25 Layered Haircuts for Medium Hair Ideas
You know what they say—medium hair is the sweet spot. It’s like the Goldilocks zone of hair length: not too short that you can’t do anything with it, not too long that you want to cry every time you brush it.
And when you throw layers into the mix? Oh honey, that’s when the magic happens.
Layers can make your hair look fuller, lighter, and way more stylish—without you having to spend 45 minutes with a curling iron.
I’ve rocked more than my fair share of layered cuts over the years, and trust me, once you go layers, you rarely go back.
So, whether you’re looking for a subtle refresh or a total glow-up, here are 25 layered haircuts for medium hair that you need to see before your next salon visit.
1. The Classic Face-Framing Layers
If you’re new to layers, start here.
Face-framing layers are like contouring for your hair—softening your features and making your cheekbones pop. Bonus: they work with every face shape.
2. The Textured Lob
This one’s basically the cool-girl haircut of the decade. A long bob with choppy layers adds movement and keeps things effortless.
Think “I woke up like this” but, you know, on purpose.
3. Soft Feathered Layers
Feathered layers are perfect if you want that light, airy feel. IMO, it’s the most low-maintenance way to get volume without teasing your hair like it’s the ’80s.
4. Curtain Bangs + Layers
Curtain bangs are still having their moment, and pairing them with soft layers is basically a recipe for instant chic.
Just be ready to swish your hair dramatically when you walk into a room.
5. Shag-Inspired Layers
The modern shag is all about texture and attitude. Great for wavy hair and for those days when you want to look stylish without doing much. Lazy girls unite.
6. Layered Blowout Cut
Ever seen someone walk by with hair that looks like it’s straight out of a shampoo commercial? Yeah, that’s this cut.
Layers that are made for round-brush blowouts will give you that glossy, bouncy finish.
7. Mid-Length Layers with Balayage
Pairing layers with balayage highlights? Genius. It makes the dimension pop and gives you that sun-kissed vibe even if you haven’t seen a beach in years.
8. Layered U-Cut
A U-shaped hemline with layers adds shape while keeping length. It’s a little softer and less blunt than a straight cut—perfect if you want a romantic feel.
9. Shoulder-Length Layers
For those who want a manageable length with max styling options, shoulder-length layers are a win.
You can curl them, straighten them, or toss them in a messy bun without feeling like you’re carrying a hair blanket.
10. Wispy Ends
This one’s for the minimalists. Light layers at the ends create movement without changing the overall shape too much.
11. Voluminous Round Layers
These are the Farrah Fawcett layers but modernized. Rounded layers give hair body and a little retro drama—because who doesn’t love a little drama?
12. Wavy Layered Cut
If you’ve got natural waves, this cut will make them look intentional instead of like “I slept funny.” Layers help waves spring up and keep them from feeling heavy.
13. Long Layers on Medium Hair
Yes, you can have long layers even if your hair is medium-length. They create a soft cascade effect that’s gorgeous on straight or wavy textures.
14. Messy Layered Bob
For that lived-in, effortless vibe, a messy layered bob is perfect. Pro tip: a little texturizing spray will make you look like you belong in a Pinterest board.
15. Layered A-Line Cut
A-Line cuts (shorter in the back, longer in the front) get a fresh twist with choppy layers. Perfect if you want an edgy, fashion-forward look.
16. Layered Lob with Side Part
A side part instantly changes your look, and when you add layers? Chef’s kiss. It’s classic yet current.
17. Flipped-Out Layers
A little 2000s throwback here—flipped-out ends with layers look playful and cute. Pair with gloss spray for extra shine.
18. Choppy Medium Layers
For a more undone look, go choppy. It’s youthful, fun, and works especially well on fine hair that needs a volume boost.
19. V-Cut Layers
A V-shaped hemline creates a dramatic shape and works beautifully with layered curls or waves. It’s like your hair is making a statement.
20. Shaggy Layers with Bangs
The rockstar haircut. Perfect for thick hair that needs shape and attitude. Just be prepared for compliments.
21. Layered Cut with Blunt Bangs
Blunt bangs + layers = the ultimate mix of edgy and soft. Think Zooey Deschanel but with more layers to frame your face.
22. Swoopy Layers
These layers swoop in and out, adding dimension without looking too structured. Great for anyone who likes a bit of movement but not too much choppiness.
23. Layered Cut with Curls
Layers help curls keep their bounce without getting weighed down. Plus, it prevents the dreaded “triangle hair” effect. You curly-haired queens know what I mean.
24. Face-Framing Layered Bob
A shorter bob with longer front layers that frame your face is super flattering and makes your jawline look snatched.
25. The Blowout-Ready Layered Cut
This one’s for my salon addicts. Layers cut specifically for blowouts will give you volume for days and a style that looks expensive—because it kinda is.
Tips for Styling Layered Medium Hair
Because a great cut deserves a little TLC:
- Use a lightweight volumizing mousse to avoid weighing down layers.
- Blow dry with a round brush for bounce.
- Dry shampoo isn’t just for dirty hair—it’s also a secret weapon for adding texture.
- Heat protectant always—layers are pretty, but fried ends are not.
Why Layers Work So Well on Medium Hair
Medium hair sits at that perfect length where layers can actually do their thing—add shape, movement, and volume without losing versatility. Short hair sometimes can’t show layers as clearly, and long hair can hide them. Medium hair? It’s the Goldilocks winner.
Final Thoughts
Layered medium hair is the hair equivalent of a well-fitted pair of jeans—it works for everyone, can be dressed up or down, and makes you feel good the second you see it in the mirror.
If you’re sitting there thinking, “Okay, but which one do I pick?”, my advice is to save three photos you love, show them to your stylist, and let them tweak the cut for your hair type and face shape. Oh, and if it turns out amazing, don’t forget to strut a little when you leave the salon. You earned it. 😉
