One drawback of thick locks is their monolithic character. We mean, with the wrong haircut your hairstyle for thick hair is going to look artificial and motionless. That’s why haircuts which reveal the ends and endow them with the feel of movement are extremely flattering for thick tresses. One-length haircuts should be avoided, while graded and progressive cuts with a shorter length around the crown and longer locks at the nape make the best medium-length haircuts for thick hair.
How to Style Medium Thick Hair?
When styling mid-length thick locks, pay particular attention to the volume you are blessed with by nature. Be meticulous about the ends. You need them smooth, because the tips of thick locks often look dry and stick out unappealingly. Most smoothing balms for hair cope with this task. You can use whatever styling tools you desire, depending on what particular texture you want to achieve this time. One nuance to remember in this relation is usage of strong hold hair styling products, because with a weaker degree of fixation your hairstyle won’t be as durable as you want it to be.
Coloristic solutions can change much about the appearance of your thick locks too. The main goal you should pursue when dyeing your thick hair is the feel of movement. Balayage and ombre techniques help to achieve the desired effect. Smooth transitions of similar hues add dimension, motion and lightness to your thick locks. See our extensive list of ideas!
1. Layered Ends
@saidhenriquegyn
Thick tresses look extra special when the ends are slightly layered and curled. Copper highlights over dark brown hair also provide healthy shimmer and shine. It’s a cut that looks best when parted straight down the middle or pulled back into a ponytail or bun.
2. V-Cut Choppy Layers
A straight-across long bob is ideal for thick hair since it really shows off the density of your locks, but without layers you risk to end up with a blocky look. Choppy layers give this ‘do a slightly shaggy yet feminine flair, especially when styled tousled. This classic cut suits every face shape and a wide range of hair textures.
@alexkhoeunhair
3. Layered Lob
A layered lob is a good go-to cut for anyone with thick hair as it flatters all face shapes and lets heavy locks feel lighter. The layers add enough interest, so you can keep your color monochromatic without looking flat or dull. Finish with a messy wave to really show off the different lengths.
@hairby_chrissy
4. Swoopy Face-Framing Layers
A lob with swoopy face-framing layers looks effortlessly classy. To recreate that bounce and lightness, blow-dry your hair with a round brush, flipping the ends outward for that perfect swoop. Chic and sophisticated, you will always look put together with this cut.
@timothyjohnssalon
5. Wavy Textured Bob
A textured bob is great for thick, wavy hair because it adds movement and reduces bulk, making your hair feel lighter. Plus, the layers enhance your natural waves. This bob boasts shaggy layers and a light blonde color that shines almost like the sun!
@hair_by_aliciacal
6. Medium Shag
Shag cuts have become very popular and it’s easy to see why. The messy layered waves instantly add sexy movement to your do and work great with all hair textures. Thick-haired beauties can get away with longer layers without sacrificing the desired volume.
@brookebent
7. Layered Front Pieces
This lob features sharply angled side sections and straight cut back. As noted earlier, an important component that adds movement to thick hair is textured ends. They will help in styling and create an airy look.
@hairbymelissamelbourne
8. Textured and Highlighted
The best way to show off the texture of thick tresses is to add some highlights. Varying shades will give life to the layers and add dimension to your locks. Ask your stylist to help you select flattering subtle shades to gain that precious natural sun-kissed glow.
@penniepannavalee
9. Flipped Ends
A more traditional way to style hair with layers is to flip out the ends. If you prefer wearing your hair straight, this helps to soften the shape of your cut and introduce some movement into your style while keeping the sleekness. Blow dry the hair in sections with a round brush to get a polished look.
@wesleynobrega
10. Feathered Layers
A benefit of thick hair is the ability to pull off heavily layered haircuts without having to worry about lack of volume. Feathered and straight, this style is edgy while bearing a subtly retro feel to it.
@cosmoxwinters
11. Bouncy Layers
Medium length hairstyles often get a bad rap for looking flat and too “in transition.” With this style, layers are flicked gently with a straightener to add some body and dimension.
@hairhunter
12. Subtle Highlights
If you have thick hair, you know that it’s not always so much of a blessing. To counteract too much fullness, go for some cropped layers and add in some subtle highlights a couple of shades lighter than your base color to lighten things up.
@modernsalon
13. Shag with Side Bangs
Best styled tousled, it’s an easy, pretty look you’ll love to wear on days when you don’t feel like styling much. Side bangs soften up the whole shag, so it’s better to make sure they fall nicely.
