Just when we were having a fill of the octopus, wolf, and butterfly cuts, another animal-inspired style came on board. It’s none other than the jellyfish haircut. Thanks to TikTok, this is another bold, experimental hairdo tearing the Internet apart, with one faction loving it and another hating it.
Like its fellow zoologically-named hairstyles, the jellyfish look is another layered style—but combined with the iconic bob haircut this time around. It’s a controversially chic haircut perfect for anyone torn between a bob and long hair. Ahead, we dive into this hybrid haircut with eccentric flair, showing you how to style and maintain it for a trendy look.
What is a Jellyfish Haircut?
The jellyfish hairstyle combines two looks: a blunt bob and a mullet with short and long layers. The cut features short top hair with blunt strands and longer, textured hair underneath, resembling the sea creature, hence its name. It draws inspiration from traditional Japanese hime (or princess) cut and anime styles. For example, you must have seen the cut on anime characters like Yumeko Jabami in Kakegurui, Boa Hancock in One Piece, and Hinata Hyūga in Naruto.
In the words of Amy Abramite, Creative Director and Stylist at Chicago’s Maxine Salon, “This haircut is an unblended bob with long disconnected tendrils that resemble the tentacles and shape of a jellyfish.” In other words, it’s a haircut incorporating various levels, styles, and lengths to create an edgy look.
ALSO READ: Cowlick Hair: What it is and How to Get Rid of It?
Why’s the Jellyfish Haircut Popular?
This hairstyle is the best of both worlds. If you can’t decide between chopping off your hair to chin length or maintaining longer layers at the back, just try the jellyfish look. It’s akin to wearing short and long hair at the same time. Many people love it because it’s unique, unisex, artistic, and daring. It suits any aesthetic, skin tone, or face shape, making it a must-try for anyone with long hair.
After it gained traction on TikTok with about two billion views, celebrities started hopping on the trend. Stars like Zendaya, Shay Mitchell, and Lizzo debuted their versions of the coiffure in 2024, further increasing its popularity.
Now, the cut has become a favorite among those who want to experiment with a bold, playful style that welcomes colors and shows off your personality.
Does the Jellyfish Haircut Work on Everyone?
This cut suits everyone, regardless of their gender. However, ensure your hairstylist tailors the style to suit your hair type, density, and face shape. For example, if your face is round, lay your top hair right above or below your chin. This will give the bob a fuller and sharper look.
How to Ask a Stylist for a Jellyfish Haircut
The best way to request this style is to simply ask for a short, round bob with long hair underneath or show your stylist reference photos of the exact jellyfish haircut you want.
Once you show them the photos, tell them you want your hair cut into two sections—a round bob on top and long hair at the bottom to resemble a jellyfish’s tentacles. If you want layers, ask your stylist to distribute the length to spread out the volume. For instance, a layered cut highlights your face shape, while a feathered cut accentuates your cheekbones and jawline.
How to Style the Jellyfish Cut
Once you get the chop, you don’t have to do much to style your jellyfish haircut. Just try any of these tips:
- Add volume by applying a volumizing mousse and using a round brush to flip out the ends.
- Curl the ends of the bottom layers, aka tentacles, for that classic jellyfish vibe.
- Use heat tools to shape the cut. For example, use a blowdryer to get more movement on top and aflat iron to define the ends.
- Color your hair for a bolder aesthetic. You can try different coloring techniques, including ombre or using two colors to create contrast. For example, color the top section white and leave the bottom black, or vice versa.
- Secure the long hair underneath into a ponytail.
- Leave some bangs in front.
- Style your bottom hair into two sections, one on either side of your head, and secure each side with a hair tie to create a cute pigtail.
How to Maintain the Cut
This style isn’t for the faint-hearted. Though low-maintenance, it requires frequent visits to the salon for touchups, especially with its silhouette and weight distribution. So, before making the commitment, ensure it suits your lifestyle, and you’re ready to maintain it using these tips:
- Trim the top regularly to maintain the shape.
- Blow-dry and brush with a cylinder hairbrush, flipping the edges to keep the shape.
- Apply texturizing spray to get some sheen.
ALSO READ: Boys Haircuts 2024: 30 Cute Ideas to Try in 2025
Be Daring— Wear the Jellyfish Hairstyle Today
The jellyfish cut is yet another coiffure that accentuates the beauty of layers. It’s an excellent choice if you’re not ready to get rid of your length but want to experiment with new styles for a daring, avant-garde look that flaunts your personality.
So, if you’re looking for an out-of-the-box haircut that’s sure to grab anyone’s attention, answer the jellyfish call. Still in doubt? Here are more ideas to convince you:
ALSO READ: The Man Bun: 31 Stunning Styles for the Dapper Man
