Jellyfish Cut: What It Is and How to Style It

The jellyfish haircut has officially arrived, and it’s already a top choice among pop icons like Miley Cyrus, Billie Eilish, and Lady Gaga. Rooted in Japanese street fashion and avant-garde aesthetics, this edgy, layered cut channels the bold, futuristic spirit of the punk-rock era. With its striking contrast between sharp, structured layers and flowing lengths, the jellyfish haircut is perfect for anyone ready to make a serious style statement.

Curious to learn more? Read on.

What Is the Jellyfish Cut?

The jellyfish cut is a bold, two-tiered hairstyle defined by its distinct structure:

• Top Section: A short, sharply structured layer that mimics a bob—or even a bowl cut.
• Bottom Section: Long, flowing strands cascading beneath, resembling a jellyfish’s delicate tentacles.

This haircut thrives on contrast. The sharp, blunt top sits dramatically above the soft, extended lower layer, with no attempt at blending. The result? An ultra-choppy, futuristic look that feels both ethereal and edgy, combining the best of both worlds for an authentic cool-girl vibe.

Its name comes from its resemblance to a jellyfish’s bell and trailing tentacles. The cut draws inspiration from the mullet, Japanese fashion, and contemporary avant-garde trends, making it a head-turning choice for clients who want to stand out.

 

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Who Does the Jellyfish Cut Suit?

This unconventional style doesn’t suit everyone’s taste, but it can be transformative for those willing to embrace its boldness. The key lies in tailoring the cut to your client’s unique features and preferences:

• Face shapes: Oval, heart, and angular face shapes highlight the top section’s structure while balancing the bottom layer’s soft flow.
• Hair types: Straight or wavy textures enhance the clean lines of the cut. Consider texturizing and layering techniques for curly hair to define separation between the layers.
• Personal style: This cut is best suited for clients who lean towards edgy, alternative fashion or editorial-inspired looks. It speaks volumes about confidence and creativity.

Creating the Jellyfish Cut

Achieving the perfect jellyfish cut starts with a thorough consultation. Encourage clients to bring visual references, such as photos or videos from social media, to help align on the desired contrast, length, and structure. This step prevents miscommunication and ensures the client is fully committed to this bold, layered look.

Customizing the Jellyfish Cut for Each Client

1. Consider Face Shape, Lifestyle & Hair Texture
   Assess the client’s face shape, daily routine, and natural hair texture. These factors will guide decisions on structure and styling.
2. Style Direction
   A sharper, more defined bob suits clients seeking an editorial or fashion-forward look. In contrast, softer, blended layers may be better for those wanting something more wearable for everyday life.
3. Contrast Levels
   Discuss with your client how bold they want the transition between the two layers. A high-contrast cut delivers a strong, edgy statement, while a subtle shift offers a softer, more approachable finish.
4. Personalization Tips
   Adjust the lengths, angles, and textures to complement the client’s unique features. For example:

• A shorter top section can elongate and slim round face shapes.
• Longer, face-framing layers help soften angular features and add balance.

Sectioning the Hair into Two Distinct Zones

Begin by dividing the hair into two clear zones:

• Upper Crown: This section forms the structured bob layer. Use scissors or a razor to create clean, angular lines, focusing on sharpness and precision for a bold, defined shape.
• Lower Sections form the flowing, longer strands that contrast with the top. Maintain intentionality in the length and tapering. Allow the hair to move freely, but keep the overall silhouette controlled and cohesive with the structured upper layer.

This deliberate contrast between sharp structure and soft movement gives the jellyfish cut its unique, high-fashion appeal.

Adapting the Cut 

Tailor the cutting technique based on the client’s hair type.

• Straight or Fine Hair: Focus on achieving sharpness and smooth transitions between layers for a sleek, futuristic look.
• Thicker or Curly Textures: Incorporate layering techniques within the bottom section to manage weight and create a defined separation between the tiers. This keeps the overall cut bold and structured.

 

 

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Professional Styling Techniques for the Jellyfish Cut

This bold haircut can be styled to suit a range of aesthetics—from high-fashion editorial looks to more wearable, day-to-day styles. Here’s how to adapt it for different scenarios.

Soft & Sophisticated

Blow-dry the top section using a round brush to create controlled volume and definition. Apply a lightweight styling product like Style Masters™ Volume Amplifier Mousse™ to add body and hold, while preserving color and keeping the hair soft to the touch.

For the bottom layers, maintain a sense of softness and flow. Enhance the texture with a curling wand, or embrace the hair’s natural movement for an effortlessly ethereal finish.

Fashion-Forward and Editorial

Straighten the top and bottom layers using a flat iron to achieve a sleek, geometric look. For extra protection and shine, apply Style Masters™ Smooth Iron Guard™. This product provides a temporary straightening treatment, tames curls, and leaves hair silky with a natural shine.

High Impact Looks

Add texture to the bottom section with Style Masters™ FIBER WAX™ or experiment with wet hair gels such as the Style Masters™ Double or Nothing Endless Control™ for dramatic runway vibes.

Curly and Creative Adaptations

For clients who want voluminous, cascading curls while maintaining the jellyfish cut’s dual-layer aesthetic, try a “mermaid-inspired” style. Define and separate curls using RE/START™ Curls Defining Cream and use a diffuser to dry the hair. This technique will create soft, flowing curls that complement the cut’s unique structure.

Color: Elevating the Jellyfish Cut’s Dimension

Color is a great way to elevate the jellyfish cut’s visual impact, giving it a futuristic edge or a softer, more delicate vibe. This is the perfect opportunity to get creative and experiment with shades while keeping your clients on-trend.

High-Impact Contrasts

Introduce striking two-tone color techniques, such as pastel roots transitioning into vibrant Fashion Filters, or platinum blonde paired with jet black. These bold combinations highlight the separation between layers and maximize visual drama. Bright roots paired with dark lengths, or pastel hues fading into vivid ends, create a stunning contrast that brings the layers to life.

We’re especially fond of Nutri Color™ Filters for blending professional color with personal creativity.

 

Balayage and Dip-Dye Techniques 

Add hand-painted Balayage sections to the longer layers to bring the jellyfish cut to life. This will accentuate movement and light reflection, giving the cut a dynamic, flowing look as your client moves.

Offer fashion-forward yet polished color options, like rose gold or caramel Balayage, to soften the bold, avant-garde structure. These shades are versatile and wearable, making them great for a wide range of lifestyles.

Gloss treatments and toning products are recommended to keep these hues vibrant. Color Excel is perfect for maintaining long-lasting color and enhancing gloss, ensuring your client’s hair stays fresh and radiant.

Give your clients the innovative styles and vibrant colors they’ve been waiting for! Visit our 24/7 educational platform #AlwaysOn (available exclusively for customers, so click the link to become one), to learn new techniques and perfect those you already know. Explore all our color options on the Revlon Pro Color World app, and finish off your looks with confidence using our Style Masters™ range.