If you've got long hair with layers, these are the best ways to totally transform your look while keeping all of the length
Want long hair with layers? You're not alone. In the face of exciting new hair colour trends and fancy new iterations of the bob, layers often get overlooked when it comes to planning our next hair cut. However, the humble hairdressing technique can add instant movement, bounce and volume to long hair as well as help accentuate curls and avoid hair looking too weighty.
Plus, there are so many ways to enjoy layers, depending on your hair type. But honestly, it can work for pretty much anyone, whether you have tight kinky curls, soft waves or straight textures. All you have to do is find the style perfect for you.
If you have thin hair, try a few face-framing layers around the jawline and leave lengths untouched to retain fullness, or if you have thicker hair, try choppier layers to thin out the ends and create a beautiful shape to your style.
Another great perk is that they can bring out the best in your colour. If you've got highlights or ombre hair, or perhaps even reverse ombre, then having layers really spotlights it, which is always what we want after a fresh new colour.
Long hair with layers also form the basis of some of this year's hottest hair trends, from The Rachel Cut to the shaggy look to the mullet (yes, it's officially back in style).
Keep scrolling for the best layered looks perfect for long hair...
@curlvision / InstagramLayers for curly hair
Layers are crucial for making the most of curly hair and will prevent the style looking too bottom-heavy. When cutting, remember curly hair will bounce back up when dry, so always cut off less than you think necessary (you can always go back for more!).
@araxjan / InstagramTiered layers
Tiered layers make for a sleek, polished finish that shows off natural movement without looking too tousled. Depending on the hair length, you should aim to start the layers lower into lengths, leaving an inch or so between each tier.
@araxjan / InstagramLayered ends
Nothing looks more chic than a few bouncy layers cut into the ends of hair. Not only will it help disguise any extensions, but it also helps to keep hair healthy by trimming any split ends.
@salsalhair / Instagram90s layers
The Rachel cut was the defining style of the 90s and it's back in a big way. Layers should be sweeping and face-framing to allow for plenty of movement and volume.
@christinesbeautybar / InstagramV-shaped layers
@chrisweberhair / InstagramBeachy layers
These beachy layers are the ultimate summer hair style when paired with some sun-kissed balayage and gentle waves throughout lengths. The key is to create lots of choppy movement around the face and mid-lengths, leaving ends slightly thinned out.
@indigo_indigoing_indigone / InstagramMullet layers
They might be one of the most divisive hair styles of all times, but mullets are most certainly back in style thanks to celebrities like Rihanna and Miley Cyrus. Of course, the basis of a great mullet is all about the layering - start high up on the hair to get that classic shape and work your way down, leaving the ends wispy.
@salsalhair / InstagramShaggy layers
Shaggy hair has been a huge trend recently and luckily it couldn't be easier to achieve. All it requires is choppy layers starting at mid-length and some face-framing bangs or curtain fringe to finish.
@saltymanestudio / InstagramFront section layers
For a more subtle layered look, opt for a simple gradient around the face. This will help to provide structure while keeping lengths and ends thick and lustrous.
@veronica_haircreator / InstagramBouncy layers
Layers can help provide bounce to hair while also helping to thin out particularly thick hair. We love this voluminous, wavy look.
@bel_pipsqueekinsaigon / InstagramSubtle layers
Layers don't need to be obvious. In fact, sometimes the best layered hairstyles are the most subtle ones that allow for gentle movement and subtle contouring around the jawline, like these sun-kissed layers.
Instagram / @sarrjamoisLayers in an afro
Layers also work well in long afros, especially if you've got 4C texture. As with any hair type, it makes a visible difference to fullness and thickness but with afro or curly textures, you also get extra body and movement which we love!
Rosdiana CiaravoloLong layered hair with a fringe
Layered hair can look amazing with a fringe, whether it's a trendy curtain bangs or a subtle side style. Why? Because all the elements simply work well together to create a flattering frame on your face and it just also instantly makes you look more chic!
