A method is presented for deriving reduced models for fluid flows over highly curved substrates with wider applicability and accuracy than existing models in the literature. This is done by reducing the Navier--Stokes equations to a novel system of boundary layer like equations in a general geometric setting. This is accomplished using a new, relaxed set of scalings that assert only that streamwise variations are “slow”. These equations are then solved using the method of weighted residuals, which is demonstrated to be applicable regardless of the geometry selected. A large number of results in the literature can be derived as special cases of our general formulation. A few of the more interesting cases are demonstrated. Finally, the formulation is applied to two thick annular flow systems as well as a conical system in both linear and nonlinear regimes, which traditionally has been considered inaccessible to such reduced models. Comparisons are made with direct numerical simulations of the Stokes equations. The results indicate that reduced models can now be used to model systems involving thick liquid layers.