With your height, build, face shape, and hair type, I agree you look best with long hair. I do like it straightened for a change of pace, and it works with this outfit, which is so sophisticated!
I would recommend giving a flat iron a try. A good one is expensive, so have your hairdresser flat iron it next time to see if you like the effect first before you invest. The plus with a flat iron is that it will keep your hair straight and smooth and shiny longer - possibly all day - even in high humidity like we've been having.
As for layers, I would try adding angled, LONG layers to the hair - starting below the chin. My DD16 and DD14 both have this cut right now. But neither of them have any bangs at moment. Here is a pic of DD14 so you can visualize - but her face shape is very different than yours. This cut will work with your face shape, because DD16's face is very similar to yours:
http://s386.photobucket.com/al.....y18009.jpg
Here's a pic of DD16 with long fringe and an angled cut:
http://s386.photobucket.com/al.....after3.jpg
... pink tips optional.
I don't know how you feel about straight-across bangs, but with your forehead you could definitely pull them off! DD16 had them awhile back and I adored the look on her. Here's a pic (with her hair pulled back in a pony):
http://s386.photobucket.com/al.....ngs021.jpg
Works great with specs!
