Butterfly locs are one of the most popular protective styles in hair fashion. Known for their unique, distressed look, butterfly locs offer a fun, textured alternative to traditional locs and faux locs. With their carefree, slightly messy aesthetic, they create a boho vibe that’s both stylish and laid-back, making them perfect for those looking to embrace a relaxed yet chic appearance.
One of the main reasons butterfly locs have gained such widespread appeal is their versatility. Whether you prefer them short, long, in bold colors, or natural tones, these locs can be styled in countless ways to suit any occasion. Plus, they’re low-maintenance, making them ideal for anyone who wants to rock a gorgeous look without spending hours on upkeep. From vacation-ready vibes to everyday glam, butterfly locs deliver a trendy, fuss-free style that looks effortlessly cool while protecting your natural hair underneath.
What Are Butterfly Locs?
Butterfly locs are a popular protective hairstyle known for their messy, textured look. They’re created by wrapping wavy hair around braids, leaving small loops and curls that give the style a carefree, boho vibe. This relaxed, slightly imperfect texture makes butterfly locs stand out, offering a fun and stylish way to wear protective styles.
Unlike traditional locs, which are smooth and uniform, or faux locs, which have a polished finish, butterfly locs have a more undone, voluminous appearance. The loops and curls that peek through give the style its unique, “butterfly” effect. If you're looking for a protective style that’s low-maintenance yet full of personality, butterfly locs are a perfect choice.
30 Cute & Trendy Butterfly Locs Hairstyles
1. Classic Butterfly Locs
For a timeless look, classic butterfly locs offer the perfect blend of style and versatility. These locs feature the signature distressed texture and wispy curls, making them ideal for both everyday wear and special occasions. The classic style is usually shoulder-length or longer, creating a full, voluminous look that’s effortlessly chic.
2. Short Brown Butterfly Locs
Short brown butterfly locs are a great option for those who prefer a more natural and manageable length. The warm brown tones add depth and dimension to the hairstyle, making it suitable for any skin tone. These locs are lightweight and perfect for those who want a casual, easy-to-maintain style that still delivers texture and flair.
3. Short Butterfly Locs Half Up Half Down
This half-up, half-down style gives you the best of both worlds—showcasing the textured beauty of butterfly locs while keeping some of your hair up and off your face. This look works particularly well with shorter butterfly locs, offering a fun, playful vibe. It's perfect for casual days out or when you want to add a bit of style to your everyday look without much effort.
4. Sun-kissed Blonde Butterfly Locs
Sun-kissed blonde butterfly locs bring a bright and lively twist to the classic style. The golden blonde color adds warmth and radiance, making these locs perfect for sunny days or vacations. The blonde shade contrasts beautifully with the textured locs, giving your hairstyle a glowing, beachy vibe that stands out effortlessly.
5. Ash Blonde Butterfly Locs
For a more edgy and modern look, ash-blonde butterfly locs offer a striking contrast to traditional darker tones. These icy white locs are bold and eye-catching, making them a great choice if you're looking to turn heads. The cool, ashy tone paired with the distressed texture creates a unique, fashion-forward style that’s perfect for those who love to experiment with their hair.
6. Brown Butterfly Locs with Highlights
Brown butterfly locs with highlights give you the best of both worlds—rich brown tones for a natural look, enhanced with subtle pops of color. The highlights add dimension and brightness, making your locs look even more textured and full. Whether you opt for caramel or blonde highlights, this style offers a fresh, sun-kissed effect that’s versatile and easy to wear.
7. Fluffy Butterfly Locs with Wispy Curls
For a softer, more voluminous look, fluffy butterfly locs with wispy curls are the way to go. These locs are looser and more relaxed, creating a fuller, bouncier style. The wispy curls add extra texture and movement, giving your locs a playful, carefree feel. This style is perfect for those who want a more natural, airy vibe while still enjoying the protective benefits of butterfly locs.
8. Chocolate Brown Butterfly Locs with Face-Framing Locs
Chocolate brown butterfly locs with face-framing pieces offer a sleek and flattering look. The deep, rich brown shade is timeless and sophisticated, while the face-framing locs help accentuate your facial features. This style adds a subtle touch of elegance and can be worn for both casual and formal occasions, making it a versatile option for any look.
9. Butterfly Locs High Ponytail
A high ponytail with butterfly locs is a stunning way to elevate your style. The textured locs gathered high on the head create a bold, dramatic look that’s perfect for making a statement. Whether you’re heading to an event or just want to keep your locs off your face in a stylish way, this high ponytail is both chic and functional, offering a fun, youthful look.
10. Long Brown Butterfly Locs
Long brown butterfly locs are perfect for those who want a dramatic, flowing hairstyle with plenty of length. The rich brown color adds depth and warmth, making the style both natural and elegant. These locs fall gracefully down the back, providing a stunning, boho-chic look that’s perfect for any occasion. The extra length also offers plenty of versatility for styling into buns, ponytails, or updos.
