Alright, let’s talk about one of the hottest hair trends sweeping the beauty world: butterfly bangs.

It’s like the cool, effortlessly chic cousin of the classic layered look, and it’s giving us all the nostalgic feels. But don’t worry, this cut isn’t demanding you chop off your hair in a dramatic “let’s reinvent ourselves post-breakup” kind of way.

Nope, the butterfly cut says, “Let’s switch it up, no scissors panic required.” Unless, of course, you’re feeling bold.

butterfly bangs — Image Source: Pinterest

If you’ve been on TikTok lately (and let’s be real, who hasn’t fallen down that 2 a.m. rabbit hole?), you’ve probably scrolled past countless butterfly cut tutorials.

Why all the hype? Well, this style is basically a love letter to the ’90s. Picture Jennifer Aniston’s iconic “The Rachel” layers mixed with Pamela Anderson’s voluminous, bombshell updos. It’s like the hair gods got nostalgic and decided to give us the best of both worlds.

Remember begging your stylist to make your hair look like the cover of a teen magazine? Only to walk out looking… not quite like Britney Spears? Yeah, I’ve been there.

Thankfully, the butterfly cut has evolved. Celebs like Matilda Djerf, Sabrina Carpenter, and even Princess Kate are rocking it, proving it’s not just a trend but the look.

Why is it called Butterfly bangs?

Why’s it called the butterfly cut, you ask? Because it flutters beautifully between two lengths, framing your face while adding layers and volume.

The butterfly cut isn’t just a catchy name; it’s a perfect metaphor for what this haircut represents. Imagine the graceful flutter of butterfly wings, soft, light, and full of movement. That’s exactly what this hairstyle delivers.

The layered structure mimics the delicate layers of a butterfly’s wings, creating a look that’s both airy and dynamic.

But the name isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s also about transformation. Much like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon, this haircut offers the ability to change your look with a simple adjustment.

The top layers are shorter and feathery, while the bottom layers remain longer. Pin the longer sections up, and you’ve got the illusion of a short haircut, no scissors required. It’s the hair equivalent of a metamorphosis, giving you the freedom to shift between styles effortlessly.

Sunnie Brook, the stylist who coined the term, saw this transformative power as a key feature. “It’s two haircuts in one,” she explained, making it the ideal choice for anyone craving variety without commitment.

The layers are crafted to flutter around your face, adding softness and dimension, much like the graceful movements of a butterfly in flight.

Why You should try butterfly bangs

It’s perfect if you’re torn between keeping your long hair or diving headfirst into a bob. Plus, the bangs, dubbed “butterfly bangs” are the cherry on top, softening your face and adding that effortless “I woke up like this” vibe.

Whether you’ve got straight hair or waves for days, the butterfly cut gives your hair movement and texture without being high maintenance. And let’s be honest, we love a hairstyle that’s as lazy-girl-friendly as it is glam.

The butterfly cut is all about giving you two looks in one. Long in the back for those who love length and shorter in the front for that chic, bob-like flair. Here’s the kicker: toss the back into a ponytail, and voilà, instant faux bob magic! Talk about hair sorcery.

But why is everyone obsessed? Because it’s a sleek, low-maintenance style that screams volume at the roots and movement throughout.

Whether your hair is long, medium, or somewhere in between, this cut works like a charm. By eliminating weight, the shorter strands dance with volume, giving you that coveted butterfly effect, fluttery, fresh, and oh-so-fabulous.

Is this a DIY Hairstyle?

Now, here’s the million-dollar question: Can you DIY this cut? Technically, yes, with the “ponytail method.”

It’s best suited for curly or wavy hair, where little slip-ups aren’t as glaring.

However, let’s be real. A DIY attempt could quickly veer into “Oops, I live in a hat now” territory. The pros know how to tailor the cut to your face shape and hair type, ensuring you don’t end up looking like a shaggy dog.

How to style butterfly bangs at home

Styling your butterfly cut at home might sound intimidating, especially with its signature side-swept bangs and voluminous waves, but fear not! With the right tools and tips, you can nail the look without running to the salon every other day.

First things first: the basics of drying. Start with a wide, cylindrical brush, your new best friend for this cut. The goal is to smooth the top layers without flattening them.

Work the brush and a hairdryer together to shape those iconic side bangs and create soft, swooping waves at the ends. Feeling too vintage? Just comb through the waves to tone them down a notch.

If you’re aiming for Kate Middleton-level perfection, you’ll need to step it up a bit. Pre-drying your hair to remove excess moisture before introducing a curling iron into the mix. The curling iron will help you craft those polished, bouncy waves that scream elegance.

How to style according to your hair type

One of the best things about the butterfly cut is how beautifully it adapts to different hair textures. Whether you’ve got straight hair, wavy tresses, or a crown of curls, this style works its magic, offering a universally flattering and transformative look.

According to Sunnie Brook, the butterfly cut is ideal for hair types with medium to thick density, regardless of texture. “It’s a fun, almost optical illusion,” Brook said, explaining how the layered structure creates the appearance of a dramatic change without the commitment of a major chop.

If you have wavy or curly hair, Brook recommends cutting it dry to ensure the top layer lands at the perfect length.

We’ve all had that moment where wet hair looks one way, then shrinks up post-cut. Dry cutting avoids this, letting the curls settle naturally so the shorter layers don’t end up looking like an accidental DIY hack.

For those with pin-straight hair, add wispy, Pamela Anderson-inspired bangs. These soft bangs not only complement the layered cut but also add a touch of movement and playfulness, ensuring the style feels dynamic rather than flat.

The butterfly cut isn’t just a hairstyle; it’s a customizable canvas for self-expression. No matter your texture, it can be tailored to suit your vibe, ensuring you flutter into your best hair era yet.

Here are some style inspo for you.