Endlessly versatile, stylists love this haircut for every hair type
Bobs and pixie crops may be the season's trendiest hairstyles, but when it comes to a versatile, effortless, and timeless look, nothing beats the allure of a mid-length haircut.
“A mid-length cut is one of those styles that gives you the best of both worlds,” hairdresser Errol Douglas MBE explains. “It feels lighter and fresher for summer without feeling like you've suddenly lost all your hair. If the ends are looking dry or tired after winter, taking them up to around the collarbone instantly makes the hair look healthier and gives it a new lease of life.”
While anyone can wear absolutely any cut at any age, the mid-length haircut is especially popular for mature hair, which tends to feel drier and coarser. This cut, which often sits just on or slightly under the shoulders, brings out the best of your lengths, as it removes any split or parched ends.
This length allows you to experiment with your everyday style and is generally easy to maintain.
"You can still tie it back on hot days, wear it sleek, add soft waves, or simply let it move naturally,” Douglas adds. “For many women, it's that sweet spot where the hair feels modern, effortless, and easy to live with.”
Not to mention, hair naturally changes as we age, so it only makes sense that our best-suited styles change with us. “It can become finer, drier, or lose a little density, so the cut has to work with the hair you have today, not the hair you had 20 years ago,” Douglas tells Bazaar . “Rather than keeping everything one length, I often recommend subtle layers or internal shaping. That creates movement and body without making the hair look thin.”
Douglas adds that the biggest mistake is hanging on to length that isn't doing you any favors. A well-cut mid-length style can actually make the hair look fuller, healthier, and much more youthful because it moves beautifully.
Working with the weather, and not against it, will make styling much easier. "Summer isn't the time to spend an hour trying to create perfectly straight hair if humidity is going to undo it in five minutes,” Douglas says. “Instead, work with your natural texture. A great cut should allow the hair to fall into place with very little effort.”
Opt for a lightweight hydrating serum or cream to maintain softness and shine without weighing the hair down (if you're air-drying, apply immediately on damp hair to minimize flyaways). If you're wearing it up, a waxy styling stick or non-stiff gel will keep stray hairs in place.
Minimalist hair, à la Julianne Moore, brings out the best in straight strands.
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Isabelle Huppert's side-parted, wavy style is a masterclass in laid-back polish.
Channel Halle Berry with a full fringe and a textured finish.
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