23 Easy Work Hairstyles for Medium Length Hair – Cute Ideas for Straight, Curly, and Greasy Hair

Mornings can be hectic, and finding a hairstyle that’s both cute and work-appropriate can seem impossible. Are you struggling to find quick, easy ways to style your medium hair, greasy hair, or maybe looking for a perfect look for that wedding guest event or even a hairstyle that suits your school routine? Whether you have curly, straight hair, or you’re searching for a ponytail idea, this article will introduce 23 simple yet chic hairstyles you can try. Let’s dive in and explore these fun ideas that work for every occasion!

Sleek Low Ponytail

The sleek low ponytail is a perfect go-to for any office day, offering a polished and professional appearance while taking mere minutes to style. Ideal for those with medium length hair, this hairstyle suits straight hair best but can work with slightly curly textures when smoothed out with a serum. It’s a universal style, easy to wear for long days at work or even formal events like a wedding guest appearance. This look works well for anyone looking for a sleek, clean finish, especially those managing greasy hair.

For best results, apply a smoothing cream, such as Moroccanoil Smoothing Lotion, to help tame flyaways and provide shine. Secure your ponytail with a simple elastic and hide the elastic by wrapping a small strand of hair around it for a more refined touch. To maintain this look all day, spritz with TRESemmé Extra Hold Hair Spray.

Half-Up Top Knot

The half-up top knot is an effortless yet stylish choice, especially for those with medium hair looking for a bit of an edgy vibe. This style adds dimension to straight hair while giving off a casual-chic look. It’s perfect for those busy mornings when you need a quick style that still looks put-together. The half-up top knot works particularly well for women with medium length hair or longer, as the bun on top creates visual interest without requiring full commitment to an updo.

To achieve this style, start by sectioning off the top half of your hair, twisting it into a small bun, and securing it with bobby pins or a small hair tie. For added texture, apply Batiste Dry Shampoo to freshen up your roots and give the rest of your hair volume. Finish with a light mist of OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Weightless Healing Dry Oil for a touch of shine.

Classic French Twist

A timeless look, the classic French twist is perfect for a polished work appearance or a more formal occasion like a wedding guest event. This elegant hairstyle is best suited for medium length hair or longer, and it works well for those with straight hair or slightly wavy textures. It’s a sleek updo that adds sophistication without taking too much time in the morning. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your look for an important work meeting or even picture day at school, this twist is ideal.

To create the French twist, gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it upwards, securing it with pins as you go. For a more polished look, smooth any loose strands with John Frieda Frizz Ease Serum. Add some shine with L’Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray to keep your twist in place all day long.

Textured High Bun

The textured high bun is an easy, chic option that’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual workday to a more formal event like a school function or even a softball game. This hairstyle adds volume to your hair and is perfect for those with curly or wavy hair textures. It’s an excellent choice for women with medium hair who want something stylish yet low-maintenance. The bun is placed high on the head and features a slightly undone, voluminous finish for an effortlessly cool vibe.

To achieve this look, gather your hair into a high ponytail, then loosely twist the ponytail into a bun, securing it with bobby pins. For a textured look, pull out a few strands around your face and finish with a texturizing spray like Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to add volume and hold. For extra shine, apply Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Serum to the ends.

Low Messy Bun

The low messy bun is a quick, carefree option perfect for busy mornings when you need to pull your hair back but still want to look stylish. It works exceptionally well for those with medium length hair or long hair, especially if you have a wavy or slightly textured hair type. This relaxed hairstyle is ideal for casual workdays, but can easily transition to a more polished look for a wedding guest event by adding a few elegant hairpins or accessories. It’s an excellent choice for women with greasy hair, as the texture adds to the messy effect.

To style a low messy bun, gather your hair loosely at the nape of your neck and twist it into a bun, securing it with bobby pins. Use Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast to add texture and volume, and finish with TIGI Bed Head Manipulator Matte for extra hold without making the hair look too slick.

Elegant Side Braid

The elegant side braid is a timeless, simple style that’s perfect for work but can also double as a look for picture day at school or even a casual wedding guest hairstyle. This style works for all hair types—whether you have curly, straight, or even medium length hair. The braid falls over one shoulder, creating a romantic and polished look. It’s perfect for adding a touch of femininity to any outfit while keeping your hair off your face during a busy workday.

To achieve this style, create a deep side part and braid your hair over one shoulder, securing it with a clear elastic. To add texture, use Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray. If you want a polished look, finish with OGX Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil to tame any flyaways.

Loose Beach Waves

For those who want a relaxed, effortless look, loose beach waves are a go-to hairstyle. Perfect for medium length hair or long hair, this style works best for those with naturally wavy or straight hair, but it can be created with a curling wand if needed. The casual vibe makes it ideal for a day at the office or a more casual setting like school or softball. The waves add volume and texture, making it a great option if you’re dealing with greasy hair as it disguises unwashed roots.