11. Side-Part Short Butterfly Locs
If you prefer a shorter, more manageable style, side-part short butterfly locs are a great option. The side part adds a touch of sophistication and frames the face beautifully. With the textured, messy look of butterfly locs, this shorter style gives off a relaxed yet polished vibe that’s ideal for both casual days and work settings.
12. Short Butterfly Locs with Cuffs
Add a little sparkle to your look with short butterfly locs adorned with cuffs. The short length keeps the style lightweight and easy to manage, while the metallic cuffs give it a stylish, eye-catching edge. This playful accessory adds a bit of shine to your locs, perfect for enhancing your everyday style or adding a bit of glam for special occasions.
13. Short Fluffy Butterfly Locs
Short fluffy butterfly locs offer a soft, voluminous look that’s both lightweight and full of texture. The looser, fluffier locs create a carefree, relaxed vibe, making this style perfect for those who want a natural, airy feel. Despite their shorter length, these locs still provide plenty of volume and movement, making them a fun, low-maintenance option that’s easy to style and wear every day.
14. Chunky Ombre Blonde Butterfly Locs
Chunky ombre blonde butterfly locs bring boldness and dimension to your look. The chunky size adds volume, while the ombre effect—gradually blending from darker roots to blonde ends—creates a striking color contrast. This style is perfect for anyone looking to make a statement with their locs, combining the playful, messy texture of butterfly locs with the eye-catching beauty of ombre color.
15. Ginger Butterfly Locs Space Buns
For a fun, playful twist, ginger butterfly locs styled into space buns are a must-try. The warm ginger color adds a vibrant pop, while the space buns create a youthful, energetic look that’s perfect for festivals, casual outings, or any day you want to stand out. The combination of bold color and fun styling makes this hairstyle both trendy and unique.
16. Highlighted Butterfly Pineapple Ponytail with Face-Framing Locs
The highlighted butterfly pineapple ponytail is a stylish and playful choice that showcases the beauty of butterfly locs while keeping your hair off your face. This look features a high ponytail with bouncy, highlighted locs that create a fun, voluminous silhouette. The face-framing locs soften the look and add a touch of elegance, making it perfect for both casual outings and special occasions.
17. Burgundy Butterfly Locs with Dark Roots
Burgundy butterfly locs with dark roots offer a bold and dramatic style that stands out beautifully. The rich burgundy color adds a touch of luxury, while the dark roots create a seamless transition and depth. This combination not only enhances the texture of the locs but also makes the hairstyle versatile, allowing you to wear it confidently for any event.
18. Thin Brown Butterfly Locs with Blonde Highlights
Thin brown butterfly locs with blonde highlights provide a delicate and sophisticated look. The thinner locs create a lightweight and airy style, while the blonde highlights add brightness and dimension, making the hairstyle more dynamic. This combination is perfect for those who want a more subtle yet stylish take on butterfly locs, offering an effortlessly chic appearance that’s easy to maintain.
19. Boho Butterfly Locs Updo
The boho butterfly locs updo is an effortlessly chic style that captures the relaxed vibe of bohemian fashion. This hairstyle involves gathering the locs into a loose bun or twisted updo, allowing for strands to fall freely and frame the face. The textured, messy look of the butterfly locs adds character and dimension, making this updo perfect for weddings, festivals, or any event where you want to showcase your unique style.
20. Passion Red Butterfly Locs
Passion red butterfly locs are a bold and vibrant choice for those looking to make a statement. The fiery red hue adds an exciting pop of color to your look, creating a striking contrast against the textured locs. This eye-catching style is perfect for anyone wanting to express their personality and creativity while rocking a protective hairstyle that is both fun and fierce.
21. Skunk Stripe Butterfly Locs
Skunk stripe butterfly locs offer a trendy, modern twist with their unique color-blocking effect. This style features bold contrasting colors, black and blonde, creating a striking “skunk stripe” effect. The playful color combination highlights the texture of the locs and adds an edgy flair to your overall look. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a fun and eye-catching hairstyle that truly stands out.
22. Bright Blonde Butterfly Locs Space Buns
Bright blonde butterfly locs styled into space buns create a fun, whimsical look that’s perfect for those who love to stand out. The vibrant blonde color adds a touch of sunshine to your style, while the space buns keep the hair off your face and showcase the playful texture of the locs. This youthful hairstyle is ideal for festivals, parties, or any occasion where you want to show off your bold personality.
23. Thin Butterfly Locs into a Chunky Ponytail
For a sleek yet textured look, thin butterfly locs styled into a chunky ponytail are a fantastic choice. The thinner locs create a lightweight, airy appearance, while the chunky ponytail adds volume and drama. This style is easy to achieve and perfect for everyday wear or a chic night out. The contrast between the thin locs and the thick ponytail makes for a striking and stylish look that’s both comfortable and fashionable.
