Embracing a fusion of vintage charm and contemporary flair, the undercut has surged through the realm of men’s fashion. With influential figures such as Brad Pitt and David Beckham championing this style, the undercut has become a hallmark choice for making a statement on red carpets globally.
WHAT IS AN UNDERCUT?
The undercut hairstyle, at its essence, epitomizes a simple, chic, and adaptable cut, seamlessly complementing a meticulously styled quiff or a more casual man bun. This term encapsulates any haircut that retains length on the upper part while keeping the back and/or sides closely cropped, faded, or completely buzzed.
In today’s grooming landscape, crafting the perfect undercut has become a meticulous art, especially when intricate elements like skin fades and precise graduations are integrated. Interestingly, during the Edwardian era in England, the undercut symbolized a lack of means to afford a skilled hair professional, signifying a different status. How times have changed, haven’t they?
This diverse collection illustrates the versatility of the undercut, showcasing an array of cuts and appearances. Nevertheless, the defining feature of this style, featuring short sides and longer top sections, remains a common thread among this spectrum of cuts.
1. UNDERCUT FADE
A fade, when done skillfully, ranks among the most aesthetically pleasing styles. For individuals keen on showcasing an unwavering commitment to detail through their personal style, the undercut fade stands out as a fitting choice. Entrusted to a skilled barber, the seamless transition between each guard ensures a look that captures attention, commanding admiration both in professional settings and social venues, such as clubs and gatherings.
2. DISCONNECTED UNDERCUT
For those admiring the clean sides and long top characteristic of the undercut but seeking a more dramatic alternative to the fade, the disconnected undercut might be the ideal choice. Diverging from the gradual blending of the fade, this style emphasizes a sharp contrast between the sides and the upper section, making a bold statement. This classic haircut is tailored for those who exude confidence and a fearless approach to their personal style.
3. LONG HAIR UNDERCUT
The undercut’s greatest allure lies in its remarkable versatility. For those embracing a more daring and adventurous style, the long hair undercut offers an ideal canvas for self-expression. This style accentuates the striking difference between the lengthy locks atop the head and the closely cropped sides, creating a captivating contrast. It’s an excellent choice for individuals looking to make a distinctive impression, standing out from the norm and capturing attention with a unique and head-turning look.
4. MAN BUN UNDERCUT
In the realm of men’s hairstyles, few have evoked as much debate as the man bun over the past decade. For individuals who proudly carve their own path, the man bun undercut stands as a compelling statement—a declaration that, regardless of varying opinions, one’s style remains a true reflection of personal identity. It’s a bold choice that asserts individuality, emphasizing that personal fashion preferences are a reflection of unique character and self-expression.
5. UNDERCUT CURLY HAIR FADE
Not everyone boasts the naturally straight hair often associated with the classic undercut style. However, there’s no need to worry, as the undercut seamlessly complements curly hair just as well as it does straight locks. Embracing the meticulous transitions that showcase an eye for detail alongside the inherent vivacity of untamed curls, the undercut curly hair fade is tailor-made for those individuals who effortlessly command attention and revel in being the life of the party. It’s a style that harmonizes the precision of a fade with the exuberance of curly hair, offering a distinctive and vivacious look.
6. UNDERCUT VIKING HAIRCUT
For an undeniably bold and commanding appearance, few styles rival the intensity of an undercut Viking haircut. Whether you embody the spirit of a forest-dwelling game hunter or resonate as a warrior at heart within an urban landscape, this extreme men’s haircut boldly announces that you adhere to your own set of rules. The undercut Viking haircut is a definitive statement, exuding strength and individuality, and it’s a style that encapsulates a fierce and daring persona.
7. SLICK BACK UNDERCUT
For those blessed with straight hair that responds favorably to a touch of pomade, the slick back undercut stands out as an ideal selection. Infusing the classic essence reminiscent of the roaring twenties into the modern era, this timeless style embodies sophistication and simplicity, tailored for the pragmatic individual seeking a straightforward and refined appearance. The slick back undercut effortlessly merges a traditional charm with a contemporary edge, delivering a no-nonsense look for the discerning man.
8. LOW UNDERCUT FADE
Slightly less audacious compared to some of the more unconventional styles featured in our selection, the low undercut fade exudes a sophisticated appeal that seamlessly transitions from the workplace to social settings. Perfect for individuals aiming to showcase their exceptional taste and a refined sense of style, this haircut offers a classy and versatile option. Whether you’re navigating professional environments or enjoying a night out, the low undercut fade remains an understated yet elegant choice that speaks volumes about your distinctive grooming preferences.
