33 Beautiful Mid-Length Curly Hairstyles with Layers

Mid-length curly hair offers the perfect balance between manageability and versatility, especially when enhanced with strategic layering.

Whether you’re blessed with natural curls or create them with styling tools, finding the right cut and style can transform your entire look.

This comprehensive guide explores 33 stunning mid-length curly hairstyles with layers that will inspire your next salon visit.

From subtle face-framing layers to dramatic cascading cuts, we’ll cover techniques, styling tips, and maintenance advice to help you achieve gorgeous, bouncy curls that turn heads wherever you go.

This article presents a detailed exploration of 33 mid-length layered curly hairstyles, covering everything from classic cuts to modern trends.

You’ll discover various layering techniques, styling methods, and professional tips to enhance your natural texture or create beautiful curls from scratch.

Each section provides practical advice, styling guidance, and maintenance tips to help you choose and maintain the perfect curly hairstyle for your face shape and lifestyle.

1. Classic Shoulder-Length Layered Curls

The timeless shoulder-length layered curl remains a favorite among women of all ages due to its versatility and flattering nature.

This cut features gentle layers that start around the jawline and cascade down to create beautiful movement and bounce.

The classic approach involves cutting layers that gradually increase in length from the crown to the shoulders
This technique prevents the triangular shape that often occurs with unlayered curly hair
Face-framing layers help soften angular features while adding volume to the crown area
The shoulder length provides enough weight to prevent excessive frizz while maintaining curl definition
Styling typically requires a diffuser and curl-enhancing cream for best results
This cut works exceptionally well for medium to thick hair textures
Regular trims every 6-8 weeks help maintain the shape and prevent split ends

2. Shag-Inspired Curly Layers

The modern shag brings a contemporary twist to layered curly hair with its edgy, textured appearance. This cut features shorter layers throughout the head, creating a deliberately messy and voluminous look.

Shag layers are cut at various lengths to create maximum texture and movement
The technique involves point cutting and razor cutting to achieve the signature choppy effect
This style works particularly well for fine to medium curly hair that needs extra volume
Shorter layers on top add height and fullness to the crown area
The shag requires minimal styling effort, making it perfect for busy lifestyles
Regular texturizing treatments help maintain the desired messy appearance
This cut complements oval, heart, and square face shapes exceptionally well

3. Long Bob (Lob) with Curly Layers

The long bob with curly layers offers a sophisticated yet playful look that works for both professional and casual settings. This cut typically falls between the collarbone and shoulders with strategic layering.

The lob length provides versatility for both up and down styling options
Layers are strategically placed to enhance natural curl patterns without creating bulk
This cut helps reduce styling time while maintaining a polished appearance
Internal layers add movement without sacrificing the overall bob shape
The style works well with both loose waves and tight curls
Color highlights can enhance the layered effect and add dimension
This cut suits most face shapes and can be customized for individual features

4. Asymmetrical Curly Layers

Asymmetrical cuts bring a bold, fashion-forward element to curly hair with uneven lengths that create visual interest and modern appeal.

One side is typically cut shorter than the other, creating an intentional imbalance
Layers are incorporated to enhance the asymmetrical effect and add texture
This style requires precise cutting techniques to achieve the desired proportions
The asymmetrical design can help balance facial features and create a slimming effect
Styling often involves emphasizing the curl pattern on the shorter side
This cut works best on confident individuals who enjoy making a statement
Regular maintenance appointments are crucial to preserve the asymmetrical shape

5. Bouncy Spiral Layers

Spiral layers are specifically designed to enhance and define natural curl patterns, creating maximum bounce and spring in curly hair.

Cutting techniques follow the natural curl pattern to maintain spring and elasticity
Layers are cut when hair is dry to see the natural curl formation
This method prevents the loss of curl definition that can occur with wet cutting
The spiral technique works exceptionally well for type 3 and type 4 curl patterns
Each curl is individually shaped to create uniform bounce throughout the hair
Styling products that enhance curl definition are essential for this look
The technique requires a stylist experienced in curly hair cutting methods

6. Face-Framing Curly Layers

Face-framing layers strategically placed around the hairline create a flattering effect that softens facial features and adds movement.

Layers begin around the cheekbones and gradually blend into longer lengths
This technique helps balance different face shapes and highlight best features
Shorter layers around the face create lift and prevent hair from appearing flat
The graduated length adds visual interest and prevents a uniform, heavy look
Styling focuses on enhancing the natural curl pattern around the face
This approach works well for both subtle and dramatic layering preferences
Regular touch-ups every 4-6 weeks help maintain the face-framing effect

7. Textured Curly Layers with Bangs

Adding bangs to layered curly hair creates a youthful, fresh appearance while framing the eyes and forehead beautifully.

