Hi! I have mid-length hair (down to mid-back). Have grown it to my waist before and ideally I'd like to do that again....the only thing is, I am job-hunting right now for work in an office. I enjoy putting my hair up (and do so often!) but find I can't really enjoy it when it's down..falls into my face too often, doesn't really reflect my age properly. I have tried face-framing layers and am not crazy about them (they get into my face, my eyes, my mouth). I want to open my face up a bit without my look becoming too bland :-/! Currently it is styled in a horseshoe shape in back, with layers being shorter at sides and longer in back. I have very straight fine hair, colored a pretty auburn-y shade. NO BANGS (don't want them). Any ideas on what would work so I can keep my length, look professional with hair down (without looking v. young), and show off my features (without getting into a style that is so wispy I'm eating my hair!)??? Please help!

It ain't easy, is it?  Trying to look professional in a world that is convinced that long hair isn't has been making a lot of us nuts for a long time.

Why don't you try some designs that allow you to catch the hair at the sides of your head in the back, but still show off the length?  You might want to check out the HairStyles Gallery (http://www.longlocks.com/hairstyles.htm)... I think styles like the "Edwardian" or "Topknot" might work well to accomplish a more professional look.  And don't forget braids!  Braids are beautiful and can be so sophisticated with lots of styling options.  If you need help learning how to master different types of braiding, check out the Braiding Basics page at http://www.longlocks.com/how-to-braid-hair.htm