The butterfly haircut puts a unique twist on the classic inverted bob. This chic short haircut features layered locks styled forward on the face to frame the features like fluttery wings. Read on for tips on achieving the butterfly cut and styling it beautifully.
What is the Butterfly Haircut ?
The butterfly cut is a version of the inverted bob with signature tousled bangs swept forward to dramatize the face. Key elements include:
Shorter layers in the back, longer pieces towards the front
Chin or shoulder-length cut with angled lengths
Layers tapered to create wings framing the cheekbones
Piece-y bangs grazing eyebrows and cheeks
Soft side fringe blending layers together
The silhouette evokes a butterfly’s delicate wings resting gently on the shoulders. It flatters oval, heart, and diamond face shapes beautifully.
How to Get the Cut
Ask your stylist for:
Shorter layers gradually lengthening toward the front
At least 3-4 inches of length removed from the back
Face-framing fringe cut diagonally pointing toward the chin
Tousled piecy bangs to blend the layers
Light interior layering for movement and texture
Angle below the chin or above shoulders based on preference
Bring inspiration photos to your cutting appointment. Stylists should texture the interior and soften the perimeter fringe to perfect the breezy butterfly effect.
Best Hair Types for the Style
The butterfly cut works best on :
Fine to medium textured hair
Straight, wavy or loose curls
Hair with some natural movement
Hair lacking extreme density and bulkiness
Compliments both natural and color treated hair
The layering helps reduce bulk in thick hair.
Have your stylist thin and texturize as needed. Avoid blunt, thick perimeter lines.
How to Style the Butterfly Cut
Products:
Leave-in conditioner
Sea salt or texturizing spray
Matte styling cream
Process:
Apply leave-in and texturizer to damp hair from roots to ends.
Blow dry using a paddle brush while flipping hair forward.
Focus the dryer on the bangs and ends to create lift.
Add matte styling cream through the mid-lengths and ends only.
Scrunch gently then finger style pieces forward.
Set by spritzing with medium hold hairspray.
Finish with a light mist of texture spray.
For special occasions, use a medium barrel curling iron to add tousled waves and extra volume. Rough it up with your fingers.
Butterfly Cut Upkeep Tips
Trim bangs every 3 weeks to maintain the wispy fringe.
Remove split ends with minor trims every 8-10 weeks.
Add a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove product buildup.
Change partings regularly to avoid excess layering in one area.
Use a boar bristle brush and heat protectant to combat dryness from heat styling.
While a high-maintenance look, proper at-home care keeps your butterfly cut looking its airy, artful best.
Conclusion
The butterfly haircut brings feminine flair to classic short inverted bobs. The delicate layered texture fanned across the cheeks evokes sheer wings fluttering softly. For heart, oval and diamond face shapes wanting lively yet flattering short locks, this breezy cut adds beautiful dimension. With proper trims, products, and volumizing styling, the butterfly cut makes a playfully chic statement.