@soraverly
14. Mid-Length Shaggy Cut
With this shagged haircut, you’ll enjoy modern layers combined with a workable length that still allows for ponytail days. If you request a shag, be sure to go to a stylist you trust – too much of a good thing can turn dangerously retro quickly.
@buddywporter
15. Layered Angled Lob
A long, angled cut might turn into the best bob you’ve ever had. Instead of making things short and severe, flow free with a bob cut that accentuates your natural hair wave. Boost it with a brand new hue, adding depth and dimension that makes your haircut pop even more.
@modernsalon
16. Multicolored Sideswept Cut
Celebrate the forever summer inside of you with this breezy, lightened hairstyle. Hair is brushed to the side and chopped on the ends to make thick strands appear less heavy. The blonde accents frame and brighten the face.
@hairby.ashleypac
17. Bob with Textured Ends
Cuts for dense locks simply beg for textured ends as they finish off the shape of the cut and give hair the much needed dynamics. A deep side part is a bold bonus that brings added movement to the ‘do.
@yokii.san
18. Textured Angled Cut
Angled hairstyles have been popular for a while, but when it comes to solutions for thick hair, they are timeless. Angled cuts with layers are incredibly helpful for stubborn, heavy locks.
@salsalhair
19. Messy Choppy Layers
Dark hair can appear even thicker than it is. Lighten it up by adding layers throughout your length. Try a choppy cut – it’s easier to maintain and you can also go longer in between salon visits. The messy look is very stylish and popular in today’s fashion industry, and lucky for you, it works well with thick hair.
@anhcotran
20. Curly Style with Side Bangs
A mid-length layered cut is awesome for curly hair! Layers distribute the volume evenly and make your curls look more defined and bouncy. They are long enough to remain feminine but short enough to keep things manageable. A deep side part and long side bangs are ideal for a youthful look.
@alexisthurston
21. Shoulder-Length Tousled Hair
Cutting your hair to the shoulder length or a shorter style can cause it to look “puffy” if it isn’t properly styled – but who has time for that every day? If you have thick wavy hair, then towel dry it in the morning, pump some gel into your hands and tousle your hair with it. The results are both adorable and long lasting.
@mizzchoi
22. Side-Parted Shag
Shags are fantastic cuts because the volume-packed styles are the best at showing off full hair. Amp up the messy meter of the hairdo according to how natural you’d like your mane to appear. Ashier brunette shades may seem dry, so make sure to use a shine spray for healthy-looking locks.
@soraverly
23. Dramatic Highlights
Add some light brown and blonde to bring dimension and style to thick brunette hair. If you’ve run out of ideas, but have always sported dark hair – then try out some honey or even platinum highlights. Mid-length hairdos for dense locks don’t always involve too much of a cut – sometimes it’s all about the choice of color and its smart placement.
@modernsalon
24. Tousled Midshaft Waves
Your hair will look luxurious and healthy when you cut it straight across in a shoulder-length lob. Add a textured finish for the ends and a few midshaft waves for an easy flowy style.
@prissyhippiebeautyshop
25. Medium Butterfly Cut
Layers around the crown will offer you a lovely fullness of the top section. Something many women try to achieve with teasing, you are going to have naturally thanks to the thickness of your hair and the right cut. Accent the layers with subtle balayage highlights to make the texture more pronounced.
@salongossip
26. Bob with Feathered Tips
Some layered bobs can require a lot of styling to pull off. If you’re looking for something more low key, try the less is more approach. This straight style offers the simplicity of fewer layers, but with a cute and polished end result.
@saidhenriquegyn
27. Feathered Bangs
Grungey shoulder-length hairstyles are foolproof and flattering for many face shapes. Feathered with sparse front bangs, this one offers a mysterious and sultry aesthetic that is hard to ignore. Faint highlights alleviate the bob’s dimension factor, too.
@ro.hsiqueira
28. Highlighted Layers
Does anything go better together on a cold day than cocoa and cinnamon? It gets us all warm inside just thinking about it. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be wintertime to take advantage of this yummy combo. A lighter red shade on top of a deep chocolate base will help to lighten your hair mass visually.
@askforamy
29. 70s-Inspired Shag
Layered shoulder length hair can be reminiscent of 1970s hippies. For a style like this, you’ll want to avoid brushing and blow-drying. Just run your fingers through it a couple of times and let it be!
@sdifilippohair
30. Round Layers
A medium bob is a light and fresh cut that works well on women of all ages. Subtle layering can be used to keep your thick hair from feeling overly bushy, but still maintaining the sleek style. Start your shortest layer at about chin level and taper downward from there.