Curly bangs require special cutting techniques to work with natural texture
Side-swept bangs often work better than blunt cuts for curly hair
The layers throughout the hair complement the bang style and create cohesion
Styling bangs requires specific products to maintain shape without weighing them down
This style can help minimize a large forehead while adding personality
Daily styling of curly bangs may require extra time and attention
The combination creates a retro-inspired look with modern appeal

8. Graduated Curly Layers

Graduated layers create a stacked effect that adds volume and shape to curly hair while maintaining a structured appearance.

Layers are cut in a graduated sequence from short to long
This technique creates natural volume and lift without requiring excessive styling
The graduated approach works well for fine curly hair that needs extra body
Each layer builds upon the previous one to create a full, rounded silhouette
Styling is simplified due to the natural volume created by the layering
This cut maintains its shape well between salon visits
The structured appearance makes it suitable for professional environments

9. Romantic Curly Layers

Romantic layering creates soft, feminine curls with gentle movement that evokes classic Hollywood glamour.

Layers are cut to create soft, flowing movement rather than sharp definition
This technique emphasizes the natural beauty of curly hair without harsh lines
Longer layers help maintain weight while adding subtle movement
The romantic approach works well for special occasions and formal events
Styling often involves larger curl patterns and softer textures
This cut complements feminine clothing styles and classic aesthetics
The timeless appeal makes it suitable for women of all ages

10. Edgy Choppy Curly Layers

Choppy layers bring an edgy, contemporary feel to curly hair with deliberate irregularity and textured definition.

Cutting techniques create intentionally uneven lengths for added texture
Point cutting and razor techniques enhance the choppy effect
This style works particularly well for medium to thick curly hair
The edgy appearance suits confident personalities and modern lifestyles
Styling emphasizes the natural texture and movement of the choppy layers
This cut requires minimal daily maintenance while looking effortlessly stylish
The contemporary appeal makes it popular among younger demographics

11. Voluminous Curly Layers

Voluminous curly layers maximize fullness and body, creating dramatic impact through strategic layering techniques.

Multiple shorter layers create lift and fullness throughout the hair
This technique works best for those with naturally thick, coarse hair
Layering prevents the weight from pulling curls down and flattening them
Root lifting techniques enhance the voluminous effect
Styling requires volumizing products and proper diffusing techniques
This cut creates a bold, statement-making appearance
Regular professional maintenance preserves the voluminous shape

12. Beachy Wave Layers

Beachy wave layers create a relaxed, effortless look that mimics natural ocean-tousled hair with structured layering.

Layers are cut to enhance natural wave patterns and create movement
This style combines the structure of layers with the casualness of beach waves
Salt spray and texturizing products help achieve the desired beachy effect
The layering prevents the hair from looking too uniform or styled
This cut works well for medium-density hair with natural wave patterns
Minimal daily styling makes this perfect for low-maintenance routines
The relaxed appearance suits casual and bohemian fashion styles

13. Curly Pixie-Bob Layers

The curly pixie-bob with layers offers a chic, short-meets-medium length style that’s both edgy and feminine.

This cut falls between a pixie and traditional bob length
Multiple layers add texture and prevent the style from looking too heavy
The shorter length reduces styling time while maintaining curl definition
Layers around the crown create lift and volume
This style suits petite face shapes and showcases facial features
Regular trims every 4-5 weeks maintain the precise shape
The contemporary appeal makes it perfect for fashion-forward individuals

14. Stacked Curly Layers

Stacked layers create a tiered effect that adds dimension and structure to curly hair while maintaining fullness.

Layers are cut in distinct tiers to create obvious separation and dimension
This technique works well for thick, dense curly hair
Each layer builds upon the previous one to create a structured silhouette
The stacked effect prevents hair from looking triangular or bottom-heavy
Styling emphasizes the distinct layers and their individual movement
This cut requires precision cutting techniques for best results
The structured appearance works well for professional environments

15. Tousled Curly Layers

Tousled layers create an effortlessly undone look that appears naturally messy yet carefully crafted.

Layers are cut at varying lengths to create natural-looking irregularity
This technique mimics the appearance of hair that’s been naturally tousled
The style works particularly well for fine to medium curly hair
Minimal styling products maintain the natural, undone appearance
This cut suits busy lifestyles and those who prefer low-maintenance styles
The casual appearance complements bohemian and relaxed fashion choices
Regular texturizing treatments enhance the tousled effect

16. Curly Shag with Heavy Layers

The heavy-layered shag creates maximum texture and movement with numerous layers throughout the hair.

