1. Classic Mid-Back Butterfly Locs
The most-saved length - natural black butterfly locs falling to mid-back, with that signature soft, looped, distressed texture. Timeless and endlessly versatile, this length is long enough to gather into buns and ponytails yet still light enough for daily wear. The deep black reads polished against every undertone and needs no colour upkeep, so it suits work, weddings and everyday alike. Pair it with gold hoops and a satin scarf routine to keep those loops soft for the full run.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting a classic, versatile length.
Tip: Wrap them in a satin scarf at night to keep the texture soft.
2. Waist-Length Butterfly Locs
Dramatic, long butterfly locs falling to the waist give a bold, goddess-like statement. The extra length shows off the boho, looped texture beautifully, with every distressed loop catching the light as the locs sway and drape. Waist-length sets feel special-occasion ready, so they photograph gorgeously at weddings and festivals while still working for everyday once you learn to gather them. Because the length adds weight, a knotless or lighter root keeps things comfortable, and a deep side part adds instant glamour.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting a long, dramatic look.
3. Bob-Length Butterfly Locs
A chin or shoulder-length bob in butterfly locs is chic, lightweight and easy to style. Perfect if you want something fresh and low-maintenance, the shorter cut puts almost no weight on your edges and is quick to wrap at night. That blunt boho shape frames the jaw and flatters round and heart-shaped faces especially well, giving a modern, put-together finish. Add a deep side part or a few honey face-framing pieces to lift the look, and it moves easily from the office to a weekend out.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting a lighter, shorter style.
4. Honey Blonde Butterfly Locs
Warm honey blonde locs brighten your whole look and complement most skin tones. A soft, sunny take on the boho style, honey sits in that golden middle ground that reads expensive without the harsh contrast of platinum. The warm undertone glows against deep and medium complexions and softens the face, which is why it is one of the most-requested loc shades for spring and summer. Wear it loose for that effortless goddess feel, or gather it into a high bun so the golden tone frames your face all day.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting warmth without going bright.
5. Ombre Brown Butterfly Locs
Dark roots melting into caramel or brown ends give beautiful dimension and a sun-kissed finish. The gradient reads expensive and natural, mimicking the way real hair lightens at the tips after a summer in the sun. Keeping the roots deep means grow-out is forgiving, so the style suits anyone easing into colour without a bold all-over commitment. Show it off at mid-back or waist length where the melt has room to travel, and it looks equally right at work or out for the evening.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting subtle, dimensional colour.
6. Burgundy Butterfly Locs
Deep burgundy locs are rich, bold and flattering, especially in autumn. A striking colour that still feels wearable, burgundy has enough darkness to stay office-appropriate while catching a gorgeous wine-red glint in the light. The berry undertone warms the complexion and pairs beautifully with jewel-toned knits and gold jewellery, making it a favourite for anyone who wants a colour moment without a full bright shade. Try it at mid-back length with a middle part so the depth frames your face evenly, and wrap it nightly to keep the colour glossy.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting bold colour with warmth.
Tip: Burgundy looks richest against warm and deep skin tones.
7. Jumbo Butterfly Locs
Fewer, thicker locs give a bold, chunky look and a much faster install. Great if you want a statement with less time in the chair, jumbo locs can cut hours off the appointment and use fewer packs of hair. The chunkier size reads modern and confident, with big loose loops that show off the boho distressing at scale, so it is the go-to for anyone new to locs. Wear them loose to enjoy the movement, or sweep them into a high ponytail for a sculptural shape.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting a quick install and bold size.
8. Mini Butterfly Locs
Smaller, thinner locs give a neat, detailed finish and more styling flexibility. They take longer to install but look refined, and the sheer number of locs means fuller updos, tidier parts and ponytails that hold their shape. Mini locs drape softly and read elegant rather than chunky, which suits anyone who loves an intricate, polished look. They shine in styled looks like a crown updo or a sleek low bun for weddings and formal events, where the fine detail really pays off.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting a neat, detailed look.
9. Half-Up Bun Butterfly Locs
Pulling the top half into a high bun keeps locs off your face while showing off the length. A go-to everyday style, the half-up bun lifts the crown for height and shape while the rest of the length cascades down your back. It is the quickest way to look intentional on a busy morning, and it flatters every length from shoulder to waist over any colour. Wrap a single loc around the base to hide the elastic, and it carries you from the office to dinner without a restyle.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting an easy everyday updo.
