79 Medium-length Layered Hairstyles To Light You Up (2024)

Gone are the days when medium-layered hair was considered basic. Medium-layered hairstyles have far more versatility than you think! You can style them fresh and natural, add curls, rock a ponytail, or wrap them in a textured bun. Layers help frame your face and bring out your features. It is important to get the layers right according to your face shape and hair texture.

Try out these layered hairstyles if you are looking for some chic hairstyles that are in trend for medium-length hair. Keep scrolling!

Before You Get Started

• Adding layers to all hair types gives the hair more depth and movement.
• Apply a heat-protectant spray, serum or cream to protect your hair shaft and avoid frizz.
• Trimming your hair every 6 to 8 weeks will help with the shape and maintenance of your layers.

79 Beautiful Medium-Length Layered Hairstyles In 2024

1. Long Bob With Caramel Highlights

This layered lob with bouncy waves is perfect for thick and slightly wavy hair. The subtle side parts with caramel highlights add warmth to her face. The layers draw attention to the jawline and her smoldering eyes, and the hair ending in bouncy waves at the shoulder accentuates the sharp shoulder line.

2. Half Updo With Bangs

Bangs are the best accessory to add a fun flair to any hairstyle. A half updo means more layers, and the slight bouffant at the crown elongates the face. The blonde highlights concentrated around her face brightens her eyes and complexion.

3. Shoulder Down Layers

The brilliant Felicity Jones is sporting layers that are cut from the shoulders down. This makes the rest of her hair look thicker and more voluminous. If you want style but simplicity, opt for this classy shoulder-length layered hair.

4. Fine-Ended Layers

If your hair is shoulder-length and you already have layers, thinning them down at the ends is a great way to make your hair look fuller. Thinning the ends adds more depth to your medium-length layered haircut, which makes it look thicker and more dimensional.

5. Curved-In Layers

The lob is one of the most sought after haircuts. It’s neither too short nor too long. But, a plain lob can look drab over time. Jazz it up by adding in some layers from midway down. Then, with a round brush and a blowdryer, curve the ends of your hair inward. This will make your hair look fuller.

6. Thin Golden Layers

Brie Larson sported this simple yet stylish layered cut at the premiere of August Osage County. If you have a wide face, this is the layered hairdo for you. The wavy layers fall near the cheeks, then curve out just below them. This draws attention toward the jawline.

7. Wispy Layers

So, you recently got a blunt cut but want to jazz it up? Add some wispy layers in the front and the outer layers of your hair. This wispy medium hairstyle will make your hair look feathered but thick. Straighten out the hairstyle for the full Captain Marvel look.

8. Fine Wavy-Ended Layers

Layers add a nice touch to waves, making them look fresh and perfect. If you have full cheeks, start your layers just at or below your jawline. This step will make your cheeks look slimmer.

9. Long Thin-Ended Layers

Layers with wispy ends are a global phenomenon. The light tips of hair make the rest of your hair look voluminous. The wispy ends give your hair a sunkissed look, which adds warmth to a cold day.

10. Golden Beachy-Wave Layers

We’ve all searched for the perfect beachy hairdo – one that flaunts your haircut, hair color, and texture. Gwyneth Paltrow has found it! Opt for face-framing layers and deep point cutting into the ends for movement, paired with shades of blonde highlights for contrast. You’ll be saying Surf’s Up in no time! Curl your hair with a large barrel iron to add some texture to your tresses.

11. Layered Lob Ombre

Blunt layers are great for accentuating your jawline. But if you have a pointed jawline, I’d advise against it as they could make it look harsh. These layers are great for oval faces. If you have a heart-shaped face, it will bring out your jawline and conceal your wide forehead.

Quick Tip

If you have a dark skin tone, dye your layered lob with the blend of copper and golden blondes. The warm shades complement the dark skin.

12. Perfect Curl Layers

The length of these layers are perfect for hair that is not extremely curly. If you have wavy hair, apply some curl-defining cream and use a curling iron to amp up your hair texture.

