French hairstyles have long been synonymous with sophistication, elegance, and that coveted “je ne sais quoi” that women around the world aspire to achieve.
If you have medium-length hair and dream of capturing that Parisian charm, you’re in the right place.
The beauty of French hairstyles lies in their versatility—they can be effortlessly chic for everyday wear or glamorously polished for special occasions.
Medium hair offers the perfect canvas for these styles, providing enough length to create romantic waves, intricate braids, and classic updos without the weight and maintenance of longer locks.
This comprehensive guide to 30 Best French Hairstyles for Medium Hair You’ll Want to Try will walk you through an array of stunning options, from the timeless French twist to modern interpretations of classic looks.
Whether you’re preparing for a casual brunch, a romantic date, or a formal event, you’ll discover hairstyles that embody French elegance while being surprisingly easy to achieve.
Each style has been carefully selected to showcase the versatility of medium-length hair and to help you embrace that understated, natural beauty that French women have perfected.
Get ready to transform your hair routine and unlock your inner Parisian with these beautiful, achievable hairstyles.
Contents
- 1 1. Classic French Twist
- 2 2. Messy French Braid
- 3 3. French Bob with Waves
- 4 4. Half-Up French Twist
- 5 5. French Girl Bangs with Loose Waves
- 6 6. Low French Chignon
- 7 7. Tousled French Waves
- 8 8. French Braid Crown
- 9 9. Side-Swept French Waves
- 10 10. French Twist with Volume
- 11 11. Braided French Ponytail
- 12 12. French Pin Curls
- 13 13. Low Side French Braid
- 14 14. French Ballerina Bun
- 15 15. Textured French Lob
- 16 16. French Waterfall Braid
- 17 17. Sleek French Ponytail
- 18 18. French Twist Ponytail Hybrid
- 19 19. Loose French Updo
- 20 20. French Rope Braid
- 21 21. French-Inspired Headband Tuck
- 22 22. Asymmetrical French Waves
- 23 23. French Fishtail Braid
- 24 24. Center-Parted French Waves
- 25 25. French Rolled Updo
- 26 26. Boho French Braided Updo
- 27 27. Slicked-Back French Style
- 28 28. French-Inspired Low Ponytail with Wrap
- 29 29. Textured French Half-Updo
- 30 30. French Knotted Low Bun
- 31 Conclusion
1. Classic French Twist

The Classic French Twist is the epitome of timeless elegance and remains one of the most iconic French hairstyles.
This sophisticated updo has graced runways, red carpets, and Parisian streets for decades, proving that true style never fades.
- The French twist works beautifully on medium hair because it provides just enough length to create a secure, polished roll without excess bulk.
- To achieve this look, smooth your hair back and twist it vertically along the back of your head, securing it with bobby pins as you go.
- The key to a perfect French twist is ensuring the hair is completely smooth at the crown and sides before creating the twist.
- Use a fine-tooth comb and a smoothing serum to eliminate any bumps or flyaways for that quintessentially polished French finish.
- This style works exceptionally well for formal events, weddings, or professional settings where you want to make a sophisticated impression.
- For a modern twist on the classic, leave a few face-framing pieces loose to soften the look and add a touch of effortless charm.
2. Messy French Braid

The Messy French Braid perfectly captures that sought-after “undone” Parisian aesthetic.
This style looks intricate and beautiful while maintaining an air of casual sophistication that French women have mastered.
- Unlike a tight, perfect braid, the messy French braid intentionally incorporates texture and looseness for a more relaxed, romantic appearance.
- Start by creating a traditional French braid from the crown of your head, but keep the sections loose and don’t pull too tightly.
- Once the braid is complete, gently pull on the outer edges of each section to create volume and that desirable “lived-in” texture.
- This technique, called “pancaking,” makes the braid appear fuller and more dimensional, which is especially flattering on medium-length hair.
- The beauty of this style is that it actually looks better as the day progresses and small pieces naturally fall out around your face.
- Finish with a light texturizing spray to enhance the piece-y, effortless quality that defines French beauty standards.
3. French Bob with Waves