9. SHORT UNDERCUT
For those individuals seeking a more moderate transition without the extreme contrast between short sides and a longer top, the short undercut emerges as an excellent choice. It caters to men who prefer a more understated appearance while still demonstrating a dedicated commitment to grooming and style. The short undercut offers a balanced and refined look, providing a subtle yet impactful statement that reflects a meticulous approach to personal grooming and fashion preferences.
10. UNDERCUT MULLET
Combining the dichotomy of business professionalism at the front and a playful, free-spirited vibe at the back, the mullet hairstyle, once considered a fashion faux pas, has undergone a complete transformation into red carpet couture. Embracing its revival, the undercut mullet stands as a testament to this backwoods classic making its mark in the world of high fashion. For those with an adventurous streak and a penchant for setting their own style standards, the undercut mullet is a fantastic way to express a distinctive and individual sense of fashion.
11. UNDERCUT WITH DREADLOCKS
Among the most ancient hairstyles globally, dreadlocks persist in capturing attention and embodying a sense of individuality and self-expression. To refine and infuse additional personal flair into this already eye-catching style, opting for an undercut with dreadlocks is a brilliant way to stand out. This combination not only elevates the look but also adds a unique touch to the distinctiveness of dreadlocks, guaranteeing an appearance that turns heads and speaks volumes about one’s personal style and confidence.
12. UNDERCUT WITH POMPADOUR
A daring style reserved for the most audacious men, the undercut with pompadour presents a modern and chic interpretation of a timeless look. Designed for those exuding the confidence and charisma akin to a rock star, this striking haircut is an ideal choice for those seeking to make a bold statement. Its fusion of edginess and classic charm sets the stage for a distinctive appearance that asserts an individual’s self-assuredness and desire to stand out.
13. UNDERCUT WITH QUIFF
Resembling a pompadour but exuding a touch more attitude, the undercut with quiff boasts a daring allure that amplifies the boldness of your character within your style. This distinctive haircut is designed to bring a unique edge to your overall look, ensuring that your individuality takes center stage. Whether you’re making an impression in the professional setting or turning heads in a social environment like a club, this striking cut promises to make a statement and set you apart with its distinctive and daring appeal.
14. UNDERCUT WITH BLOWOUT
Employing a blowdryer immediately after washing your hair is an effective technique to achieve a polished and refined appearance. Pairing this method with neatly trimmed sides and meticulous grooming, the undercut with a blowout emerges as the go-to style for the modern man with a keen eye on fashion. This look embodies sleekness and sophistication, ideal for those inclined towards a trendsetting and well-groomed aesthetic.
15. UNDERCUT WITH FRINGE
Referred to as either a fringe or bangs, the style of hair falling forward over the forehead remains a timeless and enduring choice. Evolving this classic look, the undercut with fringe presents a fresh and contemporary twist that effortlessly captures attention. It’s simple to comprehend the allure of this style, as it combines the traditional charm of the fringe with the modern edge of an undercut, creating a look that’s both classic and trendy.
16. UNDERCUT WITH CAESAR
Derived from the namesake of Rome’s renowned emperor, the enduring appeal of the undercut with Caesar comes as no surprise. This elegant style retains its popularity due to its association with timeless sophistication. However, refining this look by keeping the sides tight elevates the undercut with Caesar to a whole new level, particularly appealing to the discerning man who values a well-groomed and refined appearance.
17. UNDERCUT WITH HARD PART
Achieving a level of sleekness that’s hard to surpass, the undercut with a hard part embodies exceptional cleanliness and precision. This style offers a barber an ideal canvas to showcase their dexterity and meticulous attention to detail. Catering to the professional individual who approaches their style as seriously as their business, this tight and sharply defined look serves as a perfect match for those who value a polished and refined appearance in the corporate realm.
18. UNDERCUT WITH HALF-PONY
For those with an adventurous streak seeking a style that mirrors their spirited personality, the undercut with half-pony emerges as an ideal choice. This distinctive look combines the precision of tight sides with a more casual and free-spirited appearance on the upper section. The result is a unique and playful style that perfectly embodies a fun-loving aesthetic and a carefree, unrestrictive sense of style. Ideal for those who want their hairstyle to reflect their spirited nature, the undercut with half-pony is a testament to individuality and a freewheeling approach to personal expression
19. HIDDEN UNDERCUT
Who doesn’t love a delightful surprise? The hidden undercut is the pinnacle of unexpected and sensational hair styling. If you thrive on keeping everyone intrigued and desire the ability to seamlessly transition from long, flowing locks to a high and tight appearance in the blink of an eye, this exceptional and discreet cut is an ideal choice. It serves as a stylish secret that allows you to switch between dramatically different looks, keeping your style fresh and ever-evolving.
