Eesha Kulkarni

The world of social media is a breeding ground for viral trends, and the latest sensation to captivate TikTok users is the butterfly haircut. Coined by hairstylist Sunnie Brook, this whimsical hairstyle has taken the platform by storm, with countless users flocking to salons to achieve the unique and eye-catching style. Ahead, we’ll explore the origins, characteristics, and popularity of the butterfly haircut, as well as the hair products you can use to achieve this breezy, summer-y look.

Butterfly Haircut Origins and Characteristics

The butterfly haircut draws inspiration from the delicate beauty of butterflies and translates it into a unique hairstyle. It involves creating layered, V-shaped sections at the back of the head, resembling the wings of a butterfly when viewed from the back. The front sections are typically left longer, framing the face and adding a touch of softness to the overall look.

Also known as a thousand-layer or octopus haircut, this is a highly layered hairstyle that strikes a perfect balance between shaggy and long layers. What sets the butterfly cut apart from other layered styles is its distinct division into two noticeable sections. The first section consists of long layers that gracefully cascade below the shoulders, creating the illusion of length. The second section comprises shorter layers that fall around two to three inches below the chin, framing the face and imparting added volume.

In contrast to the beachy, effortless waves that have dominated hair trends for years, the butterfly cut offers a more refined and structured look. It is an excellent choice for individuals who desire the appearance of fuller and healthier hair without compromising on length. With the butterfly layers, you can introduce variation to your hairstyle without resorting to a drastic haircut. This technique adds volume and shape to your hair while simultaneously eliminating damage throughout various layers.

The butterfly cut has been popularised by TikTok stars like Addison Rae and Matilda Djerf, as well as celebrities like Sydney Sweeney and Kaia Gerber. These influential figures have helped propel the hairstyle into the mainstream, making it a sought-after trend.

Suitability for Different Hair Types

This cut tends to work best on medium to long, thick hair. The layered structure adds movement and dimension, enhancing the natural flow of the hair. While the butterfly cut can be worn by anyone, experts suggest that it works particularly well for individuals with naturally dense and/or curly hair. The abundance of layers in this style requires sufficient hair density to achieve its full effect.

On the other hand, those with fine hair may find that it appears limp or lacking body when styled in a butterfly cut. It can complement straight, wavy, and curly hair, allowing individuals to embrace their unique hair textures. The versatility of the butterfly haircut makes it accessible to a wide range of people, enabling them to experiment and showcase their personal style.

A Nod to the Past

Although the butterfly haircut has recently gained popularity on TikTok, it is not an entirely new concept. Its layered structure is reminiscent of iconic hairstyles from the past. Fans of the ’90s may notice similarities between the butterfly haircut and the famous ‘Rachel’ cut popularised by Jennifer Aniston’s character on the television show Friends.

The Rachel haircut, characterised by its voluminous layers and face-framing strands, shares similarities with the butterfly haircut’s emphasis on layers and framing of the face. Additionally, this viral cut bears resemblance to the iconic ‘Farrah Fawcett hair’, which was a sensation in the 1970s. This connection to beloved hairstyles of the past adds a touch of nostalgia to the contemporary trend.

Products To Style The Butterfly Haircut