10. High Ponytail Butterfly Locs
A high, gathered ponytail is dramatic and practical, showing off the locs' texture and length. Perfect for events or hot days, sweeping everything up and back gives an instant lift that sharpens your features and keeps your neck cool. The gathered locs fan out into a full, textured tail that reads sleek at the crown and boho at the ends. It works best on mid-back and longer sets where the tail has real drama, and it takes accessories like cuffs or a wrapped base beautifully.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting height and a statement.
Tip: Wrap one loc around the base to hide the elastic.
11. Burnt Orange Butterfly Locs
Copper and burnt orange locs are bold, warm and perfect for autumn. A head-turning colour that flatters deep skin tones, this fiery rust shade glows with an amber warmth that feels made for falling leaves and cosy knits. The rich orange undertone adds instant energy to the boho texture, so it is a confident choice for anyone ready to make colour the centrepiece. Show it off loose at mid-back length with earthy autumn outfits and gold jewellery to complete the seasonal mood.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting a warm, autumnal statement.
12. Caramel-Highlighted Butterfly Locs
Caramel pieces woven through dark locs add dimension without a full colour commitment. Subtle, warm and flattering, the scattered highlights catch the light and break up an all-black set so it never reads flat. Because only a portion of the locs is lightened, grow-out stays easy and there is far less upkeep than a full dye job, which suits anyone testing the waters with colour. It looks especially rich at mid-back length with a side part that lets the highlighted pieces frame your face.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting a hint of colour.
13. Extra-Distressed Boho Locs
Maximum distress and loose loops give the most boho, lived-in finish. Effortless, textured and full of personality, this version leans all the way into the undone look with extra-fluffy loops and a soft, unstructured surface. The heavy distressing reads relaxed and creative, so it suits festival styling and easygoing everyday wear, and it is the most forgiving finish since a little frizz only adds to the texture. Wear it loose to enjoy the full volume, with a wooden bead or two for that carefree, earthy mood.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting the boho, undone look.
14. Butterfly Locs with Beads and Cuffs
Gold cuffs, rings and beads add personality and a boho-chic finish. A simple way to make your locs feel custom and special, a handful of metallic cuffs and wooden beads turns a standard set into something styled and one-of-a-kind. Accessories cost little and clip on in minutes, so you can shift the mood from everyday to festival-ready without a fresh install, and gold reads warm against natural black and honey alike. Scatter cuffs at different heights for a balanced look, and save the fuller stack for a night out.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting to accessorise their locs.
Tip: Add cuffs at different heights for a balanced, styled look.
15. Shoulder-Length Butterfly Locs
A versatile middle ground - long enough to style but light and manageable. Shoulder-length locs suit almost everyone, giving you enough to pull into a half-up bun or low ponytail without the weight of a waist-length set. This length grazes the collarbone and frames the face softly, reading polished for work while staying relaxed for weekends, and it is a comfortable, quick-to-wrap first-timer choice. Keep it natural black for timeless ease, or add caramel face-framing pieces to lift the look around your cheekbones.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting a balanced, wearable length.
16. Deep Side Part Butterfly Locs
A deep side part instantly elevates locs, adding a glamorous, asymmetric drape. A simple styling switch with big impact, shifting the part off-centre lets a curtain of locs sweep across your forehead for an old-Hollywood, red-carpet feel. It adds volume on the fuller side and flatters round and square faces by softening the outline, and best of all it costs nothing and takes seconds to redo. Pair it with mid-back or waist length for maximum drape, and it dresses up beautifully for weddings, date nights and events.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting a glam finish.
17. Middle Part Butterfly Locs
A clean centre part frames the face symmetrically and gives a polished, modern look. Chic and easy to maintain, the centre part splits your locs evenly so they frame both sides of your face for a balanced, put-together finish. It reads sleek and contemporary, flattering oval and heart-shaped faces particularly well while keeping edges tidy with almost no fussing. It suits every length and any colour, so wear it loose for a minimalist everyday look, or pull it into a low bun for something more refined at work.
Who it suits: Anyone who suits a center part.
18. Grey and Silver Butterfly Locs
Cool-toned grey and silver locs are edgy, modern and striking. A bold, fashion-forward colour choice, smoky grey and metallic silver feel high-fashion and unexpected, giving the soft boho texture a sharp, contemporary edge. The cool undertone flatters neutral complexions and pairs beautifully with monochrome and jewel-toned outfits, making it a statement shade for anyone who wants a directional, editorial vibe. The silver reads especially dramatic at mid-back length, so keep it glossy with a nightly satin wrap and let a deep side part play up the sculptural finish.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting an edgy, cool-toned look.
