@jam.ramoneshair
This layered haircut not only reduces bulk in thick hair but also lightens the dark locks with platinum balayage for an airier appearance. The white blonde hue contrasts well with darker skin tones and accentuates the texture of flipped layers.
The butterfly cut is undoubtedly one of the standout hairstyles to try this year. A modern take on the iconic ’70s shag, it features soft layering and feathered ends that create a flowing, weightless shape. Its versatility makes it flattering on a wide range of hair textures and lengths—no wonder it’s become a go-to among celebrities and fashion insiders alike. Scroll through this curated collection to find the option that suits you best.
“With over 580 million views on TikTok, #ButterflyHaircut has become one of the biggest hair trends of 2025,” says Lorna Valente, a London-based hairstylist and colorist. Named for its resemblance to fluttering wings, the butterfly cut combines short and long layers to create dramatic volume without sacrificing length. The shortest layers are typically cut at the cheekbone or chin, depending on what flatters your face shape, while the longer layers keep the overall length intact. “The style combines effortless and chic with nods to the 70s (think Farah Fawcett) and the 90s (The Rachel) with lots of volume, movement and dimension,” sums up the stylist. Want to know more? Keep scrolling for the best takes on the butterfly cut, plus a full style guide that answers every question you might have.
@daniloherbert
It’s not necessary to curl your locks or cut them in shaggy layers to spice up the natural texture of your straight hair. A butterfly cut brings in some layering, thus creating a more tousled, effortless look, while blonde balayage makes your style truly sophisticated.
It’s a great option for those willing to achieve a trendy yet effortless hairstyle. The layers all over the head add more volume and texture to your hair, giving it a chic and modern look.
@daniloherbert
A layered hairstyle with curtain bangs ideally suits women who want to frame the face and accentuate facial features. When it comes to styling the butterfly, we suggest you apply some texture spray to lift your hair up and show off the layers.
@dougllas
Voluminous waves can add thickness to your hair, especially when combined with layers of different lengths. You can also use a volumizing mousse or spray before blow-drying to give your hair extra lift and body.
@nevilleromanzammit
Adding bangs to a haircut of this type can definitely change the overall look of the style and help balance out the face shape. Wispy bangs can add softness and create a more delicate look; at the same time, they make your face appear thinner.
@raphaelbarbosahair
The curtain bangs can serve as a perfect anchor for the layers in a shoulder-length butterfly style. Also, ask your stylist to add some shorter layers around your face to give you a more defined look.
@ruteboazhair
Adding layers can indeed add shape and movement to your long tresses. Layering can also help distribute the weight of the hair, preventing it from appearing too heavy and flat.
@diegomarcsant
Every detail of this butterfly hairstyle is absolutely stunning! The soft layers create movement and texture, while the curtain fringe and flicks add a touch of playfulness to the look.
@hair_salon_by_hadis
If you are looking for a way to spice up your medium hair, we highly recommend you pay attention to this gorgeous haircut with blonde highlights and waves. This combination will emphasize the beauty of your natural look and complement your appearance.
@dougllas
To create this aspiring feathered haircut, ask for shorter layers on top of the head and through the crown. This will slightly resemble butterfly wings, giving the cut its unique and playful name. Spice it up with auburn or copper babylights for a dimensional look.
@tabcutshair
This short haircut is full of volume and texture, making it perfect for those with fine hair. To recreate this style, cut your locks in short layers and finish by gently tousling the hair with your fingers to separate the curls and bring more movement to the strands.
@diegomarcsant
This type of haircut can look great on straight hair too. Flips at the ends bring some texture to your smooth hair while the layers themselves add dimension and movement your straight locks may lack.
@jeanclaudeelmoughayar
If your hair is very fine or thin, adding too many layers may actually make it appear even thinner. However, with longer layers, like in this case, your hair will look nice, textured and even a bit thicker.
@stanleyman001
Buttery blonde hair color looks aspiring on itself, but layers boost the hair texture and dimension. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styling products to enhance your layered locks and make them stand out.
@hair_salon_by_hadis
Layered haircuts are versatile and can be customized to suit different face shapes and hair types. The flicks and curtain fringe can add a touch of softness to the overall look, and the long layers can create movement and volume.
@mustafaserdarbekereci_
Warm blonde shades are perfect for complementing layered haircuts. Just make sure to consult with your hairstylist or colorist to determine the best hair color of highlights for your skin tone and hair type.
