You’re staring into the mirror, pulling at the ends of your long hair for the hundredth time, wondering if you really need to do something drastic.
But you don’t want to lose the length—you’ve worked for this, right? Enter the butterfly haircut for long hair—a magical mix of movement, shape, and just enough sass to make your hair look like it belongs on the cover of a ‘90s supermodel magazine (but cooler).
Now, before you start imagining an actual butterfly flapping around your bangs (don’t worry, that’s not part of it), here’s the scoop: the butterfly haircut is all about layers.
It keeps your luscious long hair intact while adding volume and face-framing goodness that flatters just about everyone. Think of it like the mullet’s elegant, much more photogenic cousin—business and party, but make it chic.
I first tried it on a whim during a “new season, new me” crisis—and wow, it turned my limp mermaid strands into bouncy waves with personality.
If you’ve ever wanted your hair to look fuller without sacrificing inches, or you just want to shake things up without commitment, the butterfly cut is your new best friend.
Stick with me, and I’ll break down everything you need to know—from what to ask your stylist to how to style it at home without needing six different curling wands. Let’s spread those wings (literally)!
1. Curled Butterfly Layers Cut
This style brings life to flat long hair with big, bouncy curls layered in butterfly fashion.
I tried it before a wedding, and let me tell you—my hair had main character energy.
It’s perfect if you love volume but want to keep your hair long and flowy.
Use a wide-barrel curling iron and light mousse to get those dreamy, soft curves.
2. Long Waves with Butterfly Layers
The wave and layer combo creates that “just stepped off the beach” vibe all year long.
This butterfly haircut for long hair gives movement without taking away too much length.
It suits oval and round faces best and adds a breezy elegance to your look.
I use a texturizing spray after braiding my damp hair overnight for heatless waves.
3. Mullet with Butterfly Layers
Yes, mullets are back—but make it butterfly, and it’s actually gorgeous.
This edgy take keeps the top shorter and layered while letting your long ends flow.
I tried it during a bold phase, and it gave my hair major shape and attitude.
Style with wax or pomade at the crown for that cool-girl volume.
4. Wispy Layers and Cheekbone-Grazing Bangs
Want something flirty but low effort? This cut delivers just that.
I loved how the bangs drew attention to my cheekbones without overwhelming my face.
This works best if you have fine hair and want a gentle, airy shape.
Use a flat iron to curve the bangs inward for that soft-focus finish.
5. Curtain Bangs and Concave Layers
Curtain bangs with concave layers give the ultimate ‘effortless chic’ look.
I’ve worn this combo to add soft definition to my face while keeping my hair voluminous.
This style works wonders for those with longer faces, as it adds width around the cheekbones.
Use a round brush when blow-drying to create that soft swoop in your bangs.
6. Soft Wavy Layers and Curtain Bangs
This laid-back, beachy vibe never goes out of style.
With soft waves and curtain bangs, your long hair gets all the attention without feeling too “done.”
It’s perfect for medium to thick hair types and anyone who loves a boho look.
I recommend using a sea salt spray and scrunching your hair for that messy yet polished finish.
7. Haircut with Flowy Layered Curls
If you love curls but want them to feel more “refined,” this layered cut is for you.
The layers add volume and movement, keeping your curls from feeling heavy or overdone.
I’ve worn this style when I needed a fancy evening look, and it always delivers.
A curl-defining cream is key to keep each curl springy and defined.
8. Long Flipped Bangs and Textured Layers
Flipped bangs paired with textured layers are a nod to retro glam but with a modern twist.
I love this style because it adds a bit of sass and personality to long, otherwise “flat” hair.
It works great for those with naturally straight or wavy hair who want a change.
To pull it off, simply curl the tips of your bangs outwards with a straightener.
9. Haircut with Multi-Level Front Layers
A multi-level front layer haircut brings dimension to your hair with layers that cascade forward.
This is ideal for long hair that needs structure but still looks super fresh and lightweight.
I used to wear this style when I wanted a haircut that framed my face without overwhelming it.
For styling, work a lightweight texturizing spray into your damp hair to add volume.
10. Long Framing Layers and Side Bangs
If you love a flattering look that’s both chic and soft, this is your go-to.
The long framing layers with side bangs create a balanced silhouette, highlighting your face in the best way.
It works wonders for those with oval or heart-shaped faces and adds a touch of mystery.
Use a flat iron to style your bangs gently, giving them a light swoop for that carefree elegance.
11. Haircut with Bangs and Shaggy Waves
This look brings together the best of both worlds—bangs and waves—with a touch of lived-in cool.
It’s the perfect style for those who want a fun, laid-back vibe without much maintenance.
I’ve rocked this look on lazy days when I want to look put together with minimal effort.
For the shaggy waves, use a curling iron with a loose barrel and tousle them with your fingers.
12. Hairstyle with Bouncy Flipped-Out Layers
Flipped-out layers add movement to your long hair, while the bouncy effect keeps things fresh and lively.
This cut works wonders for anyone with straight hair looking to add volume and a playful twist.
I love using this style when I need to go from day to night with minimal effort.
A little bit of root lift spray can make all the difference in getting that perfect flip.
