
The mushroom haircut, also known as a bowl cut, is a gender-neutral hairstyle that was popular in the 1990s and early 2000s. Characterised by its resemblance to a mushroom cap, the style typically features longer hair on top, shorter sides, and bangs. While the style was considered outdated for a while, it has been making a comeback in recent years, with celebrities like Zendaya, Hailey Bieber, and Rihanna sporting their own takes on the classic mushroom haircut.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Bowl Cut, Butt Cut |
| Description | Rounded hairstyle with short, sometimes buzzed layers of hair on the bottom and longer, stacked layers on top |
| Gender | Gender-neutral |
| Trends | 90s trend that is making a comeback |
| Celebrities Who Have Worn It | Zendaya, Hailey Bieber, Rihanna, Kerry Washington, Ruby Rose, Halsey, Mary J. Blige, Estelle, Leonardo DiCaprio, Backstreet Boys, John Stamos, Rider Strong, Will Friedle, Lauryn Hill |
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What You'll Learn

Celebrities with mushroom haircuts
A mushroom haircut is a style in which the hair is cut short and evenly all around the head, resembling a mushroom. It is a classic hairstyle that has been popular at various times throughout history and is characterized by its rounded, toupee-like shape. This style typically features a fringe, or bangs, that are cut at or above the eyebrow level, with the rest of the hair gradually layered or stacked to create a rounded, bell-like shape. While the style can be adapted to suit different hair textures and lengths, the defining feature is this distinctive, blunt-cut fringe.
Now, here are some celebrities who have rocked the mushroom haircut:
- Kaia Gerber: Kaia Gerber, the daughter of supermodel Cindy Crawford, has sported a modern version of the mushroom haircut. Her take on the style featured a heavy, eyebrow-skimming fringe and subtle, face-framing layers that added a touch of softness to the structured cut.
- Mia Farrow: In the 1960s, actress Mia Farrow popularized the mushroom haircut. Her version featured a short, pixie-like cut with a defined fringe that accentuated her delicate features. This look became iconic and is often associated with the swinging sixties London fashion scene.
- Audrey Tautou: French actress Audrey Tautou, known for her role in "Amélie," has also embraced the mushroom haircut. Her interpretation had a playful, effortless feel with a wispy fringe and slightly longer, side-swept bangs that added a touch of asymmetry to the style.
- Agyness Deyn: Model Agyness Deyn is known for her unique sense of style and has rocked a variety of short hairstyles, including a bold mushroom cut. Her version featured a choppy, uneven fringe and piecey layers, giving the classic style a modern, edgy twist.
- Rihanna: Rihanna is no stranger to experimenting with her looks, and she has also tried out the mushroom haircut. Her take on the style was bold and dramatic, with an exaggerated, super-short fringe and a sleek, rounded shape that emphasized her bone structure.
These celebrities showcase how the mushroom haircut can be adapted to suit different personalities and styles, whether it's a soft, modern interpretation or a bold, statement-making look.
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Gender neutrality
The mushroom haircut is a gender-neutral style that has been popular with men, women, and non-binary individuals. It is characterised by its resemblance to a mushroom cap, with longer hair on top and shorter sides and bangs. The style first emerged in the 1990s, with celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and the Backstreet Boys sporting the look. After being considered out of fashion for some time, the mushroom haircut has made a comeback in the 2020s, with Gen Z leading the way. This generation's desire to stand out and express their unique identities has contributed to the popularity of the mushroom cut.
The haircut is known for its versatility, allowing individuals to customise it according to their preferences. For example, the sides can be buzzed or tapered, and the top layers can be straightened or left curly, depending on the desired look. Some people even add highlights or braids for a more unique style. Celebrities like Zendaya, Hailey Bieber, and Rihanna have all rocked modern interpretations of the mushroom haircut, showcasing its versatility and appeal.
