It’s Gen Z's answer to the mullet and we’re obsessed
The Wolf Cut is undeniably one of TikTok's hottest hair trends. It may be doing the rounds on your FYP again, but this choppy crop was the cut to watch in May 2021 and has skyrocketed in popularity with billions (yes BILLIONS) of views. It’s the mullet’s chicer sister, and we are absolutely obsessed. This hairstyle perfectly marries the edgy and effortless, blending the '70s shag and '80s mullet into a look that screams volume, texture, and wild, untamed vibes.
Born in South Korea and popularized through social media, the Wolf Cut quickly became the go-to style for anyone looking to embrace a bold, unconventional look. It’s all about layers, volume, and a tousled finish that looks both natural and stylish. With celebrities like Miley Cyrus and Billie Eilish donning this style for some time now, it’s no wonder it has taken the world by storm.
But achieving the ultimate Wolf Cut look isn't just about the cut itself—it’s all about the styling. If you're flaunting long, flowing waves or sharp, fierce short layers, styling is super important in making this look your own. We’re here to help you transform your Wolf Cut into an IT-girl style statement. From prepping your hair to exploring different styling techniques, we’ve got you covered for your wolf-girl era. Ready to unleash your inner wild child? Let’s find out how to be THAT girl.
Why the Wolf Cut is back
Alright, girlie, let's talk Wolf Cuts! This wild, rebellious hairstyle originated in South Korea, as we said, and became a sensation on social media, demanding some serious attention. Ever since this edgy, layered look burst onto the scene, it has been an unstoppable force that just keeps coming back. Seriously, you can’t scroll through Insta without spotting at least a dozen cool girls rocking this style. From Renée Rapp to Zendaya, the Wolf Cut has found its way onto the heads of our favorite celebs, and it’s making us super envious.
So, what’s the big deal? Why is the Wolf Cut still dominating the hair scene? It's simple: this style is the perfect blend of glam and grunge. Imagine the best parts of the '70s shag and '80s mullet coming together, and you get the Wolf Cut. It's all about layers, volume, and that effortlessly tousled vibe that says, "I woke up like this, and I’m fabulous."
But here’s the kicker—the Wolf Cut became a global sensation thanks to good old TikTok. During quarantine, we were all looking for ways to mix things up, and the DIY Wolf Cut was just the ticket. Easy to achieve at home and oh-so-satisfying to watch, it became the go-to hairstyle for those of us daring enough to pick up the scissors. With millions of views and countless tutorials, this post-quarantine trend made the leap from South Korean salons to living rooms around the world.
Plus, the Wolf Cut is super versatile. Whether you're rocking long, beachy waves or going bold with short, sharp layers, there's a Wolf Cut for everyone. It’s not just a haircut—it’s a whole new vibe. It’s messy but chic, wild but put-together. Basically, it’s everything we want in a hairstyle.
But the secret to making this look truly yours? It’s all in the styling, babe. Stick with us, and we’ll show you how to turn your Wolf Cut into the IT-girl look you’re lusting after. Now—you’ve gotta prep!
Prepping your hair for the Wolf Cut
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of styling, we’ve got to get your hair prepped. Just like any great work of art, your Wolf Cut needs a solid foundation. Prepping your hair the right way will make all the difference in how your style turns out. Here’s what you need to do to get your hair ready for some serious styling action:
- Cleanse and condition: Start with a good shampoo and conditioner combo. Since the Wolf Cut is all about volume and texture, opt for products that enhance these qualities. Look for volumizing shampoos and lightweight conditioners that won’t weigh your hair down.
- Towel dry gently: Once you’re out of the shower, gently towel dry your hair. Avoid rough towel drying, which can lead to frizz and breakage. Instead, use a microfiber towel or an old T-shirt to gently squeeze out excess water.
- Apply a heat protectant: If you’re planning to use heat tools, always start with a heat protectant—it’s the MVP of any hair game. This step is important for keeping your hair healthy and shiny. Spray or apply a heat protectant evenly through your damp hair to shield it from damage.
