30 Stunning Haircuts for Medium Length Hair with Layers to Add Movement

Medium length hair with layers offers the perfect balance between versatility and manageability, giving you endless styling possibilities while maintaining a practical length.

If you’ve been searching for a hairstyle that adds dimension, texture, and effortless movement to your locks, layered medium-length cuts are your answer.

This comprehensive guide explores 30 stunning haircuts for medium length hair with layers to add movement, showcasing options that flatter every face shape, hair texture, and personal style.

Whether you prefer subtle, face-framing layers or bold, choppy cuts that make a statement, you’ll discover fresh ideas to transform your look and inject new life into your hair routine.

1. Classic Layered Lob (Long Bob)

The classic layered lob remains one of the most requested styles in salons worldwide, combining timeless elegance with modern sophistication.

This cut typically falls between the chin and shoulders, featuring layers that create natural movement without sacrificing length.

The layered lob works exceptionally well for women with fine to medium hair textures, as the strategic layering creates the illusion of fuller, thicker hair.
Layers are typically concentrated around the face and gradually blend toward the back, ensuring smooth transitions that enhance your natural hair flow.
This versatile cut can be styled straight for a polished corporate look or with loose waves for casual weekend vibes.
The maintenance level is relatively low, requiring trims every 8-10 weeks to maintain the shape and prevent split ends.
Styling products like volumizing mousse at the roots and lightweight oils on the ends keep this cut looking fresh and bouncy.

2. Shaggy Layers with Texture

Shaggy layers bring an edgy, rock-and-roll aesthetic to medium length hair, perfect for those who want a carefree, lived-in look.

This style features irregular, choppy layers throughout that create substantial texture and dimension.

The shag cut works beautifully on women with naturally wavy or straight hair, as the layers enhance existing texture and add personality.
Shorter layers at the crown create volume and lift, while longer pieces toward the ends maintain overall length and prevent the style from appearing too short.
This haircut pairs exceptionally well with curtain bangs or wispy fringe, adding to the effortless, bohemian vibe.
Styling is minimal—often just air-drying with a texturizing spray creates the perfect undone finish.
Regular trims every 6-8 weeks help maintain the intentionally choppy appearance and prevent the style from looking unkempt rather than deliberately tousled.

3. Face-Framing Layers

Face-framing layers concentrate shorter pieces around your face while keeping the back length relatively uniform, creating a flattering frame that highlights your best features.

This approach to layering is particularly effective for softening strong jawlines or drawing attention to beautiful cheekbones.

These layers typically begin anywhere from the cheekbones to the chin, gradually blending into the longer hair at the back.
Face-framing layers work wonderfully for all hair textures, from pin-straight to naturally curly, adapting to enhance your hair’s natural characteristics.
This layering technique is perfect for those who want the movement and dimension of layers without committing to an all-over layered cut.
Styling these layers with a round brush while blow-drying creates soft, face-flattering curves that add femininity to your overall appearance.
The strategic placement of these layers can help balance facial proportions, making round faces appear more oval or elongating shorter face shapes.

4. V-Cut Layers

The V-cut features layers arranged in a distinctive V-shape when viewed from the back, creating dramatic dimension and a striking silhouette.

This geometric approach to layering adds significant visual interest while maintaining substantial length.

The V-cut creates the illusion of extremely thick hair at the ends, as the angular cut makes the hair appear fuller and more voluminous.
Layers gradually increase in length from the front to the back, with the longest point centered at the nape of the neck.
This cut is particularly flattering for women with naturally thick hair who want to add shape without removing too much weight.
The dramatic silhouette looks stunning when styled straight, allowing the precise lines of the cut to shine through clearly.
Maintenance requires precision cutting every 10-12 weeks to preserve the sharp V-shape and prevent the layers from becoming uneven.

5. Feathered Layers

Feathered layers bring a soft, romantic quality to medium length hair, with delicate, wispy ends that flutter with movement.

This technique creates an airy, lightweight feel that’s perfect for those seeking a feminine, ethereal look.

