Leah LOVES hair. So much so, she dedicated an entire website to it! One of the founders of Hair Everyday and Chief Editor, Leah enjoys reviewing all the hair products and showcasing the best. She believes her most underrated articles are her hair care tips!
Today, we’re excited to guide you through the process of achieving one of the latest trends in hair fashion – the butterfly haircut. Are you wondering how to effectively communicate with your hairdresser to get this beautiful, layered look? Look no further! In this article, we’ll provide you with all the tips and tricks on how to ask for a butterfly haircut, ensuring that you walk out of the salon with the fluttery, voluminous style you desire. Let’s embark on this transformative hair journey together and ensure your next salon visit leaves you feeling as free and gorgeous as a butterfly.
What Is a Butterfly Haircut?
The butterfly haircut, often referred to as a “butterfly shag” or simply a “shag haircut,” is a versatile and trendy hairstyle characterized by its layers, texture, and shaggy appearance. It typically features shorter layers around the crown of the head, gradually transitioning to longer layers towards the ends. This layering creates volume, movement, and a soft, feathered effect.
The butterfly haircut is known for its ability to suit a variety of hair types and face shapes. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a low-maintenance yet stylish look with a touch of retro flair. This haircut has made a resurgence in recent years, thanks to its timeless appeal and adaptability.
Certainly, let’s provide more detailed guidance on how to ask your hairdresser for a butterfly haircut and some additional tips to help you get the haircut you want.
How to Ask Your Hairdresser for a Butterfly Haircut
1. Research and Gather Inspiration:
– Create a Mood Board: Start by creating a mood board with a variety of images showcasing the butterfly haircut from different angles and on various hair types. You can use platforms like Pinterest or Instagram to collect these images. This will give your hairdresser a comprehensive visual idea of your preferences.
– Include Variations: Alongside classic butterfly haircut images, consider including variations like short shaggy cuts or butterfly haircuts with different types of bangs. This will help you fine-tune your preferences during your consultation.
– Note Hair Texture and Color: Pay attention to the hair texture and color of the models in the reference images. If your hair differs significantly from the examples you found, be open to adjustments to suit your specific hair type.
– Celebrities and Influencers: If you admire a particular celebrity or influencer with a butterfly haircut, bring images of them as well. Celebrities’ haircuts often serve as popular references in the beauty industry.
2. Choose the Right Hairdresser:
– Specialized Stylist: Look for a hairdresser or stylist who specializes in layered and textured haircuts, as the butterfly haircut relies heavily on precise layering and texturing techniques. Research salons or stylists known for their expertise in this style.
– Reviews and Recommendations: Read online reviews and seek recommendations from friends or social media groups for hairdressers who have a track record of delivering excellent shag haircuts.
3. Consultation:
– Schedule a Comprehensive Consultation: Book a consultation appointment with your chosen stylist before the actual haircut. This consultation is an essential step to ensure both you and your hairdresser are on the same page.
– Bring Your Mood Board: Bring your mood board of reference images to the consultation. Explain to your stylist why you love the butterfly haircut and what specific elements you’d like to incorporate from the images.
– Discuss Lifestyle and Hair Habits: Share information about your daily hair care routine, including how often you wash and style your hair. This will help your stylist tailor the cut to your lifestyle and preferences.
– Consider Face Shape: Ask your stylist for their opinion on how the butterfly haircut can complement your face shape. They may suggest adjustments to accentuate your best features.
– Talk about Bangs (If Desired): If you want bangs as part of your butterfly haircut, discuss the various styles of bangs and their suitability for your face shape. Your stylist can help you choose the most flattering option.
– Request Scalp and Hair Health Tips: While discussing your haircut, inquire about any tips or product recommendations for maintaining a healthy scalp and hair, especially if you’ve had concerns in the past.
4. Use Clear and Precise Terminology:
– Use Specific Hair Lingo: Instead of using vague terms, use precise hair terminology. You can say something like, “I’d like a butterfly haircut with graduated layers, lots of texture, and face-framing bangs.”