13. Light Curly Layers

Layers with curls at the end can make your jawline appear softer than it is. If you have a square- or diamond-shaped face, consider this layered hairstyle. The curls add volume to make your hair look fuller and can be very flattering on your face

14. Jaw-Framing Layers

Jenna Coleman has stunning brown hair, but here she has lightened it with a gentle kiss of blonde highlights. For accentuated movement in color, get layers cut to complement the style for an effortless look .

15. Naturally Wavy Layers

These standard layers help add volume and texture to the hair. If you have straight hair but your cheeks are the fullest part of your face, consider styling your hair slightly wavy. This step will make your hair look fuller.

16. Waterfall Layers

These long layers give added movement to hair that is styled with smooth waves. Wavy hairstyles will also last longer with layers since the weight taken out of the hair can’t weigh it down. Make sure the waves are defined but not too crisp. Begin curling your hair from halfway down. This will make the waves look more natural.

17. Curly-Ended Layers

Billie Piper is known for her bangs and slightly wavy locks. But, this look just makes her shine! The curly-ended layers bring out her jawline. The lighter highlights make her stunning eyes pop. The deep side parting finishes off this look perfectly.

18. V-Layers

The V- layered cut is one of the most sought-after hairstyles all over the globe. The best thing about this hairstyle is that it is voluminous below the chin, which makes your face appear smaller than it is while accentuating your facial features.

19. Face-Framing Layers

If you want style without taking away too much of your hair length, this hairstyle is for you. This is a super stylish way to frame your face. This point and slide-cut layered haircut is easy to style at home. Flip your hair over and blow dry the roots and underneath of your hair. Then flip up and blow dry the layers inward with a 45 mm round brush.

20. Blonde Wavy Layers

Wavy blonde layers look incredibly stunning. The layers will chisel the lower half of your face. These standard layers help add volume and texture to your hair. If you have straight hair but your cheeks are the fullest part of your face, consider styling your hair slightly wavy. This step will give your hair look fuller.

21. Sharp Face-Framing Layers

If you have full cheeks, get layers that begin below the chin. The ends of the layers will accentuate your jawline while the hair near your face will cover the width of the cheeks and make them look thinner.

22. Sharp V Layers

This layered hairstyle looks incredible. The layered cut is for straight, thick hair. It shows off the straight hair texture well, making your hair look lush. Try a high ponytail with this hairstyle, and I promise you won’t be disappointed.

23. Bleached Blonde Layers

When The Big Bang Theory first aired, Penny’s golden locks were the clear winner (apart from those four lovable nerds). It’s no secret that Kaley Cuoco has incredible hair, but the layers make her medium-length hair shine even more. 

24. Smooth Layers

Smooth layers that flow from bangs through the length of your hair are the perfect way to make a professional style statement. It lends you an oomph to your fashion and the thin ends will make the rest of your hair appear thick.

25. Subtle Layers

Notice how the layers are there but don’t take all the attention? Instead, the focus is on Karen Fukuhara’s face. If you have a face shape that you want to flaunt, this is one of the best layered looks to do so.

26. Fierce Layers

It’s no secret that if you want your hair to look thicker or bouncier, curls are the way to go. But, adding layers to the mix makes your hair look fuller. Curl your hair in big rolls but small sections to add volume at the ends.

27. U Layers

The U-cut is known as being a “Plain Jane” type of hairstyle. But, the scales can be raised by adding layers to it. Style it in a deep side parting to help frame your face.

28. All-Rounder Layers

I like to call this the all-rounder layered cut. This is perfect and simple for the college-going girl who does it all: acing her tests and playing sports. However, I wouldn’t recommend this hairstyle if you have thin hair.

29. Highlighted Layers

If you already have layers, add some highlights to really bring them out. Apart from just being fun, highlights help in framing your face. Pick shades that are a few shades lighter than your natural hair color and see the magic work!

