If you’ve ditched the long hair in lieu of something shorter and more manageable, then it’s possible you may now have shoulder length strands. Sound familiar? Shoulder length layered short hair is trending and it’s a great style for those looking to switch up their hair without sacrificing too much length.
“Short length layered hair can be a flattering choice for many face shapes and hair types, but it tends to work especially well for those with fine to medium hair, as the layers add volume and movement without weighing the hair down,” says Christine Bellemare, the co-founder, owner and lead stylist at Maven A Collect. “It can also be a great option for individuals with round or oval face shapes, as the layers can create dimension and frame the face in a way that enhances natural features.”
Aside from being flattering, it’s also pretty easy to achieve and almost any stylist can do it. “Ask for long layers to create movement and volume while keeping the overall shape soft and easy to maintain,” Bellemare says. “If you have thick hair, request weight removal at the ends to prevent the style from looking too bulky.”
Below, we’ve rounded up some shoulder length layered short hairstyles from those with side parts to wispy bangs, choppy layers, and face framing strands.
Shaggy Layers
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This short-length shag is simultaneously casual yet chic suitable for everyday wear and those more formal occasions. If you have bangs, then you can wear them swooped to the side similar to Jenna to help frame your face.
Voluminous Lob
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Spruce up a lob by adding some volume with texturizing spray or some light curls similar to Chrissy Teigen. This style can be worn on red carpets or to brunch for a chic yet sophisticated look.
Wavy Lob
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A wavy lob is great for the curly fine hair gals that got the curly texture going on. “No need to fight it, just enhance those curls with a curl activating cream or spray,” says Katelyn Ellsworth, natural color specialist and founder at The Roslyn.
Textured Lob
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A textured lob works beautifully to balance out facial features, says Sarah Potempa, a celebrity stylist and co-founder of The Beachwaver Co. “The layers add volume and movement, drawing attention to her eyes and cheekbones,” she says. “This style creates a fresh, youthful look that’s perfect for anyone looking to add texture and life to their hair.”
Bouncy Layers
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Bouncy layers give the appearance of more fuller and voluminous looking hair as seen on Tallia Storm. Add some texturizing spray to keep strands in place and offer a more natural and effortless finish.
Feathered Fringe
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This shorter feathered fringe with soft, shaggy layers is great for those with oval face shapes. “To get the look, rough dry your hair with a blow dryer, using your hands to direct pieces,” says Cassondra Morse, an independent hair stylist and salon owner at Gems in Courtland, NY. Then, hit the soft flips here and there throughout the lengths with a curling iron, add a little spritz of a texture spray and you are good to go with this fun, low-maintenance style.”
Curly and Round
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If your hair is naturally curly, then you might as well show it off. This shoulder-length curly hairstyle not only frames the face, but also adds dimension without drowning out the rest of one’s facial features.
Blunt Bags
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Blunt bangs make a statement as the name suggests and are helpful in framing the face. They don’t require too much effort to style and are relatively low maintenance aside from the occasional trim.
Layered Mullet
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Opt for something a little more eccentric like a layered mullet. “A classic haircut, the mullet becomes more edgy when layers are added in for texture,” says colorist Temur Hamilton, premier hair colorist and owner of TEMUR..
Curly Fringe
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This curly hairstyle combines the best of both worlds with natural curls and fringe. It doesn’t compromise the hair’s natural texture and allows for movement and dimension for any occasion.
Dimensional Lob
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This type of lob is great for those individuals with thick hair as it rests against the shoulders and leaves breathing room. Plus, the straight part provides the illusion of symmetry for those with oval and diamond face shapes.
Soft Layers
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Achieve this soft layered look by asking your stylist for a straight blowout. Not only does it highlight the layers in the hair, but also leaves room for styling with accessories whether that’s a headband or barrettes.
Asymmetrical Lob
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If you want to be the star of the show, then opt for an asymmetrical style that adds movement and dimension. This is great for the curly haired folks who want to showcase their natural hair without using a lot of heat.
Curly Lob with Bangs
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Long curls naturally fall down so why not use that to your advantage with a lob. This isn’t your ordinary lob, but is finished off with face-framing bangs that accentuate facial features like the eyes.
Layered Braids
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Layered braids are a unique look that add movement and dimension to one’s hair. For some added flare, you can add some beads to the ends to match your outfit too.
Old Hollywood Layers
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You can’t go wrong by asking for some old-Hollywood layers next time you’re at the salon. “Zendaya’s bob evokes gorgeous old-Hollywood glamour with subtle layers that add volume without making the look too choppy or piece-y,” says Hamilton. “This hairstyle is truly timeless and works for all ages.”
Long Bangs
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Long bangs effortlessly blend into the rest of the hair, making them versatile and easy to style. Add some heatless waves or curls to the hair to achieve a similar look.
Loose Waves
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Loose waves offer a more relaxed, laid back look while still remaining polished and ready to attack the day. Achieve this look by using a wide barrel curling iron or low heat rollers.
Vintage Blowout
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A blowout can accentuate the appearance of layers and this vintage style is ideal for anyone ready to make a statement. It’s the perfect style for those with fine hair who want to look chic without using a ton of product.
Side Swept Lob
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This vintage moment is suitable for those interested in a look reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour. “It’s perfect for those with round faces since those individuals generally benefit from asymmetry or longer bobs to create length,” says Gardner Edmunds, a hair stylist and global educator at Oribe.
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Vibrant Curly Lob
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Stand out with a colorful curly lob whether you opt for blue similar to Demi or any other color of the rainbow.
Simple Waves
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Simple waves are an easy yet elegant style to achieve. “The layers add volume and movement, drawing attention to her eyes and cheekbones,” says Potempa. “This style creates a fresh, youthful look that’s perfect for anyone looking to add texture and life to their hair.”
Mid Length Bob
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This is the perfect in-between length, can be left down like in the image, looking very demure and cool. “This cut can also be pulled back into a short ponytail, completely changing the look, giving you a shorter, piecey look,” says Arrojo.
Face Framing Layers
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Those with more lean face shapes will benefit from a shoulder-length cut like this one spotted on Megan. “This compliments a lean face shape and high cheekbones while bringing attention to the eyes,” says Ellsworth.
Middle Part Lob
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This soft and feminine style is suitable for those with an oval face and the middle part creates the illusion of symmetry. Achieve this look by running a curling iron through your hair on low heat and setting it with some hair spray.
Beach Waves
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While some beach waves can be tousled, this is more of a clean wavy look. Not only does it offer movement and dimension, but frames the face thanks to the area left uncovered towards the ends.
Highlight Lob
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Highlights are an easy way to add dimension and a pop of color to one’s hair and this style does just that with brown and light brown sections.
Soft Layers
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Keira’s shoulder-length cut with soft, blended layers creates a bouncy, voluminous effect. “This style works particularly well for those with finer hair, adding fullness without overwhelming her delicate features. It’s effortless yet sophisticated,” says Potempa.
Mullet with Bangs
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This take on a mullet offers a unique twist on the traditional thanks to the bangs. “The mullet becomes more edgy when layers are added in for texture,” says Hamilton.