The undercut with long hair is the ultimate style contradiction that somehow works perfectly.
Bold yet feminine.
Edgy yet elegant.
Hidden yet statement-making.
This versatile look allows you to maintain your flowing locks while adding a secret (or not-so-secret) edge that transforms your entire style identity.
The beauty of an undercut with long hair is that it can be your little secret or your boldest statement—you decide when and how to show it off.
If you’re looking to reduce hair bulk, beat the summer heat, or simply express your personality through your style then you are in a right space!
The Classic Side Undercut: Your First Step into Edgy Territory 💇♀️
The side undercut is where many of my clients start their undercut journey, and for good reason.
This style involves shaving one side of your head while leaving the rest of your hair long, creating a dramatic contrast that’s still incredibly versatile.
When you’re feeling bold, sweep your hair to the opposite side to showcase your undercut in all its glory.
For more conservative settings, simply let your long hair fall naturally, completely concealing the shaved section—it’s like having two completely different hairstyles in one!
Face shape matters with this style—if you have a round face, a side undercut can help create the illusion of length and definition.
For oval and heart-shaped faces, this style is particularly flattering as it accentuates your natural angles.
The best part about the classic side undercut is its forgiving nature during the growing-out phase.
As your hair begins to grow back, you can easily blend the shorter sections with the rest of your hair by adding layers throughout.
When styling, I recommend using a texturizing spray on your longer side for added volume and contrast against the sleekness of the undercut.
For those with naturally curly or wavy hair, this undercut style creates an especially striking look when you embrace your natural texture on the longer side.
Maintenance is relatively straightforward—most of my clients come in every 3-4 weeks to keep the undercut looking fresh and crisp.
If you’re worried about commitment, start with a higher undercut that can be more easily concealed when needed.
The classic side undercut pairs beautifully with bold colors—consider adding a vibrant shade to either your undercut or your long strands for extra dimension.
Remember that the higher up the undercut goes, the more dramatic and visible the effect will be, so communicate clearly with your stylist about your comfort level.
Nape Undercut: The Secret Statement Only You Control 🤫
The nape undercut is my personal favorite to recommend for clients dipping their toes into the undercut world for the first time.
This hidden powerhouse is shaved at the nape of your neck, beneath your long hair, making it the perfect covert style statement.
What makes this undercut truly special is that it remains your secret until you decide to reveal it by wearing your hair up in a ponytail or bun.
For those with thick, heavy hair, a nape undercut provides practical benefits beyond just style—it significantly reduces bulk and keeps your neck cool during warmer months.
Many of my clients with long, thick hair report feeling literally pounds lighter after getting a nape undercut, with the added bonus of their updos staying in place more securely.
This style works with virtually every face shape since it doesn’t change the frame around your face when your hair is worn down.
For a subtle introduction, start with a small triangle or half-moon shape at the base of your neck, which can be easily expanded later as your confidence grows.
The maintenance is incredibly forgiving—even growing it out is less awkward than other undercut styles since it’s hidden beneath your longer layers.
Styling versatility is where the nape undercut truly shines: wear it completely concealed for professional settings, or showcase it with high ponytails, braids, or buns for social occasions.
For those feeling more adventurous, consider adding a simple design or pattern to your nape undercut—small geometric shapes or lines can add serious personality without overwhelming the look.
The nape undercut is also ideal for those who frequently wear their hair in updos, as it creates a clean, sleek foundation that prevents shorter “baby hairs” from escaping.
If you’re concerned about neck sunburn (a real issue many overlook!), be sure to apply sunscreen to your newly exposed skin when wearing your hair up outdoors.
For special occasions, consider having your stylist add temporary color to your undercut—it washes out quickly but makes for unforgettable photos at events.
The beauty of the nape undercut is that it’s entirely on your terms—no one sees it unless you choose to reveal it.
As one of my clients once said, “It’s like wearing exciting lingerie—knowing it’s there makes me feel more confident, even when no one else can see it.” 😉
Temple Undercut: Frame Your Face with Edgy Precision ✂️
The temple undercut creates a striking frame for your face by shaving only the areas around your temples while leaving the rest of your hair long.
This style draws immediate attention to your eyes and cheekbones, creating a lifted effect that can be incredibly flattering.
