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The present work demonstrates the use of the node-dependent kinematics method to derive and compare several two-dimensional shell theories. The three dimensional displacement field is expressed in terms of generalized coordinates, which are subsequently expanded along the shell thickness using arbitrary functions. The in-plane unknowns, are then discretized through classical finite element approximation. Based on the Carrera Unified Formulation, the proposed method combines in a unique manner the theory of structures and the finite element method; thickness interpolation functions are defined node-wise. As a consequence, the resulting finite element model represents diverse approximation theories at each single node. In this work Taylor-based kinematics (including the Murakami Zig-Zag function) and Legendre-type nodal kinematics are incorporated at the element level without adopting mathematical artifices leading to the global–local strategy, where refined theories are selectively employed in specific areas, while maintaining acceptable computational costs. Numerical cases from the existing literature are employed to establish the effectiveness of node-dependent models in bridging a locally refined theories to global kinematics when local effects need to be considered. The analyses focus on localized loads for both homogeneous and multi-layered structures. • Global to local, geometrically exact analysis of layered shell structures is shown. • The formulation has node-dependent kinematics, allowing refinement of critical zones. • The model combines finite elements with HOTs, using LW to zig-zag ESL kinematics. • The governing equations are expressed in a unified form. • They are independent of the nodal theory expansion, allowing simulation optimization. • Several benchmarks are analyzed, including laminated shells with localized loadings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]