The feathering technique involves point-cutting or razor-cutting the ends to create soft, tapered tips that blend seamlessly together.
This layering style works exceptionally well for thick or coarse hair, as it removes bulk while adding graceful movement.
Feathered layers look particularly beautiful when styled with loose curls or waves, as the movement enhances the feathery texture.
Minimal styling products are needed—a light serum or spray prevents frizz while maintaining the delicate, feathered appearance.
This cut requires regular maintenance every 6-8 weeks to keep the feathered ends looking fresh and prevent them from becoming blunt or heavy.

6. Choppy Layered Cut

Choppy layers deliver an intentionally edgy, modern aesthetic with disconnected pieces that create bold texture and dimension.

This rebellious style is perfect for fashion-forward individuals who want their hair to make a statement.

Choppy layers feature varying lengths throughout the cut, creating an intentionally uneven, piece-y appearance that breaks traditional hair rules.
This cutting technique adds substantial volume at the crown while maintaining movement throughout the mid-lengths and ends.
The choppy cut pairs beautifully with bold hair colors, balayage, or contrasting tones, as the varying layer lengths showcase color dimension.
Styling products like texturizing paste or dry shampoo enhance the choppy, separated texture and create the desired piece-y finish.
Despite its edgy appearance, this cut works for various hair textures, though it truly shines on straight to slightly wavy hair.

7. Layered Cut with Side Part

A deep side part combined with layered medium hair creates asymmetry and visual interest, offering a sophisticated style that exudes confidence.

This classic approach to styling layered hair adds instant glamour to any look.

The deep side part naturally creates more volume on one side, with layers enhancing the dramatic sweep across the forehead.
This styling approach works particularly well with face-framing layers, as they cascade beautifully across one side of the face.
Layers cut at varying lengths ensure that the heavier side of the part has substantial body and doesn’t fall flat against the head.
Blow-drying with a round brush while directing hair away from the part creates lasting volume and smooth, polished layers.
This versatile style transitions seamlessly from professional settings to evening events, making it ideal for busy lifestyles.

8. Blunt Ends with Internal Layers

This sophisticated technique maintains a clean, blunt baseline while incorporating hidden internal layers that add movement without sacrificing the appearance of thickness.

It’s the perfect compromise for those who want both structure and flow.

Internal layers are cut within the hair’s interior, creating movement and reducing bulk without affecting the outer perimeter’s weight line.
This cutting approach is ideal for women with extremely thick hair who want a lighter feel without losing the blunt, full appearance at the ends.
The blunt baseline creates a strong, geometric shape that looks modern and intentional, while hidden layers prevent the style from appearing heavy.
Styling is straightforward—blow-drying straight with a paddle brush showcases the clean lines while revealing subtle internal movement.
Maintenance every 8-10 weeks keeps the blunt ends looking sharp and prevents the internal layers from growing out unevenly.

9. Layered Cut with Curtain Bangs

Combining layered medium hair with curtain bangs creates a harmonious, face-framing style that’s both trendy and timeless.

The bangs blend seamlessly with the layers, creating a cohesive look that flatters most face shapes.

Curtain bangs part down the center and gracefully sweep to each side, creating a soft, romantic frame that draws attention to the eyes.
The layers throughout the rest of the hair are cut to complement the length progression of the bangs, ensuring a smooth, integrated appearance.
This combination is particularly flattering for oval, heart-shaped, and long face shapes, as it adds width and softens angular features.
Styling requires blow-drying the bangs away from the face with a round brush, creating the characteristic outward sweep.
The low-maintenance nature of curtain bangs makes this an excellent choice, as they blend seamlessly with layers as they grow, requiring less frequent trims.

10. Graduated Layers

Graduated layers feature shorter pieces at the crown that progressively lengthen toward the ends, creating a stacked effect with substantial volume at the back.

This architectural approach to layering adds height and dimension.

