21 Best Jellyfish Haircuts 2026: Trendy Layered Cuts for Every Length
There is always something a little curious about the spring, something that causes us to long to get a fresh cut, a new color or, simply, a slight change in the way our hair would flow in the wind. And in case you were also pondering on whether the year 2026 will be the time to finally at last attempt at a bold-but-beautiful move, then the jellyfish haircut has now entered its golden age. Its loose layers, jocular motion, and innumerable versatility to every length and texture makes this trend strangely doable. Then the actual question is: which one will leave you feeling most like yourself, a bit more light and free and ready to take on the season ahead? Let’s dive in.
1. Smoky Soft Jellyfish Bob With Feathery Bangs
I am in love with the combination of this short jellyfish figure with something more wearable and tender. The hazy charcoal color is not too intense and the light bangs create a light and playful touch to the entire cut. The exterior is touching a bit higher than the chin and the interior is a bit longer giving the characteristic shape of the jellyfish without the sharp edges. It is contemporary and somehow mysterious, particularly when accompanied by subtly wavy hair that reflects the light at all the appropriate spots. This style is the breathing of cold air in the mornings.

The kind of layered softness that I need is where I will always turn to a lightweight styling cream. The OUAI Air Dry Foam is something that maintains movement without making the body heavier. Wash regularly and you also need a color safe shampoo to keep that moody charcoal shade.
What draws me is the fact that this version is easy to approach. Here you can see celeb colorist Tracey Cunningham mentioning that cooler tones are always better with dimension – and here you can really see it. The entire thing glows, the soft gradient reminds me of mist at sunrise.
In my vision of wearing this, I consider the busy days when I still desire to look presentable without making an effort. You are half relieved that the texture does the work.
2. Golden Jellyfish Midi With Soft Curtain Layers
This honey-blonde jellyfish slice comes at the ideal medium length sweet spot of motion with grace. The upper layer softly outlines the face, whereas the longer inverted underscore gives an outburst of playfulness without remaining dishevelled. It has an airy lightness that is reminiscent of the first day of spring when it is warm, and your hair just falls into place no matter how much you fuss with it. This shape of a jellyfish is more romanticized with the color melt to shades of the sunny gold, which adds more sun-like color to a creamy blonde shade.

I can only afford to swear by Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate conditioner in order to maintain this type of bright blonde glossy. It does nothing to take away the airy volume. It is also important to spritz the ends before bending them outwards to ensure that the shape is sharp and supple.
Speaking personally, this is the type of haircut that manages to make me feel somewhat more positive. Something about a golden tone makes my mood right away. Hairstylist Jenna Perry once said that warm blondes wake the complexion, and I completely understand what she says in this matter.
And then when you were feeling like a soft change, not exactly a dramatic one, this style practically is pushing you, as a friend might put it, saying, I just want you to try it, just for fun.
3. Copper-Jelly Layered Waves With Baby Fringe
This bright copper jellyfish cut resembles a letter to more daring color trends. The burning colour causes life to the stratified form, particularly where the smaller upper part is contrasted with the longer flowing bottom section. The baby fringe takes the edge of sweetness balancing the self-assured vitality of the red hues. I also enjoy the way the cut gives the natural wavy movement, and the style appears to be full of personality even at a casual day. It is the type of appearance that draws attention in any room without making an effort.

Red color may easily fade away, which is why I would always suggest to use a sulfate-free color preserving shampoo. Davines Alchemic Copper Conditioner is a miracle to make warmth full-bodied and dimensional. A UV-protecting spray can also go a long way even though the day is sunnier.
Personally, copper will always be a confidence color to me. It is bold, but not excessive, and it works with the layered shapes such as this jellyfish-shaped combination quite well. Here colorists such as Matt Rez will usually suggest that copper can act better with soft layers to be more reflective and that is just what is happening here.
This is an ideal look that can be used in transitional spring days when you are in need of something fresh but not something too showy. Let the layers do the talking.
4. Cranberry Short Jellyfish Shag With Wispy Movement
It is an irresistibly playful short hair jellyfish shag. The cranberry note makes it juicy and rich and the shaggy texture makes it all that careless and fuss-free. The upper part remains near the face and is lightly and wind swept and the underskirt is dropped down just enough to create that jellyfish look. It is a hairstyle that is unbelievable in all angles, particularly when you are fond of lightweight undress hairstyle.