30. Softly Feathered Layers

If you have fine hair, this is a great way to make it look thick. Ask your hairstylist for layers with softly feathered ends. Then, curl your hair in big sections with a curling iron for about five seconds to achieve those stunning curls.

31. Heavy Curved Layers

This hairstyle is achieved with a round brush and a blowdryer. Curve the ends of your layers with the round brush and set them in place with the blowdryer. Opt for lighter highlights to flaunt those layers and waves. This hairstyle accentuates your facial features.

32. Hermoine’s Wavy Layers

You have the perfect wavy hair but are wondering how to flaunt it? Add in some layers – it’s a game-changer. Not only will your waves fall like a waterfall, but it will also accentuate your hair texture beautifully.

33. Blonde Balayage Layers

Being brunette is awesome, but I’m sure you’ll like to see what you look like blonde. Instead of opting for a full hair change, try this blonde balayage. The best thing about it is that since it is a lighter shade than brown, you can color it back if it doesn’t work out! But to be on the safe side, check with a hairstylist which blonde shade will suit your skin’s undertone.

34. Blonde Highlighted Layers

If you have layers and want to flaunt them, blonde highlights are the way to go. Opt for a shade that’s close to your hair color and goes with your skin’s undertone. Straighten your hair and strut about like Olivia! This straight-layered hairstyle is just worth it for the stylishness it brings!

35. Loose Wavy Dimensional Layers

Wrap your layered hair in a curling iron and twirl it down your hair to recreate this wavy magic. Opt for lighter highlights at the bottom to flaunt those layers and waves. This accentuates your facial features.

36. Espresso Balayage Layers

Espresso is God’s gift to mankind. It’s all coffee, and that’s what makes it so delicious. Get your hair colored in an espresso brown shade to carry that feeling with you everywhere you go.

37. Strawberry Layers

Layers can be accentuated with color. I would suggest getting your hair colored first and then getting it cut in layers. This way, you’ll be able to really enhance the layers.

38. Stairwell Layers

Heavy curly layers at the bottom make your jawline appear soft and wide. They also make your hair look thicker at the ends, which will make your face seem thinner than it is. You can rock a ponytail like never before with this hairstyle.

39. Brownish Blonde Layers

When you have light brown hair, most women tend to opt for a blonde change. Take a unique path and let your inner warrior out with this orange ombre. The orange hues go well with the light brown top. It will bring your hair back to life.

40. Silky Straight Layers

Emma Stone looks stunning in any hairstyle, and she proves it here with this medium-length hair look. Her platinum blonde hair has been cut in shallow layers and styled with side-swept bangs to give her a preppy look.

41. Side Parting

A side parting can make your hair look flat if you don’t have thick hair. But if you do have thick hair, the side parting is your trusted companion. It balances out any uneven facial features and flaunts your layers.

42. Modern Jane Layers

The modern, simple Jane. No girl is without a sense of style, and this proves it. Simple, subtle layers at the end make her hair look lush and voluminous. Add in the curls to make your hair look glossier and fuller.

43. Thickening Layers

Layers for thin-haired women mean disaster most of the time because it can make their hair look stringy and ratty. Opt for thick layers that are feathered at the end. Use a volumizing spray or dry shampoo to add texture and volume to your layers. Get regular trims as this will keep your layers looking fresh.

44. Platinum Layers

Platinum hair is stunning! It’s all the rage right now. It looks almost white with a hint of blonde. Check with your hairstylist if your skin’s undertone works with this color. Opt for thin layers below your jawline to help streamline your face.

45. Bronde Layers

Bronde is one of the few colors hairstylists can’t stop talking about. The roots are dark while the shade becomes lighter as it reaches the end. Notice how just the ends are feathered. This will make your medium-length hair appear thicker.