Unlike more extensive undercuts, the temple variation requires relatively little commitment while still delivering maximum impact.
What I love about recommending temple undercuts to my clients is how they instantly transform basic hairstyles—even a simple ponytail becomes edgy and architectural.
For those with rectangular or oblong face shapes, temple undercuts can soften your angles and create the illusion of a more oval shape, particularly when the longer hair is styled with soft waves.
The temple undercut is especially stunning on those who wear glasses, as it creates a beautiful interplay between your frames and the negative space of the shaved area.
With temple undercuts, symmetry is optional—some of my most striking client transformations have featured asymmetrical temple shaves that create a bold, avant-garde look.
For professional versatility, consider keeping the undercut relatively high, allowing your long hair to conceal it when worn down.
The temple area grows back relatively quickly, making this an ideal “trial” undercut for those unsure about committing to a more extensive shaved section.
When styling, use the temple undercut to create visual interest by tucking one side behind your ear while leaving the other side flowing—the contrast is absolutely stunning.
For formal occasions, slicking back your hair with a strong-hold gel dramatically showcases the temple undercut while creating a red-carpet ready look that photographs beautifully.
This style pairs exceptionally well with statement earrings, as the shaved temple area puts your jewelry front and center without competition from hair.
For a more personalized touch, consider having your stylist add a small design or pattern to your temple undercut—even something as simple as a single line can elevate the entire look.
Maintenance for temple undercuts typically requires touch-ups every 2-3 weeks to keep the edges clean and defined.
Geometric Patterns: Wearable Art That Transforms Your Look 🎨
Geometric pattern undercuts take your hair from style to statement, turning the shaved portion of your hair into a canvas for self-expression.
These intricate designs can range from simple lines and shapes to complex, detailed artwork that will have strangers stopping you on the street for a closer look.
When I first started creating geometric undercuts for clients, I was amazed at how the right pattern could completely transform not just their hair, but their entire demeanor.
The beauty of geometric patterns in an undercut is that they can be as subtle or as bold as you desire—a small triangle behind the ear makes a different statement than a full half-head of intricate honeycomb patterns.
For beginners to this style, I recommend starting with simple linear designs that are easier to maintain and touch up at home between salon visits.
Maintenance is crucial with geometric undercuts—these designs typically need refreshing every 2-3 weeks to keep their clean, sharp edges.
When choosing a pattern, consider your personal style and wardrobe—angular, sharp designs complement edgier fashion choices, while flowing, curved patterns work beautifully with more bohemian or romantic aesthetics.
Triangle patterns are among the most popular for first-time geometric undercut clients, as they’re striking yet simple enough to maintain.
For those with a side undercut, chevron patterns create beautiful movement that complements your long hair’s natural flow.
Honeycomb and hexagon patterns provide incredible visual texture and are particularly stunning on larger undercut areas where the pattern can fully develop.
If you’re concerned about workplace appropriateness, consider geometric patterns placed strategically at the nape of your neck, where they can be completely concealed when needed.
For special occasions, temporary hair color applied to just the pattern can create a stunning contrast against your natural hair color—a technique that photographs beautifully for events.
Many of my clients use their geometric undercuts to tell personal stories—one memorable client incorporated a constellation pattern that represented her children’s birth signs.
When considering a geometric pattern, bring reference photos to your stylist but be open to their suggestions—what works in a photo might need adjustments to suit your specific head shape and hair growth patterns.
Vibrant Color Contrast: Double the Drama, Double the Impact 🌈
Adding vibrant color to your undercut takes this already bold style choice to an entirely new dimension of self-expression.
The contrast between your natural (or dyed) long hair and a brightly colored undercut creates a visual impact that’s impossible to ignore when you choose to reveal it.
I’ve watched countless clients transform from reserved to radiant once they see their newly colored undercut in the mirror—it’s like the final piece of a puzzle clicking into place for their personal style.
The beauty of coloring your undercut is that even conservative color choices create dramatic effects—a platinum blonde undercut against dark hair is just as striking as neon pink.
For clients concerned about workplace appropriateness, I often recommend colors that complement their natural hair for a more subtle effect that still feels special when revealed.
The practical advantage of coloring an undercut rather than your entire head is significantly reduced damage—less hair means less maintenance and healthier strands overall.