The French Bob with Waves is a chic, contemporary hairstyle that has taken the fashion world by storm.
This style combines a classic bob cut with soft, beachy waves for a look that’s both polished and playful.
- The French bob typically falls between the chin and shoulders, making it the perfect length for medium hair that you want to keep manageable.
- The addition of waves softens the geometric lines of the bob and adds movement and dimension to the style.
- To create this look, use a curling wand or flat iron to create loose, alternating waves throughout your hair.
- The key is to keep the waves soft and natural-looking rather than uniform curls—imperfection is part of the charm.
- French women often let their natural texture show through, so don’t worry about making every wave identical.
- This versatile style works for virtually any face shape and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
- Finish with a lightweight styling cream to define the waves without weighing them down or making them look crunchy.
4. Half-Up French Twist

The Half-Up French Twist offers the best of both worlds—the sophistication of an updo with the softness of wearing your hair down.
This style is perfect for medium hair and adds instant elegance to any look.
- This style involves creating a French twist with only the top section of your hair while leaving the bottom half flowing freely.
- Begin by sectioning off the hair from your temples to the crown, then twist this section vertically and secure it with pins.
- The remaining hair can be left straight, curled, or waved depending on your preference and the occasion.
- This style is particularly flattering because it adds height at the crown while still showcasing the length and movement of your hair.
- It’s an excellent choice for weddings, garden parties, or any event where you want to look polished but not overly formal.
- To add extra French flair, weave a delicate ribbon through the twist or add a small decorative hair clip.
- The half-up French twist also works beautifully for those awkward growing-out phases when your layers are different lengths.
5. French Girl Bangs with Loose Waves

French Girl Bangs with Loose Waves epitomize that effortlessly cool Parisian aesthetic.
The combination of textured bangs and soft waves creates a look that’s both modern and timeless.
- French girl bangs are typically longer, wispy, and parted in the middle or slightly off-center, creating a soft curtain effect around the face.
- These bangs are designed to blend seamlessly with the rest of your hair rather than creating a harsh, blunt line.
- The loose waves throughout the rest of your medium-length hair add movement and texture that complements the softness of the bangs.
- This style is incredibly low-maintenance, as the slightly undone quality means you don’t need to style it perfectly every day.
- To achieve the waves, use a large-barrel curling iron or simply braid damp hair before bed and release it in the morning.
- French girl bangs are universally flattering because they can be customized to suit your face shape and hair texture.
- The key to maintaining this look is regular trims every 4-6 weeks to keep the bangs at the optimal length and prevent them from becoming too heavy.
6. Low French Chignon

The Low French Chignon is a refined, understated updo that exudes sophistication and grace.
This classic style sits at the nape of the neck and is perfect for medium hair that you want to style elegantly.
- The chignon is characterized by its twisted or rolled bun that sits low on the head, creating an elongated, graceful neckline.
- For medium-length hair, this style works exceptionally well because the hair is easier to control and shape into a neat, compact bun.
- Start by gathering your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, then twist the length and wrap it around the base.
- Secure the chignon with bobby pins, tucking the ends underneath for a clean, polished finish.
- This style is ideal for formal occasions, professional settings, or anytime you want to achieve a sleek, put-together appearance.
- To add a modern French twist, leave a few soft tendrils loose around your face and ears for a more romantic effect.
- The low chignon also pairs beautifully with statement earrings, as it keeps your ears and neck completely visible.
7. Tousled French Waves