@alchemyxartistry
31. Accent Color and Texturizing
Texturizing the ends of your layers will enable the strands to spiral easier, making it a great option for those with naturally curly hair. Another way to showcase those lovely curls is to incorporate a fun accent color. Both solutions can be great solutions for just a little extra sass.
@styled_by_carolynn
32. Soft Razored Layers
Razored layers are always a good idea on full hair! The greatest way to display them is with added texture. Big curls created with a curling iron bring movement, perfect for a fierce lady attracted to voluminous hairdos with lots of height.
@askforamy
33. Balayage Waves
The major benefit of this cut is its versatility. It can go casual and messy or work-ready and classy with just a slight styling change. Soft balayage as shown here will add sophistication and depth to your natural texture.
@askforamy
34. Retro Swoopy Layers
This is another one of those ‘dos that are a blast from the past. The rich chocolate brown color is lowkey and stylish. Flipped layers are cute and feminine.
@stilistannaleonova
35. Sleek Shag
Shags don’t always have to be messy. This sleek version is a sexy adaptation of the cut. The shorter layers are feathered around the crown of the head, and the longer ones are textured and curled out to provide movement and dimension without sacrificing the overall straight style.
@lizhaven
36. Feathered with Balayage Highlights
Feathered cuts are inspired by the bohemian 70s era and worn today by fashionistas. Youthful on an older lady and chic on younger women working in professional environments, update this style with deep natural or colored roots that fade into balayage highlights.
@sebastianguedeshairemakeup
37. Highlighted Springy Waves
Nothing says fun and frivolous better than a tousled wavy haircut that just grazes the shoulders. Parted down the middle or on the side, it’s a hairstyle that’s most appropriate for women who have super-thick wavy texture.
@maxwellmathson
38. Beachy Waves
A long beachy bob can be a great go-to style option all year long. Add some smoothing serum to tame frizz and rough dry your hair. Throw in a few waves here and there with a curling iron if necessary. Once your hair has cooled, give it a good spritz of hair spray and then run your fingers through the waves to soften them.
@kearybladel
39. Tapered Layered Cut
Keep it minimalistic by rocking an elongated cut with layers. The fine tailoring is greatly shown off when styled straight. Ace it by tapering ends down letting lengthy locks swoop into each other.
@the.original.dk
40. U-Cut Layers
U-cut layers add definition and shape to thick hair and make your hair feel so much lighter. Achieve soft, natural styles using sea salt sprays and texturizing products on damp hair after washing. If you’re attracted to this aesthetic, consider getting sparse babylights to add some intrigue!
41. Rounded Layered Style
The dramatic side bangs are matched only by the chic color sported on this gorgeous shag. Silver is no longer a shade solely for the mature, as a whole new generation has embraced the cool tone.
@guyannescissorhands
42. Straight Across Textured Cut
Ladies who don’t like complicated cuts but still want to have a current ‘do would benefit from a straight across medium cut with textured layers. Easy to maintain and minimizing morning styling time, shags suit any wardrobe while still giving you that signature look.
@buddywporter
43. Choppy Inverted Bob
Trendsetters who make a statement, the angled honey blonde beauty is calling your name. Bobs aren’t going anywhere any time soon. This fresh style has so much richness in multiple warm hues, so decide on the palette and range of tones that work for you.
@ramireztransalon
44. Straight Layered Haircut
A bright balayage and feathered layers are the best ways to bring texture and movement to straight hair. This fabulous haircut shows off the density and healthy shine of thick straight hair.
@shearcolourhairstylist
45. Piece-y Waves
Though this hairstyle is not simple, there’s something very classic about loose, piece-y waves elegantly framing the face. With a wide range of tones from deep brunette to platinum blonde, the layers and picture-perfect waves display them beautifully. It’s suitable for all ages and face shapes.
@aaashleee
46. Thick Beachy Waves
Casual, loose waves with shaggy ends offer the popular beachy hair look all year round. Even in the dead of winter, it’s possible to rock a hairstyle that looks like you’ve spent all day on the beach. Overnight braids, a curling iron, and even sea salt spray can all add waves to hair that isn’t naturally wavy.
@stephengarrison
47. Messy Layered Style
The messy midi gets achieved through sparse and short wispy layers stemming from the crown. To take the hairdo up a notch, implement scattered streaks of a shade a few levels lighter than your base color.
