A queer salon owner’s guide to hairstyles for trans women & transfemmes
Hair is one of the most powerful tools for self-expression, and for many trans women and transfeminine people, it’s also a source of affirmation.
Mark
Finding a hairstyle as a trans woman or transfeminine person isn’t just about looks; it’s also about affirmation. Whether you’re growing your hair out for the first time, navigating changes in texture, or trying to soften a hairline that makes you feel dysphoric, the right style can help you feel more aligned, more powerful, and more you.
To help you discover haircut inspiration that affirms femininity in all its forms, we connected with Mags Naylor, a Brooklyn-based stylist and owner of Exhibit Salon, a queer-owned and gender-affirming space that welcomes and celebrates trans clients.
From bangs that frame the face to layered blowouts that add softness and volume, here are some of the most requested and affirming haircut styles for trans women and transfeminine people, along with Mags’ tips on finding a stylist who understands what truly gender-affirming care looks like.
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Disclaimer: The hairstyle examples featured in this guide may include people of various gender identities. These images are meant to showcase haircut styles that many trans women and transfeminine people have found affirming. Hair doesn’t have a gender, but we know that for many trans women and transfemmes, it can carry deep meaning. The goal here is to offer ideas and inspiration while respecting the individual identities of anyone pictured.
Popular hairstyles for trans women and transfemmes
Mags is quick to emphasize that “we are not a monolith” and that the best hairstyle is “whatever makes the client feel most confident!” That said, some styles have become favorites among clients looking to embrace or enhance a femme aesthetic.
Butterfly cuts
A go-to for adding movement, body, and contrast between layers, Mags explains that “butterfly cuts feature lots of layers with pronounced contrast between shorter, face-framing layers and longer layers in the back. These cuts add a lot of dimension.” This style pairs beautifully with natural texture or blowouts and is easy to adapt for different hair thicknesses.
Bangs and face-framing layers
Not just a trend, bangs are practical and affirming for many trans women, especially if you’re concerned about your hairline. “Some trans women who are experiencing a bit of hairline recession love to get bangs and face-framing layers to conceal and flatter,” says Mags. You can go full fringe or opt for long curtain bangs (think Sabrina Carpenter) for a more blended, feminine silhouette.
Shag cuts
(@exhibitsalon)The shag is still going strong, and for good reason. “Shags deliver a relaxed layered look with defined bangs and natural blend, movement and texture throughout,” Mags notes. This lived-in look works well with straight or wavy hair and reads effortlessly soft and stylish.
Big bouncy blowouts
Want drama? Blowouts can be an instant confidence boost. “Big bouncy blowouts deliver a full, voluminous look that brings confidence through softness and glamor,” says Mags. They’re often requested for events, new beginnings, or just whenever someone wants to feel extra stunning in their skin.
Curly cuts with volume
For curly-haired femmes, shaping and layering can make a huge difference. “We receive a lot of requests for layered cuts designed to maximize volume and shape for curly hair textures,” says Mags. Rather than taming curls, these cuts are all about showcasing them.
Bonus: Light extensions around the hairline
If thinning or patchiness has been part of your transition journey, you’re not alone, and you don’t need to just live with it. “I am also offering light hair extensions to fill in thinness around the hairline area,” Mags shares. When blended well, these extensions can add fullness while staying undetectable.
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How to find a gender-affirming stylist and salon
A great haircut starts with a great experience, and for trans women, that means being in a space where your gender isn’t up for debate. Here’s what Mags recommends:
- Search queer-owned salons first: “Definitely seek out queer-owned and -operated salons — Google and Reddit are great resources… There’s also an excellent directory called Strands for Trans,” says Mags.
- Look at their social media: “Are they loud and proud about their values and their queerness? Do they feature clients who look like you?” That visibility often signals real-world safety.
- Avoid gendered pricing: “If you see gendered pricing (like ‘women’s cut’ vs. ‘men’s cut’), that’s a big red flag… Hair services shouldn’t be priced by gender—it alienates a lot of people.”
- Bring reference photos: Photos can help eliminate awkward conversations and ensure your stylist understands your vision, especially if you’re navigating dysphoria.
- Choose stylists who collaborate, not dictate: “We meet people at all stages and our job is to make them feel comfortable and confident,” Mags explains. Great stylists provide options without making assumptions.
As one of Mags’ clients put it, “My hair is a collaboration and makes me feel like my true self. I am so grateful to find a space that understands me and my identity.”
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Gender-affirming haircuts are a form of care
Hair can be one of the first ways trans women and transfeminine people express identity outwardly. For some, it’s an emotional reset. For others, it’s the final step in a long process of coming home to yourself.
That said, hair isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is femininity. Whether you’re drawn to soft waves, bold bangs, or something totally different, the best haircut is the one that makes you feel seen.
If you’re looking for more haircut inspiration for other identities, check out our guide to haircuts for trans men and mascs, or our post full of nonbinary haircut inspiration.
Your gender is valid. Your style is valid. And yes, your hair is part of your power.
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