Tousled French Waves embody the essence of effortless Parisian chic.
This style features loose, undone waves that look like you’ve just returned from a day at the beach or a leisurely stroll along the Seine.
- The beauty of tousled French waves lies in their imperfection—they’re meant to look natural and slightly disheveled rather than perfectly styled.
- To create this look, apply a sea salt spray or texturizing mousse to damp hair and scrunch it with your hands as it dries.
- Alternatively, you can use a curling wand to create loose, random waves, then brush through them gently to break them up.
- The key is to vary the direction of your curls and avoid making them uniform, which creates a more natural, lived-in appearance.
- This style works beautifully on medium-length hair because it adds volume and movement without requiring excessive length.
- French women often air-dry their hair to achieve this look, embracing their natural texture rather than fighting against it.
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray or dry texture spray to maintain the tousled effect throughout the day without stiffness.
8. French Braid Crown

The French Braid Crown is a romantic, bohemian-inspired style that creates a beautiful halo effect around your head.
This intricate-looking style is actually quite achievable with medium-length hair and practice.
- This style involves creating French braids on either side of your head and wrapping them around like a crown, meeting at the back.
- Begin by parting your hair down the middle and creating a French braid starting from behind one ear, working toward the opposite side.
- Repeat the process on the other side, then pin both braids in place where they meet, tucking the ends underneath for a seamless finish.
- The French braid crown is perfect for weddings, festivals, or any occasion where you want to achieve a romantic, ethereal look.
- For medium-length hair, this style is ideal because shorter pieces are easier to incorporate into the braid and stay secure throughout the day.
- You can customize this look by making the braids tight and sleek for a more polished appearance or loose and messy for bohemian vibes.
- Add small flowers, pearls, or decorative pins throughout the crown for an extra special, French-inspired touch.
9. Side-Swept French Waves

Side-Swept French Waves offer glamorous, old-Hollywood elegance with a distinctly French sensibility.
This style features voluminous waves swept dramatically to one side for a look that’s both sophisticated and alluring.
- This style begins with creating deep, structured waves throughout your medium-length hair using a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers.
- Once the waves are set, create a deep side part and sweep all your hair dramatically to one side, securing it behind one ear with bobby pins.
- The key to this look is volume at the crown and smooth, defined waves that cascade over one shoulder.
- Use a paddle brush to gently brush through the waves, creating that signature S-shaped wave pattern that’s characteristic of vintage styling.
- This hairstyle is particularly stunning for formal events, date nights, or anytime you want to channel old-world glamour with French sophistication.
- To keep the style in place throughout the evening, use a firm-hold hairspray and strategically placed bobby pins on the swept side.
- The asymmetry of this style is incredibly flattering, as it highlights your facial features and creates an elegant, elongated silhouette.
10. French Twist with Volume

The French Twist with Volume takes the classic updo and modernizes it with added height and texture at the crown.
This contemporary interpretation maintains elegance while incorporating current styling trends.
- Unlike the traditional sleek French twist, this version incorporates deliberate volume at the crown for a more dramatic, fashion-forward appearance.
- Begin by backcombing or teasing the hair at your crown to create height, then smooth the top layer to maintain a polished finish.
- Gather the hair as you would for a classic French twist, but maintain the volume at the top rather than smoothing it completely flat.
- This style is perfect for medium hair because the length provides enough weight to create a substantial twist without being too heavy to hold the volume.
- The French twist with volume is ideal for evening events, formal occasions, or anytime you want to make a bold, elegant statement.
- Strategic placement of bobby pins throughout the twist ensures the style stays secure even with the added volume.
- This modern take on a classic style bridges the gap between traditional French elegance and contemporary fashion trends.
11. Braided French Ponytail

The Braided French Ponytail combines the polish of a sleek ponytail with the intricate detail of French braiding.
This style is both practical and beautiful, making it perfect for busy days when you still want to look put-together.
- This style typically features a French braid that begins at the hairline and transitions into a ponytail at the crown or mid-head level.
- The braid adds visual interest and sophistication to what might otherwise be a simple, everyday ponytail.
- To create this look, start French braiding from the front of your hairline, incorporating hair as you move toward the back of your head.
- When you reach the desired ponytail placement, secure all the hair with an elastic and let the remaining length hang freely.
- For medium-length hair, this style is particularly flattering because it showcases your length while keeping hair securely off your face.
- You can wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it and add a more polished, finished appearance.
- This versatile style works equally well for the gym, the office, or a casual weekend outing, embodying French practicality meets style.
12. French Pin Curls

