Passionate author specializing in the vibrant world of hairstyling. With a knack for unraveling trends and sharing expert insights, Marissa crafts engaging content on the latest hairstyles, techniques, and industry innovations. Committed to empowering readers with knowledge, inspiration, and the confidence to embrace their unique style.
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Born and based in San Jose, California, Nikki Goddard has always had a passion for hair styling and unusual makeup techniques. At the age of 20, she started her education in The Salon Professional Academy and went on an extensive program in hair salons. Today, Nikki is a certified hair stylist and makeup artist with an associate degree in cosmetology. Currently, Nikki is a senior editor at therighthairstyles.com. She takes pride in being the root of inspiration for not only herself, but the entire team at The Right Hairstyles magazine. Her mission is to make the beauty industry available to everyone, and she enjoys teaching people the basics of hairstyling and makeup through the magazine’s articles. Nikki’s attention to detail and her ability to create a unique look that complements each client’s individuality is what continues to motivate her each day.
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Undercuts are popular statement hairstyles that vary in shape and design. From daring shaved sides and temples to neat short hair fades and hidden undercut designs – an undercut gives your hair an added edge and rock star vibes, which make you feel so much different!
Undercuts can be added to short, medium, and even long hairstyles. They will let you decide on the days when you want to show off your wild side while granting you an easier styling routine. And believe us, if your hair is naturally thick, you are sure to appreciate the change! Ready to give it a try? You can explore the trendiest women’s undercut hairstyles to experiment with, and if you’re unsure how they’d look on you, a free AI hairstyle generator can help you visualize it.
@playwithscissors
An undercut does not just have to be in the back, it can also be used as a fun detail to accent your face on the side. You can always brush over it or let it grow out when you become tired of it. This short section will work well on chin-length to long hair — just make sure you have enough length to cover it up.
If you’re not ready for a short cut all around, opt for a similar long hairstyle with a nape undercut that keeps your hair looking natural with just a hint of a rebellious spirit. Pull locks into a top knot to reveal an edgy design shaved underneath.
@glennaugustt
There are many different ways to rock undercut hair outside of the typical isolated shaved sections around the back or side. Take your short hairstyle a step further with longer strands on top and a lighter hair color to enhance the transition between the lengths.
@addisonjameshair
Choosing a path in life can be tricky, so why to stress out about going in just one direction with your hairstyle? You can involve two distinct personalities, same like this style leaves hair a bit longer on one side and shorter on the other.
@modernsalon
A Mohawk is one of the most popular shaved hairstyles for women, but that also means that it can be the most common and expected. Take yours a step further with a two-toned blonde and black style. Make it modern by opting for a cool-toned ash shade instead of a golden hue.
@modernsalon
Embrace artistic designs shaved underneath the hair, bringing a unique piece of art to the nape of the neck. Continue onward with braids, buns, and ponytails for a soft look. This works especially well on fine hair types that need to be spiced up a bit with dynamics.
@modernsalon
Smoky hues are all the rage this year, with colors ranging from purple to silvery gray. This misty blue is a unique spin on these trendy colors. Show off your bold shade with a higher undercut that reaches the crown and fades to the sides.
@javiervanhuss
This undercut bob is perfect for a girl in high school or college who wants to experiment a little without overhauling her entire look. Incorporating a smaller shaved section on one side makes it easier to cover up by simply un-tucking your hair. A look like this would be best suited for those with thick hair.
@ellerosestyle
Get fancy with your undercut and try a complex, eye-catching design. The beauty of this style is that despite the edginess of the shaved section, the overall pattern actually manages to be soft and subtle because it resembles a sunflower.
@salonestique
Hang onto your long blonde locks from childhood and want to update them with a modern twist? A great way to do so is with subtle “hidden” shaved patterns. Just gather your hair in a half-up ‘do to reveal the undercut and enjoy your new look.
@tammybyrne
This is a perfect option for girls who like to switch up their looks. The top layer is long enough to completely conceal the short lengths and a tapered side underneath. The shaved side can be covered or revealed to coordinate hair with mood.
@hairbysamhostad
Skin fade near the temples is a great addition to the fringe styled to the side. Complement it with a V shape at the back for a sharp and neat look. Buzz cut dark chocolate brown hair looks perfect against a light skin tone.
@giboazhair
Juxtaposing light and dark, cropped and curled, results in a perfect mix of tough and tender. Barrel curls provide height and structure to the center lengths as opposed to the closely cut sides. Use fingers to lightly break up curls and an aerosol spray for hold.