A flexible-hold mousse is ideal in this type of texture. One of the favorites is R+Co Chiffon since it prevents the cut airiness and not crunchiness. Should you desire additional volumen at the crown, it only takes a second to raise the roots, blow drying, and all is well.
I have always believed that red colors and layered shags give such an artistic effect. It almost makes me think of the bold color decisions of anime, where the shape and the color of the hair convey an emotion at first sight. It is entertaining in a low-commitment manner.
Whenever I look at this style, I think of spontaneous brunches or weekend getaways – the type of moments when people do not want to bother much but want to make an impression nonetheless.
5. Amber Jellyfish Waves With Rounded Fringe
This amber-colored jellyfish with a warm cut unites the soft motion and form. The curved edge gives the eyes a soft frame with the base lying in the loose and with long wavy hair that is not overpowering, yet gives depth to the figure. I really like the fact that this version is so approachable – romantic yet modern, due to the slight overlay gradient. It possesses that slow dreamy spring vitality, such as golden hour lengthening every week.

The maintenance of this kind of shine and movement can often require bending towards hydrating treatments. The Kerastase Nutritive Mask is excellent in keeping the waves in place without planking it. A little curl cream here and there is a great way to add the natural texture.
Cuts such as these always make me remember why I love layered styles. They provide enough structure to make things interesting, yet give the natural texture its day. Movement is the greatest secret in wearable trend cuts, and you can feel that here, celebrity stylists say so.
This is such a nice place to begin, should you be missing something flirtatious and yet down-to-earth.
6. Buttercream Waves With Soft Jellyfish Layers
This cut of buttercream blonde jellyfish is all so wonderfully nostalgic and yet so very modern. The upper layer lays loosely on the cheekbones, and the longer under-layer gives the hair loose and wavy hair that is airy soft. The soft bends across the medium length style cause it to appear dreamy to the point of the early spring settling on your shoulders. The fringe is slack and rounded as well, and it provides a slight elevation to the face without focusing on it. It is the sort of appearance that is easy and yet elegant, which is such a honey pot with a shape of a jellyfish.

Blondes with this kind of softness have the moisture as their new friend. I tend to use the Amika Soulfood Nourishing Mask once a week to ensure that the waves keep their shape without frizz. And in case you are a person who wants to get a little more height at the roots, a bit of light volumizing spray before blow-drying can be a great complement to this layered finish.
This trim immediately takes me back to the days when everything is a little easier – such as going out on a weekend brunch on the sunniest day. In his frequent commentsary on embracing movement in layered blonde, celebrity stylist Chris Appleton, I can understand his reasoning on this point. The form simply sparks off your entire vibe.
I like the fact that this style is wearable. It asks you to make fun with texture and to allow things to be flawed and to appreciate the natural flow of your hair without pushing it into position. It is lovely in a very sincere manner.
7. Ombre Jellyfish Lift With Dynamic Blonde Contouring
This interpretation of the jellyfish trend has been beautifully blended in terms of both the ombre coloration and the sculpted layer structure. The upper one is feathered and light, catching right over the browline, and the lower one is cut in sweeping curves of softness and restraint. The fact that a darker base is smoothly blended into lighter blonde helps make the entire style glow. It nearly sounds like rays of the sun going through curly strands in a cold morning. The figure is bent over a wolf cut but is also very jellyfish in the manner the lengths part and run.