The graduation creates natural lift at the crown, making this an excellent choice for those with flat or fine hair needing volume.
Layers are precisely cut at specific angles to create the stacked effect, requiring a skilled stylist familiar with graduation techniques.
This cut maintains length at the perimeter while building volume through the interior, offering both substance and movement.
Styling with a round brush and lifting at the roots during blow-drying enhances the graduated effect and maximizes volume.
Regular maintenance every 6-8 weeks is essential to preserve the graduated shape and prevent the style from losing its structure.

11. Long Layers for Thick Hair

Long layers specifically designed for thick hair remove bulk while maintaining length, creating manageable, flowing locks with enhanced movement. T

his approach prevents thick hair from appearing triangle-shaped or overly heavy.

Long layers are strategically placed to remove interior weight without creating gaps or reducing the hair’s overall fullness at the ends.
The layering begins several inches below the chin, ensuring that the hair maintains substantial thickness through the top and mid-sections.
This cutting technique is essential for thick-haired individuals, as it prevents the hair from becoming pyramid-shaped or unmanageably heavy.
Styling is simplified with long layers, as the reduced weight allows the hair to dry faster and respond better to styling tools.
Products like leave-in conditioners and smoothing serums help manage thickness while enhancing the natural movement created by the layers.

12. Textured Razor-Cut Layers

Razor-cut layers utilize a razor blade rather than scissors to create soft, textured ends with a lived-in, effortless appearance.

This technique produces wispy, feathered layers that move beautifully with minimal styling.

Razor cutting creates a softer edge than scissors, producing tapered ends that blend seamlessly and create natural-looking texture.
This technique is particularly effective for thick or coarse hair, as it softens the ends and reduces bulk without creating harsh lines.
The textured finish achieved through razor cutting requires minimal styling—often just air-drying with a texturizing spray creates the perfect look.
This cutting method is not recommended for very fine or fragile hair, as it can create split ends or make the hair appear too thin.
Maintenance every 8-10 weeks keeps the textured ends looking intentional rather than damaged or neglected.

13. Layered Cut with Balayage

Pairing layered medium hair with balayage highlighting creates dimensional color that emphasizes the movement and depth of the layers.

The hand-painted color technique complements the haircut’s natural flow.

Balayage highlights are strategically placed on the higher, more visible layers, creating a sun-kissed effect that draws attention to the cut’s dimension.
The color graduation from dark roots to lighter ends enhances the perception of depth and movement within the layered cut.
This combination is particularly striking when styled with waves or curls, as the color variation becomes more visible with texture.
The low-maintenance nature of balayage complements a layered cut perfectly, as both grow out gracefully without requiring constant upkeep.
Color-safe shampoos and conditioning treatments preserve the balayage while keeping the layered hair healthy and strong.

14. Asymmetrical Layered Cut

Asymmetrical layers feature intentionally uneven lengths on each side, creating a bold, avant-garde look that breaks traditional symmetry rules.

This edgy style is perfect for those wanting to make a fashion statement.

The asymmetry can be subtle or dramatic, with one side cut several inches shorter than the other, creating striking visual interest.
Layers on the shorter side are typically more pronounced, adding volume and texture that balances the overall asymmetrical shape.
This cut works exceptionally well for oval and heart-shaped faces, as the asymmetry adds interest without overwhelming facial features.
Styling can emphasize the asymmetry by tucking the shorter side behind the ear while letting the longer side fall forward.
Regular trims every 6-8 weeks maintain the precise asymmetrical shape and prevent the cut from losing its intentional unevenness.

15. Soft Layered Waves

Soft layered waves combine gentle cutting techniques with styling to create romantic, flowing movement perfect for special occasions or everyday elegance.

The layers are cut to enhance natural wave patterns.

Layers are strategically placed to follow and enhance the natural wave pattern, creating cohesive, flowing movement throughout the hair.
The cutting technique removes weight in specific areas where waves tend to become bulky or lose definition.
This style works beautifully for women with naturally wavy hair, as the layers allow the texture to form defined, bouncy waves.
Styling with a large-barrel curling iron or diffuser enhances the waves while the layers prevent the style from appearing too uniform or structured.
Wave-enhancing products like mousse or curl cream define the waves while the layered cut ensures they fall with graceful movement.

