Since 2015, one trend the beauty world hasn’t stopped talking about is the undercut – and that’s the case for both men and women. No matter how you go about it, the basic foundation involves cutting short – sometimes even shaving – the bottom, from the temples to above the nape, and allowing the top to have some volume.
It may be a difficult look to pull off, however. On one hand, it could blend equal parts punk with elegance, giving you something that’s easy to style yet distinctive in the process. On the other, it approaches half-shaven Skrillex territory. Here’s what you need to know.
For Women
One of the must-try trends of 2016 so far, an undercut typically starts with short to cleanly shaven temples. On top, however, the hair is kept longer and thicker, but length varies. On one end, an undercut can be a start to a Mohawk-inspired look – think Miley Cyrus’ current ‘do – or there can be more disparity in length from the sides to the top – in this case, Ruby Rose’s look is the best celebrity representation, even down to a detailed shaved area.
However, for the practical woman, this cut easily materializes as a mid-length bob with layers on top and a far shorter length toward the bottom.
For Men
Menswear publications tell us the undercut is old news – but that doesn’t mean it still isn’t sought after. Rather, a trend that started on the red carpet with everyone from Brad Pitt to rapper Macklemore can now be found on the average, everyday guy.
While a men’s undercut follows the same framework, the overall look is less edgy and more practical. The top can have varying levels of thickness – an extra inch to a full pompadour – but the shorter sides essentially keep him cool in the warmer weather without compromising his style.
Interested in trying an undercut? Look online for inspiration, and then, have the staff at The Beauty Bar cut it to your specifications.