Because the colored section is shaved short, you can be more adventurous with color choices without worrying about the long-term damage that bleaching and vibrant colors can cause to longer hair.
For those new to vivid colors, an undercut provides the perfect playground to experiment without committing your entire head to a bold new hue.
Shadow roots work exceptionally well with colored undercuts, allowing for easier grow-out and less frequent touch-ups while still maintaining that vibrant pop of color.
Consider the psychology of colors when making your choice—blues and greens often project calm confidence, while reds and pinks make more passionate statements.
For maximum impact, choose a color that contrasts with your long hair—purple undercuts look stunning against blonde locks, while blue creates gorgeous dimension with warm brunette shades.
Multi-colored undercuts have become increasingly popular in my salon, with ombré and balayage techniques adapted for shorter sections to create depth and movement.
Temperature-reactive hair colors, which change hues based on heat, make for an incredibly fun option in undercuts—your style literally transforms when you step outside on a warm day or use hot styling tools.
Glow-in-the-dark options have also become a client favorite for festival season and nightlife enthusiasts—nothing makes a statement quite like an undercut that lights up under UV lights!
Half-Shaved Head: The Ultimate Hair Power Move 💪
The half-shaved head with long hair on the other side might be the most dramatic option on this list, but it’s also one of the most liberating styles I’ve ever created for clients.
This bold style makes an unmistakable statement about confidence and self-assurance, immediately setting you apart in any room you enter.
I’ll never forget one client who chose this style after finishing cancer treatment—for her, it was about reclaiming control over her appearance after months of hair loss.
The half-shaved look creates a captivating visual contrast between feminine and edgy elements that photographs beautifully from every angle.
For those with very thick hair, this style offers practical benefits by removing significant weight from one side, making your hair more manageable while creating a striking silhouette.
Face shape becomes particularly important with this dramatic style—oval, heart-shaped, and diamond faces typically carry this look most naturally, though a skilled stylist can adapt it for any face shape.
The clean line separating the shaved and long sections becomes a defining feature of this look, so regular maintenance (usually every 2-3 weeks) is necessary to keep the edge crisp and intentional.
One of the most exciting aspects of the half-shaved style is how it transforms simple styling techniques—even a basic ponytail becomes an architectural statement with this dramatic undercut.
For special occasions, the long side can be elaborately styled with braids or curls while the shaved side showcases your facial features and any piercings or statement earrings.
Many clients find that this hairstyle actually cuts their morning routine in half since there’s literally half the hair to wash, dry, and style.
The half-shaved style pairs exceptionally well with vibrant colors on the shaved side, creating multiple dimensions of contrast between length, texture, and hue.
For growing out a half-shaved head, patience is key—using headbands, strategic partings, and eventually adding layers can help ease the transition as the shorter side catches up.
Personality-wise, this style tends to attract those who are comfortable making bold choices in other aspects of their lives as well—it’s rarely someone’s first adventure into edgy hairstyles.
When recommending this style, I always emphasize that the confidence with which you wear it matters more than the cut itself—owning this look with self-assurance transforms it from shocking to stunning.
Braided Elements with Undercut: Texture on Texture for Maximum Dimension 🧶
Combining an undercut with braided elements creates a fascinating interplay of textures that elevates your hair from a style to a statement piece.
When I introduce clients to this combination, they’re often amazed at how the contrast between the sleek shaved sections and intricate braids creates visual interest from every angle.
This style truly offers the best of both worlds—the edginess of an undercut with the feminine intricacy of braided details.
The most popular version features a shaved undercut (typically at the nape or sides) with the longer hair braided to deliberately reveal and accentuate the shaved sections.
Dutch braids or French braids work exceptionally well with undercuts, as they can be positioned to perfectly frame and showcase the shaved areas.
For special occasions, adding temporary colored hair pieces to your braids creates triple-dimension impact against the shaved undercut and your natural hair color.
Many of my clients with this style enjoy creating different looks throughout the week—wearing the hair down and covering the undercut for work, then braiding for weekend events to reveal their edgier side.
The practical benefit of combining braids with undercuts is the incredible hold—the undercut creates a clean foundation that helps braids stay secure much longer than they would in all-one-length hair.
For festival season or summer concerts, this combination is unbeatable—the undercut keeps you cool while the braids keep hair off your neck and create a style that lasts all day and night.
