i too have thick layered hair i’m trying to grow out. i’ve been leaning into clips/bows/hair ties to spice things up a bit. a half up half down situation is always fun. i also have bangs, and i usually leave them down. and to your point about it flipping out at the ends, maybe lean into it. i’ve been looking at vintage hairstyles and i think you could like commit to the bit of the flip ya know? bouncy 60s mod style.
just have fun with it, do something weird, who cares? as long as you feel happy about it. i used to be a single hairstyle kinda person. not anymore!