Abstract. In the present work, a two-dimensional model based on a higher order Layer-Wise (LW) approach is presented for the static and dynamic analysis of doubly-curved anisotropic shell structures. The Equivalent Single Layer (ESL) methodology is also obtained as particular case of LW. Each lamina of the stacking sequence is modelled as an anisotropic continuum. The fundamental equations account for both surface and concentrated loads, as well as the effects of the Winkler-Pasternak foundation. Moreover, non-conventional boundary conditions are introduced, and the numerical solution is assessed from the Generalized Differential Quadrature (GDQ) method. The proposed formulation is validated with respect to refined three-dimensional simulations, pointing out its accuracy and computational efficiency.