13. Long Side-Swept Cut with Front Layers
A side-swept look with front layers creates a soft, romantic vibe with tons of movement.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants to add volume to long hair while keeping things natural.
I wore this style for a photoshoot, and it made my hair look effortlessly glamorous.
Use a large-barrel curling iron to add loose curls, then flip the hair to one side for a relaxed, voluminous finish.
14. Medium Cut with Big Layered Curls
This one’s for those who want big, bouncy curls without all the weight of long hair.
It’s ideal for anyone who loves the fullness of curls but doesn’t want to deal with excessive length.
I opted for this when I wanted a style that had volume but was still easier to manage.
Try using a curling mousse before blow-drying, followed by a light-hold hairspray to keep the curls intact.
15. Classic Butterfly Cut with Layers
The classic butterfly cut with layers brings a timeless vibe to long hair with layers that lift and frame the face.
I love this cut because it adds movement and volume without sacrificing length.
It’s ideal for those who want fullness around the face without going too short.
For styling, try using a round brush and blow dryer for that soft, layered finish.
16. Layered Butterfly Haircut for Long Hair
If you love layers but want to keep the length, this layered butterfly cut is a game-changer.
This haircut keeps things light while offering volume and texture throughout.
I wore this when I wanted to enhance my hair’s natural texture without the heaviness of too many layers.
A leave-in conditioner can help define the layers and keep them soft and bouncy.
17. Voluminous Butterfly Cut with Loose Waves
A voluminous butterfly cut paired with loose waves is the ultimate combination for an effortlessly chic look.
This style adds body and texture without making your hair feel too weighed down.
It’s perfect for anyone who loves full, bouncy hair but wants something a bit more relaxed.
I recommend using a texturizing mousse and then curling the ends with a flat iron for a looser, wave-like effect.
18. Butterfly Shag for Long Hair
The butterfly shag is all about rocking that rockstar vibe with choppy layers and natural texture.
This style works best if you want something edgy but still soft and wearable.
I tried this when I needed a change and instantly fell in love with the tousled, lived-in look.
A bit of sea salt spray will give you that perfect, messy texture.
19. Curled Butterfly Cut
For those who love curls but don’t want the typical curl pattern, the curled butterfly cut is your answer.
This cut gives your long hair natural, soft curls with layers that add dimension.
I’ve rocked this look for a few special events, and it always gets compliments.
A curling wand with a 1-inch barrel will help create the loose curls you need for this style.
20. Layered Butterfly Cut with Side Bangs
Add a bit of drama to your butterfly haircut by incorporating side bangs that softly blend into the layers.
I tried this cut when I wanted to add a little more edge to my look without a full fringe.
It works best for those with medium to thick hair and a heart-shaped face.
For styling, a flat iron works wonders to give your bangs a subtle curve and soft texture.
21. Modern Butterfly Cut with Curly Ends
The modern butterfly cut with curly ends is perfect for those who love to mix classic and contemporary.
The layers in this cut help create soft volume, while the curly ends give your hair a fun, whimsical touch.
I’ve worn this style when I want something playful yet sophisticated.
A curl cream or mousse can help bring out the curls without weighing your hair down.
22. Textured Butterfly Cut for Long Hair
For long hair that needs texture but still looks polished, this butterfly cut delivers.
This style adds layers that enhance the natural texture of your hair, giving it movement and life.
I love this cut for everyday wear because it feels so effortless but still put together.
Use a texturizing spray or sea salt spray for that perfectly tousled, beachy vibe.
23. Long Butterfly Cut with Feathered Layers
The long butterfly cut with feathered layers is all about soft, feathery texture that moves with you.
This cut adds dimension while keeping the length intact, making it ideal for those who love their long hair.
I’ve worn this style when I want volume but also something that feels light and airy.
To style, I recommend a wide-toothed comb for effortless separation of the feathered layers.
24. Layered Butterfly Cut with Face-Framing Highlights
If you want a butterfly haircut with a little extra pop, try adding face-framing highlights to your layers.
The highlights bring attention to the layers, giving your face an instant glow-up.
I’ve had this style a couple of times, and I love how it brightens up my complexion.
Styling is easy—just let your hair air-dry and let the highlights shine through naturally.
25. Soft, Flowing Butterfly Layers
Soft, flowing butterfly layers are perfect for those who want a natural, lightweight style that’s still full of movement.
This cut works for everyone, from fine hair to thick locks, and it never feels too heavy.
I love this style for its effortless elegance, especially on days when I want something low-maintenance.
A light mousse or styling gel can help bring out the layers without weighing them down.
26. Butterfly Cut with Beach Waves
Add a little bit of coastal charm to your butterfly cut with beach waves that scream “vacation vibes.”
This style is perfect if you want something effortless yet stylish, with waves that add volume and texture.
I’ve worn this look when I want to look put-together without spending hours on my hair.
A salt spray and a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer will give you those loose, beachy waves.
27. Classic Long Butterfly Cut with Soft Waves
The classic long butterfly cut with soft waves is a dreamy, timeless look that works for any occasion.
It gives long hair body and volume without feeling too bulky or heavy.