19. Half-Up Half-Down Locs
The best of both - some length pinned up, the rest flowing. A flattering, everyday-friendly way to style locs, this look sweeps the top and sides back while leaving the length loose to fall past your shoulders. It keeps locs off your face for comfort yet still shows off the full boho texture, flattering every face shape by opening up the forehead and framing the jaw. Secure the top with a small clip or a wrapped loc, and it carries you from a work call to a casual dinner.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting an easy, flattering style.
20. Double Bun Butterfly Locs
Two high buns give a playful, festival-ready take on locs. Fun, cute and practical for hot days, splitting the locs into a balanced pair of space buns keeps every strand up and off your neck while reading young and lighthearted. The look is a festival and concert favourite because it stays put through dancing and heat, and it works best on mid-back and longer sets that give each bun enough fullness. Dress it up with cuffs or beads around the base for that playful summer mood.
Who it suits: Festivals and playful looks.
21. Pastel Pink Butterfly Locs
Soft pink locs are playful, dreamy and eye-catching. A bold statement that still feels soft and pretty, this cotton-candy pastel keeps the impact gentle so it flatters rather than overwhelms. The rosy tint warms the complexion and gives an ethereal, romantic finish that suits festivals and anyone wanting a little fantasy, reading sweet and wearable rather than costume-bright. It looks dreamiest at mid-back or waist length, so pair it with a middle part and gold jewellery for a soft, magical vibe.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting a fun, pastel statement.
22. Knotless-Style Butterfly Locs
A flatter, knotless-style root feels lighter and looks seamless, reducing tension at the scalp. Comfortable and natural-looking, the knotless start eases the locs in gradually rather than anchoring them with a bulky knot, so there is far less pull on your edges from day one. That gentler tension makes it a favourite for anyone with a sensitive scalp or a delicate hairline who still wants full length. The flat root also lays closer to the head for a smoother finish and easier partings.
Who it suits: Anyone prioritising comfort and a flat root.
Tip: Ask your loctician for a knotless start to reduce tension.
23. Chunky Boho Butterfly Locs
Thicker locs with lots of texture give a bold, cozy boho look. Full-bodied and full of character, chunky boho locs combine a generous size with heavy distressing for maximum volume and that warm, relaxed cabin-in-autumn feeling. The fuller locs read confident and grounded while the loose loops keep the finish soft, and the chunkier size also means a quicker install and fewer packs than mini locs. Wear them loose to enjoy the body, add a wooden bead or two, and lean into cosy knits and earthy tones.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting a bold, textured finish.
24. Face-Framing Butterfly Locs
A few lighter locs around the face brighten your complexion and add a soft money-piece effect. Flattering and modern, placing honey or caramel pieces right at the front draws light up toward your cheekbones and gives that expensive, salon-fresh glow. Because only the front locs are lightened, upkeep stays low and grow-out is forgiving, so it is an easy way to test colour that reads especially lovely against a deep base. Wear the front pieces loose so they frame your face, and it lifts both everyday and event looks.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting brightness near the face.
25. Crown Updo Butterfly Locs
Gathering locs into a crown or wrapped updo is elegant and event-ready. A polished way to wear your protective style up, coiling the locs around the head into a soft crown lifts everything off your neck for a regal, formal finish. The wrapped shape shows off the loop texture and keeps you cool and pinned-neat through long celebrations, so it is one to save for weddings and milestone occasions. It works beautifully on longer sets, and a few gold pins in the coil finish the look.
Who it suits: Weddings and formal events.
26. Teal and Blue Butterfly Locs
Deep teal and blue locs are bold, unexpected and striking. A confident, fashion-forward colour choice, this jewel-toned mix of ocean blue and teal feels rich and directional while still leaning cool and wearable rather than neon. The deep saturation flatters cool and neutral undertones and pops beautifully against gold jewellery, making it the shade for anyone ready to stand apart from the usual naturals and browns. It reads most dramatic at mid-back and longer lengths, so keep it vivid with a nightly satin wrap and gentle scalp cleansing.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting a bold cool-toned colour.
27. Layered-Length Butterfly Locs
Mixing loc lengths creates soft layers and movement, framing the face beautifully. A subtle way to add shape, installing shorter locs near the crown and longer ones underneath gives the set built-in dimension so it never falls in a flat, blunt line. The layers add bounce and frame the jaw softly, flattering round and long faces alike while reading intentional and salon-styled. It looks especially rich with caramel or honey pieces in the shorter layers, so wear it loose to let the movement lift an everyday look.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting movement and shape.
