Somewhere between a chin-grazing short bob and long, luscious locks lies the most perfect length of all: the shoulder cut. Grazing just along the shoulders and collarbone, this short hairdo is popular for a reason. That reason being? It's flattering on most people and relatively versatile to style.

If you've decided on a shoulder-length haircut, there are certain flourishes that can personalize it just for you, such as layers and bangs. Layering takes out any heaviness while adding extra volume and movement, and bangs are just like the cherry on top, whether you like full curtain fringe or wispy short bangs.

Find your fit amongst these 25 best layered shoulder-length haircuts, and expect plenty of compliments and salon requests to come raking in.

01of 25

Long Face Layers

Instagram/@mizzchoi

A layered haircut doesn’t have to look choppy and be high-maintenance to maintain. Long, piecey layers, like the ones done by hairstylist Cherin Choi here, are easy to grow out without tons of touch-ups. 

02of 25

Fringed Shoulder Cut

Instagram/@mizzchoi

For someone who is no stranger to a short cut, bangs can add just enough of something special to make any length feel brand-new. The choppy layers add even more spunk to this look by hairstylist Cherin Choi.

03of 25

Full Fringe

Instagram/@los_pastel

This fringed look from salon @los_pastel shows that straight hair can still have tons of dimension and texture with the right cut. 

04of 25

Layered Long Bob

Instagram/@mizzchoi

You won't be mistaken for anything less than trendy with a casual, flowy shoulder cut like this one from stylist Cherin Choi. Ask for layers with extra emphasis on face-framing pieces.

05of 25

Angled Lob

@styled_by_carolynn

For thicker and heavier hair, an A-line long bob that's slightly shorter in the back and subtly layered can help add volume and lift. Best of all, this look can be styled or left totally tousled.

06of 25

Layered Curly Cut

Instagram/@petermenezes

For those with natural curls, a layered cut works serious wonders. It enhances any natural bounce or body, and you can add shorter face-framing layers for extra flair, like in this look by hairstylist Peter Menezes.

07of 25

Short Layers on Curly Hair

@jesseniaspallet

Curly hair works very well with a short haircut with layers, as it helps build up volume and reduce heaviness.

08of 25

Classic Layered Lob

Instagram/@smallbatchhair

This lightly layered look with subtle highlights from @smallbatchhair is the ultimate long bob inspiration. 

09of 25

Layered Medium Cut

Instagram/@mizzchoi

Too afraid to go full-on short? Choose a transitional length that hits just below the collarbones with lots of mid-length or long layers. Then take a chance with a bold, ashy color like hairstylist Cherin Choi's client.

10of 25

Layered Mid-Length Cut

@ashleenormanhair/Instagram

Shine at every age with an in-between medium cut with lots of layering.

11of 25

Face-Framing Ombré

Instagram/@jaye_edwards 

This look by hairstylist Jaye Edwards is a stunning example of subtle ombré hair color that starts darkest at the roots and gets progressively lighter at the tips. Just a bit of layering frames the face beautifully. 

12of 25

Long Layers on Curly Hair

@jaye_edwards/Instagram

Invest in longer layers on curly hair for a dose of breezy movement.

13of 25

Bardot Curtain Bangs

Instagram/@styled_by_carolynn

No one will even notice the length of your haircut when these show-stopping bangs are around. These are classic and edgy at the same time, and you'll get instant confidence after leaving the salon. Ask for thick curtain bangs that skim the cheekbones, shown here in this style by @styled_by_carolynn.

14of 25

Long Curly Shag

Instagram/@mizzchoi

Layers are what the shag haircut lives and thrives on. This shaggy 'do by stylist Cherin Choi makes the most of natural curls by adding layering, as well as long, wispy bangs.

15of 25

Volume-Packed Collarbone Cut

Instagram/@ashleenormanhair

This layered shoulder hairstyle is spiced up with balayage highlights. Style it up with big-barrel curls, and you're ready for girls' night. Hairstylist Ashlee Norman called this look The New Cindy as an ode to Cindy Crawford's iconic volume.

16of 25

Shaggy Layered Haircut

@lindsayshair

Go wild with the layers, starting all the way up by the cheekbones down to the chin and then the shoulders.

17of 25

Angled Asymmetrical Lob

@styled_by_carolynn

Get the retro vibes going with a deeply parted, collarbone-grazing cut that's just a little bit longer on one side. You'll be reaching for the Old Hollywood red lipstick in no time.

18of 25

Airy Short Lob

@chrisjones_hair

This cut by stylist Chris Jones can work a little above or below the shoulder, depending on your preference, and it's great for those with fine or thin hair. Asking for fewer, longer layers will make sure that your hair doesn't appear any thinner, while giving it just enough volume and movement.

19of 25

Lightly Layered Lob

@styled_by_carolynn

If you're hesitant about layers, add extra subtle texture with long layers. Heavy highlights on the face-framing pieces bring extra oomph.

20of 25

Warm Highlights

Instagram/@petermenezes

For this look by hairstylist Peter Menezes, ribbons of caramel and copper highlights beautifully complement a layered lob on naturally brunette hair. 

21of 25

Baby Bangs

Instagram/@mizzchoi

Yes, you can pull off short bangs! This look by hairstylist Cherin Choi is proof. Get even more baby bangs inspiration here. 

22of 25

The Modern Mullet

Instagram/@mizzchoi.

Celebs like Miley Cyrus have brought the mullet back in a chic way, and this look by hairstylist Cherin Choi proves that you can rock one, too. 

23of 25

Layered Medium Curly Cut

@jaye_edwards/Instagram

Add even more volume to a curly mane with layered and shoulder length.

24of 25

Tousled Long Bob

@chrisjones_hair/Instagram

Even adding just a few layers can add so much body and movement to a thin haircut.

25of 25

Baby Bangs with Layers

@timm.morrison

Baby bangs offer a bit of uniqueness to a classic layered shoulder style.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What face shapes are suitable for layered shoulder-length haircuts?

  Any face shape will work with a layered shoulder-length haircut, depending on the way it’s styled. Follow our guidelines for the best and worst haircuts for every face shape and then pair your preferred style with a cut that’s shoulder-length.

• Can layered shoulder-length haircuts work for curly hair?

  Absolutely! As showcased in several of our examples, curly-haired women can rock a layered shoulder-length cut. Consult with your stylist to determine how to define your curls with layers rather than make them harder to style. 

• How often should I trim my layered shoulder-length haircut?

  This will depend on the amount and length of your layers. The more layers you have and the shorter they are, the more upkeep they’ll require. However, longer layers will grow out much easier. If you’re just dipping your toes in the water, start with a few long layers rather than a choppy cut or bangs. 

• Can I achieve volume with layered shoulder-length haircuts?

  Yes! Layers automatically add texture to your look, but to add volume, you’ll need to bring in some extra tools and products. For example, you can style your hair by blow drying it with a round brush or use hot rollers for volume. Products like a volumizing hairspray or mousse will give you even more oomph. 

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