From Cher to Today: The Jellyfish Haircut's Revival in Celebrity Style

From Cher to the Grammy Red Carpet: The Jellyfish Haircut's Timeless Evolution in Hollywood Glamour

In the glamorous realm of Hollywood, where trends ebb and flow like the tide, an iconic photograph from 1968 captures the essence of a young Cher, a legendary figure known for her ever-evolving style. In this memorable image, Cher's long, raven hair frames her face while she gazes confidently at the camera. This snapshot doesn’t just highlight her fashion choices—a silky pink shirt and vibrant pinstriped pants—but it spotlights a daring hairstyle that has resurfaced in modern celebrity culture: the Jellyfish haircut. With cheek-length side locks merging into striking bangs, Cher's look serves as a cornerstone for a beauty trend that has taken the entertainment world by storm.

The Jellyfish haircut is characterized by a blunt bob with short, chin-length face-framing pieces. The longer layers in the back mimic the flowing tentacles of a jellyfish, contributing to its eye-catching allure. As whimsical as it sounds, the cut has attracted the attention of today’s A-list celebrities. Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, and Billie Eilish flaunted their versions of this bold style at the 2025 Grammy Awards, bridging the gap between nostalgia and modern flair. This trend, steeped in 1980s-inspired quirkiness, is more than just a fleeting moment in fashion; it promises to stick around, making a definitive statement in the world of beauty.

One of the early adopters of the Jellyfish haircut in recent years has been indie pop sensation Caroline Polachek. The artist embraces her own spin on the cut, opting for blunt curtain bangs rather than a full fringe. Her longer, raven-toned tresses flow effortlessly around her face, giving her a distinctive look that’s both edgy and graceful. This approach to the Jellyfish haircut exemplifies how contemporary stars are reinterpreting classic styles for a new audience, all while maintaining their unique artistry. Polachek has never been one to shy away from attention-grabbing styles, solidifying her role as a muse for those looking to make an impression.

At this year’s Grammy Awards, Lady Gaga made waves with her stunning appearance. Her gothic-inspired ensemble—a striking black ball gown by designer Samuel Lewis—was perfectly accented by her dramatic micro-bangs and sharp layers that framed her chiseled cheekbones. The look radiated sophistication and edge, transforming her into an ethereal vision, reminiscent of a modern-day femme fatale. The captivating juxtaposition between the structured gown and her bold haircut demonstrates how intricate styling can completely redefine an outfit. With her fashion-forward choices, Gaga continues to set trends and inspire fellow artists to push the boundaries of beauty.

Miley Cyrus, known for her ability to reinvent herself, showcased her take on the Jellyfish haircut with a versatile approach. Her toasted-almond locks featured sharp layers, cut straight at the jawline, while the longer tendrils hung down with a blunt finish, drawing attention to her striking features. Miley complemented her look with soft front bangs, which highlighted her glittery bronze eye makeup. Styled in a chic black cut-out dress from the renowned house of Saint Laurent, she transformed the stage into her runway as she accepted her third Grammy award. Cyrus embodies the spirit of fearless expression, consistently using her hairstyle as an extension of her artistic persona.

Also making headlines during the glamorous Grammy festivities was Billie Eilish, who introduced her own iteration of the Jellyfish haircut. Departing from the mainstream fringe trend, Billie opted for choppy curtain bangs that contributed to an effortlessly undone aesthetic. The rough edges blended seamlessly with her longer layers, crafting a look that matched her eclectic style. Initially making a splash with the cut at a benefit concert for California fire relief, Billie’s unique flair maintains her reputation for experimentation. Even with a black hat concealing part of her hairstyle on the red carpet, the overall vibe of her appearance was unmistakably bold, making her an influential figure in the ongoing dialogue about modern hairstyles.

Zendaya, an icon in her own right, has also embraced the Jellyfish haircut trend, showcasing a dramatic chop during Paris Fashion Week in January. Attending the Schiaparelli Spring/Summer 2024 show, she donned an all-black ensemble that exuded elegance and intrigue. Her sleek bangs and straight layers beautifully complemented the high-necked top and luxurious satin skirt, reinforcing her status as a fashion trendsetter. By presenting this hairstyle on a haute couture stage, Zendaya underscored how hairstyles can enhance not just personal style but also cater to the narrative of high fashion.

In a celebrity culture where hairstyles often carry as much significance as clothing, the resurgence of the Jellyfish haircut symbolizes more than just a trend; it offers a glimpse into the ever-evolving conversation around beauty and self-expression. From Cher’s original take to modern adaptations by stars like Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, Billie Eilish, Caroline Polachek, and Zendaya, this intriguing hairstyle connects generations of artists. As more celebrities continue to reinvent this iconic look, the Jellyfish haircut stands as a testament to the power of bold innovation in the ever-shifting landscape of Hollywood glamour. The impact reaches beyond the individual star, creating a ripple effect across the industry and influencing beauty standards for fans and aspiring artists alike.