The gender-neutral nature of the mushroom haircut is particularly appealing to those who want to break free from traditional gender norms and express their individuality. It offers a balance between masculine and feminine attributes, blurring the lines of typical gendered hairstyles. This haircut also aligns with the current throwback trend in fashion, where styles from the past, such as bowl cuts and crop tops, are making a comeback with a modern twist.
While some may still associate the mushroom haircut with the past, its resurgence in recent years demonstrates its evolving nature and ongoing appeal. It is a style that transcends gender and allows individuals to make a statement while feeling comfortable and true to themselves. Whether it's a sleek and straight look or a voluminous and curly interpretation, the mushroom haircut continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a unique and gender-neutral style.
The mushroom haircut, with its rounded shape and versatile styling options, has become a symbol of self-expression and individuality for many. It challenges gender norms and provides a creative canvas for those seeking to make a statement with their hairstyle. As fashion and beauty standards evolve, the mushroom haircut is likely to continue adapting and inspiring new trends that embrace gender neutrality and unique personal style.
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Styling tips
The mushroom haircut is characterized by its resemblance to the shape of a mushroom cap, with longer hair on top and shorter sides and bangs. Here are some styling tips to achieve and enhance this unique haircut:
- To achieve the signature rounded mushroom shape, focus on the top layers. Straighten these layers with a flat iron on medium-high heat, applying heat protectant beforehand. You can create a slight curve at the end of each section or keep pulling down for a blunt look.
- For a more textured and effortless appearance, use a hair texturizing product. This type of gel will add movement and definition to your layers, resulting in a cool and intentional messy look.
- If you have natural curls, embrace them! Enhance your curls to achieve a voluminous mushroom style.
- Play with dimensions by opting for longer sides and blunt bangs, as seen on Kerry Washington, or an asymmetrical cut like Hailey Bieber's, with one side super short and the other grazing the chin.
- For an edgy twist, take inspiration from Halsey and pair your mushroom cut with an undone bang and a shaved undercut.
- Add highlights to your mushroom haircut, like Ruby Rose, for a unique and standout look.
- To fake lightness and volume, try side-swept styling, as seen on Estelle. All you need is a round brush and a blow dryer.
- For a bold statement, experiment with contrasting shades. Rihanna once accented her mushroom haircut with golden strands, a black streak, and an undercut.
- For a more subtle approach, consider face-framing fringe. In 2005, Lauryn Hill wore her top layers tapered slightly longer in the back, connecting to a fringe in the front.
- If you're feeling adventurous, ask your stylist for a strong bang to make your mushroom haircut look heavier and more voluptuous.
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The mushroom haircut's history
The mushroom haircut is a style that has been making waves in the fashion industry for decades. With its distinctive shape and versatile appeal, it has become an iconic look that continues to be popular even today. So, what exactly is a mushroom haircut, and how has it evolved over time?
A mushroom haircut is characterized by its rounded, mushroom-like shape. It typically features a short, cropped back and sides, with a fuller, rounded top that creates the illusion of a mushroom cap. This style is often achieved using layers and precise cutting techniques to create a rounded silhouette. The style first gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, with celebrities like Mia Farrow and Audrey Hepburn rocking this look. Farrow's iconic short hairstyle in the 1968 film "Rosemary's Baby" is often cited as a key reference for this trend. Hepburn also sported a chic mushroom cut in the 1957 film "Funny Face," showcasing its elegance and versatility.
During the 1980s, the mushroom haircut took on a more voluminous form, with big, bold shapes and lots of hairspray to match the decade's glamour and excess. This era also saw the rise of the "power haircut," with working women embracing shorter, more androgynous styles that reflected their growing presence in the workplace. The 1990s brought a more relaxed and grungy interpretation of the mushroom haircut, with choppy layers and a bedhead aesthetic made popular by the likes of Meg Ryan and Winona Ryder. This decade also saw the rise of the "Rachel" haircut, made famous by Jennifer Aniston's character in the TV show "Friends," which incorporated elements of the mushroom cut with its layered, rounded shape.
