If you’re familiar with celebrity hairstyles, you’re probably already familiar with the wolf cut. Considered this season’s “cool girl” cut, this style has adorned the heads of Billie Eilish and Miley Cyrus alike, and is hailed as the ultimate trim for waves and curly textures. Looking for a hairstyle that’s messier than a choppy bob, but still maintains an effortless finish? Stop searching.
“The wolf cut is a haircut that epitomizes ’70s style,” says Monica Liz, curly hair specialist at The Loch Salon. “Think of Joan Jett. Much softer and more palatable than a mullet, but with just as much edge.”
The style is covetable, to say the least (there are 180,600 videos about this cut on TikTok alone), but its cut layers, short hair, and required styling time ( (will be explained later), the wolf cut is also a bit of an obsession. So we asked an expert hairstylist for advice, including tips on how to cut with heat and how to style your cut without heat. Needless to say, we have all the references you need.
What is a wolf cut?
The first thing to know about the wolf cut is that it is a multi-layered stye. There are many variations on the look, but it’s definitely an edgy look with vintage finesse. Not sure if a furry ‘do will work for you? First, we recommend checking out the celebrities who are cooperating with this trend.
“It’s perfect for round or heart-shaped faces as the layers add height and balance,” says Hair & Bone director Sam Barnett. “It’s easy to put on and take off if you have an oval face. The choppy layers break up noticeable angles, so they’re also good for softening square or elongated face shapes. Eilish and Cyrus is a notable example of this, really embracing the rebellious, textured look, with Doja Cat and Debby Ryan also playing with versions of it, showing just how adaptable the wolf cut can be to different moods and face shapes. We have proven that.”
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How to cut a wolf cut
On a certain level, the wolf cut blends elements of vintage shag and edgy mallet. “Start by introducing textured layers, focusing on adding volume at the crown, then add choppy layers through the mid-lengths and ends,” explains Barnett. “The key is to make sure it’s easy to restore with enough polish.”
Celebrity hairstylist and GHD ambassador Patrick Wilson added: “Cut bangs also look great with this style.” I often use a razor to add life and softness to my haircuts. ”
How to style a wolf cut
no fever
As mentioned earlier, the wolf cut is best suited to hair types with natural movement, so if you have curls or waves, it’s one of the few layered cuts that don’t require a lot of styling time.
“Generally speaking, the wolf cut is a looser style, so it’s suitable for curly or wavy textures. That said, if you’re prepared to use a lot of product, it’s suitable for everyone. There are versions,” says Liz. For a wavy texture, apply a product like Aveda’s Be Curly Curly Enhancer to wet hair (either diffused or air-dried), which will give your hair a little bit more tousle and improve its shape. Alternatively, use Aveda’s Texture Tonic for a sea salt-like finish that’s perfect for working with all hair textures. ”
Her professional tips? “Reference photos are important during your consultation. Always look for an amputation specialist.”
Using a straightener
If your hair texture is naturally straight or you want a little bit of subtlety, a small curling iron is our personal tool of choice.
“Because the wolf cut has a lot of short layers, it’s easier to precisely sculpt the hair using a tool like the GHD Mini,” says Wilson. “If your hair has movement or natural waves, I love playing with the shape and natural texture with my fingers while using the diffuser attachment.”
best wolf cut hair inspiration
curly wolf cut
This curly hairstyle is also known as the “mane cut” because of its flattering, face-framing shape. Perfect for voluminous waves or fine ringlets, this style is paired with a glossy curl cream for definition and shine.
short wolf cut
This shoulder-length trim is an edgy alternative to the French bob. It’s textured and choppy, but still maintains the effortless movement that accompanies the cut. We recommend pairing with curtain bangs for the ultimate framed finish.
medium wolf cut
People with straight hair can also benefit from this crisp styling. To add contour to unruly edges, simply invest in a small straightening iron.
long wolf cut
If you’re looking for a way to keep your hair long without weighing it down, the wolf cut also works in trailing lengths. Take a look at Yellow Jackets star Sophie Thatcher’s signature style.
blonde wolf cut
Another benefit of the wolf cut is that it looks perfect when paired with bold, statement colors. This platinum blonde trim is a prime example.
soft wolf cut
If you’re not ready to fully commit to the ’70s hair fantasy, try asking for a softer, less layered version of the wolf cut.
wolf cut with fringe
While we can always embrace a statement fringe, we agree that it looks best paired with layered, textured styles like this one.
curly wolf cut with fringe
Complete your curly wolf cut with an eye-catching short fringe. As Wilson suggests, ask for a razor finish for the ultimate life-like softness.
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