French Pin Curls are a vintage-inspired style that creates structured, glamorous waves reminiscent of 1920s Paris.
This retro look has made a significant comeback and works beautifully on medium-length hair.
- Pin curls involve wrapping small sections of hair around your finger and pinning them flat against your head to set in a curled pattern.
- Once the curls are set (either with heat or overnight), you release them and brush them out to create soft, structured waves.
- This technique creates uniform, defined curls that have a distinctly vintage, romantic quality perfect for special occasions.
- For medium hair, pin curls are ideal because the length is manageable and the curls hold their shape beautifully without weighing down.
- The style can be worn with the curls left defined for maximum vintage impact or brushed out for softer, more natural-looking waves.
- French pin curls often incorporate finger waves at the front of the hair for additional vintage authenticity and visual interest.
- This style requires some practice and patience but delivers stunning, unique results that are perfect for themed events or when you want to stand out.
13. Low Side French Braid

The Low Side French Braid is a romantic, bohemian style that drapes elegantly over one shoulder.
This asymmetrical look is both practical and beautiful, keeping hair secure while maintaining a soft, feminine appearance.
- This style begins with a deep side part and French braiding that starts at the temple and works down and across to one side.
- The braid sits low, typically starting its journey at or below ear level, creating a relaxed, effortless appearance.
- As you braid, keep the tension loose and allow small pieces to fall out naturally for that signature French undone quality.
- Once the braid is complete, gently pull on the sections to create width and texture, making the braid appear fuller and more voluminous.
- This style is perfect for medium-length hair because it showcases your length while keeping it manageable and off your face.
- The low side French braid works beautifully for casual daytime activities, outdoor events, or beach settings.
- Add small flowers, ribbons, or delicate hair jewelry woven throughout the braid for an extra romantic, French-countryside touch.
14. French Ballerina Bun

The French Ballerina Bun is a graceful, polished updo inspired by the classic buns worn by dancers at the Paris Opera Ballet.
This style is sleek, sophisticated, and surprisingly easy to achieve with medium-length hair.
- Unlike casual messy buns, the French ballerina bun is characterized by its smooth, tight construction and high placement on the head.
- To create this look, brush all your hair back into a high ponytail at the crown, ensuring there are no bumps or loose pieces.
- Twist the ponytail tightly and wrap it around the base in a circular motion, securing it with bobby pins and finishing with hairspray.
- The key to this style is achieving a perfectly smooth surface at the front and sides, which may require a smoothing serum or gel.
- For medium hair, this bun is ideal because the length creates a substantial, elegant bun without excessive bulk.
- The French ballerina bun is perfect for formal events, dance performances, or anytime you want to achieve a refined, graceful appearance.
- This style also works beautifully for those with an active lifestyle, as it keeps hair completely secure and out of the way.
15. Textured French Lob

The Textured French Lob (long bob) is a contemporary, effortlessly cool hairstyle that has become synonymous with modern French style.
This versatile cut falls between the chin and shoulders with deliberate texture and movement.
- The French lob typically features subtle layers and texture that create movement without appearing too structured or styled.
- This cut is designed to look good with minimal styling—often just air-dried with a texturizing product for that coveted effortless appearance.
- The beauty of the textured lob is its versatility; it can be worn straight, wavy, or with a slight bend for different looks.
- For those with medium-length hair who want a fresh cut, the textured lob offers a perfect balance between length and manageability.
- French women typically style this cut by applying a salt spray or texturizing mousse to damp hair and allowing it to air-dry naturally.
- The slightly undone quality means you don’t need to worry about achieving perfection, which saves time and aligns with French beauty philosophy.
- This modern cut works with virtually any hair texture and can be customized with face-framing layers to flatter your specific features.
16. French Waterfall Braid

