Girl, listen. If you’re tired of the same old protective styles and need something that’s equal parts effortless, gorgeous, and “who is she?”, butterfly locs are IT right now. Those messy-on-purpose loops? The lightweight boho vibe? They scream free-spirited goddess while keeping your edges on vacation. And the best part? These butterfly locs hairstyles work literally all year – summer festivals, winter coat season, spring brunches, you name it. I switched to butterfly locs last year and haven’t looked back. My hair thanks me, and the compliments? Endless.
Ready to get obsessed? Here are 12 stunning butterfly locs hairstyles that feel fresh, fun, and totally doable. Let’s chat through them like we’re scrolling Pinterest at 2 am.
1. Classic Long Boho Butterfly Locs
Okay, the OG. Waist-length butterfly locs with those signature loose curls looped throughout? Pure magic. They move like water wave hair but weigh way less than traditional faux locs.
Go for water wave crochet hair to wrap – it gives that effortless messy texture everyone dies for. Throw in a few gold cuffs halfway down for extra spice. This style turns heads at brunch and still looks fire when you tie it up for the gym. Versatility on 100, and your scalp breathes easy all season.
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
2. Shoulder-Length Messy Butterfly Bob
Short girlies, this one’s for you! A short butterfly locs bob hitting right at the shoulders feels so chic and modern. It’s lighter, quicker to install, and perfect if you’re scared of commitment.
Add some curly ends for that distressed look – trust me, it photographs like crazy. Pair with big hoops and a slick neckline top? Instant slay. People will stop you asking where you got it done. Bonus: Zero hair in your lipgloss.
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
3. High Ponytail with Curly Tendrils
Is it even a protective style if you can’t throw it in a ponytail? Pull your butterfly locs up high and let a few face-framing loops escape.
Those curly pieces around your face soften everything and give major Ariana vibes, but make it boho. Pro tip: Wrap one loc around the base to hide the tie. This look eats for date night or when you need to look put-together in five seconds flat.
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
4. Half-Up Half-Down Goddess
The ultimate flirty style. Take the top section of your butterfly locs, twist or bun it, and let the rest cascade down.
Add beads or shells on the half-up part for festival energy. It’s romantic but not trying too hard – think beach wedding guest or casual Friday boss energy. I wore this to a rooftop party once and felt unstoppable.
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
5. Honey Blonde Ombre Butterfly Locs
Color pop time! Start dark at the roots and fade into honey blonde or caramel tips.
The ombre makes the loops pop even more, and it’s giving sunkissed goddess all year round. Go lighter at the ends for that distressed boho feel. Some girls bleach their own – brave! But pre-colored packs exist now, thank god.
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
6. Extra-Long Floor-Sweeping Drama
For my dramatic queens – locs down to your butt. Yes, really.
These extra-long butterfly locs are lightweight because of the looping technique, so no neck pain. Sweep them over one shoulder for photos. Warning: You’ll need a friend to help install the back, but the “Rapunzel but make it loc’d” energy? Unmatched.
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
7. Space Buns with Loopy Accents
Cute overload alert. Split your locs into two high messy buns and let loops spill out everywhere.
Perfect for festivals or when you’re feeling playful. Add colorful string or cowrie shells in the buns. I tried this for Coachella vibes at home and danced around my apartment like nobody was watching.
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
8. Side-Parted with Gold Accessories
Simple but expensive-looking. Deep side part, slick those edges, and scatter gold cuffs and rings throughout.
The accessories elevate basic black locs to red-carpet worthy. Throw on oversized sunnies and a blazer – suddenly you’re that girl. Works amazing with medium-length too if long feels too much.
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
9. Burgundy Wine-Colored Locs
Fall in love with this rich burgundy butterfly locs moment. The color against melanin? Chef’s kiss.
Those loose curls catch the light differently, and it screams autumn but honestly slays in summer too. Pair with gold jewelry – the contrast is everything.
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
10. Low Bun with Face-Framing Loops
Elegant but chill. Gather everything into a low messy bun at the nape and pull out a few curly locs to frame your face.
Perfect for bad hair days or when you want to look polished without effort. Add a silk scarf wrapped around the bun for extra flair. I rock this to work meetings and nobody knows it’s protective style magic.
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
11. Short Curly Butterfly Locs with Bangs
Bangs but make them locs! A short butterfly bob with curly bang pieces is so adorable and youthful.
The loops give natural movement, and it’s super low-maintenance. If you’re growing out your hair or just want something fresh, this changes your whole face – in the best way.
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
12. Beaded Boho Queen
Go full tribal goddess – long locs loaded with wooden beads, shells, and threads.
Mix sizes and colors of beads for texture. This style feels spiritual and powerful. I felt like I could manifest anything wearing mine. Perfect for vacations or when you need that extra confidence boost.
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Whew, told you these butterfly locs hairstyles were next level! Whether you’re team long and dramatic or short and sweet, there’s a version that’ll have you feeling yourself 24/7. They’re protective, lightweight, and honestly the most fun I’ve had with my hair in years.
Pick one, book that braider (or DIY if you’re brave), and watch how these gorgeous butterfly locs become your signature. Your future self is already thanking you. Which one’s calling your name first? Drop it below – let’s talk!