46. Beautiful Layers

If you ever need a good hairstyle for your medium-length hair, check out Rose Byrne’s looks. They look sophisticated and elegant while still being perfect for the beach. Here, the layers are concentrated at the hair tips. They’ve been feathered neatly to flaunt her hair’s thickness.

47. Balayage Layers

A balayage layered haircut is superb for face-framing. The dark roots make your face look longer while the layers cover a large forehead and broad cheeks. The layers just below the jawline streamline it while the blonde shade softens it.

Quick Tip

If you have brown hair, you can dye it in a soft-amber chocolate shade (tiger eye). It complements the warm skin tone. It also looks good on people with brown or green eyes.

48. Sculpted Layers

Sculpted waves are the best red carpet look. But, did you know that you can enhance your waves with layers? They also help in framing your face and adding depth and dimension to your tresses.

49. Long Face-Framing Layers

Notice how Rose’s layers are at the front, right near her face? This is for framing her face. Rose Byrne has a slightly large forehead that she usually covers with bangs. She draws attention to her flawless jawline with layers. The layers also bring her eyes, nose, and mouth into the limelight.

50. Parted Layers

If you love layers but want to take a new approach to them, opt for a different parting. If your hair naturally parts in the middle, opt for a side parting. This will make your hair look fuller and thicker.

51. Heavy Layers

Curl your hair in big sections using a straightener to obtain this stunning look. The layers blend in perfectly to volumize your hair and draw attention to your face shape. Go fora smokey eye makeup look to bring out your eyes.

52. Sharp Defined Layers

Just got a new hair color and want to flaunt it? Layers are the way to go. Opt for heavy, sharply cut layers that pack on each other. Style this cut in a deep side parting to give your hair a voluminous lift at the top.

53. One-Sided Curled Layers

It’s no secret that layers help give your hair a thicker look. But if you really want volume, keep your layered ends long and soft. This will make the top of your hair look thick and deep. By curling your hair on one side, you can add contrast to this hairstyle.

54. Feathered Thin Layers

Feathered ends can amp up the volume and thickness of your locks. Don’t believe me? Try it for yourself! Using the point-cut method, thin out the ends of your hair. If you have layers, thin those ends out as well.

55. Tapered Ends

Lili Reinhart has stunning blonde hair! It’s enhanced even more with the finely tapered layers. It makes her hair look more voluminous. Coupled with the overgrown bangs, this is the perfect hairstyle for those chill days.

56. Soft Layers

Layers are a girl’s best friend. Every girl wants stylish and bouncy hair, which can be achieved with layers. The feathered ends make the rest of her hair look thicker and more voluminous too. 

57. Subtle Two Layers

Whoever knew that all it took to jazz up your hairstyle was two layers? A quick fix! I like how the first layer has been cut into a V. This is also knownas the dissociated layers hairstyle.

58. Golden Layers

Gold is the color of queens! It symbolizes richness and prosperity. It can also make your hair look thick and lush. This is because when it is coupled with brown hair, it adds depth and dimension to your locks.

59. Thick Layers On Fine Hair

If you have fine hair, this hairstyle is a godsend for you! It looks stylish without loosing too much thickness. It frames the jawline well. This layered hairstyle is brilliant for those messy hairdos.

60. Lob Layers

The lob is one of the most sought-after hairstyles. It’s very stylish and made for shoulder-length hair. You can add some beauty and texture to your hair by adding layers and a nice sunkissed color.

61. Wispy-Ended Layers

Layers with wispy ends are a global phenomenon. The light tips of hair make the rest of your hair look voluminous. The wispy ends give your hair a sunkissed look that adds a hint of youthful freshness to your hair.

62. Sunkissed Layers

Beachy or sunkissed hair has been in demand for a really long time. It’s no surprise since it’s the perfect summer vacay look. The key to achieving the perfect beachy hair look is loose waves and layers.

63. Contrast Layers

If you really want to accentuate your natural hair color, think contrasts. Check out how the natural brown shines when paired with some blonde tips. You don’t need to go for an ombre, just some simple highlighted tips will do the trick.

