Wolf Cut vs. Butterfly Cut: What’s the Difference?

These styles are not just about making a fashion statement; they’re about expressing personality, individuality, and sometimes even rebellion.

The Wolf Cut, with its edgy, wild, and free-spirited vibe, is nothing short of a revolution in the hair world. It’s a hybrid of two iconic hairstyles – the mullet and the shag, combining the best of both worlds. This hairstyle has been embraced by celebrities and trendsetters alike and has an undeniable rock ‘n’ roll vibe to it. It’s not just a haircut; it’s an attitude, a statement, a bold declaration of ‘I am who I am.’

On the other hand, the Butterfly Cut, a classic style that’s been fluttering back into fashion recently, is all about elegance, grace, and femininity. It’s characterized by layers that mimic the wings of a butterfly and bring a sense of lightness and movement to the hair. The Butterfly Cut is a celebration of softness and sophistication, a nod to the timeless beauty of nature, and a way to add a touch of whimsy to your look.

Let’s delve deeper into the Wolf and Butterfly cut and help you decide which one suits your style and personality.

The Wolf Cut

The Wolf Cut is characterized by a voluminous crown, longer layers at the back (a nod to the mullet), and a feathered, shaggy look around the face. It’s all about texture, movement, and a certain kind of rebellious charm that defies conventional beauty norms.

The Wolf Cut can be tailored to suit your individual style. You can go for a subtle version with softer layers, or a bold one with a more pronounced mullet aspect. It can also be adapted for different hair lengths, from short pixies to longer lobs.

The Wolf Cut traces its origins back to the rock ‘n’ roll era of the ’70s, blending the shaggy hairdos of rock stars with the infamous mullet. However, its recent resurgence is credited to the trendsetting Gen Z, who have breathed new life into this retro style. Celebrities like Miley Cyrus and Billie Eilish have donned the Wolf Cut, adding their unique spin to it and proving that this cut is far from outdated.

This is a versatile hairstyle that works well with most hair types, from straight to wavy to curly. The key is in the layers and texture, which give this cut its distinctive wild appearance. As for face shapes, it’s particularly flattering on oval and heart-shaped faces, but with the right styling, it can be adapted to suit other face shapes too.

To achieve the Wolf Cut, you’ll need a skilled stylist who understands layering and texturing techniques. It’s all about creating a balance between the shorter, voluminous top and the longer, shaggier back. 

If you want to maintain the look, invest in volumizing products and texture sprays. Regular trims are also essential to keep the layers defined and the mullet aspect in check. 

The Butterfly Cut

The Butterfly Cut is characterized by layered hair that’s cut in such a way that it mimics the delicate, fluttering wings of a butterfly. The layers are usually concentrated around the face, creating a framing effect, while the back is left longer and flowing.

While the classic Butterfly Cut features soft, wavy layers, there are numerous variations to suit individual preferences. You can opt for more defined, choppy layers for a modern twist, or keep the layers long and subtle for a more traditional look. The Butterfly Cut also works beautifully with a range of hair lengths, from shoulder-length to long locks.

The Butterfly Cut has been around for a while, but it’s recently seen a resurgence in popularity thanks to its feminine charm and versatility. It’s a timeless style that transcends trends, making it a favorite among those who prefer a more classic look.

Now, this cut is suitable for most hair types, but it particularly shines on medium to thick hair with a bit of natural wave or curl. The layers help to add movement and reduce bulk, making this cut a great option for those with heavier hair. In terms of face shapes, the Butterfly Cut is universally flattering. The face-framing layers can be customized to highlight your best features, making this cut adaptable to any face shape.

Achieving the Butterfly Cut requires a stylist with a good understanding of layering techniques. The goal is to create layers that flow seamlessly into each other, like the wings of a butterfly. 

To maintain the Butterfly Cut, regular trims are essential to keep the layers looking fresh and defined. For styling, use a curl-defining cream or mousse to enhance your natural texture and a lightweight hairspray to add movement and hold. 

Key Differences Between Wolf Cut and Butterfly Cut

When it comes to length and layering, the Wolf Cut and Butterfly Cut offer two distinct approaches. The Wolf Cut typically features a shorter, more voluminous crown with longer, shaggier layers at the back. It’s all about creating a wild, rebellious look. On the other hand, the Butterfly Cut focuses on soft, flowing layers that frame the face and cascade down the back, like the wings of a butterfly. The length is usually medium to long, with a more elegant and sophisticated vibe.

In terms of volume and texture, the Wolf Cut is designed to maximize both. It embraces natural texture and movement, with an emphasis on a voluminous, shaggy look. The Butterfly Cut, meanwhile, is all about creating softness and movement. The layers are designed to reduce bulk and add a sense of lightness and flow to the hair.

Maintenance-wise, both styles require regular trims to keep the layers looking their best. However, the Wolf Cut may require a bit more styling effort to maintain the volume and texture, particularly for those with straighter hair types. The Butterfly Cut is slightly more low-maintenance, especially for those with natural waves or curls, as the style works with your hair’s natural texture.

As for versatility, both cuts offer a range of styling options, from updos to braids to letting your hair flow naturally. However, the Wolf Cut lends itself more towards edgier styles, while the Butterfly Cut is more suited to classic, feminine looks.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re drawn to the wild and edgy appeal of the Wolf Cut or the elegant and graceful lines of the Butterfly Cut, both hairstyles offer unique ways to express your personality and style. The Wolf Cut, with its rebellious vibe and rock ‘n’ roll roots, suits those who love to stand out and embrace texture and volume. On the other hand, the Butterfly Cut offers a timeless appeal with its soft, flowing layers that mimic the gentle wings of a butterfly, perfect for those seeking a sophisticated look.
If you’re in New Jersey and looking to transform your hairstyle with either the Wolf Cut or the Butterfly Cut, consider visiting Artists and Architects Salon. Our skilled stylists are experts in both of these cuts and can customize them to fit your unique style and preferences.