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TRENDING HAIRSTYLES

The Butterfly Cut: NYC's Favorite Way to Get 90s Volume

Discover the hottest hairstyle trends defining 2025
By The Kiri Editors
HairstylesTrendsBeauty2025Butterfly Cut90s HairVolume

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Female model showcasing a voluminous 90s layered butterfly haircut - Preview 1

Introduction: Fluttering Back to Form

The year is 2025, and while we're constantly looking forward, some trends just refuse to stay in the past. Case in point: the undeniable resurgence of 90s-inspired hair, specifically the iconic Butterfly Cut. This isn't just a nostalgic nod; it's a full-blown revival, particularly in the bustling streets and chic salons of New York City. From Manhattan to Brooklyn, stylists are perfecting this voluminous, face-framing masterpiece, bringing that much-desired bounce and movement back into the spotlight. If you've been craving hair with personality, dimension, and that 'supermodel blowout' feel, the Butterfly Cut is your answer.

The Butterfly Effect: Why NYC is Obsessed with 90s Volume

The Butterfly Cut is characterized by its strategic layering, creating the illusion of shorter hair on top while maintaining length underneath. This 'two-tiered' approach gives incredible volume and bounce, reminiscent of the feathered styles of the 90s. NYC salons have become hotspots for this trend, with clients clamoring for cuts that add drama without sacrificing precious length. Whether it's paired with subtle curtain bangs or styled into a full-blown blowout, this cut is all about maximum impact with minimum fuss. It’s versatile enough for a busy day in the city or a glamorous night out, perfectly embodying the New Yorker's adaptable spirit.

Female model with a 90s layered butterfly cut and curtain bangs from a Brooklyn salon
Female model with a 90s layered butterfly cut and curtain bangs from a Brooklyn salon
Brunette model with a voluminous butterfly layered haircut by a Manhattan stylist
Long layered, voluminous butterfly haircut with face-framing layers from a Manhattan salon

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Pro Tip: To maximize the 90s volume of your Butterfly Cut, invest in a good round brush and a heat protectant. Blow-dry your hair upwards at the roots and curl sections away from your face with the round brush, pinning them to cool for extra hold. Finish with a light hold hairspray for lasting bounce!

Mastering the Layers: Crafting the Perfect Butterfly Cut

The secret to the Butterfly Cut's allure lies in its meticulous layering. Shorter layers are cut around the crown and face, blending seamlessly into longer layers that fall past the shoulders. This technique not only creates impressive volume but also provides a soft, face-framing effect that accentuates your features. Many variations also incorporate curtain bangs, which further enhance the 90s vibe and blend beautifully with the face-framing layers. The result is a hairstyle that looks effortlessly glamorous, whether you wear it straight, wavy, or with a full, bouncy blowout.

A butterfly cut with soft face-framing layers on dark hair styled in Manhattan
Trendy butterfly haircut with soft waves and face-framing curtain bangs in Manhattan
Long, sleek butterfly cut with feathered ends and a center part from a Brooklyn salon
Long, sleek butterfly cut with feathered ends and a center part from a Brooklyn salon

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Beyond the Classic: Variations and Modern Takes

While the classic Butterfly Cut channels undeniable 90s charm, stylists across NYC are putting their own modern twists on the trend. We're seeing stunning iterations with vibrant colors like crimson red or subtle pink streaks, adding an edgy, contemporary flair. Perms are also making a comeback, with soft wave perms enhancing the natural movement of the layers for a wash-and-go voluminous look. Whether you prefer a dramatic side-swept fringe or the classic middle part, the adaptability of the Butterfly Cut ensures there's a version for every personality and aesthetic. It's a testament to its enduring appeal and ability to evolve with the times.

Long, layered red and copper butterfly cut with face-framing strands and curtain bangs from a Manhattan salon
Long, layered red and copper butterfly cut with face-framing strands and curtain bangs from a Manhattan salon
Layered butterfly cut with a soft wave perm, providing a voluminous and trendy look in Manhattan
Medium-length, straight black butterfly cut with soft layers and a side-swept fringe from a Brooklyn salon
Medium-length, straight black butterfly cut with soft layers and a side-swept fringe from a Brooklyn salon

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Embrace the Flutter: Your Next Voluminous Look Awaits

The Butterfly Cut, with its irresistible 90s charm and modern versatility, has truly captured the heart of New York City's beauty scene in 2025. It offers a fresh take on volume, layering, and face-framing that flatters a wide range of hair types and lengths. If you’re ready to embrace magnificent bounce and a touch of retro glamour, now is the perfect time to ask your stylist for this trending masterpiece. Get ready to turn heads and embrace your inner supermodel!

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The Butterfly Cut: NYC's Favorite Way to Get 90s Volume | Kiri