What’s interesting about the butterfly cut is that the first time I heard about it was from a client who was quite a bit of guesswork. She showed me a picture and called it “that thing where it looks like wings.” After about 10 minutes of back and forth, I finally understood she was trying to describe a specific layering technique that was trending on the runways and social media with that name. Once I figured out what she was trying to say, I became really motivated because the structure of the cut is very versatile. The design where the inner layers are cut shorter so they lift, and the outer layers are cut longer so they drape is one of the few where it genuinely looks different on everyone who sits in my chair.
I enjoy connecting with women over the age of 50 since I believe that the butterfly cut is the first layered cut that addresses a major concern of this demographic. There are numerous reasons why layering may be perceived as wrong, but to my knowledge, traditional layered cuts are designed to cut some of the weight off so the hair doesn’t grow too dense, or too stiff. As we get older, hair tends to lose its confidence, and an older cut may end up contributing an excessive number of wispies at the ends instead of holding all the lengths together. The butterfly cut is unique in that it provides fullness to the top of the head, as well as around the face. Most of the time people expect face framing layers, but with this, you don’t just clear space to grow hair at an unkept length. Last Fall I worked with a client who had a goal of growing her hair out for 2 years. With every haircut, she felt like she was losing volume, and it just felt like she didn’t have any hair left. It was definitely a very emotional moment for her was when we finally reached her first butterfly cut. That kind of partnership is exactly the reason why I am passionate about this work.
#1: Layered Butterfly Cut with That Easy, Breezy Movement
I love how this sits. It is a medium length cut that lands just below the shoulders and has layers that aren’t too overdone. The movement here is soft and feels effortless. The face framing pieces are perfect – just barely there and not too chunky and heavy. If your hair is fine, this cut gives the illusion of more without having to be a round brush slave. You’ll want to style it a bit to get that bounce, but this is one of those cuts that will still look good on second day hair.
#2 Warm Caramel Waves with a Really Pretty Natural Texture
I love the color! I also want to mention the caramel tone that we did is so warm and lovely and the light reflecting off the hair is gorgeous. The hair is layered enough to give it that volume and movement that most of my clients are asking for, and it is also shoulder length which is perfect. If your hair is medium to thick, you shouldn’t have any problems styling this cut. The color will require the most upkeep as it can be brassy and will need to be toned frequently, however the cut itself is super low maintenance.
#3 An Ash Blonde Bob That Actually Feels Light
I admire the craftsmanship behind this bob; it seems almost weightless. The ash blonde color is a nice modern touch, and the layers add volume without the excess bulk. This type of cut is truly kind. It honors what you have instead of feigning to have something different. The face framing has a quiet lifting quality that I think is more flattering than people realize until they see it on themselves. If your hair is really straight and thick, you may need to work a bit more to achieve that light, airy texture, but for most people this should be a wash-and-go look, perhaps with a touch of texturizing spray for the effort.
#4 Chocolate Waves and Bangs That Actually Work Together
What really makes this hairstyle for me is the bangs. They are soft enough to not feel like too much of a commitment, yet just thick enough to provide a more polished appearance. The shoulder-grazing waves paired with the rich chocolate color combine modern and classic beautifully. This looks great on medium density hair because the waves give body without having to use too much product, and the bangs are framing without being overwhelming. The color is gorgeous, but since you will want to go to the salon for touch ups to keep the deep richness from washing out, it will be high maintenance.
#5 Chestnut Layers That Fall Like They Mean It
The purposeful execution of these layers is clear. They have real movement beyond the shoulders, unlike shorter layers that end up floating around. The color chestnut has tonal shifts that run throughout it, lending dimension to the entire look. If you have a thicker mane, this is a style that works well as the layers provide shape and direction instead of a dense block. The maintenance is high as you need to have regular standing appointments to maintain the defined layers and the color. The payoff is worth it.
#6 Deep Espresso Curls with Smart Tapering
The espresso hue you chose works wonders on mature skin; it’s rich without being too much. that’s a line darker shades don’t walk too well. The curls add texture and dimension, while the subtle layering around the face offers a cheekbone lift, albeit a subtle one. The beauty of this cut is that it doesn’t try too hard. It offers simplicity and elegance, and the design is versatile to fit any purpose your day requires. Keeping the design neat and the color fresh will require regular maintenance, but it’s not the kind of cut where it falls apart between visits.