In the 2000s, the mushroom haircut evolved to become more refined and polished, with softer layers and a more subtle rounded shape. This decade saw the rise of the "lob" (long bob), which incorporated the versatility of a mushroom cut with a slightly longer length. Celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Emma Watson sported elegant and modern versions of this style. Today, the mushroom haircut continues to be a popular choice, offering a classic yet trendy look. Contemporary takes on this style often incorporate texture and movement, with loose waves or curls adding a modern twist to this timeless haircut.
Throughout its history, the mushroom haircut has been adapted and reinterpreted to fit the aesthetic of each era. It has been embraced by women of all ages and has proven its versatility and staying power in the ever-changing world of fashion. Whether you're going for a classic, elegant look or a more edgy, modern style, the mushroom haircut is a timeless choice that can be tailored to suit your individual personality and sense of style.
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Variations of the mushroom haircut
The mushroom haircut is a classic style that has stood the test of time, offering a cute and quirky aesthetic. This haircut gets its name from its resemblance to a mushroom, with its short layers and rounded shape. While the traditional mushroom cut features a blunt, one-length bob, there are several variations of this style to suit different tastes and face shapes. Here are some modern takes on this fun and playful haircut:
The Long Mushroom Cut: This variation plays with the traditional shape by adding some length. The overall shape is still rounded, but the longer layers add movement and softness to the style. This is a great option for those who want the fun of a mushroom cut without committing to a short bob. The added length can also be flattering for those with longer face shapes, as it can help to balance out proportions.
The Pixie Mushroom Cut: For a more edgy take on the mushroom haircut, the pixie version is a great choice. This cut keeps the signature rounded shape but with even shorter layers. The result is a playful and bold look that showcases the eyes and bone structure. This style is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance haircut that still makes a statement.
The Layered Mushroom Cut: Adding layers to the mushroom haircut creates a modern and textured look. The layers can be cut at different lengths to frame the face and add volume. This variation is especially flattering for those with fine hair, as the layers create the illusion of thickness and fullness. The layered mushroom cut is versatile and can be styled in multiple ways, making it a popular choice.
The Curly Mushroom Cut: Natural curls or permanent waves can transform the mushroom haircut into a voluminous and playful style. The rounded shape of the cut emphasizes the texture and bounce of curls, creating a fun and flirty look. This variation is perfect for those who want to embrace their natural texture while still having a defined shape to their haircut.
The Asymmetrical Mushroom Cut: For a unique twist on the traditional style, an asymmetrical mushroom haircut can be a great choice. This variation plays with the classic shape by cutting one side shorter than the other, creating a trendy and edgy look. The asymmetry can be subtle or dramatic, depending on personal preference. This style is perfect for those who want to stand out from the crowd and showcase their individual style.
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Frequently asked questions
A mushroom haircut, also known as a bowl cut, is a rounded hairstyle with short, sometimes buzzed layers of hair on the bottom and longer, stacked layers on top.
You can style a mushroom haircut in many ways, including straightening your top layers for a sleeker look, using texturizing products for a tousled and effortless look, or enhancing your natural curls for a voluminous mushroom.
Many celebrities have been known to sport the mushroom haircut, including Zendaya, Hailey Bieber, Rihanna, Kerry Washington, Ruby Rose, Halsey, Mary J. Blige, Estelle, Leonardo DiCaprio, and the Backstreet Boys.
The mushroom haircut was popular in the 1980s and 1990s but was considered outdated until it made a comeback on social media in the 2020s. It is particularly popular among Gen Z individuals who want to stand out from their Millennial and Gen X predecessors and embrace gender-neutral styles.
To achieve a mushroom haircut, cut the hair on the top of your scalp into a thick layer or layers with even edges all around the head. The layers on the bottom can be buzzed or cut close to the scalp to form the mushroom "stalk". You can also ask your stylist for specific variations, such as the Edgar haircut or the Broccoli cut.

























