In a year dominated by classic bobs, some might hesitate to commit to a drastic chop. Enter the jellyfish haircut—a daring bi-level style that merges the best of both worlds, offering a fresh take on haircut indecision.
What is the Jellyfish Haircut?
Described by Gonn Kinoshita, Balmain global ambassador and celebrity stylist, the jellyfish haircut features a striking juxtaposition: short or blunt layers on the upper portion, with long, textured strands cascading below. This creates a visual reminiscent of a jellyfish gliding through water.
“Similar to the wolf cut or mullet, the jellyfish haircut is designed to make a bold statement,” notes Castillo Bataille, Matrix celebrity stylist. “It combines shorter layers on top—echoing a bob or mullet—with extended, sleek lengths underneath. The dramatic contrast mirrors the ethereal movement of a jellyfish.”
In some variations, the top layer is cut bluntly, akin to a bowl cut. “This short layer represents the jellyfish’s body, while the longer bottom layer mimics its tentacles,” explains Ashley Gomila, celebrity hairstylist. This pronounced difference results in a dramatic and edgy look that stands out.
The Japanese Influence
The jellyfish haircut draws heavy inspiration from Japanese anime and manga, where vibrant and unique hairstyles are a hallmark of character design. This trend reflects the broader acceptance of Japanese beauty standards in Western culture, as evidenced by Megan Thee Stallion’s recent track, “Otaku Hot Girl.” With K-beauty fading, J-beauty—embodied by styles like the jellyfish haircut—is gaining momentum.
Who Should Try the Jellyfish Haircut?
While this cut may not suit everyone, it’s perfect for those willing to embrace a bold new look. “Ideal for the adventurous and style-conscious, the jellyfish haircut makes a statement,” says Bataille. “It’s particularly effective on straight hair, where the contrast is most pronounced, but it can be tailored for various hair types.”
“This style is best suited for those who are fashion-forward and unafraid of making a dramatic impression,” adds Gomila. The cut complements various face shapes by framing the face with its shorter layers. “It works well with oval, heart, or square face shapes—essentially, if you’re confident with a bold, angular style, this haircut is for you,” Bataille explains.
How to Achieve the Look
To ensure your stylist understands your vision, Kinoshita advises, “Most hairstylists should be familiar with the jellyfish cut, but be sure to specify your desired lengths and layers.” If your stylist is unfamiliar, bringing photo examples can be helpful.
“When requesting a jellyfish haircut, describe your preference for short, blunt layers on top with long, sleek lengths underneath,” Bataille recommends. “Visual references can help clarify your expectations and ensure the final look aligns with your vision.”
The jellyfish haircut offers a dynamic fusion of short and long elements, making it a standout choice for those looking to redefine their look with a touch of audacity.