#7 Light Brown Waves That Play Well with Grey
This haircut is recommendable because it is simple. The delicate layers with soft light brown waves give an elegant look that is not over the top. The face framing layers also draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones. If you have medium hair or thin hair, the layers will create more texture and volume to your hair. i Also want to point out that this haircut is great for blending in natural greys. If you are in that color growing out phase or beginning to go silver, a cut like this will make it look intentional. You might need a curling iron for those waves, or a leave-in conditioner as the curls may lose definition and look messy.’
#8 Silver Feathered Layers, Simple and Lovely
Sometimes it makes the most sense to own your greys and let a clean cut do the talking. This feathered cut is a great example. The gentle variations in length soften the frame around your face and for finer textures, creates the look of more hair. The only maintenance consideration is that it will need regular re sh aping to keep the edges nice and clean. It really is uncomplicated in the best way.
#9 Mid-Length Brunette Layers with Genuine Texture
The mid-length cut with waves is done nicely, and the style brings out the natural texture. This style can be worn with many different face shapes as it has some layers placed to enhance rather than take away. Medium density hair works well with this cut, as the weight is just enough to hold shape, while enough movement is present to keep things interesting. The hair will need regular trims to keep the layers from growing out uniformly, but on a day to day basis this is low maintenance cut that is easy to manage with just a quick style.
#10 Auburn Feathered Layers with Real Warmth
Auburn hair color can suit a lot of people! Here it is paired with some layered feathers giving warmth to the complexion. The length is medium making it easy enough to manage and the layers add some movement. This is great for people who have fine hair, but if your hair is straight or wavy you can just class it with a little mousse and use your fingers to style it. The color will bog you down with time and money as it is an auburn color and will fade pretty quickly. If you want it to look warm and bright you have to get your color done regularly to keep up the saturation.
#11 Espresso Layers with Face-Framing Warmth
Face framing highlights do such intentional work. They brighten everything up and bring the focus to the eyes and cheekbone. This is also really flattering on heart and oval face shapes. The layers are also great in conjunction with the hair’s natural movement so everything looks effortless after it dries. For medium to thick hair, this is a great balance of structure and ease. To be frank, the color depth is going to require commitment. That espresso base is going to fade and the highlights will shift, and with that you will be needing to visit the salon pretty often to keep everything in place.
#12 Flame-Toned Layers with a Lot of Energy
The piece looks very exciting! The warm, fiery color creates a warm glow that transforms the entire face. The mid-length layers are cut to create volume and movement. The soft face then framing nicely enhances the look without being overwhelming. Finer hair may need some volume to get to this point, but the way this cut is designed actually helps you. It is very easy to dress this hair up for a night out, or equally as simple to dress it down for a quick casual morning look. I think this is what most women want from their hair.
#13 Flowing Caramel Layers at a Really Wearable Length
Do not under estimate this mid-length style with caramel layers, not only does it look amazing, it offers great volume and movement and softly frames the face. It also offers enough length so if you wanted to pull it back, or pin it up you have that option. This type of layering is best for medium to thick hair as it is able to manage the bulk in a purposeful way. The only downside is that the defined layers in this cut do require regular trims to maintain that shape, but this is true for any good haircut.
#14 Beachy Blonde with Just the Right Amount of Highlight
Thank you for limiting the highlights. Your new colour is balanced beautifully with your natural colour! It gives a very natural effect as if you have just got back from a lovely summer holiday. The shoulder length waves are not too bulky and really help to create volume in the style. It is also a lovely way to show off the natural density of your hair. This is especially easy for you to maintain with your hair being a medium type. Although I will add that lighter blondes are a bit trickier as they can go brassy very quickly. I would recommend a good purple shampoo in between appointments.