I love how it creates a smooth flow while still offering texture and movement.
To achieve this look, use a curling iron with a larger barrel for relaxed waves.
28. Textured Long Butterfly Layers
Textured long butterfly layers are perfect for adding that “lived-in” feel to your hair while keeping things fresh.
This style gives your long hair tons of texture and volume, with layers that flow beautifully.
I love how these layers frame the face and give you that effortlessly chic look.
A little mousse or styling cream can enhance the texture and keep the layers from falling flat.
29. Long Butterfly Cut with Subtle Curls
A long butterfly cut with subtle curls is all about a polished yet bouncy look, perfect for any occasion.
This style adds softness and volume without being too “done-up.”
I wore this style when I needed something sleek but still with that playful, bouncy feel.
To keep the curls looking soft and natural, use a curling wand with a larger barrel and hold it for just a few seconds.
For hair that needs more volume without being too much, the voluminous butterfly cut with layered ends is perfect.
This cut adds fullness to your long hair and gives the ends a beautiful textured finish.
I tried this style when I wanted to add some drama to my usual long locks without going too short.
A root-lifting spray and a blow dryer with a round brush will help you achieve that voluminous, full-bodied look.
31. Curly Ends Butterfly Haircut for Long Hair
Curly ends paired with a butterfly cut create a beautiful, soft, and playful vibe.
This style works wonders for adding texture to your hair while maintaining long, beautiful length.
I experimented with this style and loved the way the curly ends gave my hair a bouncy, joyful finish.
Use a curling wand to curl the ends and scrunch them lightly to create a naturally curly look.
32. Layered Butterfly Haircut with Tousled Look
If you love that “just rolled out of bed” look but still want something polished, this layered butterfly haircut is perfect.
The tousled look gives you volume and texture while looking effortlessly chic.
I’ve worn this when I wanted my hair to look fuller without too much styling effort.
A light texturizing spray will add definition and hold the tousled waves in place all day.
33. Sleek Butterfly Cut for Long Hair
The sleek butterfly cut gives you a sophisticated, polished appearance with minimal effort.
This style is ideal for anyone who loves the butterfly cut but wants a more refined, sleek finish.
I wore this style to a formal event, and it made my hair look smooth and shiny without being too flat.
To keep it sleek, use a serum or smoothing cream and a straightener for that glossy, straight look.
34. Shaggy Butterfly Cut with Subtle Waves
For an effortlessly cool, rock-and-roll vibe, the shaggy butterfly cut with subtle waves has you covered.
This style combines layers with soft waves, creating texture and volume in all the right places.
I’ve rocked this look for a casual weekend hangout, and it never fails to feel laid-back and stylish.
Use a texturizing paste to give your hair that perfect, tousled wave.
35. Luxe Butterfly Haircut with Body
The luxe butterfly haircut with body is all about achieving a glamorous, voluminous look without sacrificing movement.
This style works best for those with thick hair who want to create a polished, luxurious feel.
I’ve tried this style for a night out, and it definitely gives that “I woke up like this” perfection.
To achieve the body, use a volumizing spray and blow-dry with a large round brush for ultimate fullness.
36. Butterfly Cut with Slight Feathering
Slight feathering in a butterfly cut gives your hair a soft, airy movement that feels effortless yet chic.
This cut creates a beautiful, subtle texture that makes your hair look light and full.
I loved wearing this style when I needed something soft but structured for my busy work week.
Feather the ends lightly with a flat iron to get that soft, feathered look.
37. Loose Layered Butterfly Haircut
For a laid-back, flowing look, try the loose layered butterfly haircut that adds a soft, natural shape to long hair.
This style lets you embrace your hair’s natural texture while keeping things fresh with gentle layers.
I’ve worn this style when I wanted something low-maintenance but still polished enough for work.
Add a lightweight styling cream to enhance the natural waves and layers for a seamless look.
38. Long Butterfly Layers with Curled Tips
The long butterfly layers with curled tips bring a soft, romantic feel to your hair while keeping it fresh and trendy.
This cut is perfect for those who want long hair with a little more personality and flair.
I love how the curled tips give your hair a soft, feminine edge without overwhelming the natural flow.
Use a curling wand to create soft, curled tips and let the rest of your hair flow naturally.
39. Feathered Ends with Butterfly Cut
Feathered ends paired with a butterfly cut add a breezy, airy feel to your long locks, perfect for a relaxed yet polished look.
This style works best if you want a more voluminous cut without too much bulk.
I wore this look when I wanted something soft yet structured and loved how light and bouncy my hair felt.
Use a feather-cutting technique or a razor to give your ends that soft, airy texture.
40. Sculpted Butterfly Haircut for Long Hair
If you want a more defined, sculpted look with your long hair, this butterfly haircut is the way to go.
The sculpting adds sharp layers and movement while keeping the hair voluminous and full of life.
I’ve tried this style for a more dramatic effect and loved the structure it brought to my face shape.
To style, use a styling gel or mousse to define each layer and enhance the sculpted look.
Curious about more face-flattering cuts? Browse our layered haircuts for long hair for more inspiration!
