If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and thought, “I need something new, but not a full-on makeover,” then medium length shag haircuts might just be the solution you’ve been searching for. Trust me, I get it—sometimes you want change, but you’re not ready to throw all caution to the wind with a dramatic chop.
A shaggy cut at the right length is the perfect way to shake things up while keeping things fun and versatile. And, as someone who’s been experimenting with haircuts for years (yes, I’ve had my fair share of bad decisions), I can tell you that medium length shags are a total game-changer.
So, what exactly is it about medium length shag haircuts that makes them so appealing? They strike a perfect balance between edgy and laid-back, offering tons of texture and volume without requiring you to sacrifice length.
Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, the medium shag cut adds layers that bring out your natural texture in a way that’s both chic and easy to maintain. It’s a cut that says, “I woke up like this,” but in the best way possible!
1. Messy Medium Shag
Ah, the messy medium shag—it’s a look that says, “I woke up like this,” but in the best possible way.
With layers that give your hair an effortlessly tousled vibe, this style is perfect for anyone who loves low-maintenance yet high-style hair.
Personally, I adore this look because it adds tons of volume and movement, making my hair feel fuller and more textured.
To really nail the messy shag, use a salt spray to enhance the texture, and a little dry shampoo for added volume at the roots.
2. Layered Shag with Fringed Bangs
Layered shag with fringed bangs? Yes, please! This look is super versatile and adds a bit of edge to a classic shag cut.
The soft, choppy fringe really frames the face and makes it ideal for those with round or square faces who want to soften their features.
I’ve tried this look myself, and it’s surprisingly easy to maintain—just a quick blow dry and a little product to keep the bangs in check.
This style works best with a little natural wave or curl, but don’t be afraid to curl it under for a sleeker, more polished finish if that’s your vibe.
3. Medium Shaggy Lob
Let’s talk about the medium shaggy lob—a modern twist on the classic bob. This one’s a personal favorite of mine.
It offers the best of both worlds, blending the angular cut of a bob with the shag’s carefree texture. It works wonders for thick or fine hair since the layers help to reduce bulk or add volume.
To style it, I love using a texture spray for that lived-in, tousled look. You can go with a deep side part or middle part to switch things up depending on your mood.
4. Textured Shag with Side Bangs
Textured shag with side bangs is the epitome of cool-girl chic. This style has just the right amount of texture to give your hair volume and movement without looking overdone.
For those of us with fine or flat hair, the side bangs can give an extra boost of volume, and they’re great for framing the face.
I recommend using a lightweight mousse for styling to give your hair that lift without weighing it down. It’s a perfect option for people who want a balanced, face-framing shag cut that still feels fresh.
5. Choppy Shaggy Bob
If you’re looking for a chop that’s fun, flirty, and full of personality, the choppy shaggy bob is where it’s at.
This cut works especially well for those who love shorter styles but want a little more edge than a classic bob provides. What I love about this look is the way it gives off a playful, slightly rebellious vibe, while still feeling polished.
It’s so easy to style, too—just scrunch your hair with a texturizing cream, and you’re good to go. The choppy ends give it a relaxed, messy feel, perfect for busy mornings.
6. Wavy Shag Cut for Medium Length Hair
Wavy shag cuts are a beachy, carefree dream come true for medium-length hair. Whether you’ve got natural waves or need a little help from a curling iron, this cut brings out the best in your texture.
I personally love how wavy shag cuts can go from casual to glam with just a few tweaks. If you’re looking to enhance natural waves, use a sea salt spray to boost texture.
It’s an excellent choice for those who want a low-maintenance cut that still makes an impact.
7. Tousled Shag with Layered Ends
The tousled shag with layered ends is for anyone who loves that wind-swept, “I just got back from a beach vacation” look.
This cut adds effortless layers that move freely, giving your hair natural volume without feeling too heavy.
I love that this style looks great on both straight and wavy hair, and it works well for people with finer strands too.
To maintain it, just use a light mousse and let your hair air dry—embrace the messy vibe!
8. Soft Shag with Beach Waves
If you’ve ever wanted that soft, breezy, just-rolled-out-of-bed hairstyle (in the best way possible), then a soft shag with beach waves is your go-to.
The waves give the cut a relaxed, textured feel, but the soft layers keep it from looking too wild. To style, I recommend using a beach wave spray to add some texture and volume.
It’s perfect for those who want a laid-back, chic look that doesn’t require much effort.
9. Full-Faced Medium Shag Cut
The full-faced medium shag cut is all about framing your face with layers that draw attention to your best features. This style is great for those with longer faces or anyone wanting to add balance to their profile.
I find this cut gives my face a more youthful appearance because of how the layers hit at the right angles.
