully on straight to slightly wavy hair textures.

The Textured Shag with Heavy Side Bangs

Ready to embrace some retro-inspired edge? The shag haircut is back with a vengeance, and it’s the perfect partner for heavy, dramatic side bangs. This cut is all about layers upon layers, creating incredible volume, movement, and a carefree, rock-and-roll vibe. The heavy side bangs become a focal point, often cut with a slight taper to blend into the face-framing layers.

Styling is key here: think texture spray, sea salt spray, and a diffuser to enhance your natural wave or curl. The goal is “perfectly imperfect” hair. This style is ideal for those with wavy, curly, or thick hair types, as the layers help remove bulk while maximizing shape. It’s a bold, statement-making look that’s surprisingly wearable.

The Beachy Waves with Face-Framing Side Bangs

For that eternal “just back from vacation” look, you can’t beat medium-length hair styled in loose, beachy waves. Adding face-framing side bangs that are cut on a longer angle enhances the romantic, effortless feel. These bangs are typically cut to blend with the longest front layers, swooping down along the cheekbones to highlight your facial structure.

This style is achieved with a large-barrel curling wand or by braiding damp hair overnight. The key is to alternate curl directions and break them up with your fingers for a natural, tousled finish. A spritz of texturizing spray will lock in the look and add grit. It’s the ultimate hairstyle for sunny days, date nights, and everything in between.

The Sleek and Straight Angled Bob

Precision meets polish with the sleek, angled bob. This cut is shorter in the back and gradually lengthens towards the front, creating a dynamic, slimming line. When combined with side bangs cut at a matching angle, the look becomes cohesive and strikingly modern. The bangs should be sleek and smooth, mirroring the impeccable finish of the overall style.

This hairstyle demands a good flat iron and a heat protectant. A shine serum is the final touch to achieve that glass-like, reflective quality. It’s a powerful, confident look that works exceptionally well in professional settings while still being fashion-forward. It suits those with naturally straight hair best, though it can be achieved with thermal styling.

The Curly Bob with Side-Swept Bangs

Celebrate your natural texture! A medium curly bob, packed with bounce and definition, is a joyful and vibrant style. Adding side-swept bangs helps to break up the volume at the forehead and provides a gorgeous frame for the eyes. The bangs should be cut dry to follow their natural curl pattern, ensuring they blend harmoniously with the rest of the cut.

Styling focuses on enhancing curl definition with mousses, creams, and gels, followed by diffusing to maintain volume. The side bangs will naturally fall into place with a simple finger-sweep. This look is all about embracing volume and shape, making it perfect for those with naturally curly or coily hair patterns.

The Layered Midi Cut with Feathered Bangs

The layered midi cut is the epitome of soft, feminine styling. With layers starting around the jawline and cascading down, this cut creates incredible movement. Feathered, side-swept bangs are the ideal complement, offering a light, airy touch that recalls classic 70s glamour without feeling dated.

These bangs are cut with thinning shears or a razor to create a see-through, feathery effect. Styling involves using a round brush to lift the bangs and blend them into the layers for a seamless flow. This is a fantastic style for fine to medium hair textures, as the feathered technique adds the illusion of fullness without weight.

The Modern Mullet with Statement Side Bangs

For the truly adventurous, the modern mullet (often called the “mullet”) offers a bold, fashion-forward silhouette—short layers at the crown and sides, with longer length in the back. Statement side bangs are a non-negotiable part of this look, often cut with a strong, angular line that adds to the dramatic effect.

This style thrives on texture and attitude. Use pomades, waxes, and texturizing pastes to piece out the layers and create separation. The side bangs are often styled to stand slightly away from the forehead or be slicked back for variation. It’s a daring cut that makes a powerful personal statement.

The Boho Braids and Waves with Braided Bangs

Take your side bangs to the next level by incorporating them into boho-inspired styling. On medium hair with loose waves, try braiding your side bangs and pinning them back or incorporating them into a larger braid. This adds intricate detail and keeps hair away from your face in a stylish way.

Start with a base of beachy waves. Then, take a section of your side bangs and create a small Dutch or French braid, weaving it back into your hair. This works beautifully for festivals, weddings, or simply as a charming everyday detail. It’s a creative way to play with your look without needing a haircut.

The A-Line Bob with Curtain Side Bangs

The A-line bob is a close cousin to the angled bob, with a more gradual, rounded angle from back to front. Pair it with curtain bangs cut to be parted in the center but worn swept to the side, and you get a wonderfully versatile, face-framing effect. This style offers a softer, more rounded silhouette than its sharply angled counterpart.

The curtain bangs can be styled to split in the middle for a 70s vibe or fully swept to one side for a more classic look. They blend effortlessly into the longer front pieces of the A-line. This cut is exceptionally flattering, as it draws the eye downward, creating a lengthening effect.

The Half-Up, Half-Down with Twisted Bangs

Sometimes, the best hairstyle is a quick and beautiful updo. The half-up, half-down style is a perennial favorite for its ease and charm. When you have side bangs, you can twist or lightly pin them back to integrate them into the updo, clearing your forehead while still showcasing the bang style.

Simply create a half-up ponytail or bun, then take a small section of your side bangs, twist it gently, and pin it behind your ear or into the base of the updo. This leaves the rest of your bangs and hair down for a soft, romantic look that’s perfect for both work and weekend outings.

The Wavy Lob with Piecey Side Bangs

The wavy lob is the effortless “it-girl” haircut. Slightly longer than a traditional bob, it’s all about lived-in texture and cool-girl nonchalance. Piecey, separated side bangs are the perfect finishing touch, adding a touch of grunge and ensuring the look never feels too polished or stiff.

Use a texturizing spray or paste on damp hair, scrunch, and let it air dry or diffuse. Then, use your fingers to separate the bangs into distinct, piecey sections. This style celebrates imperfection and looks better as the day goes on. It’s ideal for those with naturally wavy or straight hair that can hold a texture.

The Polished Ponytail with Side-Swept Fringe

Never underestimate the power of a sleek, high or low ponytail. With side bangs, this simple style becomes infinitely more interesting and flattering. The key is to leave out your side-swept fringe when gathering your hair, allowing it to frame your face and soften the pulled-back look.

Create a smooth, tight ponytail at your crown or nape. Use a boar bristle brush and a light-hold hairspray to tame flyaways. Then, style your side bangs with a flat iron for a smooth swoop or with a curling iron for a bouncy, face-framing curl. This look is the ultimate in chic, athletic elegance.

Finding Your Perfect Match

With these twelve inspiring styles, it’s clear that medium hair and side bangs are a match made in hairstyling heaven. The combination offers unparalleled versatility, allowing you to shift from polished to playful with just a change in your styling routine. When choosing your look, consider your natural hair texture, face shape, and lifestyle. Bring photos to your stylist and have an open conversation about what you love and how much upkeep you’re willing to commit to.

Remember, side bangs are remarkably forgiving and can be customized in length, thickness, and texture to suit you perfectly. So, whether you opt for the boldness of a shag or the simplicity of a sleek lob, embracing side bangs is a surefire way to refresh your look and highlight your best features. Go ahead, book that appointment, and get ready to turn heads.