What Is a Wolf Cut?

Your hair is your statement piece. It’s one of the first things people notice about you and one of the quickest ways to change your look. So why not make it a big statement that perfectly captures your unique personality? For many, this translates to a new vivid hair color or a statement cut, especially something like the wolf cut that’s grabbing attention everywhere.

When doing that, some people like to avoid following a trend, but with the right stylist, you can stay on trend and still express your individuality, especially with a cut that suits your specific hair type, whether that’s curly, wavy, or straight.

Enter the wolf cut. It’s one of the trendiest haircuts right now, thanks to icons like Miley Cyrus and Billie Eilish, but does that mean you should jump on the bandwagon?

Let’s dive in: What is a wolf cut, is it right for your look, and how can you maintain it?

The Wolf Cut Explained

Let’s start with a basic explanation of a wolf cut.

Sometimes called a shag cut, a wolf cut is a modern take on the ‘70s shag look combined with an ‘80s mullet—yes, a mullet. This style is all about the layers, with shorter layers in the front and at the top of your head and longer lengths in the back. The result? A slightly messy and textured look that adds volume to your hair and works beautifully across different face shapes.

This cut is meant to look a little wild and untamed—hence the name. If you’re after that “just rolled out of bed and quickly tousled my hair” look, without any of the work, the wolf cut has your name on it.

Who Can Rock a Wolf Cut?

The wolf cut is for anyone who loves an edgy look—it’s got that rock-and-roll vibe built in. When you’ve chosen the right hair stylist, they can tailor the layers to suit your features, hair type, and texture. Curly hair and wavy hair, in particular, bring out the cut’s unique shape, adding a “natural wild” look.

If you have fine hair, the layers at the top of your head in a wolf cut will boost your hair’s volume, making it appear fuller and more dynamic. This style works equally well on short hair, long hair, and in various wolf cut styles. Shorter hair will appear choppier, especially at the top, so be sure to talk to your stylist to decide if this style fits your vision.

The wolf cut is also gender-neutral and versatile enough to work on many hair types—whether wavy, straight, or curly. And for curly hair, the wolf cut can emphasize your natural texture beautifully. While most people go with bangs, it’s not required. Curtain bangs, for example, give a softer look to the wolf cut, even creating the appearance of no bangs at all.

Remember, your haircut is all about expressing yourself, so if you’re looking for less drastic layers or a subtler mullet, share your preferences with your stylist. Show them reference pictures for inspiration, and don’t be afraid to ask questions!

In the end, the wolf cut is designed to look a bit messy, so if you’re into tightly styled hair, this might not be the cut for you.

How the Wolf Cut Works with Curly Hair

If you have curly hair, the wolf cut brings out a bold, natural shape that complements your texture. Inspired by the layered look of a ‘70s shag and the edge of an ‘80s mullet, the wolf cut’s shorter layers help lift your curls, giving your hair more volume at the crown. This haircut enhances the “natural wild” aesthetic, especially for those with a curly or wavy texture, as it works with your hair’s flow rather than against it.

For curly wolf cuts, adding curtain bangs can add structure around your face, while the shorter layers throughout the top keep the look light, bouncy, and fun. Many love how this cut frames the face, accentuating cheekbones and creating a beautifully balanced silhouette. And because the layers let your curls stand out, styling becomes easier—just add a leave-in conditioner or anti-frizz product for a hydrated, effortless look.

How to Style and Maintain Your Wolf Cut

Here’s the best part: the wolf cut is meant to look effortless. With the right haircut, you’ll have a great hair day every day.

For those with curly and wavy hair, stick with your standard routine, using your favorite anti-frizz product to keep curls hydrated and smooth. If you have straighter or fine hair, creating the wolf cut’s textured look might take a little more styling. You’ll need tools like a curling iron or texturizing spray to define the layers.

Always use a heat protectant to guard against damage, especially since the layers make your ends more noticeable. Either way, the beauty of the wolf cut is that it requires minimal styling—just a slight tousle, and you’re ready to go. This cut is supposed to look a little messy, so don’t stress over perfection.

Other Trending Haircuts We Love

The wolf cut isn’t the only haircut that’s popular right now. If you’re not sold on the wolf cut yet, check out these other styles we love:

Butterfly CutThis cut features shorter, face-framing layers at the top to boost volume and movement, resulting in a soft, delicate look.

Rounder Curly CutFor curly hair, a rounded cut lets curls appear fuller and more uniform, with a shape that suits various curl types and hair lengths.

Variations on the BobThe bob has evolved—whether it’s wavy, sharp, or shaggy, there’s a bob style for every preference. If you’re ready to try a shorter look, explore the many ways to personalize the bob cut.

Get Your Best Hair from Studio 312 Salon

Your hair is more than just something that grows out of your head; it’s an expression of who you are. At Studio 312 Salon in Oviedo, we’re here to help you find your signature look. Book a consultation with one of our expert stylists to talk about the wolf cut or any other hairstyle you’re considering, and we’ll make sure you walk out feeling like your best self.