In the ever-evolving world of hair fashion, two styles have captured the spotlight in recent years—wolf cut and butterfly cut. Both cuts have taken over social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, inspiring countless transformations across the globe. If you’re considering a major hair makeover, you may find yourself wondering: Wolf cut vs butterfly cut—which one is right for you?
This article will break down the differences between the butterfly cut vs wolf cut, compare how they suit different hair textures (including curly hair), and provide tips on choosing the style that complements your face shape and lifestyle. Let’s dive into the chic world of layers, volume, and retro-inspired edge.
What Is A Wolf Cut?
The wolf cut is a bold, edgy hairstyle that blends the mullet and shag into one ultra-modern look. It became popularized in South Korea and then swept across Western fashion circles due to its low-maintenance appeal and dynamic texture.
Key Characteristics Of A Wolf Cut:
- Shorter layers on top and longer, tousled layers at the bottom.
- A mullet-style silhouette—voluminous crown, tapering toward the nape.
- Ideal for those who like a messy, rockstar vibe.
- Works best with medium to thick hair.
- Easy to style with texturizing spray or dry shampoo.
The wolf cut is rebellious and raw, often seen on trendsetters and K-pop stars like Taeyeon and Jungkook. It’s a perfect choice for people who want a haircut that requires minimal styling effort while still looking effortlessly cool.
What Is A Butterfly Cut?
The butterfly cut, on the other hand, is the epitome of soft, voluminous glam. Coined by celebrity hairstylist Sunnie Brook, this style rose to popularity in 2022 as a modern revival of the classic 1990s blowout. It features long, face-framing layers that create the illusion of shorter hair around the face while maintaining length at the back, giving a bouncy, layered look that can be easily styled for significant volume and movement.
Key Characteristics Of A Butterfly Cut:
- Long layers that frame the face like butterfly wings.
- A middle part or side part to enhance symmetry.
- Great for creating volume without sacrificing length.
- Can be curled or styled straight with equal elegance.
- Ideal for fine to medium hair.
The butterfly haircut offers a more romantic, elegant aesthetic, making it ideal for those who prefer polished looks over edgy experimentation.
Wolf Cut Vs Butterfly Cut: Side-By-Side Comparison
| Feature | Wolf Cut | Butterfly Cut |
| Inspiration | Shag + Mullet | ’90s Blowout |
| Styling Vibe | Edgy, Rock & Roll | Soft, Feminine |
| Layering | Heavy & Choppy | Soft & Graduated |
| Best For | Thick/Medium Hair | Fine/Medium Hair |
| Maintenance | Low | Medium |
| Styling Products | Texturizing Spray, Pomade | Round Brush, Blow Dryer |
Understanding this table helps you visually grasp the butterfly cut vs wolf cut decision, as it really comes down to personal aesthetic and hair texture.
Check also: Hush Cut Vs Wolf Cut
Butterfly Haircut Vs Wolf Cut: Which Suits Your Face Shape?
Your face shape plays a critical role in deciding between these two cuts.
For Oval Faces:
Lucky you—both styles will look great. Oval faces can carry wolf cuts with ease and enjoy the volume of a butterfly cut too.
For Round Faces:
- A butterfly haircut is generally more flattering because it elongates the face with its long, curtain-like layers.
- The wolf cut can sometimes add more width, which may not be ideal unless styled with vertical volume.
For Square Faces:
- The butterfly cut softens jawlines thanks to its flowing, face-framing layers.
- The wolf cut adds structure but may enhance angular features.
For Heart-Shaped Faces:
- The wolf cut’s top-heavy volume complements this shape well.
- The butterfly cut’s framing layers work too, but avoid too much volume at the top.
Butterfly Cut Vs Wolf Cut For Curly Hair
A big concern for curly-haired individuals is whether these styles will work with their natural texture. Let’s explore wolf cut vs butterfly cut curly hair compatibility.
Wolf Cut For Curly Hair:
- Fantastic for naturally curly or wavy hair.
