Undercut Haircut for Men: Styles, Cuts & Styling Guide

💇 The Undercut: A Man's Second Calling Card

A hairstyle is a man's second calling card. Among popular men's styles, the Undercut has long been a trendsetter, known for its sharp layers and versatile look. This cut creates a bold, clean, and stylish statement by shaving the sides and back very short while keeping the hair on top long, for a striking contrast.

• Sharp Contrast: The sides and back are shaved very short (often to skin level), while the top is kept long - usually 7-13 cm (3-5 inches).
• Versatile Top Styles: The longer top hair can be styled in many ways: slicked back, side-parted, messy/textured, or curled/permed.
• Clean Lines: Features sharp edges around the hairline, often with a defined part (razor line) or fade.

Not sure which style suits you?
Try it on with your selfie!

Try On ×

Click to view full sizeTap to zoom

📖 The Classic Undercut Style Guide

Undercut Fade

Hair length changes gradually from very short (even showing scalp) near the ears to much longer on top. This creates smooth layers. It allows styling the top hair and gives a sleek, modern look.

Not sure which style suits you?
Try it on with your selfie!

Try On ×

Click to view full sizeTap to zoom

Man Bun Undercut

Long hair on top (at least 15 cm long) is tied in a bun ("man bun"). Add natural waves or curls for more volume. The sides and back are very short (fade or shaved). Often has a sharp line or pattern shaved near the hairline for a strong, masculine look.

Not sure which style suits you?
Try it on with your selfie!

Try On ×

Click to view full sizeTap to zoom

Curly Undercut

Sides and back are very short (fade or shaved). Leave naturally curly hair or get curls on top. Use wax to create messy, fluffy curls. This style uses strong differences: straight vs. curly, short vs. long, to highlight the curly texture and volume.

Not sure which style suits you?
Try it on with your selfie!

Try On ×

Click to view full sizeTap to zoom

Slick Back Undercut

Combines a classic slick back style with modern fade sides. Hair on top must be at least 7 cm long. Comb it straight back using strong wax for a smooth, shiny finish. The hairline needs to be sharp and clean. Some designs add a shaved pattern near the hairline for style.

Not sure which style suits you?
Try it on with your selfie!

Try On ×

Click to view full sizeTap to zoom

Undercut With Pompadour

Combines a classic pompadour top with modern fade sides. Hair on top must be at least 7 cm long (ideal 10-15 cm). Comb it back and push it upwards to create a high, rounded front ("pompadour"). Unlike a slick back, the pompadour top should look full and lifted, not flat. Use curls or wax to build natural volume and shape.

Not sure which style suits you?
Try it on with your selfie!

Try On ×

Click to view full sizeTap to zoom

Side Swept Undercut

Keep hair on top long (usually at least 10 cm). Comb it to one side (often in a 3:7 or 2:8 part). Let it fall or curl slightly. This gives a more relaxed look than a slick back. The sides have a fade cut, adding volume on top. The back often keeps a sharp "triangle" shape line for a strong look.

Not sure which style suits you?
Try it on with your selfie!

Try On ×

Click to view full sizeTap to zoom

🕰️ History & Origins of the Undercut

The Undercut first appeared during the Edwardian era (1901-1910). As modern sports like rugby grew popular, men found long hair impractical, so they shaved the sides short. By the 1920s-1930s, it became a mainstream style in Europe and America—especially among gangsters and German officers.

After WWII, the style faded but made a comeback thanks to celebrities like MacLymore, Kim Jong Un, David Beckham, and Win Butler. Today's Undercut blends retro and modern elements, turning a practical haircut into a symbol of personal style.

Not sure which style suits you?
Try it on with your selfie!

Try On ×

Click to view full sizeTap to zoom

✂️ How to Get the Perfect Undercut

Want an Undercut but not sure how to ask your barber? Remember these key tips:

Length Guide:

• Sides: Cut very short (≈2.5 cm / 1 inch, adjustable).
• Top: Keep at least 7 cm (3 inches), ideally 13 cm (5 inches).

Best for Your Face Shape:

• Round Face: Shave sides short + add height on top → lengthens face.
• Square Face: Fade sides + soft texture on top → softens jawline.
• Long Face: Avoid too much height; try a side part → won't lengthen face.
• Oval Face: Fits almost any Undercut style → easy to pull off.

Hair Type Tips:

• Fine/Thin Hair: Go for a curly/textured top → adds volume.
• Thick/Coarse Hair: Keep it straight → use length contrast for style.
• Thinning Hair: Add layers + use product → creates fullness.
• Receding Hairline: Avoid slick-backs; try a side part → covers the hairline.

Not sure which style suits you?
Try it on with your selfie!

Try On ×

Click to view full sizeTap to zoom