Layered hair

Layered hair is a hairstyle that gives the illusion of length and volume using long hair for the illusion of length and short hair for volume, this way it is easy to style and manage. Hair is arranged into layers, with the top layers (those that grow nearer the crown) cut shorter than the layers beneath. This allows the tips of the top layers to blend apparently seamlessly with layers beneath.

Popular hair styles of today involve creating unique styles between the different layers. There can be distinct layering with obvious layers, or blended layering with soft layers. Hair color can also amplify the layering affect that layers give in a certain hair style.

Techniques

Sectioning and angles

The layered hair effect is achieved by taking sections of hair vertically across the head, pulling it perpendicular to the head, and cutting straight across.

Sliding haircut: Section hair to 4 parts, start with back section and cut radially at 20 deg angle. Transition over the ear serves as guideline for the front sections. Creates a soft layered ends, but predominantly gives the one-length look. Suitable for medium wavy textures.

Graduated Bob: Section hair to 4 parts. Cut radially to 90 deg. Deeper layers than sliding haircut.

Angled bob (or the "Rihanna bob"): Section to 4 parts. Cut to central axis at back at 90 deg angle.

Blended Elevation: Here the top section (bob section) is cut 90 degrees while the side sections are cut 180 deg to the length of the top section. The occipital and nape sections are cut at 90 deg. In this form of layering there is an "elevated" group of layers formed due to shorter top section and then it blends with the softer side and back layers. Not suitable for wavy or curly hair, but for straight or slightly wavy hair.

Reverse Graduation: Make a six section and cut the bob section at 90 deg to required length. All other sections are cut to the bob section at 180 degrees. Suitable for both medium wavy and straight hair, but not for very wavy or curly hair.