29 New Year Hairstyle Ideas for Medium Hair: Ring in 2025 with Stunning Style

As the New Year approaches, many are looking to refresh their style and step into 2024 with a fresh look that showcases modern elegance and confidence. Medium-length hair offers a versatile canvas for countless hairstyles that suit every occasion—whether you’re attending a formal event, relaxing at home, or heading out for a casual outing. Have you wondered how to style your hair in ways that are both trendy and easy to maintain? This article brings you 29  stunning New Year hairstyle ideas for medium hair that mix timeless charm with 2024’s latest trends. From soft waves to effortless updos, let’s explore the looks that will turn heads and keep your hairstyle game strong.

Soft Hollywood Waves with Side Part

Soft Hollywood waves bring classic glamour to medium-length hair, creating a timeless, red-carpet look. This style suits most face shapes, with the side part adding a touch of asymmetry that balances the face. Perfect for evening events, these waves bring an effortless elegance with a modern twist. Whether your hair is naturally wavy or straight, this style can be easily achieved with a curling iron or heated rollers.

To maintain shine and softness, use a smoothing serum like the MoroccanOil Treatment before styling. A setting spray, like L’Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray, will keep waves in place without making the hair stiff. For a touch of glam, add a delicate crystal hairpin or a flower claw clip to one side for an added sparkle.

Smooth Blowout with Feathered Ends

A smooth blowout with feathered ends is an ideal everyday look that also doubles as a polished style for special occasions. This cut involves layers that feather out slightly at the ends, adding movement and texture to the look. Ideal for straight or wavy hair, this blowout is flattering on oval, round, and heart-shaped faces, as it adds volume without overwhelming the face.

To keep the style soft and sleek, use a blow-drying spray like Bumble and Bumble Heat Shield Blow Dry Accelerator. A lightweight hairspray, like Ouai Texturizing Hair Spray, provides flexible hold and adds texture to the feathered layers without stickiness.

Classic Lob with Loose Curls

The classic lob with loose curls is a sophisticated choice, offering volume and dimension. The lob, or long bob, is slightly longer than a traditional bob, making it ideal for medium hair. Loose curls add a carefree vibe to this style, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions. This look complements heart and square face shapes by softening the jawline and adding width at the sides.

To keep curls bouncy and defined, use a curl-enhancing product like Ouidad Curl Quencher Hydrafusion Curl Cream before styling. Finish with a light mist of Living Proof Flex Hairspray to hold the curls in place while allowing movement.

Sleek Straight Cut with Glossy Finish

A sleek, straight cut with a glossy finish is a powerful look for anyone wanting a refined, polished appearance. This style works well with blunt ends, creating a sophisticated edge. It’s perfect for oval and heart-shaped faces, enhancing the natural contours. For a truly modern look, add a subtle center or side part.

Achieving a sleek, glass-like finish requires high-quality products. Use Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother before blow-drying to minimize frizz and enhance shine. Finish with a serum like Kerastase Elixir Ultime Oil Serum for that glossy, reflective effect.

Side-Swept Waves with Subtle Shine Spray

Side-swept waves bring softness to medium hair and are flattering for various face shapes, especially round and heart-shaped faces. The style adds volume and texture, perfect for a casual yet refined look. The side-swept design gives a laid-back aesthetic, with waves that cascade over one shoulder for an effortlessly chic effect.

For soft, frizz-free waves, use Davines OI All-in-One Milk as a leave-in treatment before styling. Finish with a subtle shine spray, like Oribe Shine Light Reflecting Spray, to enhance the waves and add depth to your hair color.

Layered Lob with Blunt Ends

The layered lob with blunt ends combines structure with movement, making it perfect for medium-length hair. Layers add texture and dimension, while the blunt ends keep the style modern and edgy. This look suits all face shapes, particularly oval and heart shapes, as the blunt ends add fullness at the jawline.

To keep layers looking soft and defined, use a lightweight mousse like Redken Full Frame 07 All-Over Volumizing Mousse before blow-drying. Finish with a styling cream, like IGK Mistress Hydrating Hair Balm, to maintain smoothness and control flyaways.

