Most popular 2024 layered cut: Stylish and easy to manage than you think!

Are higher layers harder to manage and more prone to sticking out? Actually, that’s not true! Flexible and versatile layered cuts have become very popular in recent years. Whether for short or long hair, layers can be tailored to individual characteristics, creating various styles. Paired with the right bangs, layered cuts can beautifully enhance face shapes. In this article, we’ve invited Yishu, a hairstylist from NC2 Gongguan, to explain how layers can flatter round faces and high cheekbones, as well as provide styling tips to keep layers in place without sticking out.

Yishu, Hairstylist at NC2 Gongguan

Catalogue

I. What is a layered cut?

II. Are layered cuts suitable for flat or low-volume head shapes?

III. How do layered cuts enhance face shapes?

IV. Situations where a layered cut may not be suitable

VI. Daily styling tips for layered cuts

What is a layered cut?

A layered cut is a technique that shapes the hairstyle using layers at different points. Stylists cut along the natural hair flow within the inner layers, allowing the hair to fall forward smoothly and reducing unruly sticking out. The once-popular feather cut is also a type of layered cut. Depending on the variation in hair layer lengths, layered cuts can be categorized into low, medium, and high layers, with additional options like disconnected layers for custom bangs.

Japanese-style short layered cut / Created by Yishu

Low-layered cuts typically involve minimal height difference between layers, like a bob cut. Mid-layered cuts add a bit more height variation between layers, creating subtle texture while keeping the layer drop close to the overall length. High-layered cuts, on the other hand, have a significant difference in length between layers, adding a voluminous effect at the roots. Disconnected layering, often seen in styles like the princess cut, separates the bangs and overall hair length to achieve a distinct, stylish look.

Are layered cuts suitable for flat or low-volume head shapes?

Layered cuts offer various benefits, including customization based on hair length and individual needs. For those with thicker hair, layers can create a lighter feel. Women with less hair volume or a flatter head shape can achieve added root lift and a more balanced silhouette through higher layers. However, hairstylist Yishu notes that for extremely fine hair, a root perm may still be necessary for significant volume. Additionally, layers can be tailored to each person’s face shape, enhancing features and providing a balanced, flattering look.

Fine hair layered cut / Created by Yishu

How do layered cuts enhance face shapes?

Layered cuts can not only change the appearance of hair but also enhance facial features based on different face shapes. Here’s how Yishu approaches layered cut designs for various face shapes.

Layered cut to flatter a round face / Created by Yishu

For round or square face shapes, people are often concerned about the cheek area. A high-layered cut can be chosen, with layers falling around the cheeks to cover and soften these areas. High cheekbones are another common concern for many women. Yishu suggests opting for Korean-style curtain bangs to create an outer layer that softens the cheekbones. For those open to bold styles, a disconnected bang such as the hime cut can also be chosen, effectively reducing facial angularity and enhancing the overall facial contour.

Situations where a layered cut may not be suitable

Layered cuts are suitable for almost all hairstyles and hair types, as long as the hair length isn’t ultra-short, like above the ears. However, certain hair conditions still require a stylist’s evaluation, such as severe natural curls or damaged hair.

Yishu explains that people with very tight curls may not benefit from a layered cut, as it could result in excessive frizz, making it challenging to style. However, combining a layered cut with a keratin treatment can help manage frizz and allow for the lightness that layers provide. For hair that’s damaged from frequent dyeing and perming, a stylist should assess the hair's condition. Yishu notes, “If your hair has lost elasticity, layering may not be possible because frizz will be unavoidable.” Therefore, if you have naturally curly hair or regularly dye or perm your hair, it’s best to consult with a stylist to determine if a layered cut is right for you.

Korean-style short layered cut / Created by Yishu

4 recommended layered cuts for short to medium-length hair

For women with naturally small faces and well-proportioned head shapes, a high-layered cut can be an excellent choice. The increased layer contrast emphasizes the face shape beautifully, allowing the features to stand out. Adding extra length to the bangs allows for easy styling and movement, making it ideal for those who prefer low-maintenance hairstyles. A simple round brush can be used to add a slight curve, resulting in a polished look with minimal effort.

Yishu's long layered cut

For women who enjoy styling their hair and lean towards a Japanese-inspired look, this flipped-out layered cut is a great option. The bangs are styled with disconnected layers in a hime cut (princess cut) to frame and soften the cheekbones. Higher layers are added at the back of the head to enhance the head shape, creating a fuller, more defined silhouette.

Yishu's long layered cut

People with square faces can benefit from adding layers to their bangs at the right points. Placing the layers between the cheeks and chin helps to contour the face, softening angular features and creating a more balanced look.

Yishu's long layered cut

If you’re someone skilled at styling your hair, you can try a cut with more layers for added dimension. Use disconnected layers by separating the bangs from the back layers, creating a distinct contrast between the front and back.

Layered cut for naturally curly hair / Created by Yishu

Daily styling tips for layered cuts

Styling layered hair isn’t too difficult. After washing, simply use a blow dryer to follow the natural direction of the hair flow. For those with a flatter head shape, blow-dry against the hair's natural flow to add volume. In the morning, lightly wet the scalp and blow-dry to lift the roots. Use a round brush or a flat iron to create a nice curve, and finish with a bit of hair oil on the ends to define the layers.

Yishu also emphasizes the importance of moisturizing to maintain healthy layers. After washing, apply a rinse-out conditioner or hair mask, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Let it sit for 3–5 minutes before rinsing. Since layered cuts have lightweight ends, they are prone to static, especially in Taiwan’s dry winter weather. Proper moisture not only adds weight to the hair, reducing static but also helps maintain the hair's shape and manageability.

Shoulder-length layered cut / Created by Yishu

With 8 years of experience in hairstyling, Yishu continually explores beauty trends, driven by a passion for enhancing style. For Yishu, each new skill learned is a step forward. Her base price for a wash and cut is $800 NTD, while perm and color services start at $1,500 NTD. First-time clients can also enjoy a 20% discount on their first visit. If you’re looking to try a trendy layered cut, Yishu is ready to help you achieve the look!

Taipei hairstylist information

NC2 Hair Salon - Gongguan Branch - Yishu

Instagram: @nc2.esu.ooo

Address: 2F, No. 278, Section 3, Roosevelt Rd., Taipei City (Exit 4, Gongguan MRT Station)

Further Reading: