Long layered hairstyles look fantastic even if they are simple. If you’re lucky enough to have long hair but are unsure about how to style it, you’re in the right place.

Not everyone can manage to grow their hair long. Some simply can’t surpass a “genetic length”, others struggle with brittleness, and sometimes, long hair can just be a burden — it is literally heavy. If you’re in the last group, layered cuts are the best solution. You can grow your hair to envious lengths without the heaviness that all that hair carries with it.

Here are 80 of the most beautiful, eye-catching long, layered hairstyles for your inspiration.

Protective styles assist in minimizing frizz and manipulation, which can often lead to breakage, and promotes length retention. If length retention is one of your goals, I suggest taking a break from your natural hair for a while and doing one of the popular protective styles – box braids.

Box braids are individual plaits that are usually achieved using hair extensions. The style can last for about two months or more and can be styled in various ways (ponytail, buns, braided crowns). You are probably thinking “Hmm no dealing with natural hair for two months? How can I get started?”. Well lucky for you, I have 6 tips that will not only help prepare your hair for box braids but will also keep your hair looking healthy and beautiful after removal.