Retro-Inspired Pin Curls

Retro-inspired pin curls bring a touch of old Hollywood to your New Year’s style. This look is ideal for medium hair and suits various face shapes, especially oval and rectangular. Pin curls create a soft, vintage wave pattern that’s both playful and sophisticated. This style is great for formal events, offering a unique twist on classic curls.

For long-lasting pin curls, use a setting lotion like Motions Foaming Wrap Lotion before creating the curls. After setting, use a shine-enhancing spray, like Kenra Shine Spray, for a glamorous finish.

Half-Up Twists with Sparkling Clips

The half-up twist with sparkling clips is an elegant way to bring festive charm to medium-length hair. This style is all about simplicity and elegance, with two sections of hair twisted back and secured with decorative clips that add sparkle. The half-up twist works beautifully for various face shapes, particularly for round and oval shapes, as it adds height and elongation to the face. This look is ideal for evening events, adding just enough glam without being overly formal.

For a soft, polished look, use R+Co Tinsel Smoothing Oil before styling to smooth out any flyaways and add shine. After twisting the hair, secure it with sparkling clips or small rhinestone barrettes for an extra festive touch. Finish with a light spritz of Bed Head by Tigi Masterpiece Shine Hairspray to keep everything in place and add a subtle shine.

Boho Half-Up with Braided Crown

A boho half-up look with a braided crown brings a whimsical, free-spirited vibe to medium hair. This style is perfect for those looking to embrace a bohemian aesthetic while still keeping it polished for New Year’s. The braided crown frames the face beautifully, making it suitable for heart-shaped and oval faces. It’s a versatile look that works well for daytime or evening, lending a touch of earthy elegance to any outfit.

To achieve a soft boho texture, start with a texturizing spray like Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray. Braid two small sections from either side of the head and bring them to meet at the back, securing with a small clip or band. For added interest, accessorize with tiny flower pins or a flower claw clip to give the crown a natural touch.

High Half-Up Ponytail with Loose Waves

The high half-up ponytail with loose waves is a fun and quick way to elevate your look while keeping things modern and fresh. Perfect for medium hair, this style creates height and volume, giving an effortless, playful vibe. Ideal for square and round faces, this look elongates the face and draws attention to the eyes. The loose waves add texture and movement, making it suitable for both casual get-togethers and more formal celebrations.

To achieve a voluminous ponytail, use a volumizing mousse like Oribe Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse before blow-drying. Gather the top section into a high ponytail and secure it with a scrunchie or an elegant clip. Add loose waves using a curling wand and finish with Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast for added lift and texture.

Half-Up Bun with Tousled Texture

The half-up bun with tousled texture is the epitome of effortless chic, combining the charm of a classic bun with the relaxed vibe of tousled hair. This look is perfect for medium hair, giving you the best of both worlds: an updo and loose, free-flowing hair. It’s great for square and heart-shaped faces, adding height while keeping the style casual and fun.

To achieve this look, start with a sea salt spray like Ouai Wave Spray for a textured base. Twist the top section into a loose bun and secure with bobby pins. For an extra casual touch, pull out a few face-framing strands. Finish with IGK Beach Club Texture Spray for a tousled, beachy finish that will last all evening.

Half-Up Twisted Crown with Pearl Pins

The half-up twisted crown with pearl pins adds a soft, romantic vibe to medium hair, perfect for a sophisticated New Year’s look. The twisted crown is delicate and polished, suiting heart and oval faces well by framing the forehead and softening the face. This hairstyle works especially well for those looking to add an elegant yet simple twist to their holiday look.

To create the style, twist small sections from each side and secure at the back with discreet pins. Add pearl pins along the twists to enhance the elegance. To maintain a smooth look, apply John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum before styling, and finish with Amika Fluxus Touchable Hairspray to keep the crown in place without making it stiff.

Braided Half-Up Style with Glamorous Accessories

A braided half-up style with glamorous accessories brings sophistication and charm to medium hair. This look features intricate braiding, which adds texture and depth, making it ideal for wavy or straight hair. It suits all face shapes, giving the appearance of fullness and volume at the top. This style works for both day and night events, adding a touch of glamour without being overly formal.

To enhance the braid, apply Aveda Phomollient Styling Foam before starting for added volume and texture. Braid two sections from each side and secure with glamorous clips or a small jeweled barrette. A light mist of Bumble and Bumble Does It All Hairspray will keep the style in place and give it a bit of shine.

Low Braided Bun with Tiny Crystals

The low braided bun with tiny crystals offers a refined yet understated elegance, perfect for formal New Year’s gatherings. This style combines a simple low bun with a subtle braid woven into the back, adding texture and sophistication to medium-length hair. It suits most face shapes, particularly oval and heart-shaped faces, as it draws attention to the jawline. The tiny crystals add just the right amount of sparkle, giving a touch of festivity without overwhelming the look.

To achieve a smooth, polished bun, start with a lightweight hair oil like Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil to minimize frizz and enhance shine. Braid a small section from the side, and incorporate it into a low bun, securing with discreet pins. Add tiny crystal pins throughout the bun for a glamorous, sparkling finish. Complete with Redken Shine Flash 02 to give your hair a luminous finish that complements the crystals.

Textured French Twist with Soft Volume

The textured French twist with soft volume brings a modern twist to a classic updo, combining elegance with a relaxed feel. This look works well with medium hair, adding height and texture that suits oval and round face shapes. The soft volume at the crown makes it both chic and comfortable, suitable for day-to-night transitions.

For a voluminous and textured twist, use a volumizing powder like Big Sexy Hair Powder Play at the roots. Gently tease the crown for added lift, then twist the hair into a low French twist and secure it with hairpins. Add a light mist of Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray for a soft hold and a bit of shine.

Loose Fishtail Braid with Ribbon Accent

A loose fishtail braid with a ribbon accent is perfect for those who want a romantic, boho-inspired look for New Year’s. This style is versatile, adding a soft charm to medium hair with its intricate braiding and whimsical ribbon detail. Suitable for all face shapes, the loose braid creates a relaxed yet stylish vibe, making it ideal for both daytime outings and festive evening events.

To create a smooth and defined fishtail, start with Ouai Finishing Crème to add light hold and texture. Braid loosely and secure with a decorative ribbon, preferably in a color that complements your outfit. Finish with a touch of Bumble and Bumble Dryspun Texture Spray to give the braid a soft, airy feel.

Elegant Low Chignon with Metallic Hair Vine

The elegant low chignon with a metallic hair vine is a timeless updo that brings sophistication and a bit of sparkle to any New Year celebration. The low chignon is perfect for medium hair and suits heart and oval faces, adding an element of structure and elegance. The metallic hair vine adds a festive touch, making this style ideal for formal events.

For a smooth and sleek finish, use Kerastase Discipline Smoothing Cream before styling. Secure the chignon low at the nape of the neck, and wrap a metallic hair vine around it for added glamour. Finish with Oribe Superfine Hair Spray to hold the style without stiffness.

Double Dutch Braids with Glam Clips

Double Dutch braids with glam clips offer a modern, edgy twist for medium hair, combining the boldness of braids with a touch of sparkle. This look is ideal for those who want a fun and dynamic hairstyle for New Year’s that also keeps hair neatly styled. Double Dutch braids suit most face shapes, especially round and square faces, as they add length and structure.

To create smooth, defined braids, use Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Featherlight Styling Cream to prevent frizz. Braid tightly along both sides of the head, securing each with a glam clip or jeweled barrette near the ends for added shine. A light spritz of Sebastian Shaper Plus Hairspray keeps the style in place for hours.

Side Braid with Subtle Waves

A side braid with subtle waves brings a soft, effortless elegance to medium hair, perfect for a relaxed New Year’s look. This style works especially well on wavy or textured hair, with the braid enhancing natural movement. Suitable for all face shapes, the side braid adds structure without being overly formal, making it versatile for both daytime and evening wear.

For soft waves, apply Davines This Is A Sea Salt Spray to damp hair and let it air-dry or use a diffuser. Braid a section on one side, and secure with a discreet pin or clip. Finish with R+Co Outer Space Flexible Hairspray for a touchable hold that maintains the waves.