Maintenance varies depending on the exact placement of your undercut, but generally requires touch-ups every 3-4 weeks to keep the shaved sections looking intentional rather than grown-out.
For those with natural curls or textured hair, this combination creates especially stunning dimension—imagine tight natural curls juxtaposed against a clean shaved section and accented with strategic braids.
The braided elements can be as simple as a single accent braid that reveals a peek of your undercut, or as elaborate as multiple braids designed specifically to showcase the shaved patterns.
I often recommend this style for clients who love the undercut aesthetic but worry about growing it out—the braided elements provide stylish options during the awkward transition phases.
Tapered Undercut: Subtle Edge with Maximum Versatility 👌
The tapered undercut offers the perfect middle ground for those who want something edgier than traditional long hair but aren’t ready for the commitment of a fully shaved section.
This style gradually transitions from longer to shorter hair rather than creating an abrupt line between shaved and long sections, resulting in a softer, more subtle effect.
I often recommend the tapered undercut to my clients who work in conservative environments but want to express their personality through their hair without raising eyebrows in the boardroom.
The genius of the tapered undercut is how it removes bulk and weight from thick hair while creating movement and dimension that’s visible even when your hair is worn down.
For those with round face shapes, a tapered undercut can create the illusion of length and angles without the dramatic contrast of a fully shaved section.
Styling versatility is where this option truly shines—when worn down, it creates invisible layers that add movement; when pulled back, it reveals just enough edge to make a statement.
The grow-out phase for a tapered undercut is significantly more forgiving than other undercut styles, as the gradual transition means no harsh lines as your hair lengthens.
For naturally curly or wavy hair, a tapered undercut can be a game-changer for manageability, removing bulk from areas where curls might otherwise create unwanted volume.
Many of my clients start with a tapered undercut as a “gateway” to more dramatic styles, allowing them to test the waters before committing to a fully shaved section.
The nape of the neck is the most popular placement for a first tapered undercut, as it’s easy to conceal while still providing the satisfaction of having taken a style risk.
Maintenance for tapered undercuts typically requires touch-ups every 4-6 weeks, making it less demanding than fully shaved sections that might need attention every 2-3 weeks.
For those with fine hair, a tapered undercut can actually create the illusion of more volume in the remaining long sections by removing weight that might otherwise pull hair flat.
The tapered style pairs beautifully with balayage or ombré color treatments, as the gradual transition of length complements the gradual transition of color.
I’ve found that clients who choose tapered undercuts often receive the most compliments on their hair being “somehow different, but in a good way”—people notice the improved shape and movement without immediately identifying the technical aspects of the cut.
Asymmetrical Undercut with Long Bangs: Frame Your Face with Edge 🔪
The asymmetrical undercut paired with long bangs creates a face-framing effect that’s both dramatically modern and surprisingly flattering for a variety of face shapes.
This combination allows you to highlight your best features—sweeping bangs can accentuate cheekbones while an asymmetrical undercut creates structure and edge.
I’ve created this style for countless clients seeking to make a statement with their hair while still maintaining enough length to style versatility for different occasions.
The beauty of the asymmetrical approach is that it can be tailored precisely to your face shape—more undercut on the side that benefits from less visual weight, longer bangs angled to highlight your best features.
For those with round faces, an asymmetrical undercut with side-swept bangs creates the illusion of length and angles, visually elongating your face shape.
Square-faced clients benefit from this style through the softening effect of long bangs against the edgy contrast of the undercut portion.
The side with the undercut becomes a focal point, drawing attention to that side of your face—something to consider if you have features you particularly want to highlight.
Long bangs paired with an undercut offer incredible styling versatility—wear them swept dramatically across for a mysterious, peek-a-boo effect, or pin them back to fully reveal the undercut for edgier moments.
For those new to bangs, this style provides a flexible introduction since longer bangs can always be pinned back or tucked behind the ear if you need a break from the face-framing effect.
Maintenance requires attention to both elements—regular trims for the bangs (typically every 3-4 weeks) and touch-ups for the undercut portion to keep it looking intentional rather than grown-out.
Color placement becomes particularly interesting with this style—many of my clients opt for bold colors or highlights strategically placed to be visible through the long bangs, creating a stunning peek-a-boo color effect.