– Express Your Desired Length: Specify whether you want your butterfly haircut shorter or longer, and if you have any specific length in mind. Use inches or centimeters to convey your desired length accurately.
– Emphasize Key Features: Highlight the features that are most important to you. For instance, if you’re particularly fond of the shag’s choppy ends, make it clear to your stylist.
5. Discuss Styling Preferences:
– Daily Styling: Let your stylist know about your preferred styling routine. If you have limited time in the morning, mention that you’d like a butterfly haircut that’s easy to style and maintain.
– Product Usage: Share information about the hair care products you currently use and ask if they complement the butterfly haircut. Your stylist may recommend suitable products for achieving the desired texture and volume.
6. Seek Maintenance Advice:
– Ask about Trims: Inquire about the frequency of trims needed to keep your butterfly haircut looking its best. Your stylist can provide recommendations based on your hair’s growth rate and maintenance preferences.
– Post-Cut Tips: After your haircut, ask for tips on how to style your new haircut at home. Your stylist can show you specific techniques and recommend styling tools if necessary.
7. Trust Your Stylist:
– Value Their Expertise: While it’s important to communicate your preferences clearly, remember that your stylist is a trained professional. Trust their expertise and be open to their suggestions and adjustments that may enhance the final look.
8. Be Patient and Embrace Uniqueness:
– Allow for Individuality: Understand that the outcome of your butterfly haircut may have a unique touch based on your hair’s natural texture, thickness, and the stylist’s skill. Embrace this individuality as part of the beauty of the haircut.
– Experiment and Adapt: Be willing to experiment with different styling techniques and products to achieve the desired butterfly haircut look at home. It may take a few styling sessions to perfect your styling routine.
By following these detailed steps and tips, you’ll be well-prepared to ask your hairdresser for a butterfly haircut and work together to achieve a tailored and stylish result that aligns with your vision and preferences. Clear communication and collaboration with your stylist are essential for a successful haircut experience.
Related: How To Tell Your Hairdresser You Are Not Happy
Tips for Getting the Butterfly Haircut You Want:
1. Bring Reference Images: Visual aids can significantly help convey your desired haircut. Show your stylist pictures of butterfly haircuts that capture the style you’re aiming for.
2. Be Realistic: Understand that the final result may vary slightly from the reference images due to your hair’s natural texture, thickness, and the skill of the stylist. Embrace the unique outcome that your hair can achieve.
3. Ask for a Dry Cut: Some stylists prefer to cut the butterfly haircut when your hair is dry. This allows them to see the natural fall and texture of your hair and tailor the cut accordingly.
4. Discuss Styling Products: After your haircut, ask your stylist for recommendations on styling products to achieve and maintain the butterfly haircut’s texture and volume.
5. Regular Maintenance: To keep your butterfly haircut looking its best, schedule regular trims every 6-8 weeks, as advised by your stylist.
6. Learn Styling Techniques: Ask your stylist to demonstrate how to style your new haircut at home. Understanding how to achieve the desired look can be essential for daily maintenance.
7. Be Patient: It may take a little time to become fully accustomed to your new haircut and styling routine. Give yourself time to experiment with different styling techniques and products to achieve the butterfly haircut you envision.
By following these steps and tips, you can effectively communicate your desires to your hairdresser and increase the likelihood of getting the butterfly haircut you want. Remember that clear communication and collaboration with your stylist are key to achieving a haircut that suits your style and enhances your overall look.
How to Do a DIY Butterfly Haircut at Home
If you’re feeling adventurous and confident in your hairstyling skills, you can attempt a DIY butterfly haircut at home. However, keep in mind that cutting your hair at home requires careful preparation and the right tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a DIY butterfly haircut:
Tools You’ll Need:
- Hair-cutting scissors
- Fine-tooth comb
- Hair clips or elastics
- A handheld mirror or a second mirror to see the back of your head
Steps to Achieve a DIY Butterfly Haircut:
Prepare Your Hair:
Start with clean, dry hair. Ensure that your hair is free from any styling products, as these can interfere with the cutting process.
