Layer Cut vs Feather Cut: Key Differences and How to Choose

Are you confused about which side to choose in a layer cut vs a feather cut? No need to feel bad—you are not alone.

The layered cut offers versatility, creating an impression of volume and length, while the feather cut is a technique for layering hair that looks like feathers.

Both styles present distinctive characteristics that can dramatically transform your overall look.

Key Differences Layer Cut vs Feather Cut

Before we look at each of these haircuts, here are some differences if you want the short and sweet of choosing any of these styles:

FEATURE	LAYER CUT	FEATHER CUT
Cutting Technique	Hair is cut into horizontal sections to form layers at different lengths	Hair is cut at a 90° angle, creating a soft, tapered end
Hair Texture	More Defined	Flowy Texture
Face Shape	All Face Shapes	Oval and Heart-shaped Face
Hair Maintenance	Regular trimming to make it look defined	Low maintenance as the ends grow out gracefully
Hair Type	Curly and Straight	Long to Medium Length Hair Not For Thick/Thin Hair
Volume	Give a lift and make hair look voluminous	Subtle volume

What is a Layer Cut?

The layered haircut offers versatility and remains popular for many reasons. At Haste, we will cut your hair in different lengths, with the upper layers shorter than the lower ones.

Doing this creates the illusion that your hair has length and volume. This style is excellent because it is low-maintenance. So whether you want side-swept or choppy layers, it never goes out of fashion.

Furthermore, the layered one has many benefits when debating between layer cut and feather cut.

Benefits of a Layer Cut

If there is one hairstyle that has stood the test of time, it is the layered hairstyle with all its benefits:

• Versatility: This hairstyle can be worn in different styles, such as braids and updos, and it works with all hair lengths and types.
• Volumizes Hair: Layers cut into hair add dimension and create thickness; plus, they soften facial angles, which is ideal if you have a square or rectangular face.
• Weight Reduction: The different layers help reduce weight and give your hair a soft shape, which works great with thick hair.
• Easy to Maintain: Layers shape your natural hair texture, making it easier to maintain and style without much effort.

Still, as with any hairstyle, the layer cut has disadvantages.

Disadvantages of a Layer Cut

While the layers can add some body to your hair, you must consider the following:

• Fragile Hair: Too many layers will make your hairdo look fragile and primarily thin towards the ends instead of creating a fuller effect.
• Regrowth Take Longer: Layered cuts comprise short and long layers, resulting in different growth rates. The shorter strands will take longer to grow, creating an uneven look.
• Needs Frequent Trimming: Once the layers grow, the hair becomes less defined, and regular trims are required every six to eight weeks to keep the shape and style.

How is a Layered Cut Done in 5 Steps?

You can easily do a DIY layer cut at home, but we still recommend visiting a professional stylist to have it done. Here are the DIY steps:

1. Take your wide-toothed comb and remove all the tangles for a smoother appearance.
2. Tie your hair in a ponytail and flip it over, positioning it horizontally across the brow.
3. With the comb, get one inch of hair from the end of your ponytail, and with a slant, cut the hair using upward strokes with the scissors.
4. Once you reach your desired style, you can untie your ponytail and look at your final results.
5. Now, comb the layers to inspect them for uneven sections. Use the scissors to make minor adjustments for even distribution if there are any.

What is a Feather Cut?

Choose the feathered haircut to add a sense of softness and texture to your boring hairstyle. 

When you visit us, we will cut your hair at an angle to create a messy yet airy layering effect.

You will have tapered wispy ends for a chic appearance and a feather texture that looks like bird feathers. The style has a light and soft look with its benefits.

Benefits of Feathered Haircuts

For a modern look that looks classic, the style can make a statement with loads of advantages.

• Adds Movement and Volume: A feathered cut adds texture to your hair for a fuller, more dimensional look. It also provides a natural bounce.
• Highlights Your Facial Features: Feathery locks can help emphasize facial features like the cheekbones and jaw. They are perfect for an oval face to add softness, making the jawline look elongated.
• Low Maintenance: The hair’s sharp curves, shapes, and angles give it a natural body with minimal styling.

Yet, as with the layer cut, the feather cut has some drawbacks.

Disadvantages of Feather Cut

The feather cut places a step above your layered cut, but it has the following drawbacks:

• Does Not Suit All Face Shapes: The haircut does not suit all shapes of faces, especially if you have a square or round face. It will make your face look fuller and rounder.
• Does Not Work With All Hair Types: If you have coarse or curly hair, the feather cut will add volume and be difficult to style in the long run. It might also not work with thin or fine hair, as the layers can make it look flatter and thinner.

7 Steps to Do a Feather Cut

As with the layer cut, you can do a feather cut at home with these steps:

1. Comb your hair with a wide-toothed comb to remove any tangles.
2. Use a rat-tail comb to part the hair from the middle and divide it into smaller sections.
3. Hold one section, pull it away from the other hair, and twist it.
4. Take scissors and make a diagonal cut in a downward direction.
5. With the point-cutting technique, start cutting your hair at different angles to give it a feathery look.
6. Repeat the steps until you reach the remaining section.
7. Once done, use your comb to ensure no sharp transition between the layers.

Alternatively, you can create a messy texture with sea salt spray to give it a beach wave look.

Layer Cut And Feather Cut Similarities

Both haircuts serve similar purposes: they add volume, movement, texture, depth, and definition to hair. Both hairstyles will surely flatter your face and make you look fabulous.

Not only will these hairstyles make you feel great about yourself, but they will make you stand out. If you are still undecided, there is something you can do by choosing between the layer cut vs. feather cut. Check this out next.

Wrap-Up: Combine The Two Haircuts

Instead of deciding between the two, you can combine them even if they serve different purposes. The two hairstyles complement one another and can work well to form a multi-layered haircut with stunning feathered ends.

Still, it’s worth noting that this style only looks great combined if you have thick or lengthy hair. Unfortunately, if you have short hair, we recommend growing it more to achieve that desired look.

Both the feather and layer cut can make the hair look voluminous and healthy. Yet, it still comes down to your preferences. If you want something low-maintenance and edgy, your best pick is the feather cut.

But if you prefer a versatile, timeless haircut, consider the layer cut your best bet. Yet, if you are still debating about layer cut vs. feather cut, contact us at Haste Hair and come for a consultation so that we can discuss what you have in mind.

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