The Curly Wolf Cut Is Spring’s Breakout Hair Trend

By Charlie Colville

5 days ago

One for the curly girls, this take on the wolf cut is all about embracing natural (and wild) texture


It might have been the breakout trend of 2022, but really, the wolf cut never really went out of style. And now, it bigger – and curlier – than ever. Here’s why salons are falling hard for the curly wolf cut this season.

What Is A Curly Wolf Cut?

Like the classic wolf cut, this curlier rendition brings together a shag and mullet with an emphasis on natural texture. ‘The curly wolf cut encapsulates the essence of that chic, boho 70s style, with the main focal point being lots of choppy layers, lots of movement and lots of volume,’ adds Tina Farey, Editorial Director at RUSH Hair. ‘This style involves elements of both the shag and the mullet with the intention of looking “lived-in” – so the wilder looking, the better.’

@elbuckles Replying to @jennyyy curly wolf cut 360 🫶🏼 #wolfcut #curlyhairroutine #curlywolfcut #curlygirl #naturalcurls #hair360 #shortcurlyhair #shorthair #mynaturalhair ♬ Messy – Lola Young

The cut itself hit the mainstream mid-pandemic, although in 2020 the focus was more of slightly wavy strands. Now, however, it’s all about the curls. ‘The main difference between the traditional wolf cut and the curly wolf cut is the featured hair types,’ Tina adds. ‘When you think of the traditional wolf cut, you’d picture straight hair, but that’s not always the case. This style is specifically designed with the curl pattern in mind when it comes to cutting – showcasing the hair’s natural texture and volume.’

And sitting high on the stylist’s mood board for this cut is Miley Cyrus. ‘She is known for rock chic look which goes hand-in-hand with this curly cut,’ says Tina. ‘Miley’s hair is naturally on the curlier side, which means that her signature wolf cut showcases her natural curl pattern and texture, whilst adding to her rebellious look.’

Who Suits This Cut?

‘As its name suggests, the curly wolf cut is designed with curly hair specifically in mind,’ notes Tina. ‘It has long tapered layers which beautifully frame the face, meaning that this cut particularly suits those with heart-shaped and round faces to harmonise the features. The uneven layers separate any sharp angles, so the cut also enhances and soften the features of a square shaped face.’

@mellowbellohellno I’ll probably go shorter in a month #curlywolfcut ♬ nostalgia.mp3 – jan2k1

How To Ask For The Cut In The Salon

‘Ask your stylist for soft, long layers the be blended throughout to add volume and movement to the hair,’ recommends Tina. ‘Your stylist will be able to customise the cut to your curl pattern to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your curly hair’s texture and definition.’

The stylist also recommends bringing a visual aid for your stylist to work from: ‘An inspiration picture is the best way to explain to your stylist what you are looking for, so I’d recommend always bringing one.’

How To Style A Curly Wolf Cut

Styling this cut goes hand-in-hand with curl care. ‘When it comes to styling the hair, you’re looking for products that will enhance your hair’s natural curl pattern to achieve that undone look,’ confirms Tina. ‘I’d recommend using a curl enhancing cream to add shape and hold to your curls, while giving the cut an extra oomph.’

Hair Inspiration

1. Classic Curly Wolf Cut

 

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2. Curly Pixie

3. Tight Curls

4. Long Wolf Cut

 

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5. Curly Wolf Cut Bob

6. Wavy Wolf Cut

7. Balayage

8. Shaggy Wolf Cut

 

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9. Wolf Undercut

10. Sculpted Wolf Cut

 

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Featured image: Berlin Fashion Week AW25 Streetstyle (c) Ben Mönks