@jbraidsandbows
Removing a strip of hair underneath the parietal ridge has a de-bulking effect. Braiding the overlay is a great way to show off the what’s under. Cut away from the ear but with an elongated point framing the face, this feels both edgy and elfin.
@chantalxlaurenxhair
Undercut designs like this one provide contemporary updates to classic shape of the bowl cut. Taking the clippered lengths underneath the surface shape provides a lean silhouette that swings and sways over the disconnection. The vibrant green hue and scalloped edges accentuate the organic outline of the overhang.
@jaymz.marsters
For hair that’s long, undercut strands at the nape create a secret panel of artistry. This cool effect is easy to customize with your favorite shapes. It’s perfect for those who play as hard as they work; cover or reveal as you please.
@caitlintyczka
This beautiful hairstyle combines pointy ends and a hidden undercut section. Shaved sides and nape allow the sleek platinum curtain above to fall in elegant wisps and tips. Usually layers are used to sculpt strands; the cut below leaves the surface glassy and smooth.
@presleypoe
Such shaved hairstyles evoke both power and allure. Paired with a statement hairstyle like this one, the undercut helps balance out the look. Adding a lovely orchid hue tips the scale towards a more romantic feel and girly vibes.
@playwithscissors
With its tight undercut sides and back and medium-length locks on top, this pixie looks like a Mohawk. However, it has layers and smoother transition to the sides, which makes this style a bit softer version of the cut. The black hue underlines confidence and freedom.
@shmoakin_hair
This undercut bob has its cropped panel through the front hairline, creating an asymmetric design that’s meant to be seen. The dirty violet hue and rumpled texture lend a too-cool-to-care vibe to this 90s-inspired style. The shoulder-grazing length modernizes it.
@hairbyedwin
Not all undercuts are bold and daring. Some are simply here to help you tame thick hair. Longer layers and bangs make it look like a classic bowl cut, the nape is undercut, though. The combination of dark roots and light blonde tips turn the cut into a real stunner.
@kadirdonmezofficiial
While undercuts don’t have to be androgynous, they certainly can be. For those who prefer gamine beauty, a classic pixie-bob shape is perfect. Blonde locks are cut shorter in the back so they fall enticingly forward onto the face while accentuating the shaved section underneath.
@rootsmontrose
Short, rounded hairstyles are making a comeback, elevated with modern undercut designs. Dramatically diffused edges create sharp points over the clippered perimeter. The hairline is carved away creating an unusual outline.
@salsalhair
There’s little that complements your elaborate hairstyle better than an undercut. Women who wear this look express many facets, combining classic, rebellious and playful elements through a bob outline, hair color, and shaved section.
@wesdoeshair
It’s only in the last few years that we’ve begun to see the long hair undercut. We love the way the trend adds a touch of defiance to an otherwise sweet style like long blonde locks. The carved racing stripes across the side add sportiness.
@hugosalon
Engraved designs can customize any hairstyle, creating cool tribal patterns or graphic details. In this look the hair above is cut short so the design is left exposed. Wispy edges and a wisteria hue balance the sharpness of the lines underneath.
@presleypo
If you wear your hair up frequently, add some interest to your updos with a nape undercut and a modern ombre or balayage coloring. A v-shaped design in this picture is a fashionable choice that always adds a bold edge to the look.
@number_76
Are you brave enough to customize your undercut according to your personal style? Keep the roots dark and dye longer top layers into a contrasting white blonde hue. Make sure the longer strands have wispy ends to add interest to the transition of colors.
@pamela_cabelos
To maximize options of a short undercut, keep the shaving to one side. Brush the longer strands back smoothly to accentuate different textures and directions of the hair. Use braiding to customize and divide the two contrasting areas.
@clairdoeshair
The shaved section isn’t the only bold detail in this undercut hairstyle. The vivid turquoise hue and feathery braiding create an exotic avifaunal effect. The longer strands are pinned to reveal the cropped exterior and garnished with strips of leather that call to mind falconry jesses.
@alexisbutterflyloft
Treat yourself to the most intricate design you could ever imagine. Of course, this undercut requires careful and rigorous maintenance if you want it to look neat and luxurious. The good news is that you can always hide it with your hair to look classy.
@barberfagundes
An undercut hairstyle does not always have to be the star of the show, sometimes it can just be a supporting detail. The voluminous shaggy inverted bob is sure to grab attention, but the buzzed detail at the nape of your neck will keep all eyes on you.