For professional settings, bangs can be styled to partially or completely conceal the undercut, allowing you to switch between conservative and edgy looks with just a few minutes of styling.
The growing-out phase for this style can be navigated by gradually incorporating the undercut into a layered cut as it lengthens, while the bangs can be trimmed to evolve into face-framing layers.
This style photographs particularly well from multiple angles, making it perfect for those who enjoy documenting their style evolution on social media.
Undercut Pixie with Extended Top: Short Yet Feminine 💁♀️
The undercut pixie with extended top length offers the perfect compromise for those torn between the ease of short hair and the styling versatility of longer strands.
This style features closely cropped sides and back with significantly longer length on top, creating dramatic contrast while maintaining enough hair to style in multiple ways.
I’ve created this transformation for many clients transitioning from very long hair to shorter styles—it allows them to experience the freedom of an undercut without losing all styling options.
The extended top length preserves femininity and softness while the undercut sides and back add edge and architecture to the overall silhouette.
For those with fine hair, this style creates the illusion of significantly more volume, as the longer top section can be teased or texturized to stand in dramatic contrast to the sleek undercut portions.
Face shape considerations are crucial with this style—oval, heart, and diamond faces typically carry it most naturally, though skilled stylists can adapt proportions to flatter any face shape.
The extended length on top offers surprising versatility—wear it smooth and sleek for professional settings, tousled and textured for casual days, or slicked back for dramatic evening looks.
Many clients are surprised to discover how many styling options remain with this cut—the longer top can be braided, twisted, or even curled depending on its length.
For those with natural waves or curls, this style showcases your texture beautifully on top while the undercut sections keep the overall shape controlled and manageable.
Maintenance typically involves two different schedules—the undercut portions need refreshing every 2-3 weeks, while the top length might need shaping less frequently.
The growing-out phase for this style is relatively forgiving—the top length gives you something to work with while the undercut sections catch up, eventually evolving into a shaggy bob if desired.
Color options are particularly interesting with this style—many clients opt for bold colors on the longer top section while keeping the undercut natural, or vice versa for a peek-a-boo color effect.
This style pairs exceptionally well with statement earrings and necklaces, as the closely cropped sides frame and highlight your jewelry choices.
For those who’ve always worried short hair wouldn’t suit them, the extended top length provides a safety net—keeping some length while still experiencing the freedom of an undercut.
Disconnected Undercut: Bold Contrast for Maximum Impact 🔄
The disconnected undercut creates the most dramatic contrast of any style on this list, with no graduation or blending between the shaved and long sections of hair.
This deliberate lack of transition makes a powerful visual statement—the stark line between lengths becomes a defining feature rather than something to be blended away.
I’ve created this look for clients who want to make an unmistakable style statement and aren’t afraid to turn heads wherever they go.
The beauty of the disconnected undercut lies in its architectural quality—it creates structure and lines that transform your hair from a natural feature into a deliberate artistic choice.
For those with extremely thick hair, this style offers practical benefits by removing significant bulk without sacrificing the overall impression of having long hair.
Face shape plays a crucial role in determining the ideal placement of the disconnect line—your stylist should position it to highlight your best features while minimizing any areas of concern.
The disconnected undercut requires the most maintenance of any style on this list—the sharp line defining the style needs regular touch-ups (typically every 2-3 weeks) to maintain its intentional look.
Styling versatility comes from how you choose to reveal or conceal the disconnect—wear your hair down for a conventional appearance, or pull it back partially or completely to showcase the dramatic undercut.
For special occasions, slicking back your hair with a strong-hold gel creates a runway-ready look that highlights the architectural nature of this cut.
The growing-out phase for a disconnected undercut requires patience and creative styling—many clients choose to maintain the disconnect until the shorter sections reach a length that can be incorporated into layers.
This style pairs exceptionally well with vibrant colors, as the clear line of demarcation creates the perfect opportunity for dramatic color blocking between sections.
For those concerned about workplace appropriateness, consider a disconnected undercut placed strategically at the nape or under layers that can be completely concealed when needed.
The sharp contrast of this style photographs beautifully, creating images with clear lines and dramatic shadows that showcase the architectural quality of the cut.
Personality-wise, the disconnected undercut tends to attract those who make bold choices in other aspects of their lives—it’s a hairstyle that demands confidence to carry effectively.