To retain ombre tones, it typically involves toning and shine. The Redken Blondage Purple Shampoo is a long-time favorite to maintain that warm balance without losing that creamy touch. To make the contouring pop in various lighting a lightweight gloss serum will be used.
What draws my attention here is that it is sculptural without being rigid. Many stylists – particularly in the L.A look – report that jellyfish cuts do well when the layers have been left to float, and this one certainly underlines that argument. It is light, fresh and full of life.
Whenever I think of a color combination such as this I think of how effortlessly it is to grow out gracefully. In case you are the type of person who does not want to be in the salon all the time, then this type of gradient makes life very easy.
8. Platinum-Toned Jellyfish Flow With Expansive Layering
I like the cynic and cold nature of this jellyfish interpretation. The platinum color brings out a clean and fresh palette and the layers that surround the face open everything in a curtain-like manner. The upper part is a bit shorter to form the jellyfish figure, and the undercarriage is a forward curve that gives the entire appearance a very nice soft, uplifted appearance. The general power is slightly editorial, slightly soft glam, and very wearable.

Platinum will never be left without care, yet it is worth it when the price is this bright. I would always recommend Olaplex No.3 once a week to maintain the integrity of the hair, particularly when you are using heat to style your hair. A round brush blow-out is a miracle in helping to form the outer layer into that curvilinear shape.
To me, this cut is like a puff of cold air in a hot room – chilling and cleansing. Senior stylists tend to recommend platinum in combination with layered shapes since the transfer of color increases the movement, and this style is an excellent example of it. It is the light that is simply dancing along the curves.
When you are in the mood to have something new yet not remarkable, this shade and shape provide the right middle ground. It appears to be purposeful and yet to be casual and this is such a rare combination.
9. Candlelit Blonde Jellyfish Midi With Face-Framing Radiance
This cut of the candlelit blonde jellyfish is almost angelically bright. The shade is a warm melting blend then a soft and natural mid-blonde. The haircut is also faithful to the jellyfish shape: a lighter and shorter top with a longer bottom that sticks out in a carefree fashion. The face-framing layers are also a beautiful highlight effect when coupled with the soft wavy moves of the hair. It is like spring sunshine bouncing off on a glass of something warm and sweet.

To shield this heat, I would grab a moisturizing shampoo such as Pureology Hydrate Sheer. It does not stiffen the layers and makes the hair soft. Curl-boosting cream may be used to create the ends, particularly when you desire that natural flipped out look.
I like the coziness of the warm blonde immediately. Hair colorists such as Rita Hazan will always tell you how much of a youthful glow a golden tone gives to the face, and this haircut is definitely doing that. It appears light without being too flashy.
And should you be craving a spring refresh that is less dramatic and more natural, this style is genuinely such a beautiful beginning point.
10. Peach Rosé Jellyfish Shag With Dimensional Texture
This peach rosé jellyfish slice could be among the most romantic variations of the trend. The upper layer is short and light, which provides an ideal jellyfish lift, and the longer under layer bends out in lazy curves, which are soft and feminine. The hue is indeed the highlight here a fine mix of peach, rose, and honey colors that are warm and welcoming. Such shaggy texture adds so much volume, particularly around the face where the fringe swells out in a swishy fashion. It’s a little bit of early spring sunset everywhere.

Such pastel colors tend to require a tinted care to maintain their brightness, and I would apply the Overtone Rose Gold Conditioner once a week. It makes the warmth not to fade away. A texture spray is also necessary, should you be interested in making the jelly fish silhouette a real play.
I have noticed that I always feel a little bit softer and playful because of peach-colored blondes. These colors are somehow comforting. Stylists such as Guy Tang have mentioned that peachy tones suit an enormous variety of skin tones, and I absolutely agree with this statement myself after trying some of those same colors.
This appearance suits well to anyone who desires a bright, sweet and moodful one. It has that beautiful spring gentleness and yet an advantage.
11. Mocha-Jelly Lift With Flicked Layers and Gentle Movement
The richness of this mocha colored slice of jellyfish is so reassuring. The upper layer lies gently along the cheekbones forming a rounded frame and the longer bottom layer acts outward in that classic jelly-fish movement. It is as though it were the ideal combination of the wolf cut and a more traditional layered one – light, breathable, and full of motion. The texture has a lot of creamy smoothness that brings out the natural shine of the mocha color, which makes the entire style warm and grounded. It is just this sort of haircut, on a mild spring afternoon, that simply flows with whatever the day throws at you.