@bellanothingelse
Butterfly layers in the lower part of your hair can add a touch of texture and movement without creating a heavily layered appearance. Additionally, enhance the beauty of your long, thick locks with a soft light brown ombre.
@shokosoco
This hairstyle boasts a seamless cascade of flowing layers, creating a blended, layered haircut in deep chocolate brown hues. To recreate this bouncy style at home, use a blow dryer and a volumizing spray or mousse.
@ashleenormanhair
Feathering is an effective way to introduce texture to your straight hair. Ask for more flips at the ends and gorgeous blonde balayage highlights for more dimension and movement.
@mokosh_studio
A combination of face-framing layers and ashy brown balayage can make you look different with your long hair. With just a few front pieces elegantly framing the face, you can create a voluminous and chic appearance everyone will adore.
@hair.by.gabby.g
While butterfly cuts are usually associated with a middle parting, this layered style provides a personalized twist to the classic look. A deep side part and long swept bangs can cover the high forehead, creating a beautiful framing effect.
@cassieofalltrades
This layered haircut not only reduces bulk in thick hair but also lightens the dark locks with platinum balayage for an airier appearance. The white blonde hue contrasts well with darker skin tones and accentuates the texture of flipped layers.
@jam.ramoneshair
Adding face-framing layers can bring dimension and structure to the hair without compromising on thickness. Curl the short top layers away from the way to create an effect of elongated curtain bangs that highlight your features.
@mojavemane
This cut, featuring feathered layers and flipped-out styling, showcases abundant texture around the face, making your brown hair stand out.
@cheveux_de_raul
Skillfully cut layers can have a transformational effect on thick hair of any length. While enhancing the texture and movement of your locks, layering also gives your tresses a more lightweight feel.
@hair.by.gabby.g
Face-framing pieces of varying lengths, incorporated throughout the perimeter, can result in an awe-inspiring dynamic and textured look. To add more interest to this hairstyle, tease your brown mane with subtle caramel highlights.
@ahappyjustin
A ginger hair color can be a great choice to add some warmth and brightness to your overall look. When paired with a heavy-layered haircut, it can create a bold and eye-catching style worthy of admiration.
@josscollective
This mesmerizing layered look is perfect for the summer season. To achieve this effect on your locks, use a light texturizing spray and blow-dry each layer separately. This will enhance the texture of your beautiful butterfly hair.
@modestspotcarrillo
If you’re a fan of the 70s, feel free to adopt this hairstyle. Textured hair with floaty layers brings movement to locks of any length and thickness, as well as boosts their allure.
@teryn.tucker.hair
Mid-length hair looks amazing when paired with curtain bangs and layers. The money piece technique can be a great addition to the layered haircut, as it can add a pop of color and dimension to the front section of your hair.
@karlavarleyhairartist
Lorna Valente has given lots of valuable tips and hacks that will help you style your cut at home like a pro! There are two basic routes you can go:
Always apply heat protection both before blow drying your hair and before the use of any hot tools. If you have thick hair, Lorna recommends using a lightweight mousse, the Percy and Reed volumising mousse being one of her favorite ones. If your hair is thin, opt for a lightweight cream instead, as a mousse may weigh the hair down. Finish off the look by using a shine serum and session spray.
The butterfly cut can be adapted to suit different face shapes and hair types. This versatility is one of the reasons why it has become a popular trend in recent years. Pin the best ideas as inspiration for your new style!
Looking for a new hairstyle to upgrade your look? Try a butterfly haircut! This light softly layered, face-shaping crop instantly revives flat locks, giving them extra volume and movement to work with. It also offers multiple customization opportunities to match your hair type and length. Here’s everything you need to know about the cut, its key features, and styling tricks that work for everyone.
The butterfly haircut is a heavily layered style characterized by short, face-framing pieces and longer layers beneath that look like butterfly wings (hence the name). The crop allows you to create the illusion of shorter hair without actually sacrificing the length.
Deriving from the classic layered styles like the shag and modern, volume-enhancing ‘dos, this cut creates a bouncy shape while keeping the length. Unlike a standard layered cut, a butterfly hairstyle offers softness and lift thanks to short, face-framing layers that create volume and movement on the top and along the sides.
