The true beauty of an undercut? It’s a hairstyle that can suit absolutely everyone. It can be androgynous and sharp, wavy and feminine, too bold and masculine. The undercut is undeniably the chameleon of the hair world. Originally dubbed the bad boy haircut of the 1920s, the style has seen many revivals throughout the 21st century, inspiring celebrities like Selena Gomezand Scarlett Johannsonto experiment with the edgy look.
The style is a perfect option for those looking to make a bold change without sacrificing any length. But before you pick up the razor – check out our complete style guide for men, women, and non-binary folks, to find out how you can rock an undercut this season.
Women
For women, there are endless variations of the undercut for all hair types and lengths. For the workout junkie, you can keep it super simple by buzzing just the nape of your neck. This style will keep you cool, simplify your style routine, and give your top-knot pony tail that edgy upgrade it deserves. For a more intricate look, get creative and experiment with sharp, geometric shaved lines — the options are limitless! If you’re willing to take the plunge, pairing a bob with a well executed undercut is a fabulous way to spice-up your look. Try a super sleek chin-length bob, with sharp, faded buzzed sides. For those with curly hair, an undercut is a great way to tame your locks by pairing full volume and body, with clean, shaved lines. Don’t be afraid to experiment with patterns created with a clipper!
Men
From chic and classy to urban cool, a man’s undercut can make a serious statement. This style works well for both thick and fine hair types, although the latter benefits greatly from some gentle styling to achieve volume and movement. The difference in length between the hair on the top and sides will greatly impact the severity of the look, so ask your barber to trim in increments. For a smooth, classy take on the undercut, keep three to four inches of length on the top, and slick back with pomade. To really make a statement, ask your barber for a disconnected undercut, defined by a sharp and sudden break between the top, and sides of your hair.
The perfect non-gendered haircut
No rules apply when it comes to the undercut. A haircut should never be the defining aspect of one’s gender, nor should styles be strictly relegated as either maleorfemale. That being said, a dramatic hair transformation can be a great way to embrace and express a new identity. A new haircut can enhance confidence and act as a symbol of growth and transformation. Embracing the duality of both short and long hair in one edgy look gives you the freedom to express your style through endless combinations.
Regardless of the style you choose, maintaining an undercut requires a trip to the salon once every three to four weeks, so get ready to embrace the upkeep. But remember hair grows, and a change is never permanent. So have fun on your hair journey, and express yourself in whatever way youwant to!
Undercuts rock! But is this haircut too rad for me?