How-To: The Wolf Cut

The "wolf cut" may be trending, but it's not exactly new — the fun, undone look merges two classic cuts from days of yore: the 70s shag and 80s mullet. 

Layers, fringe, and easy ends are the key to this look. Justin Michael Parra, stylist at La Bella Salon & Beauty Lounge and a Sam Villa Ambassador, shows the steps and tools he uses to create the wolf cut.

“It’s important to take vertical sections around the apex when connecting short layers to the parameter … this is how you maintain consistency in the shape,” Parra says. “It’s also important to to keep some length, because you need the variation to create those short-to-long dramatic layers.” 

A razor produces a more textured cut; Parra uses a Sam Villa Signature Series Razor for this look.

Key Steps:

Create a guide off the part line to establish length:

Wolf Cut - Step 1

Fringe: Overdirect to middle and cut vertically to create softness on the ends:

Wolf Cut - Step 2

Sides: Overdirect to the middle stationary guide to create a nice flow, and below parietal ridge extend fingers to give more length:

Wolf Cut - Step 3
Wolf Cut - Step 2b

Wolfie Tail: Overdirect the longer back layers to the front and take off the corner:

Wolf Cut - Step 4
Wolf Cut - Step 4b

Back Guide: Take a piece of hair off fringe area and create diamond section off apex and cut parallel to the ground horizontally:

Wolf Cut - Step 5
Wolf Cut - Step 5b

Travel further back to take a bit more hair off the apex to make sure guide is nice and solid:

Wolf Cut - Step 6

Take vertical sections traveling clockwise around the apex, elevate to find guide and elevate more until the other guide is located and connect:

Wolf Cut - Step 7
Wolf Cut - Step 7b

Make sure you maintain consistency in connecting the short layers to the long perimeter as you travel around the apex.

Wolf Cut - Step 8

Pro Tips

If hair is really dense, use a Sam Villa Signature Series InvisiBlend Shears to remove bulk.

To style, apply a texture or sea salt spray and blow dry. Add flat iron or barrel curls and break up into beachy waves. 

Wolf Cut - Model and Manikin

Tap here to watch Parra create the look.

Learn more about Parra and other Sam Villa ambassadors here.

Credits:

Hair: Justin Michael Parra
Photo: Wandering Spirit Photography 
Model: Hailey Graves
Tools: Sam Villa Hair