The French Waterfall Braid is a stunning, intricate-looking style that creates a cascading effect resembling a waterfall.
Despite its complex appearance, this romantic braid is achievable with practice and looks gorgeous on medium-length hair.
- This braid involves dropping sections of hair as you braid across the head, allowing them to fall like streams of water while incorporating new sections.
- Begin at one temple and work horizontally across the back of your head to the other side, creating the waterfall effect as you go.
- The dropped sections can be left straight for a sleek look or curled for added texture and dimension.
- This style beautifully showcases medium-length hair by allowing most of it to remain visible and flowing while adding interest at the crown.
- The French waterfall braid is perfect for romantic occasions like weddings, proms, or date nights.
- You can create a single waterfall braid across the back or multiple braids for a more intricate, bohemian appearance.
- This style pairs beautifully with soft, romantic makeup and feminine dresses for a complete French-inspired ethereal look.
17. Sleek French Ponytail

The Sleek French Ponytail is the epitome of polished sophistication.
This refined style features a perfectly smooth, high or mid-level ponytail that exudes elegance and modern minimalism.
- The hallmark of this style is its impeccably smooth surface without any bumps, flyaways, or texture at the crown and sides.
- To achieve this look, apply a smoothing serum or gel to damp hair and blow-dry it completely straight using a paddle brush.
- Brush all hair back to the desired ponytail height (typically at the crown for maximum sophistication) and secure with a strong elastic.
- Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it, pinning the end underneath for a seamless, polished finish.
- For medium-length hair, the sleek ponytail is particularly striking because the length creates a substantial tail without being overly long.
- This style is perfect for professional settings, formal events, or anytime you want to project confidence and put-together elegance.
- Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to maintain the sleek surface and prevent any pieces from escaping throughout the day.
18. French Twist Ponytail Hybrid

The French Twist Ponytail Hybrid combines elements of both classic styles to create something uniquely elegant and modern.
This innovative style features a partial French twist that transitions into a ponytail.
- This style begins with creating a French twist from the crown down to mid-head, then allowing the remaining length to flow freely as a ponytail.
- The twist adds structure and sophistication to the top portion while the ponytail maintains movement and showcases your hair’s length.
- This hybrid approach is perfect for medium hair because it creates visual interest without requiring the entire length to be secured in an updo.
- To create this look, twist the top section of hair vertically and secure it with pins, leaving the bottom section to hang loose.
- You can style the ponytail portion straight, wavy, or curled depending on your preference and the occasion.
- This versatile style works for semi-formal events where you want to look polished but not overly formal.
- The French twist ponytail hybrid also solves the problem of wanting an updo without committing your entire length to it.
19. Loose French Updo

The Loose French Updo is a romantic, softly gathered style that appears effortless despite its elegant appearance.
This undone updo embodies the French philosophy of looking beautiful without appearing to try too hard.
- Unlike structured updos, this style intentionally incorporates looseness, texture, and deliberately placed wisps for a more natural appearance.
- Begin by loosely gathering hair at the back of your head, twisting sections randomly and pinning them in place without worrying about perfection.
- The beauty of this style lies in its imperfection—stray pieces and loose sections are features, not flaws.
- For medium-length hair, the loose French updo is ideal because shorter pieces naturally fall out, contributing to the effortless aesthetic.
- This style is perfect for weddings, garden parties, or romantic dinners where you want to look elegant but not overly formal.
- Gently pull out a few face-framing pieces and softly curl them to enhance the romantic, feminine quality of the style.
- The loose French updo can be positioned low at the nape or higher at the crown depending on your preference and face shape.
20. French Rope Braid