24. Two-Toned Butterfly Locs
Two-toned butterfly locs bring a fresh, modern edge to the classic style. This hairstyle features a combination of two complementary colors, a deeper blonde and a lighter blonde—blended throughout the locs. The complementary colors highlight the textured look of butterfly locs, creating a dynamic and eye-catching effect. This style is perfect for those who want to experiment with color while still enjoying the protective benefits of locs.
25. Ginger Butterfly Locs with Textured Curls
Ginger butterfly locs with textured curls offer a warm, vibrant look that exudes personality and style. The rich ginger color adds a beautiful glow, while the textured curls throughout the locs create a playful, bouncy effect. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want a fun and eye-catching look while keeping their hair protected and manageable. Whether for a casual outing or a special occasion, this style is sure to turn heads.
26. Small Size Butterfly Locs
Small-size butterfly locs provide a refined and intricate look that showcases the beauty of the texture. The smaller locs allow for more versatility in styling, from cute updos to flowing, freestyles. This option is perfect for those who prefer a more delicate appearance while still enjoying the benefits of a protective style. Small butterfly locs are great for any occasion and can easily be dressed up or down.
27. Tri-Color Butterfly Locs
Tri-color butterfly locs are a bold and creative way to express your unique style. This hairstyle features three distinct colors blended throughout the locs, creating a dynamic and eye-catching effect. Whether you choose complementary shades or contrasting colors, tri-color butterfly locs allow for endless creativity. This striking style not only highlights the texture of the locs but also makes a statement wherever you go. Perfect for the adventurous fashionista!
28. Triangle Part Butterfly Locs
Triangle part butterfly locs offer a unique and stylish twist on the classic locs. This hairstyle features triangular sections instead of the traditional square parts, creating a striking geometric pattern that stands out. The triangle parting adds an artistic touch, enhancing the overall texture and volume of the locs. This innovative style is perfect for those looking to showcase their creativity while enjoying the benefits of a protective hairstyle.
29. Thick Side-Part Butterfly Locs
Thick side-part butterfly locs provide a bold and voluminous look that is both chic and flattering. The thick locs offer a luscious, full appearance, while the side part adds sophistication and enhances your facial features. This style is versatile enough to wear for any occasion, from casual outings to formal events, making it a great option for those who want a statement hairstyle that still feels elegant.
30. Short Butterfly Locs with Butterfly Accents
Short butterfly locs with butterfly accents add a playful and whimsical touch to the hairstyle. The short length keeps the style light and manageable, while the added butterfly accents—such as charms or clips—bring a unique flair. This fun detail makes the hairstyle perfect for festivals, parties, or everyday wear when you want to express your personality. It’s a delightful way to combine style and creativity while enjoying the protective benefits of butterfly locs.
How to Style and Maintain Butterfly Locs?
Tips for Styling Various Looks
Butterfly locs are incredibly versatile and can be styled in many ways to suit different occasions. For a casual look, try a high ponytail or space buns to keep your hair off your face while showcasing the texture. For a more polished style, consider an elegant updo or a low bun, allowing some locs to fall freely for a relaxed vibe. Half-up, and half-down styles are also great for mixing elegance with casual flair. Adding accessories like hair cuffs or colorful ribbons can elevate your style even further.
How to Care for Butterfly Locs
Regular care is essential to keep your butterfly locs fresh and neat. Start by moisturizing your scalp and locs with a lightweight oil or leave-in conditioner to prevent dryness. Gently massage the scalp to promote healthy hair growth. Avoid heavy products that can build up and weigh down your locs. When washing, use a sulfate-free shampoo and focus on the scalp, allowing the suds to cleanse the locs without causing frizz. Dry your locs thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew.
Maintenance Suggestions for Both Extensions and Natural Installs
For both extensions and natural installs, it's crucial to protect your locs at night. Use a silk or satin scarf or pillowcase to minimize friction and maintain moisture. If you have extensions, be mindful of the tension at the roots; avoid pulling or tugging to prevent damage. Re-twist or touch up any loose locs as needed, and consider a maintenance appointment every few weeks to keep your style looking fresh. Lastly, remember to be gentle when styling or adjusting your locs to preserve their integrity and longevity.
Conclusion
Butterfly locs are a stunning and versatile protective hairstyle that allows for endless creativity and personal expression. With so many unique styles to choose from, there's a perfect butterfly loc look for everyone, whether you prefer bold colors, fun accessories, or elegant updos. We encourage you to explore the various butterfly loc styles we've discussed and find the one that resonates with your personality and lifestyle.
If you're inspired to try out these trendy hairstyles, visit mybraidedwig.com for high-quality braided wigs that can help you achieve your desired look with ease. Our collection features a variety of options to ensure you can find the perfect style to suit your needs. Embrace your creativity and make a statement with beautiful butterfly locs today!
Related Articles:
Types of Locs: A Comprehensive Guide
Are Locs Braided Wigs Bad for Your Hair?
Get Inspired with 34 Beautiful Butterfly Braids Hairstyles
50 Bohemian Braids Hairstyles For Inspirations