16. Crown Layers for Volume

Crown layers focus shorter pieces at the top of the head to create maximum lift and volume, perfect for those with fine or flat hair seeking height.

This targeted layering approach addresses specific volume concerns.

Short layers concentrated at the crown create instant lift, making the hair appear fuller and giving the style more balanced proportions.
The layers gradually blend into longer lengths toward the face and nape, ensuring smooth transitions without obvious demarcation lines.
This cutting technique is particularly effective for mature women experiencing thinning at the crown or anyone with naturally fine, flat hair.
Blow-drying crown layers with a round brush while directing hair upward and away from the scalp maximizes the volumizing effect.
Volumizing products like root-lifting sprays or mousses applied specifically to the crown area enhance and maintain the lift created by the layers.

17. Layered Cut with Highlights and Lowlights

Combining dimensional color with layered cutting creates visual depth that makes the hair appear fuller and more textured.

The interplay of light and dark tones emphasizes the movement within the layers.

Highlights placed on the upper, more visible layers catch light and draw attention to the hair’s movement and texture.
Lowlights added to deeper layers create shadow and depth, making the overall style appear more three-dimensional and voluminous.
The color variation works synergistically with the layered cut, as different lengths naturally showcase different tones.
Styling that adds texture or waves makes the color dimension even more apparent, creating a striking multi-tonal effect.
Regular color maintenance every 8-12 weeks and layering touch-ups keep both the color and cut looking fresh and dimensional.

18. Piece-y Layered Cut

Piece-y layers create distinct, separated sections throughout the hair for a modern, textured appearance that looks effortlessly cool.

This cutting technique emphasizes definition and movement.

The piece-y effect is achieved through point-cutting or texturizing techniques that create separation between individual sections of hair.
This style works exceptionally well with straight to slightly wavy hair, as the distinct pieces are most visible without curl pattern interference.
Piece-y layers pair beautifully with modern hair colors, particularly cool-toned blondes, silvers, or bold fashion shades.
Styling products like texturizing paste, pomade, or matte wax help define and separate the pieces for the desired chunky, modern finish.
Regular trims every 6-8 weeks maintain the piece-y definition and prevent the layers from blending together into a softer, less distinct style.

19. Layered Lob with Middle Part

A layered lob styled with a center part creates a balanced, symmetrical look that’s both modern and universally flattering.

The center part showcases the layers’ movement on both sides equally.

The center part creates perfect symmetry, with layers falling equally on both sides to frame the face and create balanced proportions.
Layering begins around chin level and continues throughout, creating movement without compromising the lob’s structural integrity.
This styling approach is particularly flattering for oval face shapes and those with symmetrical facial features.
Blow-drying straight with a paddle brush creates a polished, sophisticated finish that showcases the precise layer placement.
The center part can be adjusted slightly off-center for variety while maintaining the balanced aesthetic created by symmetrical layers.

20. Disconnected Layers

Disconnected layers feature dramatic length differences between sections, creating an intentionally edgy, avant-garde look with striking visual contrast.

This bold cutting technique is for those unafraid of making a statement.

Disconnected layers don’t blend gradually like traditional layering—instead, there are obvious jumps between different lengths throughout the cut.
This technique creates substantial texture and dimension, with shorter sections sitting atop longer ones without seamless transitions.
The disconnected approach works well for creating volume at the crown while maintaining length at the perimeter for a mullet-inspired or modern punk aesthetic.
Styling can emphasize the disconnection through texturizing products that separate and define the different layer lengths.
This high-fashion cut requires a skilled stylist comfortable with unconventional cutting techniques and regular maintenance to preserve the intentional disconnection.

21. Layered Cut with Side-Swept Bangs

Side-swept bangs integrated with layered medium hair create a cohesive, face-flattering style that adds softness and femininity.