@pameladoeshair
48. Internal Layers
The thicker your hair is, the heavier it falls. Holding any kind of style is difficult, if not outright impossible. When hair is too heavy, not even a full bottle of sculpting spray can make it hold its original shape. Starting out with subtle layers introduces movement and makes your locks light and lively.
@donovanmillshair
49. Textured A-Line Bob
This haircut develops a nice lift from teased roots. This is an easy way to amp up the wow factor of your bob, especially when it’s cut angled or A-line. Try a white grey color combination for an icy effect.
@dayannimake
50. Steeply Angled Lob
Angled lobs provide a sultry outline to frame your face. Long face-framing strands give definition when worn straight. The cut and style are simple in nature, but offer a serious amount of attitude.
@hairby.ashleypac
51. Rounded Collarbone Bob
Try out a rounded silver lob with warm blonde highlights and black roots to achieve a glamorous metallic ‘do that will never go out of style. The intermingling shades add interest to the graphic shape of the hairstyle.
@hairbykatlin
52. Long Face-Framing Layers
Long, swoopy layers soften rigid lines of the angled bob, and accompanied with an A-line shape, it’s the ideal hairstyle for women who want a structured cut that still looks flexible and feminine. Style hair inwards for maximum suppleness.
@hairby.ashleypac
53. Jagged Lob with Bangs
Jagged lobs are popular hairstyles for thick hair thanks to the lively essences they give off. Uneven chops work so well on full manes because there’s lots of body to keep hairdos looking rich and healthy. Long side bangs enhance the youthful beauty of the cut.
@laurissamarie
54. Shag with Choppy Layers
A nice shaggy cut embraces uneven choppy layers that start at a certain level and progress towards the ends. On hairstyles of this nature, consider getting babylights to really draw attention to the refined definition in layers.
@robsonjassa
55. Choppy Angled Textured Lob
Choppy above shoulder lobs ooze sexy vibes and look effortlessly adorable, especially when styled in loose waves. A universal cut for blondes, redheads and brunettes!
@gustavoblesa
56. Curled Layers
Take a cue from Goldilocks with this modern rendition of ringlets. Thick hair that has the ability to hold a curl can easily pull off this beautiful shoulder length hair style. You can get this look using a large barrel curling iron and your favorite holding product. If you want to save time in the morning, sleep in some extra large hair rollers.
@mukhamed_balasiev
57. Thoroughly Layered Lob
A fun fact about thick hairstyles is that in most cases they are self-styled options in case you choose the right cut for your hair type. A heavily layered lob like this is great for slightly textured hair, with a light natural wave to it. Note also that this hairdo is great for women with alternative wardrobes!
@buddywporter
58. Choppy V-Cut Layers
The epitome of feminine and trendy is the choppy lob with v-cut layers. On such haircuts, stay away from shorter, face-framing strands as they may dilute the long uniformity that makes this style so striking. Also, stick to natural hair tones (the ones that aren’t too ashy or warm) for nonchalant vibes.
@buddywporter
59. Lob with Jagged Ends
Let’s face it; some of us just prefer staying on the dark side. Skip color playing with highlights and go for a rich, all-over hue like the deep mocha brown. Jagged ends bring freshness to all lobs, and imperfection is key with this type of hairstyles.
@hairbymarissasue
60. Wind-Swept Layers
Medium wavy hair needs a scattering of layers to encourage its texture. Very subtle highlights on brunettes work with the texture providing the look that’s lightweight and full of movement – the must-have characteristics of modern hairstyles.
@fringesalonhouston
61. Long Angled Bob
A lob is one of the hottes picks and for a good reason. It is still fairly light and airy like a short hairstyle, but it gives you the length and versatility of a longer look. If you are in search of a style that is easy to manage and good-looking in any occasion, the long bob is for you.
@Instagram@Instagram@Instagram@Instagram
62. U-Shaped Haircut
Those with naturally wavy or straight thick hair can opt for a u-shaped haircut, where the hair is gradually shorter on the sides and longer in the middle. This style is ideal for a medium length because it shows the smooth change in length best.
@Instagram@Instagram@Instagram@Instagram
63. Medium Layered Haircut
If you are a busy woman who needs a hairstyle that will look good on any occasion, these layered haircuts are a must-try. Medium to long layers within the cut provide enough versatility for anyone who may need to pull their hair into a quick ponytail in a pinch.
@Instagram@Instagram@Instagram@Instagram
64. Shag Cut with Bangs
The 70s are back in a major way. With suede, flared denim and maxi dresses taking over our closets, it’s time to embrace the medium shag haircut as well. The messy texture provides a carefree vibe that all it- girls love.