Multiple layers of varying lengths create intense texture and movement
This style requires expert cutting techniques to achieve proper balance
The heavy layering works best for thick, coarse curly hair
Rock-and-roll styling enhances the edgy, rebellious appearance
This cut makes a bold statement and suits confident personalities
Daily styling focuses on enhancing the natural texture and separation
The dramatic appearance works well for creative and artistic professions

17. Soft Curly Layers

Soft layering creates gentle, flowing movement that enhances natural curl patterns without harsh definition.

Layers blend seamlessly to create smooth transitions between lengths
This technique emphasizes the natural beauty of curls without sharp contrasts
The soft approach works well for formal and professional settings
Longer layers maintain weight while adding subtle movement
Styling focuses on smoothness and shine rather than dramatic texture
This cut suits conservative environments and classic fashion styles
The timeless appeal makes it appropriate for all age groups

18. Curly A-Line Layers

A-line layering creates a structured shape that’s shorter in back and longer in front with curly texture.

The cut creates a distinctive angled silhouette with curly texture
Layers enhance the A-line shape while adding movement and dimension
This style works well for medium-density curly hair
The geometric precision requires skilled cutting techniques
Styling emphasizes the clean lines and structured appearance
This cut suits fashion-forward individuals who appreciate precision
Regular maintenance preserves the distinct A-line shape

19. Feathered Curly Layers

Feathered layers create a soft, wispy effect that adds lightness and movement to curly hair.

Point cutting techniques create the characteristic feathered appearance
This style adds lightness to thick, heavy curly hair
Feathering works particularly well around the face and hairline
The technique reduces bulk while maintaining curl definition
Styling emphasizes the soft, airy quality of the feathered layers
This cut complements feminine and romantic fashion styles
The delicate appearance suits those who prefer subtle styling

20. Curly Layers with Side Part

A deep side part combined with curly layers creates asymmetrical styling that adds visual interest and sophistication.

The side part creates natural volume on one side
Layers enhance the asymmetrical effect and add movement
This styling works well for formal events and professional settings
The sophisticated appearance suits mature women and classic styles
Styling focuses on maintaining the side part and enhancing curl definition
This approach works with various layer lengths and curl types
The timeless appeal makes it suitable for conservative environments

21. Chunky Curly Layers

Chunky layers create bold, distinct sections that add dramatic dimension and texture to curly hair.

Large, distinct layers create obvious separation and dimension
This technique works best for thick, coarse curly hair
Chunky layering creates a high-fashion, editorial appearance
The bold effect suits confident individuals who enjoy making statements
Styling emphasizes the distinct nature of each layer section
This cut requires regular professional maintenance to preserve definition
The dramatic appearance works well for creative and artistic fields

22. Wispy Curly Layers

Wispy layers create a delicate, ethereal effect that adds softness and femininity to curly hair.

Fine, delicate layers create a soft, cloud-like appearance
This technique works well for fine to medium curly hair
Wispy layering adds movement without creating bulk or weight
The delicate effect complements romantic and feminine styles
Styling focuses on maintaining the soft, airy quality
This cut suits those who prefer subtle, understated styling
The feminine appearance works well for romantic occasions

23. Curly Layers with Highlights

Strategic highlighting combined with curly layers creates dimensional color that enhances the layered effect.

Highlights placed strategically enhance the movement of layers
Color dimension makes the layering more visible and defined
This technique works well with all curl types and layer styles
Professional coloring techniques prevent damage to curly hair
Styling products that enhance both color and curl definition are essential
Regular color maintenance preserves the dimensional effect
The enhanced appearance suits those who want maximum visual impact

24. Razor-Cut Curly Layers

Razor cutting techniques create soft, textured layers that blend seamlessly while adding movement to curly hair.

Razor cutting creates softer edges than traditional scissor cutting
This technique prevents harsh lines and creates natural-looking layers
The razor method works particularly well for fine to medium curls
Textured edges enhance the natural movement of curly hair
Styling emphasizes the soft, flowing quality of razor-cut layers
This technique requires a stylist skilled in razor cutting methods
The natural appearance suits those who prefer seamless styling

25. Curly Bob Layers

Classic bob length with curly layers creates a timeless, sophisticated look that’s both professional and stylish.

The bob length falls between chin and shoulder level
Layers prevent the bob from appearing too blunt or heavy
This style works well for medium to thick curly hair
The classic length suits professional and conservative environments
Styling maintains the bob shape while enhancing curl definition
This cut requires regular trims to maintain the precise bob line
The timeless appeal makes it appropriate for all age groups

26. Disconnected Curly Layers

Disconnected layers create distinct sections with obvious separation, adding modern edge to curly hair.

