25 Medium Shaggy Hairstyle

Medium shaggy hairstyles have long held their place as a staple in casual yet chic hair fashion. They are perfect for those who crave a bit of edge and texture without sacrificing length or versatility. This style thrives on movement and layers, allowing your natural hair texture to breathe while keeping things fresh and modern. Whether you’re aiming for a rocker-girl edge or a boho softness, the medium shag can be tailored to fit your lifestyle, hair type, and personal style.

1. Classic Medium Shag with Bangs

This timeless cut mixes face-framing layers with a wispy or curtain fringe, offering a flattering silhouette for most face shapes. The soft bangs gently cover the forehead, drawing attention to the eyes and cheekbones while giving the hairstyle an effortlessly cool aura. This classic combo is especially effective for softening sharp features and pairs beautifully with both straight and slightly wavy hair textures.

2. Wispy Shag with Face-Framing Layers

Delicate and lightweight, this version is designed to enhance facial features with soft, airy layers that cascade naturally around the face. It’s ideal for fine to medium hair, as it adds dimension without overwhelming the frame. When styled with a slight bend or curl, the layers create a flowing, ethereal shape that moves beautifully with every turn of the head.

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3. Razor Cut Shag

The razor cut version of the shag introduces even more texture and separation between layers, offering a lived-in, effortlessly undone look. Using a razor instead of scissors gives the ends a feathered, edgy quality that flatters those with thicker or coarser strands. It’s especially striking on darker hair, where the layered contrast is more pronounced.

4. Wavy Shag with Tousled Layers

Perfect for those with natural waves, this style emphasizes texture and softness. The tousled layers allow each wave to form organically, giving the illusion of more body and volume. With minimal styling—just a bit of mousse or sea salt spray—you can let your natural wave pattern shine while keeping a stylish and intentional finish.

5. Layered Shag with Deep Side Part

Changing the part can completely transform your look, and a deep side part brings a touch of drama and lift to a traditional shag. It adds asymmetry and volume on one side while letting the layers fall more naturally on the other. This look works particularly well for round or wider faces as it elongates the appearance and creates visual movement.

6. Shag with Curtain Fringe

This effortlessly chic look combines long, parted bangs with medium-length shag layers. Curtain fringes draw the eye inward, creating a slimming effect on wider cheeks while blending softly into the rest of the haircut. It’s perfect for medium to thick hair and is versatile enough to style with curls, waves, or even sleek straight finishes.

7. Medium Shag with Choppy Ends

This version features intentionally uneven, choppy ends that give the haircut a modern, youthful feel. The layers create separation and texture, which helps prevent the look from feeling too heavy. It’s especially flattering for those with naturally thick or voluminous hair that needs a little shape and control.

8. Shag with Subtle Highlights

Adding subtle highlights throughout a medium shag gives it an extra dimension of color and depth. Lighter strands catch the light and define the layers, enhancing the haircut’s movement and style. Try warm caramels or soft golds for brunettes and cool ash tones for blondes to match your natural hue and skin tone.

9. Voluminous Shag for Thick Hair

For those with thick, unruly hair, a voluminous shag works wonders to remove weight and add shape. Strategic layering thins out dense areas while still keeping plenty of body. The result is a haircut that’s full of bounce and movement but much easier to style and maintain.

10. Medium Curly Shag

Curly-haired individuals can benefit greatly from a shag cut that celebrates natural texture. The layers are tailored to work with the curl pattern, helping curls fall in a more balanced and flattering way. This prevents that dreaded “pyramid” shape and instead gives you a voluminous, rounded silhouette full of definition.

11. Retro Rocker Shag

Channeling major ’70s and ‘90s energy, the retro rocker shag plays up volume, layers, and personality. It’s a high-impact, bold look with lots of face-framing action and exaggerated ends. This cut thrives on texture and is ideal for those who like to make a statement with their hair.

12. Soft Shag with Long Layers

This is a gentler take on the classic shag—think subtle transitions between layers and an overall more fluid shape. Long layers offer the movement you want without losing length or density. It’s ideal for those new to shag haircuts or anyone wanting something soft and feminine.

13. Messy Shag with Fringe

This messy version adds carefree charm to the medium shag. Think of it as bedhead with intention—strategically placed layers create an unkempt look that’s still flattering and put-together. Pair it with a full or side fringe to complete the effortlessly cool vibe.

