The Jellyfish Haircut: A Contemporary Twist on a Retro Hairstyle

Animal-inspired haircuts like the wolf, the butterfly, and the octopus have dominated trends, and now an aquatic creature joins the list. The jellyfish haircut has amassed billions of views on TikTok, with celebrities like Nicole Kidman debuting it in 2022 and Zendaya showcasing a bold variation at this year's fashion week. Curious about the style and if it suits you? Hairstylists break down everything you need to know about the jellyfish haircut.

What defines the jellyfish haircut?

"The jellyfish haircut combines a short, layered top section that hugs the head with long, disconnected strands around the edges," explains Adam Federico, hairstylist and R+Co's vice president of technical education. Joey Figueiredo, a stylist and owner of Sola Salons, adds that the style mimics a jellyfish—the top layers represent the body, while the longer strands resemble tentacles.

It's worth noting that the jellyfish haircut can vary in its execution. The lengths of the top and bottom layers are customizable, but "a true jellyfish cut requires a dramatic contrast between the two," says Howard McLaren, co-founder and creative director of R+Co. He highlights that this hybrid style offers the advantages of both short and long haircuts.

Which hair types suit the jellyfish haircut best?

While this look leans toward bold and high-fashion, it isn't ideal for all hair textures. Federico points out that those with very fine hair may find it makes their hair appear thinner and flatter. McLaren adds that curly hair doesn't showcase the dramatic layering as effectively as straight hair, and Figueiredo notes it can appear bulky on curly or textured hair. In summary, the jellyfish cut is most flattering on medium to thick hair that's straight or slightly wavy.

What should you request from your stylist to achieve the jellyfish haircut?

Experts emphasize bringing photos of jellyfish haircuts you admire to your stylist, as many may not yet be familiar with the trend, according to Federico. Your stylist can also guide you on how to tailor the shorter top section, whether as a pixie or bob. Keep in mind that this haircut changes the hair's growth pattern. If the result isn't to your liking, McLaren advises waiting for the top to grow out before adjusting the bottom layers, with transitioning to a longer bob being the simplest option.

How can you style a jellyfish haircut?

Styling a jellyfish haircut offers endless possibilities. Figueiredo recommends smoothing the top and curling or braiding the longer layers for a textured contrast. Alternatively, Federico suggests air-drying and enhancing natural texture with pomade or sea salt spray. The cut's bold design allows for minimal styling, as it makes a statement on its own.