The bangs naturally blend into the face-framing layers.

Side-swept bangs angle gracefully across the forehead, covering one brow while exposing the other for an asymmetrical, flattering effect.
The bangs are cut as an extension of the face-framing layers, ensuring smooth integration and preventing an obvious separation.
This combination flatters most face shapes, particularly round or square faces that benefit from the diagonal line created by swept bangs.
Styling requires blow-drying the bangs with a round brush, directing them across the forehead while the layers are styled with body.
Side-swept bangs are more forgiving than straight-across styles as they grow out, making maintenance less frequent and the style more adaptable.

22. Layered Shag with Fringe

The layered shag with fringe combines retro inspiration with modern cutting techniques, creating a cool, effortless style with plenty of personality.

This bohemian-inspired cut features choppy layers and textured fringe.

The shag features multiple layer lengths throughout, creating substantial texture and a deliberately undone, lived-in appearance.
The fringe is cut with texture and piece-y separation, matching the shag’s overall aesthetic rather than lying flat across the forehead.
This cut works beautifully on naturally textured or wavy hair, as the layers enhance and define the natural movement.
Minimal styling is required—air-drying with a texturizing spray or sea salt spray creates the perfect tousled finish.
The shag’s intentionally messy appearance means it grows out gracefully, requiring trims only every 8-10 weeks to maintain the shape.

23. Subtle Layers for Natural Movement

Subtle layering creates gentle movement without dramatic changes in length, perfect for those wanting dimension without an obvious layered appearance.

This conservative approach maintains a more uniform silhouette.

Subtle layers involve minimal length variation, typically just 1-2 inches difference between the shortest and longest pieces.
This approach is ideal for those with naturally healthy, thick hair who want to add light movement without sacrificing fullness.
The layers are cut throughout to blend seamlessly, creating movement that appears natural rather than obviously styled or structured.
Styling is minimal—simply blow-drying smooth or adding loose waves showcases the subtle dimension without overwhelming the style.
This conservative layering requires less frequent maintenance, with trims needed only every 10-12 weeks to maintain the gentle movement.

24. Layered Cut with Flipped Ends

Flipped ends combined with layered cutting creates a playful, retro-inspired look with outward-flipped tips that add bounce and personality.

This styling approach brings fun energy to a classic layered cut.

The layers are cut to fall at strategic lengths that naturally flip outward when styled with a round brush during blow-drying.
This playful style works best on straight to slightly wavy hair, as the flipped ends are most pronounced without competing curl patterns.
The flipped-end styling adds width at the shoulder level, making it particularly flattering for those with narrow shoulders or pear-shaped bodies.
Creating the flip requires blow-drying with a round brush, rolling the brush outward at the ends while applying heat.
This fun, vintage-inspired style transitions easily from day to evening and adds a youthful, energetic vibe to any look.

25. Layered Wolf Cut

The wolf cut combines elements of shag and mullet styles with dramatic layering, creating an edgy, voluminous cut with shorter layers at the crown and length at the nape.

This trending style makes a bold statement.

The wolf cut features heavily layered crown area creating significant volume and height, contrasting with longer lengths preserved at the back.
This style incorporates choppy, disconnected layers throughout, creating a wild, untamed aesthetic that’s fashion-forward and youthful.
The cut works particularly well on thick hair, as the dramatic layering removes bulk while creating substantial texture and dimension.
Styling can range from sleek to tousled, though the cut truly shines with textured, piece-y styling that emphasizes the layering.
Regular maintenance every 6-8 weeks keeps the dramatic layer difference intact and prevents the wolf cut from losing its distinctive shape.

26. Layered Cut with Tucked Behind Ears

Styling layered medium hair tucked behind the ears creates a casual, approachable look while showcasing face-framing layers and facial features.

This versatile styling option works for various occasions.