@laura_petre_hairstylist
Butterfly haircut trends still dominate the hair stage this year with fresh, elevated variations tailored to a wide range of hair types and lifestyles. On social media and in salons, there are lots of versatile looks from the Korean butterfly haircut and the butterfly mullet to the butterfly shag and the butterfly wolf cut.
What’s more, you can see many celebrities with butterfly haircuts, including Camilla Cabello, Jenna Ortega, Sabrina Carpenter, Jennifer Lopez, and more. Join the A-list club with the top trending butterfly haircut variation fit for your hair texture and length!
The original version of the butterfly cut features shorter face-framing layers around the chin with longer layers beneath. This combo creates a multi-tiered effect flattering for round and square faces alike.
@byspez
This variation looks great when styled and unstyled. It offers meticulously placed layers, creating a subtle movement without visible steps. The cut gives you a refined, understated finish that appears naturally full.
@kauadion_
This look brings butterfly-style layering to the shorter, bob-length hair. It typically hits between the jaw and shoulders, creating distinctive movement within the structured shape of the haircut.
@coppini_concept
This popular variation combines a butterfly cut with curtain bangs that part in the middle. The fringe blends seamlessly into face-framing layers while enhancing the eyes and cheekbones.
@sardagna_alexandre
Specifically adapted for curly textures, this crop removes bulk and releases natural bounce and definition. It allows your curls to “bloom and expand” with improved manageability.
@zandracachos
Get an effortlessly undone version of the butterfly style with messy, tousled layers for lived-in texture. It’s more deliberately disheveled than the classic butterfly form with an intentionally unstructured appearance.
@emilyppt
As times change, hair trends evolve and transform. In modern looks, you won’t see the 70s butterfly cut or the 90s butterfly cut as such. There will always be a fusion of different styles to match your aesthetics and personal taste. So, instead of participating in the “wolf cut vs butterfly haircut” lottery, combine various styles in one look! Here’s how.
Characterized by bouncy, bombshell layers reminiscent of 90s supermodels like Cindy Crawford, this style focuses on significant lift at the roots and outward flips at the ends.
@stylebyomid
This shape emphasizes the hair texture and separation between the strands with a heavy texturizing technique throughout. It features a piece-y definition and softly frayed ends for a deliberately undone appearance.
@thehairjeanieous
This bold fusion of the butterfly’s layered structure and sharp, micro bangs, hitting mid-forehead creates a fashion-forward, high-impact look perfect for oval or heart-shaped faces.
@ryennesnow.hair
Level up your butterfly layering with a substantial straight-across fringe at the eyebrow level. This horizontal element creates an interesting contrast with a vertical flow of face-framing layers.
@crewnisantasi
Try a vintage-inspired variation of the butterfly chop with curtain bangs styled upwards in the front for additional volume. This technique creates a fresh take on the 70s shag, reminiscent of Farrah Fawcett’s iconic look.
@ottavianiparrucchieri
This playful and youthful haircut option brings butterfly-inspired layering to a shorter, pixie-length crop. The fusion of styles helps you enjoy the face-framing benefits with a dynamic feathery effect on very short hair.
@nooa_hj
Specifically designed for ultra-long and thick hair, this cut offers a distinctive V-shaped outline in the back and wing layers at the top. The strategic debulking adds movement while maintaining a dramatic length.
@yourhairtech_94
To direct attention towards the length, ask your stylist to concentrate the butterfly layering in the lower part of the hair rather than throughout. It’ll add texture and movement without a heavily layered appearance but with the signature fullness at the crown.
@hairbyyangie
Since the butterfly cut is very flexible and manageable, you can easily adapt it for different hair lengths. The style offers various options, ranging from very short to extra-long hairstyles while maintaining the desired layered effect.
This is the most in-demand variation of the classic cut with wispy layers hitting around the chin. It creates a face-framing effect while highlighting your unique features.
@gabbypvhair
This neck-length adaptation of the butterfly cut combines signature layers with a popular lob length for a versatile, trendy look that works for most textures.
@sinansumen
Ideal for thicker hair textures where layers blend with natural movement, this style hits at or just below the shoulders for a perfect balance of length and bounce.
@hairbyshohre
To maintain a considerable length while incorporating signature layering, ask for a butterfly cut for your long hairstyle.
@hairbyivonn
To emphasize specific structural elements of your new style and highlight its particular features, experiment with different options, such as extra layers throughout the length, side-parting, or front graduation to create distinctive looks. There are some of the most popular variants to try below.
