To cut a wolf cut at home, a common method involves gathering your hair forward and cutting it at an angle or straight across, using an elastic band as a guide. This technique, sometimes called the "unicorn cut," helps create the layers and choppy texture characteristic of the wolf cut style.
The wolf cut is a shaggy, layered hairstyle with elements of the mullet and shag. It features shorter layers at the crown that blend into longer layers at the back and often includes face-framing pieces and bangs. While getting a professional cut is always recommended for best results, many people attempt this style at home.
Preparing for Your At-Home Wolf Cut
Before you start cutting, ensure you have the right tools and prepare your hair properly.
Essential Tools:
- Sharp hair scissors (not kitchen scissors!)
- Hair comb
- Hair elastic or band
- Optional: Texturizing shears, sectioning clips, hand mirror
Hair Preparation:
- Start with clean, dry hair. Some people prefer to cut dry hair to see how it falls naturally, while others prefer slightly damp hair for more control. For this method, dry hair is often easier.
- Thoroughly comb through your hair to remove any tangles.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Wolf Cut Method
This method focuses on creating the layered effect by cutting the hair pulled forward, as suggested by the reference: "We're just gonna be combing. This forward... we're gonna have that it's pulled all the way to the front there we go..."
- Comb Hair Forward: Bend over and comb all your hair forward over your face, towards the crown of your head. Ensure it's as smooth and tangle-free as possible.
- Secure with an Elastic: While still bent over, gather all the combed-forward hair into a single ponytail situated high on your forehead, close to your hairline. Secure it tightly with a hair elastic or band. Position the elastic based on where you want the shortest layers to fall – higher up means shorter layers overall.
- Determine Cut Length: Decide how much hair you want to cut off the end of the ponytail. Remember that cutting the hair while pulled forward like this will result in varying layer lengths when the hair falls back. The higher the ponytail is on your head, the more dramatic the layers will be.
- Make the Cut: Holding the ponytail firmly below the elastic, use your sharp hair scissors to cut straight across the end of the ponytail. You can also try point cutting (cutting vertically into the ends) for a softer, more textured finish.
- Check and Refine: Stand up and let your hair fall. You will see the initial layered shape. At this point, you can:
- Refine Layers: If needed, you can pull small sections forward again and trim or point cut more to blend or add more texture.
- Add Face-Framing: Carefully section hair around your face and cut shorter pieces if desired, angling downwards from the cheekbones or chin.
- Cut Bangs: If you want bangs, section the hair you want as bangs separately and cut them to your desired length (straight across, curtain, etc.).
Important Considerations
Cutting your own hair, especially a style like the wolf cut, requires caution.
- Start Small: You can always cut more off, but you can't put it back. Begin by cutting less than you think you need.
- Hair Density and Texture: The results will vary greatly depending on your hair type. Thicker hair will show more dramatic layers, while finer hair might require more texturizing.
- Angle Matters: The angle at which you hold the ponytail and cut will affect the final shape and layering.
- Seek Professional Help: For the best and most even results, consult a professional stylist who is experienced in cutting shaggy, layered styles like the wolf cut.
| Pro Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Sharp Scissors | Prevents split ends and makes for a cleaner cut. |
| Small Cuts | Trim a little at a time to avoid mistakes. |
| Sectioning (for refining) | Helps maintain control when adding face-framing or bangs. |
Cutting a wolf cut at home using the pull-forward method described in the reference can give you the general layered effect, but achieving the perfect shape and texture often requires practice and precision.