28. Bright Red Copper Locs
Vivid red-copper locs are bold and radiant, making a strong, confident statement. Head-turning and warm, this bright fire-red shade glows with a coppery radiance that turns your hair into the whole outfit. The intense warmth lights up deep and medium complexions and pairs strikingly with neutrals that let the colour take centre stage, making it the pick for anyone who wants a fearless, expressive look. Wear it loose at mid-back length, and keep it vibrant with gentle scalp cleansing and a nightly satin wrap to protect the tone.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting vivid, warm colour.
29. Sleek Low Bun Butterfly Locs
A low, gathered bun is elegant, professional and keeps locs neat. Perfect for work or formal settings, sweeping the locs into a smooth knot at the nape reads refined and understated, keeping everything tidy through long days and meetings. The low placement flatters every face shape and pairs cleanly with tailored outfits, so it is the go-to when you want your style to look polished rather than boho. It works beautifully on longer sets, and a wrapped loc around the base hides the elastic for an extra-clean finish.
Who it suits: Work and formal looks.
30. Extra-Long Goddess Locs
Very long locs with soft curls left out give a full goddess look. The ultimate boho, dramatic statement, this extra-long set drops past the waist with loose water-wave curls escaping along the length for a soft, romantic finish. The mix of tight loops and free-flowing curls reads mermaid-like and luxurious, making it a showstopper for weddings, photoshoots and festival season. The considerable length adds weight, so a knotless root keeps it comfortable, and leaving a few curly ends out lets the full cascade shine.
Who it suits: Anyone wanting maximum length and drama.
Tip: Leave a few curly ends out for that soft goddess finish.
What Are Butterfly Locs?
Butterfly locs are a boho protective style made by wrapping water-wave hair around your own hair or braids, then distressing the surface to create that signature soft, looped, textured finish. The little loops along each loc are what give them their name and their effortless, undone look. They are lighter and often faster to install than traditional or faux locs, and because they use curly water-wave hair, they read soft and boho rather than sleek. They typically last four to six weeks, making them a popular, low-maintenance choice for a stylish protective style.
How to Choose Your Butterfly Locs
Start with length and size - shorter, bob-length locs are lighter and easier to manage, while waist-length locs make a dramatic statement but weigh more. Jumbo locs install faster and read bolder; mini locs take longer but look neat and detailed. Then choose colour: natural black is timeless, ombre and caramel add subtle dimension, and burgundy, blonde or bold shades make a statement. Save two or three photos that show your ideal length, size and colour together so your loctician can match your vision exactly and quote the right amount of hair.
Caring for Your Butterfly Locs
To keep butterfly locs looking fresh, wrap them in a satin scarf or bonnet every night - this protects the texture and cuts down on frizz. Keep your scalp clean and moisturised with a light oil or diluted cleanser, focusing on the roots rather than soaking the locs. Avoid heavy products that build up, and be gentle with your edges to protect your hairline. With good care, your locs will look great for the full four-to-six-week window, and you can refresh the roots if you want to extend the style a little longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do butterfly locs last?
With good care, butterfly locs typically last 4-6 weeks. Wrapping them in a satin scarf at night and keeping your scalp clean and lightly moisturised helps them look fresh for the full window.
How much hair do I need for butterfly locs?
Most full heads use around 6-8 packs of water-wave hair, depending on the length and thickness you want. Jumbo locs use fewer packs; mini or longer locs use more. Your stylist can confirm based on your chosen look.
Are butterfly locs damaging to your hair?
They are lighter than many loc styles, but any protective style can stress the hairline if installed too tightly. Ask for comfortable tension, moisturise your edges, and do not leave them in longer than about six weeks.
Can you wash butterfly locs?
Yes, gently. Use a diluted cleanser or apple cider vinegar rinse focused on the scalp, squeeze rather than rub, and let them dry fully. Over-washing can cause frizz, so a light scalp cleanse every week or two is enough.
What is the difference between butterfly locs and faux locs?
Butterfly locs use curly water-wave hair and are distressed to create soft loops and a boho texture, while faux locs are smoother and more uniform. Butterfly locs are usually lighter and faster to install.
Which butterfly locs look are you saving?
Butterfly locs are so popular because they are lightweight, boho and endlessly versatile - you can go short or long, natural or bold colour, neat or extra distressed. Save the lengths and shades that caught your eye here, and bring the exact photos to your loctician so you both picture the same finish. With night wrapping and a little scalp care, your locs will look fresh for weeks.