64. Heavy Multi-Layers

Heavy multi-layers work well with thick hair. If you really want them to stand out, get them cut sharp and well-defined. Pair these layers with a U- or V-cut to finish off the look!

65. Natural Hollywood Layers

Medium-length hair is perfect for Hollywood curls. If your hair is too short, the hairstyle looks incomplete, but if your hair is too long, your hair needs to be folded. With medium-length hair, once the locks are curled, they become shorter. This makes it the perfect length for this look.

66. Summer Layers

Summer is that one season when we all want to dress up. It’s summer vacay time, after all! Try this layered cut where the ends are thinned out. This layered cut mimics the shag cut, except the layers start shorter in the front and get a little longer at the back.

67. Ombre Lob Layers

This subtle ombre is the perfect color blend for medium-length layered hair. It makes Jlo’s hair look fuller and healthier here. The best way to style this cut is with lots of texturizing spray and a middle parting.

68. Beach Layers

Beachy hair is the shizz! That comes as no surprise since it’s the perfect summer vacay look. The key to achieving the perfect beachy hair look is styling it wavy. You can get your hair colored in a balayage to make the most of this look.

69. Heavy Bottom Layers

Heavy layers at the bottom accentuate your jawline. They also make your hair look thick at the ends, which makes your face seem thinner in comparison. This is a haircut that looks great when styled in updos.

70. Naturally Flowing Layers

Layers can be accentuated with color. Add multiple shades of the same color to give your hair dimension and texture. Be very careful when picking a color as it can add more depth and gloss to your hair. 

71. Contrast Balayage Layers

A balayage layered haircut is superb for face-framing. The dark roots make your face look longer while the layers cover a large forehead and broad cheeks. This edgy, medium-length hairstyle is the best haircut for anyone who has a boho-chic sense of style.

72. Curly Bronde Layers

This is another bronde look that will make people shower you with compliments. The medium-length layers are elevated by this color blend. Curl your hair to finish off this gorgeous look.

73. Dimensional Brown Layers

Your shoulder-length layered lob can be spiced up with a multi-dimensional brown color blend. It will add depth and shine to your tresses. Part your hair roughly on one side before heading out.

74. Textured Layers

A textured and layered cut is one of the best options for medium-length hair. Add some deep highlights to add more dimension to your locks. Curl your hair in thin veils to recreate Priyanka’s flawless look.

75. Voluminous Layers

Margot Robbie has beautiful blonde hair, and this style shows us how minimalist hairdos are all we need. You can see layers at the end. This gives her hair more volume and bounce.

76. Defined Wavy Layers

Sophie Turner looks like a goddess with this hairstyle. Her medium-length hair has been cut in some basic layers and styled in big curls to create this glamorous look. The sweep to one side only elevates this look.

77. Standard Layers

These standard layers are great for anyone who has fine-textured hair. They jazz up your hair look with going too over the top. The key is to concentrate the layers in the lower half of your hair.

78. Medium-Length Bohemian Layers

Jennifer Aniston’s medium-length bohemian hair featured subtle waves that exuded an effortless, laid-back charm. The iconic hairstyle became a symbol of relaxed boho-chic with a twist, blending sophistication with a touch of carefree, making it a beloved hair trend that remains popular to this day. The best thing about it is that you can style it however you want, with twists, braids, and numerous hair accessories!

79. Collarbone-Length Waves

Zoe Saldana’s collarbone-length wavy hair embodies elegance and simplicity in one breath. The gentle waves gracefully frame her face, exuding a natural and relaxed vibe. This versatile hairstyle is perfect whether it’s a casual day out or a red carpet event. It complements various occasions with grace.

These medium-length hairstyles with layers add great volume and lift to the mane. They are effortlessly stylish and make for interesting hairstyles without much fuss. Which one will suit you the most, you ask? Find out in the section below.