To achieve this smooth finish, I would tilt my head over a lightweight blow out product such as Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Styling Treatment. It maintains the smoothness of the layers but the flicked edges are able to retain their shape. And when your hair is prone to frizzing when the weather is humid, a light anti-frizz gel will keep your clean profile.
It is one such cut that I always feel much more polished even when I am wearing a simple thing. It is subtle yet expressive. Stylists will discuss how the natural luminosity is created by longer cuts, which are layered, and you can literally observe it here.
In case you are in the mood to have something nice yet not so loud, this mocha jellyfish shape seems to be the best compromise. It is dainty, airy and beautifully delicate.
12. Soft Espresso Jellyfish Layers With Subtle Contouring
This offers a slightly more intense flavor of espresso that goes well with the mushy, jellyfish-like layers of the curtain. The upper part is rounded in a soft curve that frames the eyes and the lower layer is long and lifts outward in a sculpted form. The feeling of balance in this I like – the style is purposefully arranged, but nothing too sharp. The tonal gradients are delicate, and they provide the dimension that beautifully perforates the airy movement in the ends. It is the type of look that speaks softly not loudly and this is what makes it so wearable in everyday life.

This type of deep brunette looks the best care-wise when moist. I personally enjoy the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo to keep the layers light and to not weigh them down. A blowout brush will perform miracles on that outside flip in just one step in case you are heat styling.
This hair cut is something comfortingly cozy. It is solid and soothing, as though it were a warm, still moment just before spring has really sprang. Stylist to celebrities Anh Co Tran has stated airy volume is important in contemporary mid-length cuts and this style nails that impression with ease.
In case you have been longing to get a jellyfish cut without being too radical, this lighter version with espresso is such a genteel introduction.
13. Textured Bronde Jellyfish Shape With Tousled Fringe
The warm and cool colors are combined in such a gorgeous manner in this bronde jellyfish interpretation. The fringe is cascading loosely, providing a light disheveled vitality to the cut, and the remainder of the layers cascade into a textured, medium-length figure. The combination of warm caramel and soft ash makes the entire appearance look dimensional and particularly at the face where the contouring is so flattering. It bends a little towards a shaggy touch without losing the jellyfish shape, and that is why it is ideal unless you dislike that polished/undress thing.

Maintaining bronde tones tends to be about shine. One of my favorites is the Joico K-Pak Color Therapy Luster Lock Spray – it adds radiance without weighing it down. Should you desire additional mess, a texture spray, free of salt, can provide you with that spring breeze.
This hairdo immediately makes me think about the type of girl who never fails to look cool at a coffee shop even on her worst days. And is that not the dream sometimes? There is a reason why colorists, such as Cassondra Kaeding, speak of bronde as a universal shade, it just looks so natural on a very broad spectrum of skin tones.
Want it soft and yet expressive, then this bronde jellyfish cut is literally that nudge to do something different.
14. Layered Cinnamon Jellyfish Cut With Delicate Full Fringe
It is that warm and textured between this cinnamon toned jellyfish look in such a luminous manner. The entire fringe is light and airy and is cascaded over the forehead in delicate curves, with the lengths piled in layers over that portion which are soft curves keeping the form of the jellyfish easy to recognize, at the same time making the form delicate and delicate. The cinnamon warm hue does not become overwhelming but makes the entire style look beautiful and spring-like in its softness. The ends bulge out sufficiently to lend some individuality especially when the light strikes it.

Gloss treatments are likely to favor warm tones such as this one. The richness can be prolonged with the help of a color-depositing conditioner such as dpHUE Gloss+ in warm brown. A light smoothing cream will make the movement of the layers much easier without dragging it down.
I have always liked cinnamon hair as I consider it very comforting and uplifting. It is true that warm colors make the face softer and this cut is a definite confirmation of that. It is all balanced and reachable by the appropriate combination of the warmth and the organized jellyfish shape.
This style is very effective when you are just in need of something sweet and dimensional. It is cozy, it is lively and it slips into the season so beautifully gracefully.
15. Chestnut Jellyfish Layers With Cascading Volume and Swept Fringe
This is a jellyfish cut providing such a flattering and flowing figure. The swept fringe provides immediate motion and exposes the face but gives it partial concealment. The upper layer remains cut and light, according to the jellyfish plan, and the farther one descends the layer will be puffed down the shoulders. The chestnut shade is like the right shade between the feeling that is too rich but not heavy, too warm but not too golden. It is very active in movement, particularly where the layered ends form those gentle flicks which play about the collarbone.