Layers are cut with intentional gaps to create separation
This modern technique creates a high-fashion, editorial appearance
The disconnected effect works best for thick, textured curly hair
Styling emphasizes the distinct nature of each layer section
This cut requires expert cutting techniques and regular maintenance
The avant-garde appearance suits creative and artistic personalities
The contemporary look works well for fashion-forward individuals

27. Graduated Bob Curly Layers

The graduated bob combines the classic bob shape with internal layers, creating volume and movement in curly hair.

Internal layers create volume without affecting the overall bob silhouette
This technique prevents the bob from appearing flat or lifeless
Graduated layers work particularly well for fine curly hair
The style maintains the classic bob appeal while adding modern texture
Styling focuses on enhancing internal volume and curl definition
This cut suits professional environments and classic fashion styles
The refined appearance works well for mature women

28. Textured Pixie Curly Layers

The textured pixie with curly layers creates a bold, short style that maximizes texture and personality.

Multiple short layers create maximum texture and movement
This style works best for those with strong facial features
The pixie length reduces styling time while creating dramatic impact
Textured layers prevent the pixie from appearing too uniform
Styling emphasizes the natural texture and curl definition
This cut requires frequent trims to maintain the precise shape
The bold appearance suits confident, fashion-forward individuals

29. Curly Layers with Undercut

Combining curly layers with an undercut creates a modern, edgy style that reduces bulk while maintaining length on top.

The undercut removes bulk from the sides and back
Top layers maintain length and volume while creating contrast
This technique works well for thick, dense curly hair
The modern approach suits trendy, fashion-forward individuals
Styling focuses on the contrast between the cut and layered sections
This style requires regular maintenance to keep the undercut clean
The contemporary appearance works well for creative professions

30. Vintage-Inspired Curly Layers

Vintage-inspired layering recreates classic Hollywood glamour with modern curly hair techniques.

Layers are cut to enhance classic curl patterns and vintage silhouettes
This style recreates the glamour of 1940s and 1950s Hollywood
Vintage styling techniques enhance the retro appearance
The classic approach works well for formal events and special occasions
Styling requires time and attention to achieve authentic vintage looks
This cut complements classic fashion styles and elegant accessories
The timeless appeal suits those who appreciate classic beauty

31. Natural Curly Layers

Natural layering works with existing curl patterns to enhance texture while maintaining an effortless appearance.

Cutting techniques follow natural curl patterns and growth directions
This approach enhances what nature provided without forcing unnatural shapes
The style works with all natural curl types and textures
Minimal styling maintains the natural, organic appearance
This cut suits those who prefer low-maintenance, authentic styles
The approach celebrates natural beauty and texture
The effortless appearance works well with casual and bohemian fashion

32. Dramatic Curly Layers

Dramatic layering creates bold contrasts and maximum impact through extreme length variations in curly hair.

Extreme variations in layer lengths create maximum visual impact
This style requires expert cutting techniques and careful planning
The dramatic effect works best for thick, coarse curly hair
Bold styling enhances the dramatic nature of the layering
This cut suits confident individuals who enjoy making statements
Professional maintenance is crucial to preserve the dramatic effect
The high-impact appearance works well for creative and artistic fields

33. Customized Curly Layers

Customized layering takes individual face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle into account to create the perfect personalized cut.

Professional consultation determines the best layering approach for each individual
Face shape analysis guides layer placement and length decisions
Hair texture assessment determines appropriate cutting techniques
Lifestyle considerations influence styling and maintenance requirements
The customized approach ensures optimal results for each person
This method combines multiple techniques for personalized outcomes
Professional expertise is essential for successful customization

Conclusion

The world of 33 Beautiful Mid-Length Curly Hairstyles with Layers offers endless possibilities for expressing your personal style while embracing your natural texture.

From classic shoulder-length cuts to dramatic avant-garde styles, layered curly hair provides the perfect combination of manageability and visual appeal.

Whether you prefer subtle face-framing layers, bold chunky sections, or customized cuts tailored to your individual needs, the key lies in working with a skilled stylist who understands curly hair techniques and choosing styles that complement your face shape and lifestyle.

With proper care, regular maintenance, and the right styling products, your layered curly hairstyle will remain beautiful, bouncy, and full of life.

Remember that the best curly hairstyle is one that makes you feel confident and reflects your unique personality while celebrating the natural beauty of your curls.