A flip is simply hair that curves outward at the ends instead of tucking under, yet that small change shifts a cut’s whole personality. It can look retro and polished, as in the ’60s-inspired flipped half-up ponytail, or loose and modern, as on a shaggy bob with see-through bangs or a short layered wolf cut. This gallery collects twenty-one examples across every length, from a shaggy bixie with a flicked nape to collarbone cuts, lobs and long layered hair.
Bobs and lobs between chin and collarbone are the easiest lengths to flip, because the ends sit right where the curve naturally forms against the shoulders or jaw. Layers help too: they create several flip points, adding volume and making thick hair feel lighter. Fine or straight hair holds a flip well with heat and a firm spray, while very curly hair would need to be blow-dried straight first.
In terms of face shape, outward ends add width at the jaw, which balances long or heart-shaped faces. Round faces tend to suit longer flips that sit below the chin.
1. Flippy Bob with Layers
On this layered bob, the upper layer curves inward while the lower section flicks out at the tips. Combining the two directions adds texture and dimension, giving the hair an easy, chic finish that still looks deliberately styled.
Inspiration: @shagsandsongs
2. Flipped Half Up
A half-up pony with flipped ends is a classic ’60s look with plenty of polish. Shape the signature curve using a hot brush, or a dryer paired with a round brush,, then lock it in with a strong-hold hairspray so it keeps its shape all day.
Inspiration: @michellethompsonhair
3. Lob Haircut
Exaggerated outward ends give a long bob bounce that moves every time you turn your head. To recreate it, angle a flat iron slightly upward and pull it down through the ends, letting it rotate outward for a smooth curve.
Inspiration: @heymonay
4. Medium Blunt Cut
Not ready for a big change? A gentle flip at the tips of a neck-length blunt cut adds shape and style without altering the haircut itself. Just a slight bend at the ends is enough to make a simple crop look more finished.
Inspiration: @undressedhair
5. Messy Shoulder-Length Style
Flips do not have to be sleek. Here, long layering and a sweeping side fringe get a tousled finish, while the curved edges add movement. Setting the ends with rollers builds extra volume and helps the shape last.
Inspiration: @brittanierussellhair
6. Shaggy Bixie with a Nape Flip
Curving the hair outward at the nape highlights the choppy texture of a freshly cut shaggy bixie. It balances the face-hugging pieces at the front and gives the whole cut more movement from front to back.
Inspiration: @bareeminimum
7. Off-Centered Mid-Length Style
Flipped tips can make even a very basic medium cut look more refined and intentional. With an off-centre part, this quick style shows how effective a flip is on mid-length hair, taking only a few minutes with a straightener.
Inspiration: @anna_nona_hairstylist
8. Flippy Blowout Style
If a rounded bob feels a bit predictable, flicking the ends upward gives it a completely different silhouette and opens up more styling options. Use a mousse or spray before blow-drying so the flip holds rather than falling flat.
Inspiration: @hairbysonyaaa
9. Neck-Length Bob with Bangs
This layered bob with bangs already has a vintage character, and outward-turned tips make it even more distinctive. Use a blow-dryer and round brush for a soft flip, or run a little gel through the ends with your fingers for sharper definition.
Inspiration: @_infinityhair_
10. Fringe Cut with Layered Ends
A heavy, bulky cut feels lighter and airier once the ends and face-framing pieces are flicked outward. Turn the strands away from the face as you style them so the movement opens up your features rather than closing them in.
Inspiration: @flyingoverussia
11. Flicky Curve Cut
Short layers with long curtain bangs that arch around the face make a flattering, face-framing cut. Slightly flipped tips add a flirty finish and draw the eye to the cheekbones. A small round brush is the easiest tool for curving such short pieces.
Inspiration: @cpshairsalon
12. Shaggy Bob with See-Through Bangs
Flipping out the ends of a shaggy cut shows off its layered texture and makes the hair look fuller. See-through bangs keep it light at the front, and the overall shape suits oval and round faces well.
Inspiration: @meynewyork
13. Choppy Style
Bending short choppy layers outward at the ends makes them far more visible and emphasises their texture. It is a simple styling trick that gives a cool, fashion-forward edge without any complicated technique. A pinch of wax twisted into the tips keeps them separated.
Inspiration: @sherylynnstyles
14. Sleek-Straight Haircut
Sleek, straight hair looks polished and defined, but if blunt ends feel too severe, a dramatic outward flip adds personality. Smooth the lengths with a flat iron, then rotate it outward at the tips. A drop of shine serum finishes the glossy effect.
Inspiration: @bruna_viola
15. Short Shag with Bangs
Mixing different flips in one shag adds depth. Sweep the front sections away from the face and flick the ends up slightly, which makes the layered shape look more complex and glamorous. The bangs can be blow-dried over a round brush so they lift off the forehead.
Inspiration: @nickpellettihair
16. Short Layered Wolf Cut
A wolf bob, layered throughout, updates a classic cut with a fresh, soft feel. Bend the ends outward using a straightener to bring out the layers, then set them with a little gel, which also gives a slightly wet finish.
Inspiration: @woolf.kingsx
17. Collarbone-Length Cut
Collarbone-length hair often sits flat against the shoulders. A playful flip lifts the tips and creates a gentle outward curve on each side, and curtain bangs add a soft frame to the face. It is a quick way to change a length that otherwise feels hard to style.
Inspiration: @hairbybrandieb
18. Layered Style with Long Bangs
Artfully bent ends add depth to a messy layered crop with long bangs. They bring a fun touch and show off how thick and richly textured the hair is, especially when finished with a little texturising spray.
Inspiration: @stylez.by.kristen
19. Textured Center-Parted Lob
Well-placed layers remove weight from heavy hair. Turning them upward with heated tools on this centre-parted lob adds even more lightness and texture, letting the natural wispiness of the ends show. A light texture spray keeps the pieces separated rather than clumped.
Inspiration: @hairbylisamathews
20. Long Flip Hairdo
Long hair can carry a flip too. Curved tips styled with a large round brush or flat iron accentuate the length and add bounce, though the look takes a little more time and product to hold.
Inspiration: @hamzahairdresser
21. Brushed Back Bob
A fully slicked-back bob can look severe on angular faces, so keep some movement at the ends. Flicking the tips up slightly adds softness and bounce while keeping the swept-back shape. Use a light cream on top rather than heavy gel so the hair still moves.
Inspiration: @charlesjuniorlouw
Three ways to create flipped ends
- Flat iron: clamp a section near the ends, then turn your wrist outward as you glide down. A quick, slight turn gives a soft flick; a fuller rotation gives a defined curl.
- Round brush and dryer: roll the brush under the ends and twist it outward while directing heat down the shaft, then blast with cool air to set the shape.
- Hot brush or heated rollers: best for volume at the roots plus a bouncy, retro-style flip.
Keeping the flip from dropping
Start with a heat protectant and a light mousse or setting lotion on damp hair; they give the strands memory. Let each section cool completely before touching it, as hair sets as it cools. Finish with a flexible hairspray, or work a little pomade or gel between your fingertips to define the tips more sharply. Regular trims also help: ragged or split ends do not hold a crisp curve, so keep bobs tidy every six to eight weeks.