How To Choose The Right Layered Haircut For Your Face Shape

Layered haircuts can be a showstopper for many people. However, it is important to choose a style that complements your face shape to achieve the most flattering results.

Round Face

• A layered haircut with longer layers around the face can help elongate and slim a round face.
• Consider a chin-length or shoulder-length cut with soft layers to frame your face.

Oval Face

• Layered cuts can add volume and texture to an oval face.
• Experiment with different lengths and layers to find the perfect style.

Square Face

• A layered haircut with longer layers around the face can soften a square jawline.
• Consider a side-swept fringe or layers that graze the cheekbones.

Heart Face

• A layered haircut with shorter layers around the crown and longer layers towards the ends can balance a heart-shaped face.
• A chin-length or shoulder-length cut with soft layers can be flattering.

Long Face

• A layered haircut with shorter layers around the crown can help shorten a long face.
• Consider a chin-length or shoulder-length cut with layers that add volume around the face.

Different hair colors too can add different dimensions to a layered haircut. Learn more about it below.

Color Techniques For Layered Hairstyles

Here are some popular color techniques to consider:

• Balayage can accentuate the layers and add depth.
• Ombre can create a dramatic effect, especially when paired with contrasting colors.
• Lowlights can add depth and dimension, particularly effective on darker hair colors.
• Face-framing highlights can draw attention to your features.
• Dimensional color technique can add depth and texture to your hair.

Infographic: 7 Effortless Layered Hairdos For Medium-Length Hair

Contrary to popular belief, layered hairstyles can be versatile when styled right. Whether it’s an office party, a picnic day, or a formal evening, you can rock your medium-length tresses with minimal effort. To help you out, we have rounded up the top 7 medium layered haircuts. Check out the infographic below to learn more!

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What products should I use for a medium-length layered hairstyle?

For a medium-length layered hairstyle, use hair products like volumizers, dry shampoo, and hair serums to add more bounce, texture, and shine to your medium-length layered hair.

Are there any tips for styling a medium-length layered hairstyle?

A few tips to style a medium-length layered hairstyle is to use some texturizing product and a heat protectant before styling it using a blow dryer for a natural, wavy look.

What are some easy ways to add volume to a medium-length layered hairstyle?

One of the easy ways to add volume to a medium-length hairstyle is to use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner paired with other lightweight products to avoid matted hair.

What tips do you have for keeping my medium-length layered hairstyle looking fresh?

To keep your medium-length hairstyle looking fresh, use products that make your hair look shiny and bouncy rather than heavy and matted. Use serums to add moisture and spray some dry shampoo on the scalp to remove any greasiness.

What techniques should I use to create curls and waves with my medium-length layered hairstyle?

To create curls and waves with your medium-length layered hairstyle, use heat-styling products. You can also use hair rollers and curl your hair by rolling up sections from the bottom up and securing them with a bobby pin.

Illustration: Medium-length Layered Hairstyles To Light You Up

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Discover the ultimate collection of stunning shoulder-length haircuts for women in the fabulous video below. Get inspired and find the perfect cut to effortlessly elevate your style!

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Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Andrea ClaireCelebrity Hairstylist & Makeup Artist

     

Andrea Claire is a Canadian-licensed celebrity hairstylist and makeup artist with over 30 years of experience in advertising, beauty, and editorial portfolios. She has done campaigns for brands like L’Oreal Paris, Revlon, and Lancôme and editorials for Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Shape, and more.

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Anjali SayeeAssociate Editor

 

Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.

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Shatabdi BhattacharyaAssociate Editor

Shatabdi is an associate editor and an alumnus of Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the world of literature and expression. She has worked with various organizations and websites operating in different industries, ranging from education to lifestyle, showing her adaptability and drive to learn.

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Joyce JoysonBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience crafting short-form content for the beauty, fashion, and lifestyle niches. She has a triple majors bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science, and Geography from IIS University and a master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.

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