Bold, tousled, and with a light “airy” texture in the right places, it's no wonder stars like Miley Cyrus, Suki Waterhouse, Jenna Ortega, and Cara Delevingne are choosing the wolf cut.
“The wolf cut is a combination of character and softness,” says celebrity hairstylist Charlotte Mensah. This cut combines the best of the shag and mullet, creating a hybrid style that's both modern and easy to wear. “The layers that frame the face and blend into each other create a textured finish. The hair looks relaxed, not overly done, and falls with a deliberate carelessness,” she adds.
View this post on Instagram
What is wolf cut?
A modern mix of the '70s shag and the '80s mullet, the wolf cut features “lots of choppy, textured layers that add movement, volume, and that effortless cool that celebrities love,” explains hairstylist and salon founder Larry King. It's a style that can be sassy, elegant, and a little sloppy all at once.
“The silhouette is slightly elongated, with sharp angles and more height at the top, creating a sculpted and lifted effect rather than a soft rounded volume,” adds Nata Bamford of Hershesons Belgravia. The cut works beautifully on lob lengths, as well as medium to long hair.
It is universal, but at the same time quite expressive and bold. So before you decide, you should weigh everything carefully.
Advertising.
View this post on Instagram
What length is ideal for a wolf cut?
According to hairstylist Sam McKnight, the wolf cut can be adapted to almost any length, although the most popular option is one that reaches the collarbone. Larry King agrees: “Longer wolf cuts that barely touch the collarbone or fall below look luxurious, especially when styled in soft waves.”
View this post on Instagram
Is the wolf cut suitable for any hair texture?
The short answer is yes. But the stylist should consider the texture of the hair before cutting it. “The perfect wolf cut depends on both the texture and density of the hair,” says McKnight. Hair with a natural texture (wavy or curly) is especially well-suited for this shape, as it requires less time to style. Often, all it takes is “wash, condition, and go.”
View this post on Instagram
For curly hair, it's important to cut with your natural curl in mind, so that the layers accentuate the shape rather than create extra volume, Mensa adds. If you like the look but aren't ready for a drastic change, a wolf cut can be recreated with wigs or hairpieces—a great way to experiment with bangs, layers, and shape.
Mensah and King also note that the wolf cut is especially flattering for straight hair, as the style has a slightly tousled and natural look. Regardless of the texture, the key is to have healthy hair. “Know your texture and work with it, not against it,” King concludes.
Based on material from: Vogue.co.uk