This ’90s hairstyle is making a major comeback
Multiple layers sway with bombshell volume in the latest retro hair trend
Following the recent wolf cut trend, it appears hair has found a new source of inspiration in the animal kingdom. It’s called the butterfly cut, owing its name to swooping layers that mimic the insect’s wings, and it’s the latest style to take over social media.
The term was originally coined by celebrity hair pro Sunnie Brook, whose clients include Elisabeth Moss and Ashley Park. She described it as “a very layered haircut on hair below the shoulders that’s cut in a way so that the top layer can be separated from the bottom and easily pinned under to look like a short haircut.” No one exemplifies the trend better than current global hair muse Matilda Djerf, a Swedish influencer famed for her bountiful swinging strands.That said though, the cut itself isn’t exactly new. “Personally, it gives me vintage supermodel vibes,” says Toronto hairstylist Kelly Araujo, who tends to Tessa Virtue and Nelly Furtado’s tresses. Picture Cindy Crawford, Tyra Banks or Claudia Schiffer circa 1997.
Another major source of butterfly cut inspo? Pamela Anderson. “I just watched her documentary and loved it — I can’t wait to read her book,” Araujo says, echoing everyone’s renewed appreciation for the Canadian icon. Much like Anderson’s signature hairdo, the butterfly cut is all about bombshell volume and loads of movement. “It’s stylish and classic while also feeling effortless,” says Araujo. Tempted to try it? Here’s everything you need to know.
What exactly is a butterfly cut?
“It’s a heavily layered and feathered haircut,” says Araujo, who adds that “it’s a little less aggressive than a shag in the sense that the layers are a bit longer.” Shorter layers are added into the crown to impart volume along with shorter pieces at the front — or even a fringe — to frame the face.
“It’s a bit sassy and great for those of us who want a little edge but aren’t brave enough to go full shag.”
Who would be a good candidate for this cut?
Butterfly cuts can suit a wide range of hair types, from medium fine all the way to thick and coarse. “If you have naturally wavy, curly or textured hair, this cut works really well as it brings out more of your natural texture,” says Araujo. It’s also great for anyone looking to amp up volume. However, if you have extremely fine hair, the extensive layering could cause your hair to look even finer, especially near the ends, warns the expert.
What should you ask your hairdresser for?
Ask your stylist for all-over feathery layers. It’s also a good idea to bring photos, not just of what you love, but also of what you don’t. “I find this approach helps to fill in the blanks when clients don’t have the language to describe exactly what they want,” says Araujo. Also, keep in mind that haircuts are fully customizable. “A great stylist should work with you to create a version of this cut that’s perfectly tailored to your hair texture and lifestyle.”
What’s the best way to style a butterfly cut?
“If you have wavy or textured hair, this is a great haircut for air-drying,” says Araujo, who suggests applying a good leave-in conditioner and oil to keep hair hydrated and ensure optimal air-drying results. If you’re blow drying your hair, a blowout brush (Araujo is a fan of the Hot Tools one) is a simple way to add body and get a salon-worthy finish. The much raved-about Dyson Airwrap, if you’re willing to invest in it, delivers terrific results too, says the pro. As always when using heated tools, a thermal protector is a must to fend off damage. Whichever way you choose to style it, this is a cut that’s sure to look cool and sexy. Just take it from Araujo, who just took the butterfly plunge herself. “I totally understand why it’s become all the rage — it really does make you feel like a bit of a rock star!”
The butterfly cut is described as “a very layered haircut on hair below the shoulders that’s cut in a way so that the top layer can be separated from the bottom and easily pinned under to look like a short haircut.”