The French Rope Braid is a stunning alternative to traditional braiding that creates a twisted, rope-like effect.
This elegant style is achieved by twisting sections of hair rather than braiding them in the conventional three-strand method.
- The rope braid is created by dividing hair into two sections and twisting them individually in the same direction while wrapping them around each other in the opposite direction.
- This technique creates a beautiful, uniform rope-like appearance that’s both elegant and different from standard braids.
- As you create the rope braid, you can incorporate additional hair French-braid style for a more intricate look.
- For medium-length hair, the rope braid is particularly appealing because it creates visual interest and texture without requiring excessive length.
- The style holds its shape well throughout the day and works for both casual and more dressed-up occasions.
- You can position the rope braid down the center of your back, to one side, or even wrap it around your head for variety.
- Finish by gently pulling on the twisted sections to create more volume and dimension, giving the braid a fuller, more substantial appearance.
21. French-Inspired Headband Tuck

The French-Inspired Headband Tuck is a charming, vintage-inspired style that uses a headband as both decoration and functional element.
This simple yet elegant technique works beautifully on medium-length hair.
- This style involves placing a headband over your hair, then tucking sections of hair up and under the band to create a rolled, tucked effect.
- Begin by positioning a fabric or elastic headband over your hair, typically about an inch back from your hairline.
- Take small sections of hair and roll them up and under the headband, working your way around your entire head.
- The result is a beautifully contained style that keeps hair off your face and neck while looking polished and intentional.
- For medium-length hair, this technique is perfect because the length is ideal for tucking without creating too much bulk under the band.
- This style works wonderfully for hot summer days, outdoor activities, or anytime you want a vintage-inspired French look.
- Choose decorative headbands with patterns, textures, or embellishments to add personality and make the accessory part of your overall style statement.
22. Asymmetrical French Waves

Asymmetrical French Waves feature a dramatic side part with voluminous waves that create an elegant, balanced asymmetry.
This glamorous style is perfect for medium-length hair and special occasions.
- This style begins with creating a very deep side part, typically positioning it several inches from the center.
- On the side with more hair, create voluminous, defined waves using a curling iron or hot rollers.
- The opposite side is typically smoothed back and tucked behind the ear, often secured with decorative pins or clips.
- The contrast between the voluminous waved side and the sleek tucked side creates dramatic, eye-catching asymmetry.
- For medium hair, this style is particularly flattering because the length allows for substantial waves without being overwhelming.
- Asymmetrical French waves work beautifully for formal events, photo shoots, or anytime you want to make a bold, glamorous statement.
- Use a strong-hold hairspray on the tucked side to keep it sleek and secure throughout the event.
23. French Fishtail Braid

The French Fishtail Braid is an intricate, beautiful braiding technique that combines the complexity of French braiding with the distinctive woven appearance of a fishtail.
This sophisticated style is perfect for showcasing medium-length hair.
- The fishtail braid is created by dividing hair into two sections and repeatedly crossing small pieces from each side over to the opposite side.
- When done French-style, you incorporate additional hair into each section as you work down the head, just like a traditional French braid.
- The result is an intricate, woven appearance that looks far more complicated than it actually is to create.
- For medium-length hair, the French fishtail braid is ideal because the braid appears substantial and detailed without requiring very long hair.
- This style can be worn tight and sleek for a polished look or pulled apart for a looser, more bohemian appearance.
- The French fishtail braid works beautifully for both casual and formal occasions depending on how you style it.
- Gently pull on the outer edges of the braid once complete to create a fuller, more dimensional appearance that showcases the intricate weaving pattern.
24. Center-Parted French Waves

Center-Parted French Waves feature soft, romantic waves with a classic center part that creates perfect symmetry.
This timeless style embodies French elegance and works beautifully for various occasions.
- This style begins with creating a precise center part that divides the hair evenly into two sections.
- Create soft, loose waves throughout both sections using a curling iron, alternating the direction of the curls for a more natural appearance.
- The waves should be uniform in size and texture on both sides, creating beautiful symmetry that frames the face.
- For medium-length hair, center-parted waves are particularly flattering because they showcase the hair’s length while adding volume and movement.
- This classic style works for virtually any occasion, from casual daytime events to formal evening affairs.
- The center part creates an elongating effect on the face and works well with most face shapes, especially oval and heart-shaped faces.
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray that maintains the waves without making them stiff or crunchy, preserving their soft, touchable quality.
25. French Rolled Updo