In this type of voluminous movement, I prefer to have a root lift spray before blow drying. The Bumble and bumble Thickening Lift Spray is also fantastic in giving volume without stiffness. Drying shade is also more likely to remain shiny with a sulfate-free cleaning regimen with chestnut.
The first warm day of the year whispers to me at this incision – gentle, pleasant, promising. Hairstylists frequently discuss how strategic layering can give an immediate life to mid-length cuts and this particular style is a perfect example of this concept. It is active but not obtrusive.
It is such a beautiful choice, an item that feels refreshing and grounded and in a chestnut jellyfish form that you might have been wanting. It possesses that energy of perfectly balanced spring.
16. Ink-Brown Jellyfish Shag With Airy Micro-Bangs
Such an undeniable combination of smoothness and sharpness is offered by this ink-brown jellyfish shag. The micro-bangs are gently layered across the forehead, with the lightness and almost playful touch of feathers, whilst the other parts are cut in free, natural wavey lengths, between medium and long. The top part is shorter, which provides that trademark jellyfish lift and the bottom layer flows in a rather irregular, natural fashion that lends just a small dose of disheveled appeal to the cut. The best part of this version is that the dark brunette tone adds the layers of shadow and contrast that gives the entire shape vibrancy without dominating the face.

In order to keep this natural, airy feel this is where I typically suggest something light and curl-promoting instead of heavy creams. An example of a mousse that provides a reasonable amount of definition without sinking the strands is the Bumble and bumble Curl Mousse. When there is humidity or frizz, even a little smoothing serum on the ends will do the trick.
This slice makes me think of that sure-but-indifferent vibe that certain girls just simply possess – the kind of girls who can wear a basic clothes and dress up looking like a million dollars. It is common to hear that a stylists jellyfish cuts suit oval faces and heart-shaped faces best as the motion without structural loss softens the silhouette.
In case you have been seeking a style that is contemporary yet not over-polished, this one is in the right sweet spot.
17. Textured Bob-Jelly Hybrid With Lifted Waves and Light Fringe
So breezy is this beautiful bob-jelly cross. The length rests just above the shoulders with heavy stress on outward flicks, which could be considered short but voluminous jellyfish personality. The fringe is delicately floating and thin and exposes the face in a soft crescent, the layers move softly like worn-out fabric. It has a nearly vintage look about the figure, yet the finish is outright modern – particularly in how the waves make depth on the upper layer. It is the sportive cousin of the jellyfish cut.

Such a cut works best on lightweight texture products. I would grab a sea mineral spray and not the one that is too salty to ensure there is no harm to the hydration. Ouai Wave Spray is a good middle-ground product when you are looking to have a bit of lift without stiffness. More wave definition can also be achieved by blow drying using a diffuser.
I really like the way this style is casual but high. It is the type I would grab on a spring weekend – brunch with friends, a walk downtown or just the desire to dress in a cute sweatshirt. Jellyfish styles that hairstylists suggest to those trying out the trend the first time around are often shoulder-length due to the forgiveness and ease of maintenance.
It is an unexpectedly empowering small cut of hair.
18. Deep Brunette Jellyfish Cut With Sleek Contour Highlights
This slit is a combination of contrast and fluff in the most flattering manner. The bottom brunette is intense and lustrous and there are tactical contour highlights in the ends and face-framing pieces that brighten. The jellyfish design here is quite obvious with a smaller part in the top with a rounded fringe, and a longer part at the bottom which is cascading in the soft, slightly curvy hair. All this appearance is deliberate and carved, but at the same time, very comfortable to wear in real life.