Section Your Hair:
Use the fine-tooth comb to part your hair down the middle, creating two even sections. Clip or tie one section out of the way while you work on the other.
Create the First Layer:
Begin by taking a small section of hair from the unclipped side. Hold the hair between your fingers and point-cut it to create the initial layer. Point cutting involves cutting the hair vertically with the scissors pointed upward, which creates a textured, feathered effect.
Continue Layering:
Release more hair from the unclipped side and use the previously cut section as a guide. Point-cut each new section to create layers that gradually get longer as you move toward the back of your head.
Repeat on the Other Side:
Once you’ve layered one side of your head, repeat the process on the other side, ensuring that the layers match in length and texture.
Texturize the Ends:
To enhance the shaggy effect of the butterfly haircut, you can texturize the ends by holding small sections of hair between your fingers and gently snipping upward.
Check the Back:
Use the handheld mirror or a second mirror to check the back of your head. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the layers are even and symmetrical.
Blend the Layers:
To blend the layers seamlessly, comb your hair straight down and use the scissors to soften any harsh lines or unevenness.
Final Trim:
If you have any specific areas that need further attention, such as face-framing layers or bangs, address them carefully at this stage.
Style Your Hair:
After the haircut, style your hair as desired. You can use texturizing products to enhance the shaggy texture and create volume. Experiment with different styling techniques to achieve the butterfly haircut’s signature look.
How to Style Your Butterfly Haircut
Styling your butterfly haircut is where you can truly make the look your own. This haircut offers versatility, allowing you to adapt it to various occasions and preferences. Here are some styling tips:
Beach Waves: Create loose, beachy waves using a curling wand or flat iron. This style complements the shaggy layers of the butterfly haircut and adds a carefree, textured vibe.
Messy Bun: Gather your hair into a high or low messy bun for a casual, chic look. Leave some face-framing layers loose to soften the style.
Straight and Sleek: For a polished appearance, straighten your hair using a flat iron. This sleek style emphasizes the haircut’s layers and clean lines.
Boho Braids: Incorporate braids into your hairstyle for a boho-inspired look. Side braids, crown braids, or fishtail braids can all complement the butterfly haircut’s texture.
Texturizing Products: Use texturizing sprays or mousses to enhance the haircut’s natural texture and create a tousled effect.
Bangs Styling: If you have bangs as part of your butterfly haircut, style them differently to change your overall look. Sweep them to the side for a soft, face-framing effect or create a bold, straight-across fringe.
Accessorize: Experiment with hair accessories like headbands, barrettes, or hairpins to add a touch of personal style to your butterfly haircut.
Regular Maintenance: To keep your butterfly haircut looking its best, schedule regular trims every 6-8 weeks. This helps maintain the layers and prevents split ends.
Remember that styling your butterfly haircut may take some practice to achieve your desired look. Feel free to experiment with different products and techniques until you find the styles that suit you best.
Why You Should Trust Haireveryday?
The author of this article, Leah Marie Priest has a degree in Cosmetology with years of experience in dealing with hair care, scalp care, and hairstyling. As someone who extensively deals with all kinds of hair textures, products, styling methods and more, hair Leah Marie knows what kind of products and procedures suit each hair type and person. We have also tested these hair products and processes ourselves to provide you an unbiased review about every product. Each of our articles are also reviewed by a team of medical professionals so that you get the most accurate and expert-reviewed information.
Final Summary
In conclusion, effectively communicating your preferences to your hairdresser is key when asking for a butterfly haircut. Clear communication, reference images, and trust in your stylist’s expertise are essential elements in achieving the stylish and shaggy look you desire.
Whether you’re going for a classic butterfly shag or a modern twist on this timeless haircut, a collaborative approach with your stylist ensures a satisfying salon experience and a chic, textured haircut that suits your unique style and personality.
Also Read:
What To Tell Your Barber for a Fade
What To Tell Your Hairdresser For Layers
What To Tell Your Hairdresser For Highlights
To Summarize
