30+ Must-See Layered Haircuts for Medium Hair (2025 Ideas)

Cindy Marcus
Cindy Marcus Hairstylist, Editor-in-Chief

If you’re looking to add movement and texture to medium-length hair, layered cuts are a perfect choice. Layers can lighten up thicker hair, making it easier to style and giving it a softer, more natural flow. For finer hair, the right layering technique can add the illusion of volume and make your hair look fuller. The key is knowing which type of layers suit your face shape and hair type best—from long, subtle layers for a more blended look to choppy, piecey layers for an edgier finish. Layers can also work wonders for framing the face and bringing out your best features.

Check out these layered haircut ideas for medium hair and find the style that’s right for you!

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Medium layered haircut with face-framing highlights

#1 Trendy Medium Layered Haircut

Soft layers cascade through medium-length hair, offering movement and body to straight or slightly wavy textures. This cut is perfect for oval or round face shapes, as the face-framing layers add definition and balance. A subtle balayage or highlights, as shown here, beautifully enhances the layered dimension. While the layers provide versatility for styling, this cut may require regular upkeep to maintain the structure.

Medium MuseSweep layered haircut for sculpted flow

#2 MuseSweep Layers on Medium Hair

A medium-length layered haircut with sweeping, glamorous layers that frame the face elegantly. The layers are smooth and long, blending into each other effortlessly. Styled with a soft curl at the ends for an Old Hollywood-inspired, classic beauty look.

Medium-length layered haircut with soft waves

#3 Medium-Length Dreamwave Cut

A medium-length layered cut with soft, dreamy waves that cascade down gently. The layers are loose and flowy, giving a romantic, ethereal look. Styled with a gentle wave throughout for a relaxed, fairytale-inspired vibe.

Medium layered haircut with feathered face-framing layers and curtain bangs for soft volume

#4 Face Framing Feathered Layers

Soft, feathered layers around the face add lightness and dimension, especially flattering on fine to medium-density hair. The curtain bangs are gently parted, blending into the cheekbones for a seamless transition that suits oval and heart-shaped faces beautifully. This look works great for those in their 30s to 40s who want movement without too much upkeep. Blow-drying with a round brush enhances the feathering but may need more frequent trims to maintain the soft shape.

Medium layered haircut with soft textured layers and wispy bangs for airy volume

#5 Soft Textured Layers With Airy Movement

Effortless and lightweight, this haircut features airy, textured layers that taper outwards for natural volume. The wispy bangs add a subtle focal point without feeling heavy. Ideal for fine to medium hair that tends to fall flat, especially on oval or oblong faces. The cut brings out softness around the cheekbones while keeping the ends weightless. A light styling mousse or volumizing spray brings it to life with minimal effort.

Layered medium curly haircut with natural waves and curly fringe for lift

#6 Naturally Curly Waves With Layered Lift

For those with naturally curly or coily hair, this cut layers the curls at multiple lengths to prevent pyramid shape and promote lift. The curly fringe adds youthful framing while softening the brow area. Best for medium-density curls and clients wanting volume without the bulk. Perfect for round or longer faces, this cut thrives with a bit of leave-in and air-drying or diffusing. It’s fuss-free and really lets the curl pattern shine.

Soft layered mid length haircut for gray hair with side swept bangs for older women

#7 Soft Layers for Older Women With Mid Length Hair

This elegant shoulder-length style features soft, graduated layers that add lift and shape without sacrificing fullness. The silver tones highlight the cut’s natural grace, while side-swept bangs soften the forehead area—ideal for mature women with fine to medium hair. Works beautifully on oval and square faces. This cut is easy to maintain with a simple blow-dry and round brush, making it a timeless choice for women in their 60s and up who want polished yet approachable hair.

Voluminous medium curly haircut with rounded bouncy layers and defined ringlets

#8 Bouncy Layers for Curly Medium Hair

Ideal for naturally curly textures, this medium-length cut uses rounded, stacked layers to enhance bounce and definition. Great for high-density curls, it removes weight while maximizing volume at the crown and sides. The layers shape the hair into a flattering silhouette, perfect for oval or heart-shaped faces. Clients in their 30s to 40s with dense curls will appreciate the control and movement this cut provides. Pair it with a curl cream and diffuser to emphasize that fullness.

Side swept bangs with flowing layered medium haircut and beachy waves

#9 Side Swept Bang With Flowing Layers

Effortless and timeless, the side-swept bangs soften the brow line while long, flowing layers fall around the shoulders with relaxed wave. This cut works beautifully on naturally wavy or slightly textured hair. The movement is flattering on angular face shapes, especially for women in their 40s to 60s seeking a style with lift and fluidity. The transition from bangs to layers is seamless, making it easy to grow out or restyle.