The French Rolled Updo is a sophisticated style featuring hair rolled under and pinned at the nape or crown.
This elegant technique creates a smooth, polished look that’s perfect for formal occasions.
- This style involves smoothing hair back and rolling it under itself, creating a horizontal roll that sits either at the nape or higher at the crown.
- The roll is secured with bobby pins placed horizontally through the rolled section to keep it in place throughout the day.
- For a polished finish, ensure the hair leading into the roll is completely smooth without any bumps or texture.
- Medium-length hair is ideal for this style because it creates a substantial roll without being too bulky or difficult to manage.
- The French rolled updo is perfect for weddings, formal dinners, or professional events where sophisticated elegance is desired.
- You can customize this style by positioning the roll at different heights or adding decorative pins, combs, or flowers for extra visual interest.
- This classic technique has been popular for decades and continues to be a go-to choice for those seeking timeless, refined beauty.
26. Boho French Braided Updo

The Boho French Braided Updo combines multiple braiding techniques into a relaxed, romantic updo with a distinctly bohemian flair.
This intricate-looking style is perfect for medium-length hair and special occasions.
- This style typically incorporates several different braids—French braids, regular three-strand braids, and fishtail braids—all woven together into one updo.
- Begin by creating various braids throughout your hair, keeping them loose and textured rather than tight and perfect.
- Gather all the braids together at the back of your head and pin them in a loose, clustered arrangement.
- The beauty of this style lies in its intentional messiness and the visual interest created by the different braiding techniques.
- For medium-length hair, this updo works wonderfully because the length is manageable and the various braids create sufficient volume and texture.
- This style is ideal for outdoor weddings, music festivals, or bohemian-themed events where relaxed elegance is appropriate.
- Add flowers, small clips, or ribbons throughout the braids to enhance the bohemian, romantic quality of the style.
27. Slicked-Back French Style

The Slicked-Back French Style is a bold, modern look that exudes confidence and contemporary sophistication.
This sleek style features hair smoothed completely back from the face, creating a striking, fashion-forward appearance.
- This style is achieved by applying a generous amount of strong-hold gel or pomade to damp hair and combing it straight back from the hairline.
- The key to this look is the glossy, wet-looking finish that creates a sleek, polished surface with no texture or volume.
- For medium-length hair, you can wear the slicked-back style with hair tucked behind the ears or left loose at the ends for different effects.
- This bold style works particularly well for those with strong facial features, as it puts the face completely on display without any framing.
- The slicked-back French style is perfect for fashion events, avant-garde occasions, or when you want to make a strong, confident statement.
- To maintain the look throughout the day, use a strong-hold gel and finish with hairspray to prevent any pieces from falling forward.
- This modern interpretation of French style shows that French elegance can be both classic and cutting-edge, traditional and contemporary.
28. French-Inspired Low Ponytail with Wrap

The French-Inspired Low Ponytail with Wrap is a refined, elegant take on the simple ponytail.
This style features a low-positioned ponytail with a section of hair wrapped around the elastic for a polished, sophisticated finish.
- This style begins with gathering all hair into a low ponytail positioned at the nape of the neck.
- After securing with an elastic, take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to conceal it completely.
- Secure the wrapped section with a bobby pin tucked underneath, creating a seamless, polished appearance.
- The beauty of this style lies in its simplicity and the refined detail of the wrapped section, which elevates an everyday ponytail.
- For medium-length hair, this low ponytail is particularly elegant because the length creates a substantial tail without excessive weight.
- This versatile style works for professional settings, casual outings, or semi-formal events where understated elegance is appropriate.
- The low positioning is universally flattering and creates an elongated neckline that appears graceful and sophisticated.
29. Textured French Half-Updo