#15 Shoulder-Length Waves with Volume That Actually Lasts
It is an attractive style that works exactly how it should. The soft waves create length and with the gentle layers, the style harmonises with broader features in a natural way as opposed to looking corrective. For medium to thick hair this style will hold with a minimum amount of work and for straight hair you will need to spend more time with a curling iron or rollers to form and maintain the wave pattern, however the final effect will be a beautiful, simple elegance.
#16 Golden Layers with Smart Root Shading
There is a lot this style offers with its color and cut. The darker roots with lighter tips look good as your hair grows out and makes it easy to go longer between salon visits. Soft layers with slight curls at the ends create volume and movement, perfect for medium density hair. The length is ideal as it adds a feminine touch without being so long that it drags or looks heavy. This style is meant for the everyday so you may need to use some heat and a wave spray to keep that bounciness touch up the to maintain those waves.
#17 A Textured Chestnut Pixie That’s All Personality
It’s always exciting when I get to book these pixies! I love doing transformations! This warm chestnut pixie has choppy textured layers which adds so much depth and dimension to the cut. If you have medium or thick hair, this cut will suit your natural density! This style is super flattering on oval and heart face shapes because it really opens up the face and brings attention to your eyes and bone structure. To pull off a true short hair look, you will need to have regular trims to keep it looking tidy, but the good news is that after the trims your hair will require minimal maintenance!
#18 Tousled Espresso Bob with Just a Whisper of Highlight
This tousled bob strikes the ideal mix of effortless and intentional. The dark espresso base is grounding and the subtle highlights are lifting and add dimension and softness around the face. With this length sitting above the shoulders, it falls into that sweet-spot length that won’t require much attention day to day. For finer hair, the layers and wave pattern create a pretty convincing fullness. A few volume-boosting products will be an essential addition to keep the tousled texture looking more defined than flat. The cut does most of the heavy lifting. Overall, the cut does most of the heavy lifting.
#19 Copper Lob with a Beautiful Front-to-Back Graduation
The graduation from front to back on this lob is gorgeous! It gives such a natural lift, and with a one length cut you just don’t get this. The soft waves help to lift and frame the face and just overall so polished to go with this copper color. The copper color looks nice and young, but to be real with you, copper is one of those colors that fades the quickest. So you’ll definitely need to come in for color appointments regularly to keep it this rich. The cut will hold its shape for a while with little daily styling, so the payoff definitely works out.
#20 Rich Auburn with Layers That Show Off Thick Hair
I have something special in store for you if you have a lot of hair. The unique layering done here gives thick hair dimension—these layers give your hair direction and movement instead of just hanging down like a heavy curtain. The face framing and color auburn accentuating the depth of the layers is perfect for all face shapes. The layered plus color maintenance is a commitment, so get ready to invest in some deep conditioning masks for your hair. Definetly put in all that time because the result is stunning!
#21 Chestnut Shoulder-Length Cut That Flatters Almost Everyone
The chestnut hue really brightens plus adds dimension to the overall appearance. The layers frame and soften the jaw and highlight the cheeks. The length is also practical as it is shoulder length. While this style is more flattering to oval and square face shapes, it is a versatile style that should suit most. The color is bright at the moment, but will need maintenance. Daily styling is minimal. For a dinner and casual on a Saturday, this will work for either occasion.
#22 Bronzed Chestnut with Feathered Face Framing
The way the colors blended together in this look is gorgeous. The bronzed chestnut is so rich, and the darker undertones add to the depth in a way that looks perfectly natural. The face-framing feathered layers help to soften the jaw and cheekbones as well. I love the emphasis on the cutting because this is where the magic happens. With medium to thick hair, this design creates movement and fullness without going too crazy. It will be high maintenance, so if you’re someone with an active lifestyle then it probably isn’t going to work for you, but if you want a look that gives a polished feel then this is a good option.
#23 Caramel Highlights on Long, Luxurious Layers
The highlights in contrast to the caramel base create an amazing highlight effect and depth to the texture. For finer hair types the extra length and layers create volume and movement which is often more difficult to achieve with a blunter cut. I think this looks especially stunning on oval and heart-shaped faces because the layers fall and ultimately flatter those face shapes. The honest truth is that this much bounce and volume is going to require some styling, so if you are used to a brushing-and-out-the-door routine then this will ask a little more of you.
#24 Silver Layers with Gentle, Easy Waves
I enjoy working with silver on clients with thick, abundant hair. The layers here do what they are intended to; they remove some bulk so that it can move and breathe, rather than sit heavily. The side part adds softness to the face, while the waves keep the whole look relaxed and elegant. The cut is pretty low maintenance, but the silver hair will need some moisture treatments to keep it shiny and control the frizz.
#25 An Ebony Tousled Bob That Just Works
It looks like jaw-length straight bobs never go out of style, and this one is no exception. The gentle layering gives fine hair some volume without being too much, and natural ebony keeps this style modern and sleek. I recommend this hairstyle length most because it works with most face shapes, and it’s a really low maintenance cut. This cut really doesn’t need much. The textured tousled look you might see with this hairstyle is about 60 seconds worth of work with a cream. It’s really not that complicated.
#26 Golden Blonde Layered Bob with Real Glow
This golden blonde color is great for aging skin. It brings an overall healthy shine to the hair. The layers and collarbone length also give extra volume which is great for oval and heart-shaped faces. I will say, however, it does take a lot of maintenance to keep warm blonde tones. They can get really brassy, so you will need toning appointments to keep it looking good. This length is also one that can be styled easily in the morning, it can be simple but it does look better with a little effort.
#27 Defined Curls on a Butterfly Cut That Really Moves
The butterfly cut’s curls look incredible! Each curl is defined enough to create a shape but still remains loose enough to move freely. The mid-length curls help shape the face in a profile enhancing way and without closing things off. The layered cut manages the bulk so you can have tons of bounce without added bulk. If your hair is medium to thick with any kind of natural curl to it, then this style will work with your texture in an effortless and natural way. Curls do require a little more maintenance in terms of product and styling, so a good curl cream is a must, but the end result is worth every minute.
#28 A Soft Layered Butterfly Cut with Genuine Ease
This cut is easy to style and it looks great. The length is a bit shorter than shoulder length, which is ideal for most people. A light layering adds structure to the cut without being too distracting. Hair with average density is free to move and great. With highlights, the contrast and focus will be added to the texture of the hair, but it’s pretty good as is. Most people will be able to wait a long time before needing touch ups to maintain this cut. This cut is ideal for people that want to be low-maintenance in the mornings.
#29 Silver Butterfly Cut That Feels Contemporary
I love how this one has a modern take on a silver cut. The cut has a youthful structure due to the face-framing layers. Being medium length gives it enough weight to keep its form but enough freedom to move. The fine to medium hair texture ends up getting volume in all the right spots because of the layering. The layers will need a lot of upkeep because most people find it too blended but it most people find it modern and classy.
#30 Layered Waves with Highlights That Build Dimension
The layers emphasize small distinctions on each level, adding another interesting detail to the cut. They also enhance the dynamic look of the soft waves while beautifully framing the face (this is particularly flattering for oval and heart-shaped faces). If your hair is fine to medium, these layers will assist in giving the appearance of more volume. Hair that is shoulder length will also ensure that the style remains easy to manage while offering versatility in styling. The shape will need to be maintained with regular trims, but the style will not require a lot of upkeep to look good.
#31 Copper Curls on a Butterfly Cut with Real Spirit
Getting a butterfly cut is such a versatile style choice. It shows off how bouncy and soft your warm copper curls are. They have so much life to them, and the butterfly cut lets them really breathe and move. The butterfly cut really brings out the layered structure in your hair. Your hair color choice gives the personality of the hair a wonderful depth and vibrance. The fine to medium curl density gives the hair a natural volume and creates a fuller look. A style like this does require a curl enhancing product to keep the look defined and bouncy, but the character this style adds makes it worth it.
#32 Long Layered Butterfly with Warm Chestnut Tones
Excellent description of the length, it flows in a really nice way. This layered structure creates movement without too much thinning, which is perfect for the fine to medium strands. The bangs are a lovely addition; just enough to provide a youthful touch without distracting from the face. The warm chestnut color really suits the skin and brings the whole look together. This polished style is great for all occasions; just be sure to keep up regular styling to maintain the shape and the way those layers fall.
#33 Textured Butterfly Cut with Body-Building Layers
If your hair is fine and doesn’t seem to have much volume, this hairstyle is a good option to consider. With some nice, soft layers and waves, this cut will even give the illusion of having more hair. The face framing can also look especially nice and soft on rounder face shapes. This hairstyle is pretty much hassle free, but dry shampoo might be a good idea for days where you want a little texture.
#34 A Modern Butterfly Bob with Warm Highlights
I like the subtle unevenness in this cut. It gives just enough edge to the chin length bob to avoid feeling predictable. The soft layers create movement in finer hair and the warm highlights soften the dimension making the entire style feel richer and more thoughtful. It will compliment round and oval face shapes and although it will take some styling to maintain its shape, the layered structure will make that process quicker than you would expect.
#35 Silver Butterfly Cut with a Crown Lift
What stands out most is the crown area volume which beautifully lifts the entire face. This is of course no accident, the crown volume is achieved through the layered cuts and how the strands of hair naturally wave. For fine to medium hair, this kind of layering is done purposely and gives the hair a fuller and more lively effect. The face framing is soft and draws focus to the eyes which is always a good thing. Some styling to keep the shape is part of the bargain but with a cut that does so much for you, it’s a small price to pay.
#36 Short Textured Butterfly Cut with a Glow of Highlights
The shorter cut frames the face bringing warmth and dimension to the style, and adds volume to fine and medium hair types. I find this type of cut to be freeing for women who have been keeping hair lengths that do not serve them. It will need regular trims to keep the style looking crisp, but shorter styles mean that mornings will be almost effortless.
#37 Curly Butterfly Cut with Playful Bounce
This sort of haircut will allow your natural curls to shine. The shoulder-length layers provide a lovely face frame, and paired with the fun and young vibe of the curls, it is an amazing combination. With medium thickness, it provides enough volume to feel substantial without being heavy and hard to control. The butterfly shape on curly hair has a bonus, it helps control frizz, while still letting the curls be free and show their full potential. A great curl product will be an absolute must with a haircut like this.
#38 Short Textured Butterfly Cut for Easy Mornings
If your main concern is, \”I want to look good without spending twenty minutes on my hair,\” then this is your style. The soft layers add movement and volume to fine to medium density hair and because it is shorter it will fall into place easily, and stay there. It compliments a number of different face shapes, can be done with barely any styling, and doesn’t look too overly done. Because this look requires frequent trims to keep the shape, if you want to add a touch of visual interest, subtle color dimension would create a really nice effect on the texture.
#39 Rich Highlighted Layers on a Flowing Butterfly Cut
The contrast is beautiful between the highlights and the soft layers. Wavy thick hair will really allow the layers to create movement and dimension to the hair that it wouldn’t have otherwise. The face framing softens and serves to balance the more angular features, especially on oval and heart-shaped faces. This style is stunning, and while it is a bit of a commitment, it will need regular upkeep to maintain definition in the layers and to keep highlights from shifting too far from where they should be. If the aim is to have this style, then it is justifiable to have the commitment.
#40 Voluminous Butterfly Cut with Beautiful Body
What I admire the most is the extension and movement this shoulder length haircut provides. The soft layers create body and promote natural curls. For medium to thick textures, the end result is full and lush. I love how the subtle highlights give dimension and are more harmonious with the base color. I really believe that with hair, less is more. This cut looks very polished and the impact along with effort is what all my clients are after.
#41 Bouncy Butterfly Layers with Soft Face Framing
The layers in this cut are blended beautifully and frame your face beautifully, especially your cheekbones. The mid-length soft curls are bouncy, which gives your hair volume and movement. This is great for fine to medium density hair as it creates fullness without the faux look. The butterfly structure style keeps everything up and makes it dynamic. You will need to style this look to maintain those curls and a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment will help, but it will be worth it for the end result.
