The Jellyfish Cut Is Having Its Moment (And I'm Here for It)
photo curtesy of encore
THE DISCOVERY
The jellyfish haircut has reclaimed its moment—think K-pop and Japanese fashion energy with an anime-inspired twist. It's giving mullet-meets-long-bob energy, and honestly, it's a vibe. This cut has been floating around (pun intended 🪼) as one of the boldest eclectic hairstyle trends of 2025, and I'm officially obsessed.
Fast forward to now, desperately wanting to try something fresh with my own hair, I chopped the front pieces short, left the back long—and when my cousin saw me, she immediately asked: "Wait, is that a jellyfish cut?"
…
I WAS LIKE….. 👀 WHAT!?
IT HAS AN ACTUAL NAME?
THE HISTORY
Turns out, the jellyfish cut goes by a few names online, but most often, it's linked back to the "hime cut" (Pronounced HEE-MAY). That's because they share the same DNA: sharp, face-framing layers in the front with long, flowing lengths in the back. Think of the jellyfish cut as the modern remix of the classic Japanese hime style—softer layers, more wearable, and a definite head turner.
Real quick rundown:
The hime cut isn't just some anime thing—it's literally ancient. It dates back to Japan's Heian period (794–1185), when noblewomen rocked long, sleek hair with sharply clipped sidelocks and fringe as part of a coming-of-age ritual called binsogi. That ceremonial trim basically birthed the hime's iconic look: front framing pieces, long back layers, and a princess-level vibe. And yes, the name "hime" literally means princess in Japanese, so walking out with this cut is walking out royal. (AND very much on brand for me lol)
blunt jelly fish
soft jelly fish
THE MODERN TWIST
In today's version, the jellyfish cut keeps that two-tiered structure—the front stays structured, the back flows—but adds more movement and less harsh geometry. It's edgy, playful, and perfect for when you're tired of your same-old style.
The key is symmetry. If one side is off, it shows immediately—trust me, I learned this the hard way with my wandering attention span. Unless you've got a steady hand, I'd recommend hitting up a stylist or a friend who can nail those sharp layered lines. Pro tip: bring reference photos and ask for texturizing spray to enhance that piece-y, effortless movement that makes the cut really pop.
THE VERDICT
As we move into fall 2025, the jellyfish cut is back on the scene. I've seen it on Rico Nasty, Miley Cyrus, and even style icons like Lady Gaga, proving the style has spread like wildfire and is now a full-on global fashion statement.
For me? It's a fun spin on a bob, nostalgic yet futuristic, and totally BLNCO approved. Fashion is about taking risks, and if you've been itching to step outside the box with your hair, this layered cut is worth the hype.
xo Birdie.
