What to do with thick hair, and what kind of hair style?!?

I have really, really thick hair, and I'm always pulling it up in a pony tail. I never wear it down, because it is too thick and frizzy. Right before school started I went to get it cut and I got it layered and thined and well it didn't do anything. It still looked the same other than layers, I was wondering you if of you guys could help me figure out some ways to cut and style my hair?!? Well thanx alot.