In order to sustain this oily finish, I would lean towards shine-boosting formulas. Kerastase Discipline Fluidealiste line is particularly good to add smoothness without matted layers. The soft, jellyfish look can also be boosted by pulling up the ends with a wide barrel curling iron.
This haircut will always remind me of the small rush which accompanies making some minor but significant change. The highlights provide a sufficient amount of lightness to be new, yet they are naturalized to the extent that they will grow out in a graceful manner. Most of the stylists claim that contour highlights are one of the most requested add-ons of layered cuts – and I fully realize the reason why.
It is smooth and bright and rich with soft motion.
19. Caramel Whipped Jellyfish Layers With Animated Volume
Something near to animated is this caramel whipped jellyfish appearance. The layers are cut in the sense that they appear to be floating outward to create the impression that the entire shape is in motion even when it is not. The caramel used adds wonderful depth as it melts easily into the base. The fringe is also a little parted and airy, making the brow line softened and the entire wavy structure stronger. This could be among the youngest editions of jellyfish in the collection.

Caramel tints of love keep the hair moist, hence, a moist oil such as the Verb Ghost Oil would be good to keep the ends and mid-lengths shiny. In case you desire more bang, take a round brush and blow dry the upper layer upwards to make that thrilling outer flick better.
I am so in love with the fact that dimensional cuts such as this one are spring-ready. They are energetic, free-spirited and they bring character at a glance and with little style effort. Colorists such as Matt Rez frequently discuss the creation of what they call internal movement with highlights – and this is just what it would look like in practice.
It is playful, expressive and exceedingly pleasing.
20. Frosted Mocha Jellyfish With Luxe Volume and Defined Face Layers
This frozen mocha jelly fish slice is all luxury in stratified form. The frost with its cool undertones on the mocha base provides it with soft glowing contrast that attracts the attention to the face in the prettiest manner possible. Voluminous, cascading layers are used to add to the jellyfish silhouette, creating additional layers that are almost petal-shaped. The fringe is fine and turned aside and it provides an easy romantic ending. It is rounder, slightly more dramatic, and completely spellbinding.

A volumizing mousse that protects against heat is necessary to sustain this type of volume. The favorite long-lasting crunchless lift is the Oribe Grandiose Mousse. Mocha blends also have a tendency to fade colder hence a toning conditioner can maintain the balance and render the shade polished.
This fashion is something that I would use to feel instantly feminine and purposeful. It possesses something to say, not loud, but graciously confident. It recalls me of the mild excitement of early spring evenings, when the light is just right and all is warm.
You will like this one to bookmark to get a jellyfish cut as soft and glamorous as possible.
21. Warm Copper Jellyfish Midi With Sculpted Volume and Gentle Light
It is an ideal ending to the series as this variant of the warm copper jellyfish. It is a soft, warm colour, which envelops the face in golden hues which suit almost any complexion. The layers are made solid, but flowing, which imparts a refined curvature to the haircut. The lower portion of the jellyfish top is so pretty in rounding out the face, and so is the portion above, stretched out into natural wavy lines and a soft flick. It is young, natural and simply beautiful.

With proper care, copper colors do well and therefore I usually resort to the Pureology Copper-Inspired Shampoo and Conditioner duo. It maintains the radiance without going orange. I have been using light curl cream and curling at the ends and upwards so that it has that ribbon like movement.
It is a mood more than a colour, I will tell you, always, copper, something daring and comforting. This film is the embodiment of this in this cut. It is subtly bold, mildly bright, and one that will even satisfy someone who is interested in a spring refresh without being overdone.
And honestly, in case there is one jellyfish haircut that symbolizes effortless glow, this is perhaps it.
Jellyfish haircuts have become not only so much more than a trend but one giant canvas. You might prefer a lightly layered cut of hair or something cut and daring or even a flicky wavy cut of hair that swings with you, either way, there is one that will fit well into your day to day rhythm. The lesson I have gained in searching all these looks is that the secret is in the contrast – short and long, airy and defined, soft and structured. You discover one that seems like a clean slate without losing your signature feel somewhere in those contrasts. In case any of these styles caused you to have a little faster heartbeat, then perhaps it is time to give something new this season a trial.