20. SIDE SWEPT UNDERCUT
By now, the influence of Peaky Blinders’ style is undeniable, yet you don’t have to be a tough street dweller from Birmingham to effortlessly rock this debonair look. Characterized by closely cropped sides and a swept-back coif on top, the side-swept undercut retains its status as a favored choice among the most fashion-forward men. This chic and polished hairstyle resonates with individuals aiming for a sophisticated and stylish appearance, reflecting a blend of refinement and contemporary flair that transcends the streets of Birmingham to captivate a broader audience seeking a timeless yet trendy look.
HOW DO I KNOW IF AN UNDERCUT IS RIGHT FOR ME?
Before settling into the barber’s chair for a haircut, there are several factors to consider, and the density of your hair is among the significant ones. Understanding these aspects yourself is crucial, but seeking advice from your barber is always a wise decision. Consulting with a professional barber about what style might complement your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle is essential before making a commitment to a specific cut. Their expertise and insights can offer valuable guidance, ensuring that the chosen hairstyle aligns perfectly with your individual attributes and preferences.
FACE SHAPE
When it comes to styling elements above the neck—whether it’s glasses, facial hair, or hairstyles—the shape of your face plays a pivotal role. Hair choices should aim to create a sense of equilibrium by complementing your distinctive facial features.
For instance, individuals with longer faces might want to avoid styles that add excessive height. Opting for sleek, flat styles like a slicked-back cut or a shorter textured haircut with added length on top can effectively balance the elongated face.
Also Read: Medium Length Hairstyle for Men
Conversely, those with round faces can benefit from styles that add height and dimension, such as an undercut pompadour or a quiff with closely cropped sides to create the illusion of added length.
As for individuals with oval-shaped faces, they tend to suit various styles rather well, often making the decision process a bit less challenging. Well, annoyingly so for the rest of us who need to consider these nuances more thoroughly.
HAIR TYPE
The texture of your hair—whether it’s curly, coarse, thick, or thin—stands as a crucial determinant in choosing the ideal undercut style. The good news is that with the multitude of variations available, there’s an undercut style to complement every hair type. This versatility allows individuals to find a suitable and flattering option, catering specifically to their unique hair texture and characteristics.
MAINTENANCE
The term “maintenance” in the barbershop world relates to the value one places on those precious extra 15 minutes of sleep in the morning.
For those who highly treasure those minutes, opting for a low-maintenance style designed to be worn in a deliberately messy way is an excellent choice. Meanwhile, individuals comfortable with spending extra time in front of the mirror before 9 am can opt for more intricately sculpted styles.
Maintenance also pertains to how frequently one needs to visit the barber to maintain the desired look. Given that each variation of the undercut involves shorter back and side areas, it’s recommended to schedule a haircut at least every two weeks to uphold the intended shape.
UNDERCUT FAQ:
HOW DID THE UNDERCUT BECOME POPULAR?
The roots of the undercut haircut date back to the early 20th century, gaining significant popularity among the working class and even among gangsters until the 1920s. Initially linked with individuals of lower economic standing who couldn’t afford the services of a skilled barber capable of executing a proper fade, this style has evolved drastically. Over the last decade, it has transformed into one of the trendiest men’s hairstyles, shedding its historical connotations and becoming a highly sought-after and fashionable look.
HOW TO STYLE THE UNDERCUT
One of the remarkable aspects of an undercut is the vast array of styling options available. For individuals with straight hair, a blowout or a side sweep might perfectly complement their desired look. Conversely, those with curly hair can embrace a slightly untamed appearance on top while maintaining a clean, well-groomed look on the sides. Irrespective of your personal style and aesthetic preferences, there’s most likely an undercut style that aligns perfectly with your desired look and overall vibe.
HOW TO HIDE AN UNDERCUT
Not applicable to every undercut style, having an undercut with long hair on top provides you with the flexibility to decide when and where to showcase your look. Utilizing strategic methods like head wraps, hair clips, or hair ties offers you the versatility to create the illusion of having long hair, providing the choice to conceal your undercut in situations where you prefer to keep it discreet. This feature allows for a dynamic appearance, giving you the freedom to adapt your style according to various settings and preferences.
