What's a Butterfly Haircut? The Easy Glam Trend to Know
What's a Butterfly Haircut? And Why You Should Get One
We'll just come right out and say it: the thought of getting a haircut can be terrifying sometimes. Your feed may be full of Italian bobs, wolf cuts, and curtain bangs but if the thought of letting go of your length is bringing you out in a cold sweat then let us reintroduce you to the butterfly cut.
Yes, this style is making a serious comeback for Spring/Summer 2024 and we are here for it. And the best part? There's no need to lose any length or go for the full fringe, which takes a lot of commitment. Also if the cut somehow goes wrong, or you don't like the finished look a drastic change can turn into a disaster. The good news is with the butterfly cut, there's no need for the internal debate about whether or not you should go for the chop, as it allows you to experiment with shorter hair without fully taking the plunge.
What Is a Butterly Haircut?
Originally coined by hairstylist and Biolage ambassador Sunnie Brook, the "butterfly" haircut leaves shorter layers around the top of the head to give the illusion of shorter hair — making it a perfect style for people who aren't ready to fully commit to the big chop. So, what is it? "This is a very layered haircut on hair below the shoulders that's cut in a way that the top layer can be separated from the bottom and easily pinned under to look like a short haircut," Brook tells POPSUGAR. "The shortest top layer falls about two to three inches below your chin."
"A butterfly haircut is perfect if you want the illusion of short hair - without actually making the chop," Younes Khassal, Director at Taylor Taylor London's Liberty Salon. "By cutting layers around the crown of the head and leaving the lengths long, you're able to keep length whilst adding volume. Shorter pieces towards the front of the face give you the face-framing effect that a shorter cut does, but with length so you can continue to style it your usual way if you're used to having long hair," he tells POPSUGAR UK.
The finished result is a lot like the iconic Farrah Fawcett-inspired look, which is all about shaggy texture and face-framing layers. "Layering and texturing are key," explains Khassal. "Ask for soft, face framing layers around the crown of the head (the shortest should come down to a few inches below your chin) and long layers that fall below the shoulder, giving you movement and volume on the bottom. If you've already got a fringe, mention you'd like to grow it out for more of a feathered effect."
If the butterfly haircut sounds like a trend you'd like to try, join the club. Keep reading to see some examples of layered haircuts that can give you the illusion of short hair, plus a few tips on how to style the look at home.
Who Does a Butterfly Cut Suit?
Erm, everyone! This seriously flattering style can be adapted to suit all hair types and lengths, which is why we have seen the trend move into the short styles like shoulder-length and even bobs. "The Butterfly cut is super versatile and easily adaptable," says Khassel. "It can be tailored to flatter most face shapes and features. It's a low-maintenance cut and looks great as it grows out, and also works well if you're growing out a fringe."
It also works well a variety of textures. "It looks great on wavy and curly hair as the layers blend into each other," he adds. "On straight hair we recommend flicking the ends to give extra bounce and movement. Show your hairstylist a photo of what you want and they can adapt the style to suit your hair texture and face shape."
What to Consider Before Getting a Butterfly Cut?
TikTok may have suggested you can create this look at home, but don't believe everything you see on the internet. "It's essential to consult with a hairstylist you trust before getting the cut," says Khassel. "They can assess your hair's texture, thickness, and overall condition. Regular trims with a professional hairdresser are advised to keep your hair healthy and refresh the layers to maintain the shape of the cut to be its most flattering." So put the scissors down, and book an appointment with a professional.
How to Style a Butterfly Cut at Home
One of the best reasons to get a butterfly cut is how easy it is to style from home. "Simply air dry for effortless, off duty model vibes or blow dry with a round brush for a more glam look," says Khassel. "If you want to add texture you can spritz some volumising spray/powder or sea-salt spray for added oomf."
Butterfly Cut Inspiration
Show these to your stylist for some of our favourite butterfly cut looks.
