The butterfly haircut is a layered hairstyle known for its soft volume, movement and versatility. With shorter layers around the crown and longer pieces throughout the length, the butterfly cut creates the illusion of shorter hair without losing overall length, giving a lightweight, bouncy look that flatters a wide range of face shapes and hair textures.
What Is the Butterfly Haircut?
Coined by celebrity stylist Sunnie Brook, the butterfly haircut draws inspiration from iconic ‘80s and ‘90s styles and the soft, face-framing layers and feathered ends resemble the flutter of butterfly wings. The result? A bouncy, multi-dimensional style that looks just as good worn down as it does in an updo. Jennifer Aniston’s iconic ‘Rachel’ cut from F.R.I.E.N.D.S laid the groundwork for today’s butterfly style. Full of volume, feathered movement, and layers that hug the face, her look remains the ultimate reference for clients who are looking for that bouncy finish.
As many Gen Z clients embrace nostalgia and the style of the 90s, celebrities like Sabrina Carpenter have influenced an increase in requests for the butterfly cut. Her signature flowing blonde layers and face-framing fringe, whether sleek or tousled have become a major source of inspiration. Meanwhile Hailey Bieber showcases a minimalist style for the low-maintenance client. Her soft layers and curtain bangs perfectly reflect the shape and elegance of the butterfly cut.
Butterfly Cut vs Octopus Cut
Though often compared to the octopus haircut, the butterfly cut is softer and more romantic in appearance. While the octopus leans toward edgy, choppy layers, the butterfly features smoother transitions, making it ideal for clients who prefer a more polished or voluminous finish.
Who Is the Butterfly Haircut For?
The butterfly cut suits a wide range of hair types and textures, including:
- Medium to thick density
- Wavy and curly hair (best cut dry for definition)
- Straight hair, where added curtain bangs or wispy fringe can create extra movement
It’s especially popular with clients who want to grow out bold styles like the hime haircut, as the layers provide a seamless way to blend out sharp bangs.
Styling the Butterfly Haircut
One of the best things about the butterfly haircut is its styling versatility. Clients can pin the longer layers under to mimic a bob or blow-dry the top layers for a full, voluminous crown. The cut pairs beautifully with curtain bangs or bottleneck bangs for extra framing.
FAQ: Butterfly Haircut
What is a butterfly haircut?
A butterfly haircut is a heavily layered hairstyle with short layers on top and long layers underneath. It gives the illusion of shorter hair and adds bounce, volume, and face-framing movement.
Why is it called a butterfly haircut?
The cut was named by stylist Sunnie Brook. Its light, fluttering layers resemble the wings of a butterfly, especially when the hair moves.
Is the butterfly haircut good for all hair types?
Yes! It works best on medium to thick hair and is suitable for wavy, curly, or straight textures. For curly and wavy hair, it should be cut dry for shape accuracy.
How do you style a butterfly haircut?
You can style it by pinning the longer layers under to create a faux bob or use a round brush and blow dryer to emphasise the top layers for volume. Adding curtain or bottleneck bangs enhances the framing effect.
What’s the difference between the butterfly and octopus haircut?
The butterfly cut has softer, feathered layers for a romantic feel, while the octopus cut uses sharper, structured layers for an edgier look.
Is it good for growing out bangs or short styles?
Absolutely. It’s ideal for clients transitioning from styles like the hime haircut, as the blended layers help grow out bangs more naturally.
