Finding a protective style that is both low-maintenance and beautiful isn’t always easy, so I am always on the lookout for looks that deliver on both fronts. Enter butterfly locs, one of this year’s standout trends.
It is breezy, chic, and comes in just about every length and color you can imagine. Read on to see my favorite butterfly locs ideas (and a few styling tips) that will keep you looking fabulous and feeling confident.
1. Side-Swept Butterfly Locs
I personally love a side-swept moment for those days when you want a look that feels relaxed yet intentional.
The asymmetry adds such a cool, dynamic edge to the style, while the loose ends keep the vibe effortlessly laid-back.
Plus, maintaining the natural texture gives it that full, bouncy movement that we all crave.
2. Multi-Toned Butterfly Locs
Mixing different shades of brown and blonde creates a sun-kissed effect that is simply gorgeous.
The variety of tones adds so much depth and dimension, making the locs look incredibly full and textured.
I find that the earthy hues bring a natural warmth to the table. The rich texture creates a look that is visually complex and interesting.
3. Shoulder-Length Butterfly Locs
If you prefer a shorter silhouette, bookmark this shoulder-length cut as the definition of polished. The uniform thickness gives it a structured appearance that feels very well-maintained.
The shorter length really lets the texture shine. It results in a dense, voluminous look that is equal parts sleek and stylish.
Also, the natural black color highlights the intricate details, making the style appear ultra-rich and full.
4. Butterfly-Embellished Locs
These butterfly-embellished locs are a total showstopper if you are looking to add a playful twist to your rotation.
The full, thick locs act as the perfect canvas for colorful butterfly accessories, which infuse the look with a sense of whimsy.
I love how the embellishments add lightness and movement, really elevating the texture of the hair.
5. Salt and Pepper Butterfly Locs
This style offers a sophisticated spin on the trend by blending light and dark shades. It creates a textured look that is visually dynamic.
The contrast provides incredible depth, ensuring every single loc pops while maintaining a cohesive vibe.
With their long and full silhouette, these locs exude elegance. The mix of light and dark strands adds a timeless, natural glamour that I am obsessed with.
6. Curly High Bun
This curly high bun is a fail-safe choice when you want a look that is both fun and refined.
The curls deliver unmatched volume and texture, while the high bun adds height and drama to your profile.
I adore how the loose curls frame the face to soften the entire aesthetic. It perfectly balances structure with softness for a vibe that is polished without trying too hard.
7. Golden-Tipped Butterfly Locs
Golden-tipped butterfly locs bring a serious dose of warmth and brightness, with highlights that create a striking contrast against the darker base.
The bouncy, thick locs have a lively texture that is sure to turn heads.
The golden tips not only elevate the overall style but also add a sun-kissed glow that catches the light in the most beautiful way.
8. Waist-Length Butterfly Locs
In my eyes, extra length seals the deal when you want to make a statement. These waist-length locs scream luxury and elegance as they cascade down the back.
They are voluminous and full, creating a dramatic silhouette that is absolutely dreamy.
This length gives you endless styling options, from updos to flowing waves. Plus, the natural texture adds depth, making the look both striking and graceful.
9. Textured Butterfly Locs with a Tapered Finish
For a refined, natural look that works year-round, opt for textured butterfly locs with a tapered finish. The gradual taper towards the ends creates a sleek silhouette that is ultra-flattering.
The texture within the locs adds dimension and depth, making the style feel rich and dynamic.
This tapered design ensures a clean finish, while the natural texture keeps the overall vibe interesting and full of character.
10. Neon Green Tips
If you want to show off your personality, these neon green tips bring an unexpected and edgy twist to the classic style.
The thick, fluffy locs are perfectly complemented by the bright green ends for a bold pop of color.
That contrast between the dark roots and neon tips creates a visual effect that is totally worth the hype. It’s a look that will definitely get people talking.
11. Blue-Tipped Butterfly Locs
To switch things up, consider these blue-tipped locs which offer a striking contrast between natural dark roots and vibrant ends.
The blue tips make a bold statement and add a splash of color that really stands out.
I also appreciate that the locs are textured and thick, adding necessary depth and volume to the hairstyle.
12. Classic Butterfly Locs with Baby Hairs
You can never go wrong with a classic. This look pairs traditional butterfly locs with styled baby hairs for an aesthetic that is cohesive and polished.
The locs are uniform and thick, with a deep black hue that enhances their rich texture.
Carefully styling the baby hairs along the hairline adds a delicate, soft touch that really pulls the entire look together.
13. Hot Pink Butterfly Locs
This bright pink shade adds such a fun, edgy element to the locs, ensuring they stand out in any crowd.
The fluffy, thick texture is enhanced by the bold color, creating a look that is dynamic and lively.
This hot pink hue doesn’t just draw attention—it adds a unique personality to the style that I love.
14. Double Bun Butterfly Locs
Double bun butterfly locs bring a youthful and playful vibe to this timeless style.
By pulling the locs into two high buns, you add volume and height while allowing some strands to hang freely.
The textured, thick locs create a look that is full of volume. I think the double buns add a quirky and fun element that is totally on-trend.
15. Half-Up Butterfly Locs
This half-up style creates a striking contrast between flow and structure that feels especially elegant.
Pulling the locs back into a half-updo boosts volume at the crown, while the rest of the hair falls freely.
The defined, thick locs make a bold visual statement, and mixing an updo with loose strands adds a unique twist.
16. Chestnut Brown Butterfly Locs
Chestnut brown butterfly locs bring a richness and warmth that feels perfect for transitional seasons.
The warm brown shade adds an earthy, natural tone, while the defined, thick locs enhance volume and texture.
Styling the locs into a half-updo lifts the hair at the crown, allowing the rest to cascade beautifully.
17. Rich Burgundy Butterfly Locs
Rich burgundy butterfly locs offer a striking appearance, with deep red hues blending seamlessly with black roots.
These locs are long, falling gracefully over the shoulders to add volume and length.
The slight wave gives them a textured, natural look, while the color adds a bold touch.
18. Black and Blonde Butterfly Locs
This black and blonde combo creates a striking contrast that is undeniably bold.
Blonde highlights woven through the dark locs add dimension and brightness to the style.
The curly, thick texture is enhanced by the contrasting colors. It makes for a look that is instantly cool-girl-approved.
19. Butterfly Locs with Decorative Pearls
Butterfly locs adorned with decorative pearls bring a touch of glamour and elegance to the style.
Delicately placed pearls add a subtle shimmer that highlights the hair’s texture.
The locs themselves are defined and thick. They create a strong base for the pearl embellishments which look so high quality.
20. Ombre Butterfly Locs
I am a big fan of the gradient effect here, transitioning from deep black at the roots to a rich burgundy at the tips.
This subtle color change adds dimension and depth, making the style visually interesting without overpowering the natural texture.
The combination of length and color creates a style that is both elegant and bold.