To get this look, spray Sun Bum Sea Spray onto damp hair and scrunch it lightly. Once dry, use a curling wand to add soft waves, then apply Redken Triple Dry 15 Dry Texture Finishing Spray for a tousled, beachy finish.

Simple Slicked-Back Hair

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to keep your hair out of your face while still looking polished, slicked-back hair is an excellent option. This sleek and chic style is perfect for greasy hair, as the slick texture works to your advantage. Best suited for straight hair, it’s an ideal choice for days when you need something effortless yet professional for work or school for kids. This style works for both medium length and long hair.

To achieve this look, apply a strong-hold gel like Got2b Ultra Glued Invincible Styling Gel to damp hair, then comb it back away from your face. For extra shine, finish with Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum to give a sleek, polished finish.

Braided Headband

For a soft, romantic look that’s perfect for work or picture day at school, the braided headband adds a delicate, feminine touch to your hairstyle. This look works well for medium length hair and suits both curly and straight hair textures. The braid sits across the crown of your head, acting like a natural headband while keeping the rest of your hair down and flowing. This style is ideal for anyone looking for an elegant yet simple look for a wedding guest or special event.

To style this, braid a small section of hair from behind one ear and bring it across the top of your head like a headband, securing it behind the other ear with bobby pins. Finish with Kenra Volume Spray 25 to keep everything in place and add some shine with CHI Silk Infusion.

Modern Low Chignon

The modern low chignon is a fresh take on a classic updo, perfect for a work meeting or a formal occasion such as a wedding guest event. It’s sleek, professional, and works well for medium length hair. This hairstyle is ideal for women with straight hair, as it allows for a smooth finish, but can also work with slightly wavy hair. The low chignon sits at the nape of the neck, giving a modern, sophisticated look without too much effort.

To create this look, gather your hair into a low ponytail, twist it into a knot at the base, and secure it with bobby pins. For extra hold, use Sebastian Shaper Hairspray, and finish with Bumble and Bumble Brilliantine for added shine and a touch of texture.

Twisted Crown Braid

The twisted crown braid is a regal and romantic hairstyle, ideal for women with medium length hair or long hair. This style works beautifully for both curly and straight hair, making it versatile for different hair textures. It’s a lovely choice for a school function or even a wedding guest look. The braid wraps around the crown of the head, creating an intricate, halo-like effect that adds a touch of elegance to any outfit.

To create this look, part your hair down the middle and braid two sections on each side of your head. Twist them around the crown and pin them in place. For added texture and hold, use Kérastase V.I.P. Volume in Powder. To give the braid a softer finish, pull a few strands loose around your face and add a touch of Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil for shine.

Side-Swept Loose Curls

Side-swept loose curls are an effortlessly chic hairstyle perfect for medium length hair or long hair, making it an ideal choice for a formal event like a wedding guest or even for a special school function. This look works well for curly and straight hair that has been curled for added volume and texture. The curls are styled to one side, creating a glamorous, red-carpet look that’s easy to achieve.

To get this look, curl your hair with a medium-barrel curling iron, then sweep all of your curls to one side and secure them with bobby pins. Finish with John Frieda Frizz Ease Curl Reviver Mousse for soft, touchable curls, and spritz Tresemmé Compressed Micro-Mist Level 3 for hold without stiffness.

Casual Half-Up, Half-Down

The half-up, half-down style is the perfect balance between casual and polished, making it ideal for a relaxed workday or even a school setting. It’s a great option for those with medium hair or long hair, as it allows you to show off your length while keeping your hair out of your face. This style works well for both curly and straight hair and is versatile enough to suit any outfit or occasion.

To achieve this look, simply section off the top half of your hair and secure it with a clip or a hair tie. For a polished finish, smooth any flyaways with TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Serum. To add a touch of texture, spritz some Ouai Wave Spray onto the ends of your hair.

Tucked-In Bun

The tucked-in bun is a simple yet sophisticated hairstyle that’s ideal for those with medium length hair or long hair. It’s a great option for formal occasions like a wedding guest event or even a polished look for work. This style works best for women with straight hair but can also be achieved with slightly textured hair. The bun is “tucked in” at the nape of the neck, creating a sleek, elegant finish.

To style this look, create a low ponytail and tuck the ends under, securing them with bobby pins. To keep everything in place, use L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray. Add a little shine with Biosilk Silk Therapy for a sleek finish.

Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids are a fun, youthful style perfect for a casual workday, school for kids, or even a sporty day like softball. This style is versatile for any hair type—whether you have curly, straight, or medium hair. The braids are secured tightly to the scalp, giving a neat and sporty look. It’s a favorite for women on the go who need their hair to stay in place all day.