@Instagram@Instagram@Instagram@Instagram
65. Long Layers and Highlights
Long layers are a mid-length cut’s best friend, especially if you’re in the process of growing out hair and want it to look as long as possible. Highlights enhance this style with definition and dimension.
@the_stylist_carol
66. Soft Waves
Use a deep conditioning treatment in your hair on a regular basis to keep medium length waves looking soft and supple. A blunt cut along the bottom will help thick strands hold it together from root to tip.
@rachelringwood
67. Side-Swept Jagged Layers
The jagged layers create the look of torn edges that is a perfect solution for slightly wavy hair. Your locks will set even without any special styling tricks – just blow dry and go. A side part and long bangs contribute to the trendy look.
@missy_theige
68. Asymmetrical Bob
If you prefer to wear your hair side-parted, try an asymmetrical choppy bob. Your hair will graze one shoulder and fall on the chest on the other side. It’s the optimal length and texture solution for thick hair that would look too bulky in shorter blunt cuts.
@salsalhair
69. Waves with Color Melt
Shoulder-length hair is super popular for women: it’s neither too long nor too short, the so-called “golden mean.” Well, as gorgeous as this style is, the color is even better. The burst of cotton candy hues enhances the layered waves beautifully.
@excellenthairsalon
70. Collarbone Cut
Having concerns about going too short with a layered cut? This is valid as the layers will add extra girth and you don’t want to look like you’re wearing a helmet. A slightly longer collarbone length gives the style of a shorter cut, but visually balances the volume.
@kccarhart
71. Layers with Color Pops
Multidirectional layers add volume and style to hair that is ceasing to define itself. Go for a blunt, shoulder-length cut and ask for layers of varying lengths. You can liven them up by tousling your damp hair with some styling gel. Finally, go blonde with a partial color placed throughout your mane.
@saloncouture_ny
72. Feathered Choppy Lob
Feathered choppy lobs automatically send off a bold signal. Paired with a vibrant hair color, like saturated caramel streaks overtop of chocolate brown, this thick mane is hard to miss.
@maxwellmathson
73. Asymmetric Cut with Color Pop
Girl superheroes are a big deal in Hollywood right now, and many of them sport fun and funky hair. Take a cue from these girl power characters and get an angled cut with a creative accent color like purple, turquoise or red.
@butterflyloftsalon
74. S-Waves
Dreamy S-waves have been trending for a while now and we don’t see the popularity going away anytime soon. With the added movement and natural bend, this awesome look transforms your shoulder-length tresses from bland to blam!
@themelaniecruz
75. Tousled Layers
Natural blondes have many different shades of blonde throughout their hair. The hair lightens as it has exposure to the sun and other elements. The best way to show off those darker tones underneath is to use lots of layers. Just place them strategically so as not to add too much volume.
@kearybladel
76. One-Tone Lob
With lighter shades of blonde and fine hair, it’s always recommended to darken the roots, because colorless roots make your hair appear thinner. With thick hair you may easily skip this recommendation or follow it, depending on the chosen coloristic idea you want to bring to life.
@taitkieuapril05
77. Thinned Out Ends
When you try thinned out ends on thick hair, you get a structured cut that lets your hair have both volume and beautiful shape. With this bob you can enjoy straight, wavy or curly textures and look chic with every new look.
@headrushdesignsbyjulieann
78. Natural Waves
Looking for a universal length? This cut should be it. Everything about it is on-point and easy to pull off for women who have naturally wavy hair and those who don’t alike. The layers are the key, and make sure to ask for a shaggy finish.
@saloncouture_ny
79. Razored Shaggy Layers
This is such a fun ‘do, plus it’s edgy, stunning, and easy to attain – what could be better? Thinned out shaggy layers get more than just lift and body. The layers create tons of texture, too. They make the cut look more interesting – and when color comes into the mix, it’s even more gorgeous. Ask for razored, shaggy layers to steal this cut.
@jamiekeikohair
80. Loose Waves
Styling a shoulder-length shaggy cut into a trendy wavy ‘do is a breeze even if you are not a pro. Blow dry your mane roughly and style a few loose waves with a straightener here and there. Leave the ends disconnected and shaggy.
@romeufelipe
As you see, thick hair allows you a wide choice of styles and offers more freedom to play with textures and volume. We believe now you realize how lucky you are to be blessed with thick locks. A few correct strokes such as the right hair color, a good haircut and flattering hairstyle are all it takes to look gorgeous any time. There are plenty of haircut variations for thick hair. Just pick your own!
