The Butterfly Cut Is the Perfect Way to Show Off Long Layers and Curtain Bangs
There’s a new haircut trend (thanks to TikTok) and it gives a nod to the 90s! Called the ‘Butterfly Haircut’, you might recognize this hair style or maybe have even sported it yourself without knowing. It draws volume inspo from “The Rachel” and Farrah Fawcett.
Celebrity hairstylist Sunnie Brook gave this cut the fun name and it’s described as long layers throughout with shorter pieces for the crown of your head—paying close attention to your bangs. This gives the cut almost an hourglass shape of volume or, a ‘butterfly’.
This retro style has suddenly made a comeback on TikTok, so we tapped celebrity hairstylist Derrick Keith for the scoop on look. Read more for how to achieve the butterfly haircut and how you can decide if it's right for you.
Meet the Expert
Derrick Keith is a celebrity hairstylist and Hairstory ambassador.
What Is the Butterfly Cut?
Basically, it’s a haircut with a lot of layers! This is what gives the look its name—the layers are wispy and voluminous to give the effect and shape of a butterfly wings. Add curtain bangs and you’ll enter your full-on 90s era!
“It’s a form of pony tail hair cutting where the cut of the hair is based on the position of the pony tail,” says Derrick Keith, celebrity hairstylist and Hairstory ambassador.
“It is a current TikTok trend, but to me it’s the Farrah, after Farrah Fawcett’s legendary 70s hairstyle. When done properly, the cut gives the illusion of a short haircut in the front, while maintaining long hair with a feathered look in the back,” he adds.
What Hair Types Are Best for the Butterfly Cut?
Before you run to the salon, hear us out. This cut definitely isn’t for every hair texture, so you should know what you’re getting yourself into before making the big chop.
“If you have fine hair, it will be somewhat easier for the layers to blend, even if you do it yourself and have a choppier result. If your hair is more dense, texturizing will help blend. This will make it easier for the hair to air dry without multiple ledges throughout the haircut,” says Derrick.
He notes that the longer your hair is, the better for the butterfly cut. This cut is versatile (which we love!) and lends itself well to both heat styles (for more volume) and air dry.
What to Ask for in the Salon?
Being clear with your hairdresser is key—not everyone stylists will be familiar with the butterfly haircut. It’s best to show an inspo photo of the hairstyle and to be clear if you want longer layers or shorter layers. Most butterfly cuts feature shoulder length or longer.
“As with any hair trend, a stylist will apply the proper version for you, your hair texture, and face shape. One technique is to start by disconnecting the top and bottom hair along the parietal ridge, which will make it different from a basic layered haircut. The top should flow back being light and airy and the bottom should have more density and less layers,” says Derrick.
How to Style a Butterfly Haircut?
1. Air Dry When You Can
This style is really all in the technique of how the layers will cut. The good thing about that: You don’t always have to style your own hair for a presentable look. In fact, the butterfly haircut can be low maintenance and lend itself well to air drying when done right. Not only are you saving your hair from heat, but you’re showing off your natural texture. Of course, style your bangs or face framing layers if you feel you need to give them a little correction or guidance.
2. Rough Blow Dry the Hair
If you’re going to full-on style a blowout, rest assured it’s super simple! Start by rough drying your hair so it’s not soaking wet. Derrick recommends using a diffuser on your blow dryer to add volume and give your natural texture a bit of a tousle and wave.
“In order to style with products, I recommend using a mousse at the root, and a quality texture spray, like Undressed, throughout,” adds Derrick.
3. Add Volume With a Round Brush
Once your hair is about 80% dry, now it’s time to style those layers section by section. Reach for a medium sized round brush and keep the diffuser on your hair dryer. Focus the hair dryer at the root of your hair while using the round brush in an upward and outward motion for maximum volume. Check out this tutorial to see it in action.
4. Keep Up With Your Haircuts
To preserve this trendy layered look, frequent cuts are needed as layers tend to grow out fast. “Be sure to maintain your appointments with your stylist and plan on seeing them at least every 6-8 weeks to keep the shape and style,” says Derrick. This will ensure your layers look fresh and that your bangs are to your desired face framing length.
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