#42 Soft Bangs on a Layered Butterfly Cut
The soft bangs tie the whole cut together. They provide just the right amount of presence to add a youthful touch to the cut without being too heavy or committal. When paired with the medium length layers, the overall effect is super light and airy. For this cut, you want fine hair with a natural wave because the layers really catch and amplify that texture. You’ll most likely want to spend a few minutes on your bangs and waves in the morning to maintain the shape and movement, but it should be an easy, quick round brush type of deal. Overall, you won’t have to spend too much time styling this look.
#43 Layered Butterfly Cut with Flattering Volume
This cut shows nice balance as all the elements in the style work together harmoniously. There is sufficient movement in the mid-length layers to create good bounce. The face framing layers are also flattering, and the highlights add richness to the hair and deepen its overall color. This style lifts fine to medium hair and is refreshing with a light feel. You may want to style it every now and then to restore some volume but this cut is the type that really does not need too much styling. If you want to change things up a bit, light woven highlights can add a more playful touch.
#44 Subtle Highlights on a Flowing Butterfly Cut
These layers have been so beautifully created so as to whisper rather than shout, ‘I’ve just had highlights done!’ They look completely natural and with the versatility the additional length just below the shoulders is ideal. The fine texture will ensure the layers move beautifully. This sort of framing is particularly oval face shapes. Fine hair may need some volumizing support to stop the layers looking flat, but the cut is low maintenance and very forgiving.
#45 Feathered Butterfly Cut with Face-Framing Bangs
Longer sections of this feather cut create great movement so those face-framing bangs add the softest most flattering touch. For finer hair, volume creating layers are placed strategically to maintain the overall length, which women appreciate as they desire fullness without going shorter. This is easy to style and maintain. It suits most face shapes. Most of the effort is low and the look remains modern soft and sophisticated. The layers are casual and refreshed every so often to keep the shape intentional. Overall, the effort is low.
#46 Defined Curls with Butterfly Layering
Those who have natural curls understand that great hairstyles can make you love your curls, and bad hairstyles can make you hate your curls and struggle with them every day. The butterfly cut allows your curls to come out while the layers manage the fullness and shape of your hair. The shoulder-length framing is nice; combined with the thickness of your hair, it makes the style even more beautiful. When it’s humid outside and your curls decide to come out and frizz, a curl defining cream will help with definition, and really bring out the texture. It’s a lively style that shows off fun texture.
#47 Soft Curls on a Butterfly Cut for Easy Texture
I appreciate the relaxed style, and I think the soft curls look nice, and the way they float right above the shoulders is so balanced, flattering, and practical. I feel like the light density adds to the airiness and the effortless look from the movement and the texture. If you are looking for something that is chic and slightly lower maintenance, I would recommend this. The curls will need to be done every so often to keep them looking nice, but honestly the maintenance is really low.
#48 Feathered Bangs on a Richly Textured Butterfly Cut
The bangs are great! They help structure the haircut and box the face in well. The hair’s length (to around the shoulders) combined with the waviness and medium density of the hair gives the cut a nice fullness. The highlights are soft and natural which provide a lot of fullness and movement to the style. I think this haircut is probably going to need a little bit more maintenance compared to a few other haircuts because the bangs and layers are going to need to be touched up more to keep everything looking sharp and fresh.
#49 Voluminous Waves on a Butterfly Cut
These soft waves are great for adding dimension to fine hair that may fall flat. With a medium length, this hairstyle remains versatile and youthful. Natural textures work best with this look, allowing curly and wavy hair to do most of the styling for you. Round and oval faces really benefit from this type of framing, as it creates interest around the face without adding width. This haircut is very structured, allowing it to look great on low effort days. Adding styling products is a great way to make the cut look more polished. A lightweight mousse should do the trick.
#50 Shoulder-Length Butterfly Cut with Subtle Front Layering
What I especially appreciate is the subtle layering around the face as it softens the jawline in a way that is almost unnoticeable, yet it makes a difference. I also love this length as it is so versatile, especially when it’s wavy and medium dense and bouncy just the way we like it. Those layers add so much dimension and movement, and this cut has that effortless look of being perfectly aligned to the hair’s natural movement. You will probably need to do a quick style to touch it up, but it really is that cut that works with you, not against you.
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