To achieve this look, part your hair down the middle and braid each section in a Dutch style (braiding under instead of over). Secure the ends with clear elastics, and finish with Aussie Mega Hairspray for long-lasting hold.

High Ponytail with a Twist

The high ponytail with a twist is an easy, elevated version of the classic ponytail. This style is great for medium hair or long hair and works well for both straight hair and curly textures. The “twist” adds a fun, unexpected element to the classic high ponytail, making it perfect for casual workdays or more energetic days like school or softball.

To style this, gather your hair into a high ponytail, then twist a small section of the ponytail and wrap it around the base to hide the elastic. Use Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Humidity Hairspray for hold and finish with a touch of OGX Renewing Argan Oil of Morocco for shine.

Simple Claw Clip Style

For a quick and easy style that’s still on-trend, the simple claw clip is a great option. It’s a favorite for women with greasy hair or those just needing a quick fix to get their hair out of the way. This style works for medium length hair or long hair, especially for those with straight hair or loose waves. The claw clip creates a casual yet put-together vibe, perfect for a relaxed workday or running errands.

To achieve this style, gather your hair at the back and twist it upwards, securing it with a claw clip. To keep the hair looking fresh, spritz with Drybar Detox Dry Shampoo and finish with Verb Ghost Oil for a touch of shine.

Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid is a beautifully intricate hairstyle that looks complicated but is surprisingly easy to achieve. This braid is ideal for medium hair or long hair, and it works for both straight hair and slightly curly textures. The fishtail braid adds an elegant touch to any look, making it a great choice for a workday, a casual outing, or even a special occasion like a wedding guest event.

To style a fishtail braid, divide your hair into two sections and alternate pulling small pieces from each side into the center, creating a woven effect. Secure the braid with a clear elastic and loosen it slightly for a more casual look. Use Bumble and Bumble Surf Infusion Spray for texture and finish with Amika The Wizard Detangling Primer for shine.

Sleek Straight Hair with a Deep Side Part

The deep side part with sleek, straight hair is a timeless and classic look. This style is perfect for medium length hair or long hair, especially for those with straight hair. The deep side part adds drama and sophistication to an otherwise simple style, making it perfect for a formal work event or even a wedding guest appearance. It’s also an excellent choice if you’re dealing with greasy hair, as the sleekness works to your advantage.

To achieve this look, straighten your hair using GHD Platinum+ Styler and create a deep side part. Smooth down any flyaways with Ouai Hair Oil, and finish with Redken Shine Flash 02 for extra gloss.

Messy Ponytail

The messy ponytail is a fun, casual hairstyle that’s perfect for days when you’re on the go. Whether it’s a busy day at the office, school, or even playing softball, this quick and easy hairstyle keeps your hair off your face while still looking chic. This style is great for medium hair or long hair, especially for those with a bit of natural texture or curly hair.

To get this look, gather your hair into a high ponytail and pull out a few strands around your face for a relaxed vibe. Spritz with Ouai Wave Spray to add texture and finish with R+Co Trophy Shine and Texture Spray for a polished finish with a bit of shine.

Wrapped Low Ponytail

The wrapped low ponytail is a simple, elegant way to elevate a basic ponytail, making it suitable for a more professional workday or even a special event like a wedding guest. This style is great for medium length hair or long hair and works well for those with straight hair. The wrap adds a polished finish, making the ponytail look sleek and chic.

To achieve this style, gather your hair into a low ponytail and wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it. Use L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray to keep the wrap in place and finish with Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum for a smooth, glossy finish.

Bohemian Braided Crown

The bohemian braided crown is an effortlessly romantic style, perfect for a casual workday or even a special event like a wedding guest or picture day at school. This style works best for medium length hair or long hair and looks gorgeous on both curly and straight hair. The braid wraps around the head, creating a soft, whimsical look.

To style this, braid two sections from each side of your head and wrap them around the crown, securing them with bobby pins. For texture, use Verb Sea Texture Spray, and finish with Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil for added shine.

Scarf-Wrapped Bun

The scarf-wrapped bun is a stylish and trendy way to add a bit of personality to a basic bun. This hairstyle is perfect for casual workdays or a fun event like softball or even school. It’s ideal for medium length hair or long hair and works well for all hair types—curly, straight, or textured. The scarf adds a pop of color and texture, making it a unique and personalized style.

To achieve this look, gather your hair into a low bun and wrap a colorful scarf around it, securing the ends with bobby pins. To keep the bun in place, use Oribe Superfine Hair Spray and finish with Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother for extra shine.

Conclusion

With these 23 cute and simple work hairstyles, you’ll never run out of ideas, no matter your hair type or length! From quick ponytails to elegant updos, there’s something for everyone. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your daily routine. Which one will you try next? Let us know in the comments!