- Detangle with care: Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to gently work through any knots. Start from the ends and work your way up to avoid unnecessary breakage.
- Add some volume: To really nail that voluminous Wolf Cut look, work in a volumizing mousse or a root lift spray at this stage. Apply it at the roots and through the lengths of your hair for added body and bounce.
- Air dry or blow dry: Depending on the final look you’re going for, you can either let your hair air dry for a more natural, tousled finish or blow dry it using a round brush for added volume and smoothness. If you’re blow drying, flip your head upside down for extra lift at the roots.
With your hair prepped and ready, you’re all set for the fun part—styling! Up next, we’ll dive into different ways to style your Wolf Cut, if you’re feeling beachy waves, sleek and straight, or somewhere in between. Stay tuned and buckle up for a hair slay day.
Styling your Wolf Cut
Now that your hair is prepped to perfection, it’s time to dive into the exciting part—styling your Wolf Cut to perfection. Here’s a good handful of all the Wolf Cut styles you can go for—and disclaimer… there’s loads you can do, so have some fun!
1. Effortless waves
For those dreamy, beachy waves that are perfect for everyday chic:
– Use a curling wand: Wrap sections of hair around a curling wand, leaving the ends out for a relaxed vibe.
– Alternate curl directions: Mix up the direction you wrap your hair around the wand to create a more natural wave pattern.
– Finish with texturizing spray: Once cooled, tousle with your fingers and spritz with a texturizing spray for that undone look.
2. Sleek and straight
If you prefer a more polished look that still packs a punch:
– Blow dry with a round brush: Start with a heat protectant and blow dry your hair using a round brush for smoothness and volume.
– Flat iron for definition: Run a flat iron through small sections of hair to create sleek, straight strands.
– Polish with serum: Apply a small amount of serum to tame flyaways and add shine.
3. Tousled texture
For that effortlessly cool, bedhead vibe that’s all the rage:
– Scrunch with texturizing mousse: Apply a dime-sized amount of texturizing mousse to damp hair and scrunch upwards to enhance natural texture.
– Air dry or diffuse: Let your hair air dry or use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to maintain volume and texture.
– Spritz with sea salt spray: Finish by misting with a sea salt spray to add definition and a beachy finish.
4. Boho braids
For a whimsical twist on the classic Wolf Cut:
– Create loose braids: Part your hair down the center and create two loose braids, leaving the ends out for an undone look.
– Pull apart the braids: Gently pull apart the braids to loosen them and create a softer, boho-inspired texture.
– Secure with pins: Pin the ends of the braids underneath your hair at the nape of your neck for a seamless finish.
5. Half-up half-down
For a playful and practical style that shows off your layers:
– Section the top half: Take the top section of your hair and gather it into a half-up ponytail or bun.
– Tease the crown: Tease the crown of your hair slightly for added volume and lift.
– Secure and tousle: Secure with a hair tie or pins, then gently tousle the remaining layers for a relaxed, carefree look.
With these styling techniques in your arsenal, you’re ready to rock your Wolf Cut hair like the IT girl you are. Experiment with different looks to find what suits your vibe best, and don’t forget to finish with a spritz of hairspray to lock in your style all day long. Stay fabulous, stay wolfie, and go get that Wolf Cut, girl.
Types of Wolf Cut hairstyles to ask for at the salon
You may have learnt how to style your Wolf Cut—but what if you haven’t even got one yet? That’s where we come in. When you’re ready to rock a Wolf Cut, knowing exactly what to ask for at the salon can make all the difference in achieving your desired look. If you’re drawn to Miley Cyrus’s iconic mini-mullet or Rita Ora’s curly shag, here are a few variations of the Wolf Cut to consider:
1. Short Wolf Cut
Inspired by Miley Cyrus’s edgy mini-mullet:
If you’re into the bob or lob look and want to add some rock-and-roll flair, ask for a short Wolf Cut. This style features shorter layers with voluminous texture, perfect for those looking to make a bold statement without sacrificing style. It’s all about embracing a playful yet sophisticated vibe that’s as versatile as it is chic.