14. Shoulder-Length Shag with Blunt Bangs

Blunt bangs add a sharp, structured contrast to the relaxed nature of shaggy layers. They draw immediate attention to the eyes and offer a bold edge, especially when paired with soft, feathered ends. Great for those who want to balance softness with statement style.

15. Mid-Length Shag with Undone Texture

The undone texture brings a natural, nonchalant finish to this shag variation. Slight bends or soft waves in the hair enhance the cut’s shape while still keeping it loose and casual. It’s the kind of style that works just as well for brunch as it does for a night out.

16. Modern Shag with Center Part

The clean center part adds symmetry and polish to the traditionally wild shag. It’s a more contemporary, fashion-forward version that feels minimal yet edgy. This style can be styled straight for sharp lines or wavy for added softness.

17. Shag with Peekaboo Layers

Peekaboo layers are subtly hidden underneath the top layer of hair, offering movement without an overly layered appearance. They’re great for those who want texture without committing to a full shaggy overhaul. Bonus: they work beautifully in ponytails and updos too.

18. Medium Shag with Flicked Ends

This style features outward flicks on the bottom layers, giving the haircut a playful, retro nod. It’s a look that’s light, fun, and full of motion—perfect for medium-thick hair that needs a bit of shape and bounce.

19. Airy Shag with Light Volume

The airy shag uses light layering and soft feathering to create a barely-there feel with just enough shape. It’s best for fine or limp hair as it adds body without any heavy bulk. The result is a wispy, floating look that feels both elegant and casual.

20. Sleek Shag with Subtle Texture

This version uses minimal layering for a more sleek and structured finish. The focus here is on understated elegance, with just enough texture to keep things interesting. It’s a great work-friendly shag that still feels youthful and trendy.

21. Boho Shag with Loose Waves

Boho style lovers will adore this soft, flowy version of the shag. Loose waves blend with gentle layers for a carefree, nature-inspired finish that feels soft and dreamy. Add a middle part and some texture spray to capture that effortless festival vibe.

22. Medium Shag with Hidden Undercut

A hidden undercut underneath the layers offers a cool surprise and removes extra weight. It’s particularly useful for those with very thick hair who want a lighter feel without sacrificing length or volume on top.

23. Layered Shag with Textured Ends

Here, the focus is on the ends—cut to create texture and movement, even when the rest of the hair is fairly straight or structured. This style thrives with a bit of styling cream or paste to highlight the tips and make them pop.

24. Medium-Length Shag with Volume at Crown

Adding crown volume gives a touch of vintage flair and draws the eye upward, elongating the face. A few strategically placed shorter layers near the crown give the style height, making it great for longer or oval-shaped faces.

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25. Minimalist Shag with Gentle Layers

A minimalist shag takes all the best elements—light movement, slight texture, and easy flow—and simplifies them. With fewer layers and more uniform length, this version is perfect for those who prefer a cleaner silhouette but still want the versatility and style of a shag.

FAQs

Is a medium shag suitable for all hair types?

Yes, it can be customized to suit straight, wavy, curly, or coily hair. The key is working with a stylist who understands how to layer according to your hair’s natural movement and density.

Can older women wear medium shaggy hairstyles?

Absolutely! In fact, shag cuts are a fantastic way to bring energy and softness to mature features. They work especially well to add volume to thinning hair and can help frame the face in a flattering way.

What styling tools work best for shag cuts?

Texturizing sprays, dry shampoo, mousse, and a diffuser (for curly types) are top picks. You don’t need heavy tools—just enhance the natural flow and play of your layers.

How do I know if bangs will suit my face with a shag cut?

The beauty of shaggy haircuts is that the bangs can be customized—curtain bangs for balance, wispy ones for softness, or blunt bangs for drama. Talk to your stylist about what will highlight your features best.

How long does it take to grow out a shag?

Thanks to its layered nature, shags grow out beautifully. Even as the shape softens, it continues to look intentional, making it a low-commitment style if you’re exploring new cuts.

Conclusion

Medium shaggy hairstyles offer the best of both worlds: playful volume and sophisticated structure. These 25 looks celebrate movement, individuality, and a touch of rebellion, while still being wearable and stylish for everyday life. Whether you’re dressing it up or letting it fall freely, the medium shag frames your face, adds body, and enhances your natural texture. It’s a reminder that the most iconic looks often come from embracing what your hair naturally wants to do—and owning it with confidence.