The Textured French Half-Updo combines the best elements of wearing hair down with the polish of an updo.
This style features the top section secured with deliberate texture and volume while the bottom flows freely.
- This style involves teasing or backcombing the hair at the crown to create volume, then loosely securing it at the back of the head.
- The secured section should maintain its volume and texture rather than being smoothed flat, creating visual interest and dimension.
- The bottom section of hair is left flowing and can be styled straight, wavy, or curled depending on your preference.
- For medium-length hair, this half-updo is ideal because it adds height at the crown while showcasing the hair’s length and movement below.
- This romantic style works beautifully for weddings, date nights, or any occasion where you want to look polished yet approachable.
- Small decorative pins, clips, or accessories can be added to the secured section for extra elegance and visual interest.
- The textured French half-updo strikes the perfect balance between casual and formal, making it incredibly versatile for various occasions.
30. French Knotted Low Bun

The French Knotted Low Bun is an elegant, secure updo that features hair twisted into a knot at the nape of the neck.
This sophisticated style is both beautiful and practical for medium-length hair.
- This style involves dividing hair into two sections, crossing them over each other, and tying them into a knot at the base of the neck.
- The ends are then wrapped around the knot and secured with bobby pins, creating a clean, finished appearance.
- Unlike a twisted bun, the knotted version has a more structured, defined appearance that holds its shape exceptionally well.
- For medium-length hair, this style is perfect because the hair length is ideal for creating a substantial knot without excess bulk.
- The French knotted low bun is appropriate for formal events, professional settings, or anytime you need a secure, all-day hairstyle.
- This technique has been used for centuries in French fashion and continues to be popular because of its timeless elegance and reliability.
- The low positioning is comfortable for all-day wear and won’t cause headaches like higher, tighter styles sometimes can.
Achieving authentic French hairstyles requires understanding some fundamental principles and techniques that French women have perfected over generations.
- Embrace imperfection: French hairstyles are characterized by their effortless, undone quality, so avoid over-styling or making everything too perfect.
- Invest in quality products: Use a good texturizing spray, smoothing serum, and flexible-hold hairspray that enhance rather than overpower your natural hair texture.
- Protect your hair: Always use heat protectant spray before using hot tools to maintain healthy, shiny hair that holds styles better.
- Consider your hair texture: Work with your natural texture rather than against it—French style celebrates authenticity and natural beauty.
- Practice makes perfect: Many of these styles require practice, especially braiding techniques, so don’t be discouraged if they don’t work perfectly the first time.
- Use the right tools: Invest in quality bobby pins, hair elastics, a good paddle brush, and the appropriate hot tools for your desired styles.
- Maintain healthy hair: Regular trims, deep conditioning treatments, and proper hair care ensure your hairstyles look their best and hold better throughout the day.
Conclusion
The journey through these 30 Best French Hairstyles for Medium Hair You’ll Want to Try reveals the incredible versatility and timeless elegance that French-inspired styling offers.
Whether you’re drawn to the classic sophistication of a French twist, the romantic charm of cascading braids, or the modern edge of slicked-back styles, there’s a perfect French hairstyle waiting for you to discover.
Medium-length hair provides the ideal canvas for these beautiful styles, offering enough length to create intricate designs while remaining manageable and practical for everyday wear.
The beauty of French hairstyles lies not just in their visual appeal but in the philosophy they represent—that true elegance comes from embracing your natural beauty, maintaining an effortless aesthetic, and never appearing to try too hard.
As you experiment with these styles, remember that the most important element is confidence and the willingness to make each look your own.
French style is ultimately about expressing your individual beauty while drawing inspiration from timeless techniques that have captivated the world for generations.
With practice, patience, and the right approach, you’ll find yourself effortlessly channeling Parisian chic and discovering which of these beautiful hairstyles becomes your signature look.Retry