GUIDE TO WOLF CUTS

The wolf cut’s been big since 2022, and this low-maintenance, easygoing style’s a big hit as it suits all textures and (nearly) all lengths. If your hair’s chin-length or longer, you can rock a wolf cut - here’s our guide to what wolf cuts are, what to ask your hairdresser for, and how to style your wolf cut at home.

What’s a wolf cut?

A wolf cut combines elements of both a shag and a mullet, but it’s a modern cut with none of the features which date its 1980s predecessors’. It’s characterised by its voluminous layers, choppy texture, and a mix of short and long lengths. As a rule, the top and crown are cut shorter to create volume, while the layers around the sides and back are left longer. This gives the hairstyle a wild, untamed look, similar to a wolf's mane - hence the name.

Is a wolf cut different to a butterfly cut?

Yes - although both cuts have gained popularity recently and feature layering, they’ve got some differences.

The wolf cut is more edgy and textured, with a mix of short and long layers for a tousled look, whereas the butterfly cut features softer, more blended layers that frame the face and create a more toned-down look.

Will a wolf cut suit me?

To carry off a wolf cut, your hair should ideally be at least chin length. While medium to long hair is ideal for achieving a wolf cut’s wild look, even shorter hair can rock a wolf cut. The key is to work with a skilled stylist who can adapt the cut to suit your hair length and type.

Here are some guidelines for different hair lengths:

• Chin length: Your wolf cut will have less dramatic layers but can still achieve the voluminous and textured look.
• Shoulder length: This length is perfect for creating distinct layers and volume at the crown, giving the classic wolf cut appearance.
• Long hair (below the shoulders): Long hair allows for the most dramatic layers and volume, enhancing the wild, untamed look of the wolf cut.

How do I ask my stylist for a wolf cut?

Your stylist will already be familiar with wolf cuts - but there are several ways you can help them get the look right. Start by collecting pictures of wolf cuts that you like, bearing in mind that your stylist may be limited by your hair type and texture - so be mindful of their professional opinion.

If your stylist asks about the kind of features you’re looking for in your wolf cut, here are the style’s hallmarks:

• Volume at the crown: The hair at the top is often cut in short layers to create a lot of volume.
• Textured layers: The cut features choppy, textured layers throughout to give a rugged, tousled appearance.
• Blended lengths: There is a mix of shorter and longer lengths, often with the front and top being shorter and the back being longer.

If you’ve got fine hair and want a wolf cut, ask your stylist to add soft, blended layers to build volume without making your ends too wispy. You can also request texture through choppy layers, and avoid short layers at the crown, as it can make your hair look thinner.

Do I need to get a fringe if I want a wolf cut?

No, you don't need to have a fringe cut to get a wolf cut, but many people choose to incorporate one because it complements the overall style. If you choose to get a fringe, you’ll need to bear in mind your face shape and maintenance. Your stylist will be able to talk you through the best fringe for you.

The classic wolf cut fringe includes wispy or curtained fringe layers that blend seamlessly into the rest of the cut’s choppy layers, adding to the edgy, voluminous look.

How to style a wolf cut at home

Once you’re home from your hairdressing appointment, it can be daunting to try and replicate your stylist’s work in the salon. However, it’s easy to style wolf cuts at home with the right tools and tricks.

Tools you’ll need:

• A hairdryer
• A rounded brush
• A curling iron or straighteners
• Heat protectant spray
• Volumising mousse
• Texturising/thickening spray
• Hairspray

Wolf cut DIY styling method:

1. Wash your hair and wrap in a microfibre turban until it’s 80% dry. Brush it through and spritz some heat protectant spray through your lengths.
2. Run a palmful of volumising mousse evenly through your hair, focusing on the roots for added lift.
3. Use your hairdryer and a rounded brush to lift your hair at the roots, creating volume.
4. Blow dry the layers, curling them outward or inward to add shape and movement. For a more tousled look, use a curling iron or straighteners to create loose waves or curls - take random sections of hair, curl them away from your face, and alternate directions for a more natural, textured appearance.
5. Scrunch your hair with your fingers to distribute the product and create more volume.
6. Lightly spray your hair with a firm hold hairspray to keep your style in place while maintaining movement and flexibility.