Messy Bun with Statement Hair Pin

The messy bun with a statement hair pin is a go-to choice for anyone looking for a chic, quick and easy style that’s still festive. This bun brings volume and texture, adding a bit of edge to medium-length hair. It’s suitable for all face shapes, as the bun adds height while the face-framing strands soften the overall look.

To achieve the perfect messy bun, apply Ouai Matte Pomade to add texture and control. Twist the hair into a loose bun, leaving a few strands out for a casual vibe. Add a statement hair pin, like a large jeweled or metallic clip, for an eye-catching detail. Finish with IGK 1-800-Hold-Me No-Crunch Flexible Hold Hairspray to keep the bun in place while allowing movement.

Tousled Waves with Glitter Roots

Tousled waves with glitter roots offer a playful, party-ready look that’s perfect for ringing in the New Year. This style suits medium-length hair wonderfully, adding volume and texture while making a bold statement. Tousled waves are flattering on most face shapes, and the glitter roots provide a fun, festival-inspired twist that’s ideal for celebrations. If you want a look that stands out in the crowd, this one is for you.

To achieve a textured wave, start with a sea salt spray like Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray to add volume and grip. Once the waves are styled, apply a bit of hair gel to the roots and sprinkle glitter over the gel for a secure hold. To keep your glitter in place, finish with a strong hold hairspray like Redken Triple Pure 32.

Messy Shag with a Pop of Temporary Color

A messy shag with a pop of temporary color is the ideal look for anyone wanting to try something edgy and playful without commitment. This modern shag has choppy layers that add volume and texture, making it ideal for medium-length hair. The temporary color, such as pastel pink or lavender, adds a fun and aesthetic twist, perfect for New Year’s parties. This style suits round and oval faces, as it adds structure and frames the face beautifully.

To achieve a tousled, shaggy texture, use Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo to add volume and texture. Apply a temporary color spray, like L’Oréal Colorista 1-Day Spray, to the ends or specific sections for a pop of color. Finish with IGK Beach Club Texture Spray to keep the shag looking perfectly undone.

Choppy Layers with Tiny Braids

Choppy layers with tiny braids offer a unique, textured look that’s perfect for those who like to mix up classic and trendy elements. The choppy layers add volume and a laid-back vibe, while the tiny braids create visual interest and make this style stand out. This look is flattering for most face shapes, and it’s ideal for those who want a cool, casual look with a bit of an edge.

To keep layers looking fresh and defined, apply a texturizing product like Ouai Matte Pomade to the ends. Braid a few tiny sections randomly throughout the hair and secure with clear elastics. Use Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast for extra lift and a tousled finish that keeps the style looking modern.

Soft Waves with Side-Swept Bangs and Shimmer Spray

Soft waves with side-swept bangs and shimmer spray bring a touch of elegance and glamour to medium-length hair, perfect for a New Year’s celebration. This style is ideal for those with heart or oval faces, as the side-swept bangs add softness around the face while the waves add volume and movement. A subtle shimmer spray gives this style a radiant glow, adding a festive touch.

To achieve soft waves, use a curling wand and then gently brush through the curls for a relaxed look. Apply a shimmer spray like Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil with a touch of shimmer to the ends and bangs for a radiant finish. To keep bangs in place, use Bed Head by TIGI Masterpiece Shine Hairspray for a flexible hold that enhances the natural shine.

Textured Lob with Glittered Ends

The textured lob with glittered ends is a playful, party-ready style that adds a twist to the classic long bob. The textured layers bring movement and depth, while the glittered ends make a bold, glamorous statement for New Year’s festivities. This style is perfect for those with oval or square faces, as the length flatters and elongates the jawline.

To add texture, start with a sea salt spray like John Frieda Beach Blonde Sea Waves Spray. Once the style is complete, apply a hair-safe glitter gel to the ends for a bold, sparkling effect. Finish with Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray for a lightweight hold that keeps the glitter in place.

These 29 New Year hairstyles for medium hair offer a range of looks that blend classic elegance with modern trends. Whether you prefer sleek, straight styles or loose, carefree waves, these ideas allow you to express your unique style while keeping things fresh for 2024. Share your favorite looks or styling tips in the comments below—here’s to stepping into the New Year with fabulous hair!