- Layers add definition and remove bulk.
- Styling is effortless—just enhance curls with mousse or curl cream.
Butterfly Cut For Curly Hair:
- Can work beautifully with looser curls and waves.
- Long, cascading layers might need heat styling to fall correctly.
- Requires more upkeep to retain shape in curl patterns.
👉 Verdict: The wolf cut is typically easier to maintain for curly hair, while the butterfly cut offers a more refined look if you’re willing to style it regularly.
Styling And Maintenance Tips
Alright, so when it comes to the Wolf Cut vs Butterfly Cut, you’re looking at distinct vibes, and naturally, that means their Styling and Maintenance Tips are going to be a bit different too. Both styles come with unique needs to keep them looking their best. Here’s how to nail the upkeep for each, whether you’re going for that edgy, undone look or bouncy, voluminous layers:
Wolf Cut Care:
- Use texturizing spray or sea salt spray to add grit.
- Let hair air dry or use a diffuser for curls.
- Trim every 6–8 weeks to prevent split ends from ruining the layered look.
Butterfly Cut Care:
- Blow-dry with a round brush for maximum volume.
- Consider using a volumizing mousse at the roots.
- Regular trims are essential to maintain shape—every 8–10 weeks.
Celebrity Inspiration
Celebrities With Wolf Cut:
- Billie Eilish
- Miley Cyrus
- Debby Ryan
Celebrities With Butterfly Cut:
- Matilda Djerf
- Kaia Gerber
- Sydney Sweeney
Use these celebrities as reference points when explaining your desired look to a stylist.
Butterfly Cut Vs Wolf Cut For Different Hair Types
| Hair Type | Recommended Cut |
| Straight Hair | Butterfly Cut |
| Wavy Hair | Either (Wolf Cut preferred for texture) |
| Curly Hair | Wolf Cut |
| Fine Hair | Butterfly Cut |
| Thick Hair | Wolf Cut or Butterfly Cut with proper layering |
If you have fine or limp hair, the butterfly cut gives the illusion of thickness. For thicker hair, the wolf cut helps reduce bulk while maintaining volume.
How To Ask For These Cuts At The Salon
For A Wolf Cut:
Tell your stylist:
“I want a wolf cut—lots of volume on top, shorter shaggy layers around the crown, and longer lengths toward the back. Keep it edgy.”
Bring reference images and specify whether you want bangs or curtain fringe.
For A Butterfly Cut:
Say:
“I’m looking for a butterfly cut—long layers that frame the face and soft movement around the shoulders. I want to keep my length but add dimension.”
Mention the kind of blowout look you prefer—matte and soft or shiny and bouncy.
Pros And Cons Of Each Cut
Both the Wolf Cut and Butterfly Cut offer unique ways to enhance volume and texture, but they achieve these looks with different layering techniques, each with its own set of advantages and considerations in the ongoing Wolf Cut Vs Butterfly Cut debate.
Pros Of Wolf Cut:
- Edgy and fashionable.
- Low-maintenance for textured hair.
- Great for volume.
Cons Of Wolf Cut:
- Might not flatter all face shapes.
- Can look messy without product.
Pros Of Butterfly Cut:
- Soft, elegant appeal.
- Great for volume without losing length.
- Versatile styling.
Cons Of Butterfly Cut:
- Requires blow-drying or styling.
- Not ideal for coarse curls unless straightened.
Final Verdict: Wolf Cut Vs Butterfly Cut
When deciding between wolf cut vs butterfly cut, your personal style, lifestyle, and hair type are the most important factors.
- Go for the wolf cut if you’re adventurous, like edgy aesthetics, and want a wash-and-go hairstyle.
- Choose the butterfly cut if you prefer a polished look, enjoy styling your hair, and want to retain length.
Remember, both cuts are beautiful in their own right. You can even ask your stylist to create a hybrid cut that combines the rebellious layers of a wolf cut with the soft framing of a butterfly haircut.