The layered cut is specifically designed with this styling option in mind, featuring shorter face-framing pieces that remain visible when tucked.
Tucking the hair behind the ears draws attention to earrings, facial features, and the neck, creating an open, friendly appearance.
This styling approach works well for casual daytime activities, creating an effortless, no-fuss look that remains polished.
The layers create natural volume at the crown even when the sides are tucked, preventing the style from appearing flat or lifeless.
This versatile option allows quick style changes throughout the day—wearing hair down for formal situations and tucked for casual moments.

27. Layered Cut with Root Volume

Emphasizing volume at the roots through both cutting and styling techniques creates lift and fullness, particularly beneficial for those with fine or aging hair.

The layering strategy focuses on crown area elevation.

Layers are cut shorter at the crown and roots, removing weight that would otherwise pull the hair down flat against the scalp.
The cutting technique creates natural lift points throughout the top sections, making the hair appear fuller and more voluminous.
Blow-drying with a round brush, lifting hair straight up from the roots, maximizes the volume potential created by the layered cutting.
Volumizing products like root-lifting sprays or dry shampoo applied at the scalp enhance and prolong the lifted, fuller appearance.
This approach to layering is particularly effective for mature women or anyone experiencing hair thinning at the crown or temples.

28. Angled Layers

Angled layers create diagonal lines throughout the hair, adding geometric interest and modern sophistication to medium length cuts.

The precise angles create structured movement and dimension.

The layers are cut at specific angles rather than following the head’s natural curve, creating clean, geometric lines throughout the style.
This precision cutting technique requires an experienced stylist skilled in geometric cutting for optimal results.
Angled layers work exceptionally well when styled straight, allowing the precise lines and angles to be clearly visible and appreciated.
The structured appearance created by angled layers suits professional environments and creates a polished, sophisticated aesthetic.
Maintenance every 8-10 weeks is essential to preserve the precise angles and prevent the geometric lines from softening or blurring.

29. Layered Cut with Beach Waves

Beach waves styled into a layered medium cut create an effortlessly chic, vacation-ready look with relaxed, tousled texture.

The layers enhance the waves’ natural movement and prevent them from appearing uniform.

The layers are cut to enhance and define natural wave patterns, with shorter pieces creating additional wave formation points throughout.
This combination creates the coveted “just left the beach” aesthetic with minimal styling effort required.
Styling typically involves applying sea salt spray to damp hair and either air-drying or diffusing for enhanced texture.
The layers prevent beach waves from appearing too uniform or styled, maintaining the relaxed, undone quality that defines the look.
This low-maintenance style grows out gracefully, with the waves disguising any root growth or length inconsistencies between trims.

30. Layered Cut with Sleek Styling

Sleek styling on layered medium hair creates a sophisticated, high-polish look that’s perfect for formal occasions or professional settings.

The layers add subtle dimension while maintaining a smooth, refined appearance.

Despite the layered cut, sleek styling creates a smooth, polished surface with the layers providing gentle movement and dimension beneath.
This styling approach works best when blow-drying with a paddle brush, followed by flat-ironing for ultimate smoothness.
Smoothing serums, oils, or glossing sprays enhance shine and create the mirror-like finish associated with sleek styling.
The layers prevent the sleek style from appearing too flat or one-dimensional, adding subtle depth that becomes apparent with movement.
This versatile look transitions seamlessly from business meetings to evening events, making it ideal for busy professionals seeking polished elegance.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect hairstyle that combines practicality with stunning visual appeal doesn’t have to be complicated.

These 30 stunning haircuts for medium length hair with layers to add movement offer something for everyone, regardless of your hair texture, face shape, or personal style preferences.

From the timeless elegance of a classic layered lob to the bold statement of a wolf cut, layered medium-length styles provide the versatility and dimension that modern women crave.

The key to success lies in choosing a cut that complements your natural hair characteristics and lifestyle, then working with a skilled stylist who understands how to create movement through strategic layering.

With the right cut and minimal styling effort, you’ll enjoy hair that moves beautifully, frames your face perfectly, and makes you feel confident every single day.