The half-mullet hair trend that started in 2021 continues to dominate in the new year, with the wolf haircut being a hybrid hairstyle that's been trending on TikTok for months. If you browse the app, you'll find that the hashtag #wolfcut currently has a whopping 920 million views — all videos of users sharing hairstyling tips, talking about how much they love it, and even cutting their own hair at home (seriously) . While it's unclear where the name comes from, "wolf" may refer to the wild, untamed nature of this cut. Experts believe it's this laissez-faire, flawless atmosphere that makes it so popular.
Anabel Santos, a stylist at Sally Hershberger Salon in New York City, says, "Wolf haircuts are popular for a reason—if you want a cool-girl look, it instantly transforms." According to celebrity hairstylist Sally Hershberger herself, it's true A combination of two other looks: "It's a sexy, edgy mix between a mullet and a shag," she tells Bustle. "The foundation of this style is the mullet, but with a wilder cut, with lots of length, layers and texture." If you've been wanting to go bold with your hairstyle, Los Angeles hairstylist Malaika Frazier is a fan of this look, notes Combining two old popular hairstyles with a modern twist. "It looks familiar so you're not intimidated by it, but it's edgy enough to make you feel on-trend and in the know," she tells Bustle. Special benefits of cutting? Experts say this look works on all hair types and textures.
Those on TikTok who are DIYing wolf hairstyles create layers by pulling all their hair into a ponytail at the very front of their head. They then trim off the bottom a few inches or so, depending on how short they (think) they want it to be. Lay the back third of your hair down and cut it off, then repeat the steps for cutting the ponytail and then cut the top third of your hair again.
While the end result can (sometimes) look very chic, you can also head to the salon and leave it to the professionals. Fraser wasn't keen on editing at home anyway. "I feel like to get the best results, you should always go to a professional," she said. "The best thing is to figure out which products will help you maintain the cut after you're done." Your stylist can help you create the perfect hair care regimen to keep your style looking fresh—an alternative to wolf hair, by the way. One benefit is that once you get a haircut, it's easy to maintain, just like long hair. However, if you want the signature rugged and slightly bloated look on TikTok, then you'll have to address some everyday styling issues. "I would recommend using a texturing paste or spray to add volume and give it a flaky but soft feel," says Hershberg.
If you prefer a low-maintenance, wash-and-go approach, Santos points out that the wolf cut's layered construction also allows for a gentler look. A model worth following? Billie Eilish and her dazzling platinum hair last spring. To achieve more demure hair, Santos recommends using just a little texturizing product and leaving the rest of the volumizing product to the strands themselves. Fraser agrees, adding that regardless of hair texture or curl pattern, appearance is all about volume.
Basically, no matter how you choose to style it, wolf hair is a versatile and flattering cut. Keep scrolling for some ideas to pitch to your stylist—or join you in fearlessly walking up to the bathroom mirror.
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Have bangs
Have bangs? no problem. "I like to leave the bangs exposed to frame your face and sweep some side parts behind the ears," Fraser says, adding that this can make the dimension of the hairstyle really pop. This version of the wolf hairstyle leans toward the messy, shaggy attitude everyone knows and loves. Use a setting spray to add volume and hold.
Big and textured
Embrace your hair texture with a wolf hairstyle: Layers and volume give your curls a chance to mix and blend, and hang in all the right places for an edgy look. Are there any tips for styling? Use a hydrating curl cream to keep those curls looking hydrated and relaxed.
Naturally creamy butter blend and flax seeds double to stretch and define pudding
short and choppy
This stylish short wolf hairstyle with shaggy side bangs is cool and chic. If you want to emphasize layers, use a flat iron to bend your hair.
long wavy
The long wolf cut allows you to have fun with lots of simple layers. Chiseled, flaky waves create a cool-girl moment at the beach. To embrace that perfectly messy vibe, use a volumizing foam or salt spray.