2. Curly Wolf Cut
Channeling Rita Ora’s timeless curls:
For those with curly hair seeking a dynamic and textured look, the curly Wolf Cut is your go-to. Defined layers and strategic bangs enhance natural curls, offering a blend of retro charm and modern edge. This style not only celebrates your curls but also keeps them beautifully defined and manageable, making it ideal for those who love to stand out with effortless elegance.
3. Heavily layered Wolf Cut
Inspired by Sophie Thatcher’s cool-girl vibes:
If you’re all about structure and volume, consider the heavily layered Wolf Cut. This style features pronounced layers that frame the face and add dimension, accentuating cheekbones and creating a look that’s both striking and sophisticated. You can wear it sleek or tousled, and it’s a cut that exudes confidence and individuality—perfect for the trendsetter in you.
4. Choppy Wolf Cut
Taking cues from Doja Cat’s dramatic Grammy look:
For those craving drama and edge, the choppy Wolf Cut is a must-try. This style incorporates sharp, uneven layers that create a bold, statement-making appearance. You may be as daring as Doja Cat’s Grammy wig or looking for a more subtle adaptation, this is a style that balances fun with sophistication, offering a fresh take on the classic Wolf Cut with a twist.
Each of these Wolf Cut variations offers a unique blend of personality and style, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every kind of gal. When you step into the salon armed with all this inspo, you’ll now be ready to collaborate with your stylist to create a Wolf Cut that’s as kick-ass as you are.
Maintaining your Wolf Cut—tips for long-lasting style
Right, you’ve nailed the perfect Wolf Cut style, now how do you keep it looking A-OK every day? The secret to maintaining your Wolf Cut is a combination of proper care and styling techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your hair stays on point:
1. Regular trims
To keep your Wolf Cut looking fresh and edgy, schedule regular trims every 6-8 weeks. This helps prevent split ends and maintains the shape and volume of your layers.
2. Use the right products
Choose hair products that complement your Wolf Cut. Look for lightweight mousses or texturizing sprays to enhance volume and texture without weighing down your hair. Avoid heavy serums or creams that can make your hair look greasy.
3. Protect from heat damage
If you regularly use heat styling tools like curling irons or flat irons, always apply a heat protectant spray beforehand—it’s a MUST. This helps minimize damage and keeps your hair healthy and shiny.
4. Try dry shampoo
Dry shampoo is your best friend for extending the life of your Wolf Cut between washes. It helps absorb excess oil at the roots, adds volume, and refreshes your hairstyle.
5. Sleep on silk
Swap your cotton pillowcase for a silk one to reduce friction and prevent frizz while you sleep. Silk pillowcases are also gentler on your hair, helping to maintain your style overnight.
6. Protect your hair at night
Try using a satin or silk hair bonnet or scarf to protect your hair while you sleep. This helps prevent tangles and maintains your hairstyle until morning.
7. Experiment with second-day styles
On days when you don’t wash your hair, embrace second-day hairstyles like messy buns, textured ponytails, or braids. These styles can refresh your look while preserving your Wolf Cut’s natural texture.
8. Stay hydrated
Hydrated hair is healthy hair. Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients to promote strong, vibrant hair from the inside out.
By incorporating these maintenance tips into your hair care routine, you’ll make sure that your Wolf Cut stays effortlessly chic and full of life. With a little TLC it will stand the test of time—trust us.
Wolf Cut hair is only getting bigger and better
You should now have aced the styling of your Wolf Cut. From effortless waves to sleek strands, the possibilities are endless. But remember, this isn’t just a haircut—it’s your statement of style and confidence.
Keep having fun with your hair, and always let it reflect your personality. Don’t hesitate to mix things up! Try new products, play with accessories, and explore fresh styling ideas. The beauty of the Wolf Cut lies in its versatility.
So, whether you’re rocking it for a casual day out or a special event, wear it with PRIDE. It’s true when you feel good about your hair, you ooze positivity.
