The ‘Clavi-Cut’ Is the Surprisingly Versatile Chop of the Season

Deciding between short hair and long hair can be a difficult choice. Short hair is chic, elegant, and relatively low-maintenance, but styling options are often limited. Long hair, meanwhile, can be worn in myriad ways, but there’s no denying it takes effort to care for. And then there’s the cost of upkeep — certain haircuts call for more time and money spent in the salon.

The solution to this decision paralysis is to opt for a cut that allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds. Enter: the “clavi-cut.” This viral cut, so named for its clavicle-grazing length, exudes effortlessness in the chicest way possible. And it's gotten the stamp of approval from several tastemakers, including Gigi Hadid, Selena Gomez, and Lily Collins (not to mention countless TikTokers). Keep scrolling for a breakdown on the chic cut, including how to style it for the perfect lived-in look. 

What Is the Clavi-Cut?

The clavi-cut is this season’s trendiest take on the classic lob (or long bob). It skews a bit longer than the traditional lob, with the ends — as the name suggests — hitting right around the clavicle, or collarbone. In many cases, the pieces in front are cut a bit shorter than those in the back, which gives the cut body, texture, and movement. 

Unlike traditional lobs, the clavi-cut is long enough to be worn up in a chic low ponytail, classic chignon, or twisted into a quick messy bun. Because of its slightly longer length, there’s also no awkward grow-out period to contend with, and it doesn’t require constant upkeep in the salon. The style easily transitions from a shorter cut to a longer, more boho style, without the need for frequent reshaping. 

Who Is the Clavi-Cut Good For?  

Arguably the biggest selling point of the clavi-cut is its versatility: It’s well suited for a wide range of hair types and textures. The cut is particularly good for those with finer hair, as the blunt-cut ends help create the illusion of more density. If your hair is on the thicker or coarser side, consider asking your stylist for invisible “ghost” layers to remove bulk and unnecessary weight. The shoulder-skimming style also works well for curly and coily hair — just be sure to visit a hairstylist who’s well versed in curly cuts for the best end result. 

And if you’re a fan of fringe, you’re in luck: This laid-back, model-off-duty style pairs beautifully with various bang styles. No matter how you wear them — blunt, tapered, or swept to the side — we suggest keeping your fringe on the longer side to lean into the cool cut’s lived-in look. 

How Do You Style the Clavi-Cut?

Aside from regular trims to keep your ends healthy, the clavi-cut is pretty low-maintenance. All you really need to make the style shine is a bit of texture. If you’re lacking in that department, work a texturizing mousse or spray (we love the Briogeo Superfoods Banana and Coconut Salt-Free Soft Wave Texture Spray) throughout your mane after showering. Then, let your hair air-dry naturally for the perfect amount of tousled texture — no hot tools needed. 

If your hair has a little extra texture and you want a sleeker style, try a wet-to-dry styler, such as the Dyson Airstrait Straightener. You can use it to dry your hair straight and then turn off the dryer portion to flat-iron strands even sleeker. Finish with a shine-boosting product, such as Redken Shine Flash Shine Spray.