This style focuses on maximizing the body and bounce through strategic layering. The layers are specifically cut for a significant volume, especially when blow-dried for maximum movement.
@sinansumen
Featuring a deep side part with longer, side-swept layers, the style creates an asymmetrical framing and offers a low-maintenance, elegant look flattering for most face shapes.
@vividsalondv
Try a face-framing intensive variation of the butterfly cut with carefully graduated layers at multiple levels around the face. It’ll give you a maximum contouring effect, highlighting your cheekbones and eyes.
@roxxmoneymil
The versatility of butterfly layering makes it flattering for all hair textures – from pin-straight tresses to natural waves and curls. So, you can easily switch between a feathered butterfly, a soft butterfly, or a subtle butterfly cut depending on your hair’s density and the desired effect. Here are some texture-friendly hairstyle ideas to consider before your next chop.
Add some shape, dynamic movement, and much-needed volume to otherwise flat hair through wispy layers that provide essential shape and bounce.
@finaguiseris
This cut is specifically designed to enhance your natural waves. It adds shape, bounce, and dimension, making your hair appear thicker and more dynamically styled without effort.
@garagecaddebostan
The hairstyle strategically removes weight and bulk while enhancing natural shape. It prevents a heavy, weighed-down appearance while maintaining the signature butterfly movement.
@hairxselene
If you keep asking yourself, “Will a butterfly haircut work for my very fine or thinning hair,” this is a perfect option for you. The style creates the illusion of thickness through the face-framing layers and adds volume where needed.
@mitch_allen_stylist
Want to amplify the butterfly cut’s dimension and movement but don’t know how? Try to add some pops of color to your butterfly cut transformation. Whether you’re aiming for a dimensional butterfly style or seeking ways to elevate your face-framing butterfly layers with strategic color placement, the following techniques will show you how color and cut work together.
Pair your butterfly cut with a warm golden blonde balayage to achieve a sun-kissed dimension and accentuate your layers for a natural-looking radiance that moves with the hair.
@lescoquettesbelgium_
This high-contrast color combination can be described as a dirty blonde butterfly cut. A platinum blonde balayage on black roots creates an airy appearance.
@kuafor_serdarates
Want a more playful variation of the classic ombre look? Try to combine a layered structure with pastel-colored ends typically in pink, lilac, or blue that work great on a red and brown base. They draw attention to feathered ends and add movement.
@womenbyab
In order to flatter various facial structures, hairstylists usually customize the butterfly cut through strategic adjustments in the length and volume of layers. For example, a round face, with its full cheeks, soft jawline, and equal width and height, would benefit from slightly angled layers starting at the chin and extending outward. They create a slimming effect by adding the illusory length to your round face butterfly cut and optimal contouring when paired with curtain bangs.
The oval face butterfly style is about building volume at the sides and back with long, textured layers around the face. This structure highlights natural symmetry with balanced layers that enhance your soft features.
A butterfly haircut for a square face incorporates wispy, feathered pieces and mid-length layers that break up the boxy appearance of the jawline. As a result, a square face looks less angular. The same goes for a butterfly haircut for a heart-shaped face. The wispy, face-framing elements balance out a wider forehead to achieve a softer glam.
@echo_beautystudio
As with any other layered style, the butterfly cut thrives on natural volume and bouncy texture. It can be easily styled with a straightener or a round brush. And if you want to try the butterfly haircut “no styling” options like air-drying to maximize the cut’s inherent qualities with minimum effort, explore the ultimate styling hacks for a butterfly cut below.
This styling method captures a kind of intentional imperfection. Its airy, disconnected layers evoke a sense of movement that feels both rebellious and romantic. Rather than relying on polished finishes, it thrives on texture and spontaneity, making it the perfect canvas for hair that tells its own story.
@hairxjojo
Ever heard of a butterfly blowout? Well, it’s time to try one! For this style, use a round brush to lift the roots and create volume first. Then, use a directional airflow to maximize the bounce and define layers.
@choptandpaintedbysam
This technique will enhance your natural texture without heat. Start by applying a leave-in conditioner and a texture cream or curl gel depending on your hair type. Then, scrunch or twist your locks away from the face and let them air dry.