You can play with the layers to make them more dramatic or subtle, depending on your preference. It’s a fresh, flattering take on the medium-length shag.
10. Feathered Shag with Textured Layers
Feathered shag with textured layers is one of those styles that never goes out of fashion. It’s retro-inspired but modernized for today’s hair trends.
If you’re looking to add volume and a little swing to your hair, this cut is a winner. I love the way the feathered layers give movement without weighing the hair down.
Use a lightweight styling cream to enhance those layers, and let your natural texture shine through for a perfect feathered finish.
11. Disconnected Shaggy Lob
The disconnected shaggy lob is a bold, modern take on the classic lob. What makes it so fun is the dramatic contrast between the longer sections of hair and the choppy, shorter layers.
I’ve tried this look myself, and it’s super versatile—it works well on almost any face shape. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to add a little drama and edge to their hair without committing to a super short cut.
To style it, use a texturizing mousse or sea salt spray to highlight the layers and give it that lived-in look.
12. Modern Shag for Medium-Length Hair
The modern shag for medium-length hair is the perfect balance between a vintage and contemporary vibe. This style adds a mix of layers and movement that feels effortlessly cool.
Personally, I find it ideal for those of us with medium to thick hair, as the layers help remove bulk while keeping volume.
The key to nailing this style is in the texture—use a lightweight styling gel to define each layer, and you’ll have a cut that feels both timeless and fresh.
13. Voluminous Shag with Face-Framing Layers
A voluminous shag with face-framing layers is all about giving your hair that fabulous, lift-at-the-roots feel.
This style enhances your natural shape while adding volume around the face, which I personally love because it helps highlight my cheekbones.
If you have thinner hair, this look is a game-changer, as the layers give fullness without feeling too heavy. To get that extra oomph, try blow-drying with a round brush and using a volumizing spray at the roots.
14. Messy Shag with Curled Ends
The messy shag with curled ends has that carefree, beachy vibe that’s perfect for anyone who loves a little tousle in their life.
I adore this style because the curls at the end make it playful while the shaggy layers keep it laid-back. For this look, curl the ends with a wand and then run your fingers through it for that effortless, beachy wave.
It works especially well with medium-length shag haircuts if you want something with a little more personality and flair.
15. Medium-Length Layered Shag with Highlights
If you’re looking to add a bit of dimension to your shag, then a medium-length layered shag with highlights is the way to go.
The layers work beautifully to add movement, while the highlights create depth and give your hair that sun-kissed effect.
I’ve found this combination really brightens up my face, and it works especially well for anyone who wants to combine texture with color.
When styling, keep it simple—use a light mousse to enhance the layers, and your highlights will pop.
16. Curly Shag for Medium Hair
For those with naturally curly hair, a curly shag is an absolute dream. This cut enhances the natural curl pattern, giving it plenty of volume and definition without the frizz.
Personally, I love this style because it’s low-maintenance yet still looks full of life. If you have curly hair, use a curl cream or mousse to define your curls and keep the shape of the shag cut intact.
It’s a great option for anyone who wants to embrace their natural texture while keeping things stylish and fresh.
17. Layered Shaggy Cut with Bold Texture
If you’re after a hairstyle that screams “I’m confident and full of personality,” the layered shaggy cut with bold texture is for you. This cut is edgy, modern, and full of movement.
I’ve tried it with a messy finish and loved how it gave my hair that playful, voluminous look. To get this style just right, apply a strong texturizing paste to separate the layers and give them definition.
This cut works best on those with thick or wavy hair, as it highlights the natural texture beautifully.
18. Medium Shag with Choppy Ends
The medium shag with choppy ends is all about that edgy, rockstar look that feels rebellious yet refined.
It’s perfect for anyone who loves a bit of drama but doesn’t want to go too extreme with a super short cut.
I’ve worn this style for years—it’s easy to maintain and always looks effortlessly chic.
To keep the choppy ends looking fresh, use a bit of styling cream or pomade, and add a little wave to the ends with a curling iron for that ‘just got out of bed’ vibe.
19. Shaggy Layers with Curtain Bangs
Shaggy layers with curtain bangs are having a major moment right now, and I can totally see why. This style frames your face beautifully while keeping the hair light and airy.
I love the balance between the soft, face-framing bangs and the shaggy layers that give it a playful edge.
If you want to achieve this look, simply use a texturizing spray and curl the bangs outwards to create that perfect curtain shape.
It’s a great choice for people who want a haircut that’s stylish but not overly high-maintenance.
20. Medium Textured Shag with Tousled Ends
The medium textured shag with tousled ends is the perfect laid-back look for anyone who loves natural texture and movement.