Medium haircut with curtain bangs and soft layers for added movement

#10 Medium Layered Hair With Curtain Bangs

Balanced and feminine, this style uses soft layers and curtain bangs to bring motion and softness to medium-length hair. Best for straight to lightly wavy textures, the bangs open up the face while the layers build body. It’s especially flattering for long, oval, or heart-shaped faces. Works well for women of all ages, especially those wanting a versatile, everyday haircut that feels styled even on no-wash days.

Thick medium layered haircut with soft highlights and voluminous shape

#11 Layered Cut for Thick Mid Length Hair

Tailored for thick hair, this layered cut adds shape and control to what could otherwise feel bulky. Layers start below the cheekbones, creating a flattering cascade effect that enhances volume without frizz. The caramel highlights add brightness and break up the density. Especially flattering on medium to dark skin tones and fuller face shapes, it’s a power look for women in their 30s to 50s who want to lighten things up without losing fullness.

Straight medium haircut with long sleek layers and a center part

#12 Sleek Layers for Straight Medium Hair

Long, tapered layers keep this straight, medium-length haircut polished without looking flat. The cut gently curves inward at the ends, adding softness and flow that works best for thick, smooth hair textures. The center part keeps it symmetrical and ideal for oval or oblong face shapes. A solid choice for professionals or minimalists in their 30s to 40s, it’s sleek without sacrificing dimension—just keep a flat iron on hand for best results.

Lightly layered medium wavy haircut with natural brunette balayage

#13 Wavy Medium Hair With Light Layering

Subtle layers in medium wavy hair allow natural movement to shine, especially when paired with a soft balayage. This cut is all about light shaping—not too choppy—making it ideal for medium-density hair that naturally waves or bends. Great for heart or oval-shaped faces, this easygoing style works beautifully for women in their 20s to 30s who want a “done but undone” look with minimal styling effort.

Choppy layered medium haircut with tousled ends and edgy texture

#14 Choppy Layers for a Textured Finish

Edgy and bold, this medium cut uses choppy layers and razor-cut ends to maximize texture and volume. It’s an ideal style for finer hair that needs lift and personality. The layered sections fall unevenly for an undone look that’s big on movement and doesn’t require perfection. Ideal for round or oval face shapes, and anyone wanting a low-effort style with high visual impact. Add a texture spray to play up the piecey effect.

Medium layered mom haircut with blended highlights and soft beach waves

#15 Modern Mom Cut With Blended Layers

Softly blended layers give this modern mom cut its easygoing elegance. Ideal for medium to thick hair, it features sun-kissed highlights that enhance texture and movement. The waves fall just at the shoulders, framing the face while staying manageable for a busy lifestyle. Great for women in their 40s or 50s, it brings a youthful, fresh feel without trying too hard. Bonus: the color placement adds brightness around the eyes.

Shoulder length medium haircut with flicked out layers and subtle side part

#16 Shoulder Length Cut With Flicked Out Layers

Clean and modern, this shoulder-length cut features long, flicked-out layers that add subtle lift and texture through the ends. Best for straight to slightly wavy hair, it offers low-maintenance styling while keeping movement. The side part brings a slight asymmetry that flatters square and oval faces. This cut suits medium hair density and clients looking for polished ease. Styling tip: use a flat iron to bend the ends out for that flipped look.

Butterfly medium layered haircut with voluminous tousled waves and wispy bangs

#17 Butterfly Haircut With Tousled Volume

Tousled and airy, this butterfly haircut features soft layering that removes bulk while maximizing movement. Perfect for thicker hair, it combines short layers around the crown with longer lengths to give that classic ’90s bounce. Wispy bangs frame the face without feeling heavy. It’s especially flattering on round or fuller face shapes, and a great pick for clients in their 20s to early 40s wanting volume without sacrificing length.

Feathra medium haircut with feathered layers and flipped ends for soft movement

#18 Feathra Cut

This Feathra cut showcases soft, feathered layers that are styled outward to create flipped ends and delicate face framing. The cut is particularly flattering on straight to wavy hair and works well on medium hair densities. Great for heart and square face shapes, it provides a fresh and youthful effect without too much volume. The feathering technique gives subtle structure while still feeling soft and movable. Ideal for clients who like a styled finish but low maintenance upkeep.

Midveil medium layered haircut with swoopy face-framing and cascading layers

#19 Midveil Haircut

The Midveil haircut is defined by swoopy layers that start around the chin and cascade down to the shoulders, creating fluid, curtain-like framing. It’s especially flattering for thick or medium hair and suits oval and oblong faces beautifully. The layers add volume without bulk, and the styling gives a soft, glamorous bounce. A blowout with a large round brush brings out its full potential, making it a great option for women in their late 20s to 40s looking for a polished layered look.

Shoulder-length layered haircut for natural movement

#20 Shoulder-Length Layered Haircut

This shoulder-length layered haircut strikes the perfect balance between structure and softness. The layers enhance volume and movement, making it ideal for straight, fine, or slightly wavy textures. Perfect for round or oval faces, this style elongates the face while maintaining a natural flow. It’s low-maintenance but benefits from occasional styling with a blow dryer for added body.