Shaved Lines and Designs: Customized Artistry for Your Hair Canvas 🎭
Adding shaved lines and detailed designs to an undercut transforms your hair into a personal art piece that can tell your unique story.
These intentional patterns go beyond simple undercuts to create intricate designs that make your hairstyle truly one-of-a-kind.
I’ve spent years perfecting the technique of creating precise lines and patterns, turning what could be a simple haircut into wearable art that expresses my clients’ personalities.
The beauty of shaved designs is their customizability—from simple geometric patterns to elaborate pictorial designs, the possibilities are limited only by your imagination and your stylist’s skill.
For those new to this style, I recommend starting with simple linear designs that are easier to maintain and touch up between salon visits.
Maintenance is crucial with design undercuts—these patterns typically need refreshing every 2-3 weeks to keep their clear definition and sharp edges.
Strategic placement allows for versatility in revealing your design—patterns placed at the nape can be your secret statement, while side designs can be showcased or concealed depending on how you style your hair.
For those with thicker hair, designs actually serve a practical purpose by removing bulk in strategic areas while adding visual interest.
Many clients use shaved designs to mark significant life events—I’ve created custom patterns to celebrate everything from graduations to recovery milestones.
The thickness of lines in your design affects both the visual impact and the maintenance schedule—thinner, more detailed lines create delicate patterns but require more frequent touch-ups.
For growing out shaved designs, I typically recommend transitioning to simpler patterns that can evolve as your hair lengthens, eventually blending into a basic undercut before fully growing out.
For special occasions, temporary color applied to just the shaved design creates incredible dimension against your natural hair color and makes for stunning photographs.
When considering a shaved design, I always recommend bringing reference images but remaining flexible—what works on one head shape may need adaptation for yours.
The most successful design undercuts complement your personal style rather than competing with it—your hair should feel like an extension of your fashion choices, not a disconnected statement.
Feminine Fades with Long Top Layers: Softness Meets Structure 🌸
The feminine fade combines the technical precision of barbering with the flowing movement of longer top layers, creating a uniquely balanced style.
Unlike traditional fades that maintain short length throughout, the feminine fade features a gradient on the sides and back that transitions into significantly longer layers on top.
I started offering this style after noticing how many women were bringing in photos of men’s fades but expressing concern about losing femininity in the process.
The genius of this style is how it incorporates the clean lines and low-maintenance sides of a fade while preserving length on top for styling versatility and softer framing around the face.
Face shape plays a crucial role in determining the ideal height and intensity of your fade—oval and heart-shaped faces typically carry higher fades beautifully, while round faces benefit from height on top with a lower fade connection point.
For those with thick, heavy hair, the feminine fade offers incredible practical benefits by removing substantial weight from the sides and back while maintaining statement length on top.
Styling versatility comes from the longer top layers—depending on their length, they can be worn sleek and professional, tousled for casual texture, or even curled for special occasions.
Maintenance typically involves two schedules—the faded sections need refreshing every 2-3 weeks to maintain their gradient, while the top length might need trimming less frequently.
The contrast between precisely faded sides and flowing top layers creates fascinating dimension that catches light differently throughout the day.
Many of my clients who choose this style are surprised by how much more their facial features and bone structure are accentuated once the heavy curtain of hair around their face is replaced by a clean fade.
For those concerned about femininity, I often recommend keeping the top layers long enough to tuck behind the ear, which creates a soft frame while still showcasing the technical precision of the fade.
The growing-out phase for a feminine fade is relatively forgiving—as the sides and back lengthen, they can be incorporated into a shaggy bob or layered cut.
This style pairs exceptionally well with color techniques that focus on the longer top layers—balayage, ombré, or bold fashion colors on top create stunning contrast against the cleanly faded sides.
For professionals transitioning between conservative and creative environments, this style offers perfect versatility—the length on top can be styled to downplay or highlight the faded sections as needed.
I always tell clients considering this style that it’s the perfect balance of practical and statement-making—it offers the ease of very short hair on the sides and back with enough length on top to maintain styling options.
So there you have it—13 ways to rock an undercut with long hair, from subtle and hidden to bold and impossible to ignore.
Remember that the best hairstyle is the one that makes you feel most confident and authentically yourself.
Which style are you brave enough to try first?
💕