It’s super easy to style and looks great even when it’s a bit messy. I’ve always found that tousled ends work wonders for adding volume without looking too put-together.
A little bit of dry shampoo at the roots can go a long way to enhance the texture. This cut is ideal for anyone who wants a carefree, voluminous hairstyle that still looks chic.
21. Wavy Shag with Fringed Bangs
The wavy shag with fringed bangs is a combo that screams retro cool with a modern twist.
This cut is perfect for anyone who loves a bit of texture and movement in their hair but also wants to frame their face with some playful bangs.
I’ve rocked this style and found it effortlessly chic— the waves give the hair volume while the fringe adds softness around the eyes.
To style, I use a texturizing spray for a beachy vibe and just let the bangs fall naturally. It’s perfect for anyone with medium-length hair who wants a fun, carefree style.
22. Light Shag with Loose Waves
The light shag with loose waves is perfect for those who want the shag look but without the heavy layers. This cut is ideal if you’re looking for volume and movement without the drama.
I love this look because it’s subtle yet stylish—great for those with thinner hair who want a fuller appearance. To style, I use a sea salt spray to enhance the waves and just let them air dry for a relaxed finish.
It works best for medium-length hair that needs some texture but not too much heaviness.
23. Layered Shag with a Side Part
Layered shag with a side part is all about adding volume and dimension, while still keeping things sleek and refined. The side part helps create an asymmetrical look that makes the layers pop.
Personally, I love how this style works with my hair’s natural texture—my layers get the right amount of movement without looking messy.
To pull this off, just blow-dry your hair with a round brush for some lift at the roots, and you’re good to go! This cut is fantastic for anyone who wants a polished version of the shag.
24. Shaggy Lob with Choppy Layers
A shaggy lob with choppy layers is a bold and edgy style that’s become a personal favorite of mine.
The choppy layers add texture and movement, while the lob keeps it long enough to maintain a bit of sophistication. If you have thick hair, this style is especially great for removing some bulk without sacrificing volume.
To style, I use a texture paste to separate the layers and add definition. This cut is perfect for those who want a more daring version of the medium-length shag.
25. Curled Shag with Defined Layers
Curled shag with defined layers is a voluminous, bouncy look that I absolutely adore for medium-length hair. The curls and layers work together to create a dynamic, attention-grabbing shape.
If you’re someone with straight or wavy hair, this style can add some fun texture and movement that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday glam.
To get those defined curls, I use a curling iron with a medium barrel and a bit of hairspray to keep everything in place. This style is perfect for anyone looking for an extra boost of volume.
26. Medium-Length Rocker Shag
The medium-length rocker shag is exactly what it sounds like—bold, edgy, and full of attitude. It’s a style that channels the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll while maintaining an effortlessly cool vibe.
I find this look works best with natural texture since it lets the layers and volume do the work.
To style it, I love using a texturizing spray to create more movement and let it air dry for that tousled, just-got-out-of-bed look.
This cut is perfect for anyone who wants a rockstar-inspired shag that’s still chic.
27. Disheveled Medium Shag with Wispy Layers
If you’re into that perfectly imperfect look, the disheveled medium shag with wispy layers is for you.
It’s a super relaxed style with lots of texture and movement, making it perfect for anyone who loves the bedhead look but with a bit more finesse.
I personally adore how easy this style is to maintain—just run your fingers through it and go! Use a lightweight styling cream to keep the layers from looking too frizzy, and let your natural texture shine.
This cut is fantastic for anyone who wants a low-maintenance yet fashionable shag.
28. Layered Shag for Thick Hair
A layered shag for thick hair is a dream come true if you’re tired of feeling like your hair weighs you down.
The layers work wonders for removing bulk while keeping that shaggy texture and volume intact. I’ve tried this style to reduce the heaviness of my thick hair, and it was a game-changer.
To style, I use a light mousse for volume at the roots and a bit of texture spray to bring out the layers. This cut is ideal for anyone who loves volume but needs a little help with managing thicker hair.
29. Medium Shag with Textured Fringe
Medium shag with textured fringe is the ultimate mix of modern and retro. The textured fringe adds personality, while the medium-length shag keeps things looking effortlessly cool.
I love how the fringe can be styled both sleek or tousled, depending on the vibe you’re going for. To style, I use a lightweight styling gel and a blow dryer to create a soft, voluminous look.
This cut is perfect for those who want a versatile shag that still frames the face beautifully.
30. Vintage Shag for Medium-Length Hair
The vintage shag for medium-length hair channels a 70s vibe that is back and better than ever. This style brings a bit of nostalgia with its layered texture and voluminous look.
