What Is an Undercut?
The undercut is a hairstyle where the sides and back are cut very short or shaved, while the top remains significantly longer. Unlike a fade, which gradually blends lengths, the undercut features a sharp, distinct contrast between the short sides and the long top. This dramatic difference is the undercut's defining characteristic.
History and Evolution
The undercut has roots dating back to the Edwardian era and gained massive popularity in the 1920s-1940s. After falling out of fashion for decades, it made a triumphant return in the 2010s, driven by shows like Peaky Blinders and the broader men's grooming renaissance.
Types of Undercuts
Classic Undercut
A clean separation between the short sides and longer top, typically with the top slicked back or to the side. The hallmark of this style is the visible "disconnection" where short meets long.
Disconnected Undercut
An extreme version where the top is completely detached from the sides — no blending whatsoever. This creates the most dramatic contrast and is a bold, fashion-forward choice.
Undercut Fade
A hybrid that combines the undercut's contrast with a fade's gradual transition. The bottom portion is faded, but there's still a noticeable length jump where the top begins.
Textured Undercut
The top is styled with texture rather than slicked back, creating a more casual, modern look. This variation works particularly well with wavy and curly hair.
Side-Part Undercut
The top is parted to one side and styled smoothly, creating a refined, gentlemanly look. This is the most classic and professional undercut variation.
Who Should Get an Undercut?
Face Shape Guide
- Oval: Any undercut style works perfectly
- Round: Height-focused styling on top elongates the face
- Square: The sharp lines complement strong bone structure
- Oblong: Keep volume on the sides minimal, focus on medium-length top
- Diamond: The reduced side volume balances wider cheekbones
Hair Type Advice
- Straight hair: The easiest to style into classic, slicked-back undercuts
- Wavy hair: Creates beautiful texture on top with minimal effort
- Curly hair: Stunning contrast between textured top and clean sides
- Thick hair: The undercut removes bulk on the sides while maximizing top volume
- Fine hair: Use products for volume on top to maintain proportional balance
Styling the Undercut
Slicked Back
- Apply pomade or gel to damp hair
- Comb straight back from the forehead
- Use a blow dryer for extra hold and volume
Textured and Natural
- Apply matte clay or wax to towel-dried hair
- Work through with fingers, pushing up and back
- Let the natural texture shine
Side Part
- Apply medium-hold pomade
- Create a clean part with a comb
- Sweep the bulk to one side, securing with a light hairspray
Maintenance
- Side trimming: Every 2-4 weeks to maintain the sharp contrast
- Top trimming: Every 6-8 weeks depending on desired length
- Daily styling: 5-10 minutes depending on the chosen style
- Essential products: Pomade, matte clay, or wax
Preview Undercut Styles with AI
An undercut is a commitment — the contrast is dramatic and the style is bold. Use TryHair's AI preview to see how different undercut styles look on your face before your next barber visit.