@brubravin
If you’re good at heat styling, use a curling iron to create soft, alternating waves in the mid-lengths. Then, flip the hair upside down and spray some texturizing spray at the roots for an instant lift. As a no-heat option, apply volumizing mousse to the damp roots and use large Velcro rollers while drying.
@denizbalkanofficial
Create definition and bounce with soft waves or curled tresses to enhance the layered structure of your look. Use a curling wand or a flat iron to curl your front pieces away from the face, while alternating directions on the rest of the hair. Leave the ends out for a relaxed, modern finish.
@ericaoliveirastudiodebeleza
Is a butterfly haircut high maintenance, you might ask? It’s anything but difficult to take care of. In fact, the butterfly haircut maintenance relies on keeping your hair healthy, voluminous, and well-defined no matter what. Here’s a complete care routine to preserve its signature shape and extend the life of the chop between salon visits.
For optimal styling and maintenance, use products that enhance volume, definition, and shine without heaviness. For example, a volumizing mousse of foam will help you boost lift at the roots and hold the airy shape of the style. Similarly, a lightweight leave-in or hair oil will prevent frizz without overweighing the layers and protect the ends from splitting.
Traditionally, a butterfly haircut lasts for 10-12 weeks until the short layers grow out, and the style loses its voluminous and dimensional form. So, if you’re not growing out a butterfly haircut at the moment and want to maintain its distinct winged shape, you’ll need to get trims every 6-8 weeks.
Curious about making the butterfly haircut work for you? Here’s what people commonly ask before booking the chair.
How does a butterfly haircut differ from a wolf cut or shag?
While all three haircuts are layered for maximum bounce and volume, their cutting techniques and the final result vary significantly. While the wolf and shag cuts are more textured and edgy by nature thanks to choppy layering and a high-contrast look, the butterfly hairstyle techniques involve soft, blended, face-framing layering that keeps the length intact. It creates a light, fluttery feel with shorter top layers and long bottom layers that separate like butterfly wings.
How do I know if a butterfly haircut suits my lifestyle and maintenance preferences?
To be sure that the butterfly haircut will suit your lifestyle and upkeep habits, ask yourself the following questions: “Do I want to keep my length and add some volume and movement to it?” “Do I want a haircut with an easy styling routine (a quick blowout, soft waves, or air-drying)?” “Do I want a seamless regrowth with my new haircut?” “Do I want a low-effort, high-impact look that requires no special styling skills?” If the answer to all those queries is “yes,” then, the butterfly cut is a perfect fit for you!
@gabestyles_
Can I achieve a butterfly haircut at home, or should I definitely see a professional?
It’s always better to see a professional rather than deal with the consequences of a “do-it-yourself” butterfly haircut. As with any layered crop, this cut greatly relies on precise sectioning and face-framing balance, all of which are very hard to nail on your own (even with a YouTube tutorial). One wrong snip can throw off the entire flow instead of giving you a trendy haircut. So, if you’re serious about getting that signature butterfly shape, go to someone who specializes in layering and textured cuts.
How to ask for a butterfly haircut?
When asking your hairdresser for a butterfly haircut, explain that you want shorter, face-framing layers that fall around the chin or collarbone, combined with longer layers in the back to maintain your overall length. Emphasize that you’re looking for movement, volume, and a soft, feathered texture throughout. It’s also helpful to bring a couple of reference photos from different angles to clearly present the style you have in mind.
Will I need to heat style my hair daily with a butterfly haircut?
Not at all! In fact, a butterfly haircut is designed to work beautifully with your natural texture and adjust to your styling routine. There are lots of butterfly haircut no heat techniques. Try to air-dry your soft layers with a lightweight mousse or volumizing spray at the roots to enhance natural waves or movement. Also, try wrapping damp tresses around Velcro rollers for bouncy, layered volume with no heat.
Can you braid a butterfly haircut?
Of course, you can! Since the length is preserved in the lower layers, you can still enjoy classic braids, French/Dutch braids, low buns, ponytails, and half-up styles with added volume. Keep in mind that some shorter layers may slip out in tight styles, but those pieces only create a soft, undone vibe, contributing to the overall charm.
Thinking about switching up your hairstyle? The butterfly haircut might be your next favorite move. This layered, airy cut adds movement and softness, making it perfect for everything from shoulder-grazing styles to long, voluminous lengths. Here’s what you need to know about this trending cut, including practical styling tips and maintenance tricks to keep it looking effortless and floaty every day.