I find that it works best for those who want a throwback feel without looking outdated. To style, I use a curl-defining cream to add soft waves and a little teasing at the crown for extra lift.
If you’re after that cool, retro look, this is definitely a shag that never goes out of style.
The edgy shag with long, layered bangs adds a daring twist to the traditional shag. The long bangs give the look a bit of drama while keeping everything soft and wearable.
I love how versatile this cut is—whether you want a rocker-chic look or something more polished, the long layers make it easy to adjust.
For styling, use a flat iron to smooth out the bangs, then add texture to the layers with a sea salt spray.
This cut works best for anyone who wants a more bold and dramatic medium-length shag.
32. Bouncy Shaggy Cut with Natural Waves
If you love the idea of a bouncy shag but want to embrace your natural waves, this style is your perfect match.
It’s light, airy, and full of movement, making it ideal for anyone who has a bit of natural texture but doesn’t want to go overboard.
I love the way my waves add a natural bounce to the shag, and it’s super easy to style. Just scrunch your hair with a little mousse and let it air dry for that carefree, textured finish.
This cut is perfect for those who want an effortlessly bouncy shag.
33. Medium-Length Shag with Soft Waves
For a softer take on the shag, the medium-length shag with soft waves gives a more polished, gentle vibe while still maintaining that shaggy texture.
This style works well for those who want the best of both worlds—volume and movement without going too wild.
I find that using a curling iron to create loose waves, followed by a touch of hairspray, works wonders for keeping everything in place.
This cut is great for anyone who wants a more subtle, refined shaggy style.
34. Subtle Shag with Slight Layers
The subtle shag with slight layers is perfect for anyone who wants to dip their toes into the shag world without going all in.
The layers are just enough to add volume and movement without feeling too drastic.
I love this cut for its low-maintenance charm—it’s easy to style, and the layers blend seamlessly into the overall shape of the hair.
To style, I use a smoothing cream and blow-dry with a round brush for some soft volume. This is a fantastic choice for people who want a chic, medium-length shag without the heavy texture.
35. Messy Shag with Side-Swept Bangs
Messy shag with side-swept bangs is one of those effortless styles that feels both laid-back and stylish.
The side-swept bangs create a soft, face-framing look while the messy shag adds that carefree, textured vibe.
I love how versatile this style is—it can look relaxed for a casual day or more polished for a night out.
To pull this off, use a dry texturizing spray to enhance the messy layers and keep the bangs from getting too heavy. This cut is perfect for anyone who loves that tousled, windswept feel.
36. Rounded Shag for Medium-Length Hair
A rounded shag for medium-length hair is a classic yet fresh approach to the shag look.
The rounded shape gives the hair a bit of volume at the crown while keeping the ends soft and bouncy. Personally, I love how this cut adds fullness without feeling overly bulky.
To style, use a large-barrel curling iron to create soft waves, and finish with a light-hold hairspray. This is a great option for anyone who loves a shag that’s well-shaped and full of life.
37. Full Shag with Swooping Layers
Full shag with swooping layers is the perfect style for those who want volume and movement from every angle.
The swooping layers create a flattering, voluminous look that works beautifully with medium-length hair. I adore this cut because it gives my hair a lively, voluminous feel while still maintaining a structured look.
For styling, I use a blow-dryer and round brush to add volume at the roots, and finish with a texturizing spray to enhance the swoops.
This cut is perfect for anyone looking to bring drama and volume to their medium-length shag.
38. Layered Shag with Tousled Volume
Layered shag with tousled volume is a bold yet chic style that brings out the best in any medium-length hair.
The layers create fullness and movement, while the tousled texture adds a carefree edge.
I find this style great for those of us who love volume without it looking too styled. To get the tousled look, I use a light mousse and scrunch my hair with my hands.
It’s the perfect style for anyone who wants a medium shag with plenty of volume and texture.
39. Medium Shag with Long Bangs and Layers
The medium shag with long bangs and layers is all about balancing softness with texture.
The long bangs frame the face beautifully, while the layers add that signature shaggy movement.
I love this cut because it’s flattering on just about everyone—it works with both straight and wavy hair.
To style, I use a straightener for the bangs and finish with a texturizing spray to enhance the layers.
This style is ideal for anyone who loves the combination of bangs and shag in one cool, modern look.
40. Soft Feathered Shag with Long Layers
If you’re looking for something soft and airy, a soft feathered shag with long layers is the way to go.
This cut adds just the right amount of movement without feeling too heavy.
I personally love how the feathered layers give a light, breezy look that’s perfect for spring or summer. The key to making it work is to keep the layers soft and subtle.
Use a light mousse to enhance the layers, and you’ll have a beautiful, breezy shag that feels as effortless as it looks.