@modernsalon
Can’t choose between long and short tresses? With this style you won’t have to. This daring half-and-half style combines shoulder-length hair and a cropped side plus a French braid to tie them together. Soft curls balance out the edgy hairdo.
@rondah.shaskey.hair
Short hair gives ample room for customization. Elongated side bangs paired with mid fade make this hairstyle look contemporary and elegant. Make strong V lines on the sides and spice them up with light feathered strands on top to score extra points.
@karacteremontrevel
Copper may be a hard color to pull off and choosing the right shade depends on the undertones in your complexion. Make your shaved hair pop by wearing a lighter color on top and a darker color at the bottom. Stripes on the side add visual interest.
@hairetcher
A very popular hairstyle that women frequently ask for in hair salons is a messy and spiky pixie cut. It is refined, but casual and carefree at the same time. With a haircut like this, the undercut seems more subdued as it blends into the shorter layers and makes the green and purple color mix the star of the show.
@efoxxhair
While a ponytail may seem like the most basic women’s updo, this look is anything but that. The color on its own is enough to make this messy braided ponytail stand out, but since it’s so soft and romantic, it needs something opposite to balance it out, and a shaved nape works just fine.
@xostylistxo
Freehand designs are always the way to show up, especially if you have the gut to experiment with colors. Keep your hair tattoo hidden or put it on display by bringing the mermaid locks up into a ponytail or a messy bun.
@tim_czykhair
With this hairstyle, you can reveal your personality in different ways. You can go with a layered undercut or fully shaved sides. You can let the hair fall to the sides or style it up for a truly Mohawk look. You can dye your locks silver or any other pastel or vivid hue of your choice. Your style – your rules!
@thecolourfuldylan
Balance out a short undercut with a whimsical looped braid. The hard buzzed detail needs something soft to temper it like a loose French braid and soft brushed out layers. What really takes this style to the next level is the unique blue-gray hue.
@_jemo_
Mermaid hair is all the rage among women of all ages who are trying to get in touch with their inner fairytale characters. Choose a shaved side crop instead of the typical bohemian long wavy variations of the look. It will make the color combo even more modern and tougher.
@drelefevre
For this look, the undercut is taken to the extreme. Hair is shorn close to the scalp, resulting in the awesome “V” shape. The rest of the hair may be left loose to conceal the short shaved section on more conservative occasions.
@undercutsglobal
Reminiscent of the 1980s style a la Molly Ringwald, this new and updated short bob shows off sleek, straight tresses with ease. Adding in an angled and shaped base layer, you let the remaining hair fall easily into place.
@modernsalon
Try this high undercut that features a dash of girly purple color throughout the Mohawk-like top if you are tired of traditional single-color crops and want to express your creativity. Choose the color of the accent strands as frequently as you want.
@modernsalon
An undercut can help you keep your curls under control. Start with an undercut pixie that is on the longer side, and then allow your natural curls to tumble down from atop. Cute, curly and unique – you can embrace your girly side without having to deal with a complicated style.
@sarahannworden
If you have a day job that requires a bit of a straight laced look, an undercut is still definitely possible. A more discrete look acceptable for an office environment usually involves short underneath sections that are left a bit longer, paired with long hair on top to conceal the look when necessary.
@modernsalon
An undercut can still boast a fair level of versatility. For this look, keep a longer amount of hair up top. Work it into a crown braid when you’re feeling creative, and add in some wash out color in bold, bright hues.
@lithium_little
Let your hands play with your hair, and this straight short bob will easily change from classic to edgy. By removing the impressive amount of bulk, the cut can be a rescue during the hot summer months, especially if you have a thicker hair type. Skin fade and shaved-in lines are a cherry on top.
@yuukiabe_doux
Looking for a cool hairstyle that shows off your creative side? Look no further than this tapered cut enhanced with a simple but so flattering undercut. You may brighten up this beautiful style with a cuff earring, and you’ll be sporting truly unique hair in no time at all.
@jouelzy
It looks like many hairstyles of this type are inspired by something based on fantasy, like this duo of a cool floral nape design and bold space buns. Copy it if you are in search of something simple and fun to maintain.
@aryavarji
As you can see, undercuts are pretty versatile. Some people consider them too extravagant, while others find a new form of self-expression in their new look. In any case, go for what you feel is right and don’t let others influence your choice, especially when it comes to personal style.
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