Medium layered haircut with side bangs

#21 Side Bangs with Medium Layers

Side-swept bangs meet soft, layered medium hair in this effortlessly stylish cut. The side bangs subtly frame the face, making it an excellent choice for round or oval face shapes. The layers add texture and volume to medium-length hair, making it great for straight to wavy hair types. Keep in mind, side bangs need frequent trimming to maintain their flattering length.

Brunette medium haircut with soft layers

#22 Brunette Medium Haircut with Layers

Rich brunette tones shine in this medium-length layered haircut, where soft layers add dimension and depth to the hair. Perfect for straight to slightly wavy textures, this cut frames the face beautifully and enhances natural shine. Best for oval or square face shapes, it’s a timeless style that’s easy to maintain. Using a shine serum can keep the brunette color vibrant and polished.

Medium layered haircut without bangs for wavy hair

#23 Medium Layered Haircut Without Bangs

This medium layered haircut features soft, flowing layers without bangs, making it ideal for showcasing natural waves or loose curls. It’s a versatile cut that works well for oval and heart-shaped faces, offering volume and movement while maintaining a natural, effortless feel. Great for medium-density hair, it’s a low-maintenance choice, though a curl-enhancing product can elevate the look further.

Straight medium layered haircut with polished ends

#24 Straight Medium Haircut with Layers

Sleek and polished, this straight medium haircut features subtle layers that enhance movement while keeping the style structured. Perfect for straight or fine hair, the layers add volume around the ends, making the haircut appear fuller. Ideal for oval or long face shapes, this style is easy to maintain with occasional blow-drying or flat ironing.

Shaggy medium haircut with layers for fine hair

#25 Shaggy Medium Haircut for Fine Hair

This shaggy layered medium haircut is perfect for fine hair, as it adds texture and volume without looking overdone. The soft, uneven layers create a playful, tousled look that’s easy to style. Ideal for oval or square face shapes, it flatters with its effortless charm. A lightweight mousse or texture spray enhances the layers, but daily styling might be needed to maintain the shape.

Red medium layered haircut with vibrant tones

#26 Red Layered Medium Hair

Vibrant red tones meet layered medium hair for a bold, dimensional look. The layers provide body and movement, allowing the color to shine from every angle. Best suited for oval and fair skin tones, this cut makes a statement while being versatile for styling. Keep in mind that maintaining such a rich color requires consistent upkeep and professional-quality products.

Medium haircut with layers and curtain bangs

#27 Curtain Bangs with Medium Layers

Curtain bangs blend seamlessly with layered medium-length hair, creating a modern and versatile style. Ideal for round or heart-shaped faces, this haircut highlights cheekbones while elongating the face. The layers provide texture and movement, making it a great option for straight to wavy hair. However, curtain bangs require frequent trims to keep their shape intact.

Medium layered haircut for women over 50 with feathered edges

#28 Layered Cut for Women Over 50

Layered medium-length hair with soft feathered edges is a flattering choice for women over 50, adding volume and movement without overwhelming the face. The subtle layers create lift around the crown, making it ideal for thinning hair. This style works well for oval or round face shapes and requires minimal styling for a polished look. However, regular trims are needed to keep the layers crisp.

Middle part medium haircut with face-framing layers

#29 Middle Part Layered Medium Haircut

A middle part paired with flowing layers creates a chic and balanced medium haircut. This style suits oval and heart-shaped faces, as it highlights facial symmetry. The layers frame the face delicately while maintaining fullness through the ends. Though versatile and low-maintenance, it looks best on straighter textures, requiring light styling to keep layers in place.

Curly medium layered haircut for natural curls

#30 Curly Medium Haircut with Layers

Bouncy layers breathe life into naturally curly, medium-length hair, preventing a bulky look while maintaining volume. This haircut is ideal for round or square face shapes, as the layers create elongation and movement. Perfect for low-maintenance styling, it enhances natural curls with minimal effort. However, the key to keeping the curls defined is proper hydration and curl-enhancing products.

Medium layered haircut for thick hair

#31 Medium Layered Haircut for Thick Hair

Thick hair benefits from these structured layers that enhance movement while reducing weight. The medium length keeps the hair manageable, with longer layers adding volume around the crown and ends. Great for oval or long face shapes, this style is polished yet versatile for casual or professional settings. The only drawback is its need for frequent trims to avoid losing shape.

Medium emo haircut with choppy layers and bangs

#32 Emo Layers for Medium Hair

Choppy, feathered layers define this edgy medium haircut, complemented by soft, wispy bangs. Perfect for heart or square face shapes, this style adds texture and attitude to medium-length hair. The lightweight layers make it a great option for those with thick hair looking to reduce bulk. While effortlessly cool, the cut demands regular styling to maintain its piecey definition and movement.