The shaved sides, long top haircut—a modern classic—offers a striking contrast that's both edgy and sophisticated. This style, popular among men of all ages and backgrounds, effortlessly blends a clean, sharp aesthetic with the versatility of longer hair on top. But achieving and maintaining this look requires understanding its nuances. This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need to know, from choosing the right variation to styling tips and maintenance advice.
What is a Shaved Sides, Long Top Haircut?
The shaved sides, long top haircut, often called an undercut or high and tight with long hair on top, features closely shaved or faded sides and back, contrasted by significantly longer hair on the top. The length on top can vary dramatically, from a slightly longer crop to flowing locks, allowing for considerable customization. This versatility is a key reason for its enduring popularity.
How to Choose the Right Shaved Sides, Long Top Haircut for Your Face Shape
The beauty of this style lies in its adaptability. However, certain variations work better with different face shapes.
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Oval Faces: Lucky you! Most variations suit oval faces. Experiment with different top lengths and fade types.
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Round Faces: A high fade with a slightly longer top helps elongate the face, creating a more defined look. Avoid overly short tops.
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Square Faces: Soften angular features with a mid-fade and textured top. Avoid overly sharp lines.
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Heart Faces: A low fade with a slightly longer, textured top balances the wider forehead.
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Long Faces: A low fade with a shorter top helps to widen the face. Avoid very long tops.
What are the Different Types of Fades with Shaved Sides and Long Top?
The fade is a crucial element of this haircut. Several options exist:
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High Fade: The hair is shaved very high up the head, creating a dramatic contrast.
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Mid Fade: The fade starts midway up the head, offering a more moderate contrast.
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Low Fade: The fade starts lower down, creating a subtler contrast.
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Skin Fade: The hair is shaved extremely close to the skin, resulting in a very clean look.
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Temple Fade: The fade focuses solely on the temples, leaving the sides relatively longer.
Your choice of fade significantly impacts the overall look and feel of your style. Consider your personal preferences and face shape when making your selection.
How to Style a Shaved Sides, Long Top Haircut?
Styling options abound depending on your top hair length and texture.
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Products: Pomade, wax, clay, and gel offer varying levels of hold and shine. Experiment to find what works best for your hair type.
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Techniques: For a textured look, use your fingers to style; for a more polished look, use a comb.
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Top Length: Longer tops can be styled in numerous ways, from sleek and straight to textured waves or even a man bun.
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Maintenance: Regular trims are crucial to maintain the sharp lines of the fade and the desired length on top.
What Products Should I Use to Style My Shaved Sides, Long Top Hair?
The best styling products depend on your hair type and desired finish:
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Fine Hair: Opt for volumizing products like mousse or lightweight pomades to avoid weighing your hair down.
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Thick Hair: Strong-hold pomades, clays, or waxes are ideal for controlling thick hair.
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Wavy/Curly Hair: Products with curl-enhancing properties can help define your curls or waves.
How Often Should I Get a Haircut to Maintain This Style?
To maintain a sharp, clean look, plan for a touch-up every 2-3 weeks, particularly for the fade. This keeps the lines crisp and the overall style looking its best. The frequency of your top hair trim depends on how quickly your hair grows and the length you maintain.
Is this Haircut Suitable for All Hair Types?
While this style works beautifully with most hair types, those with exceptionally fine or very thin hair might find it more challenging to maintain sufficient volume on top. Consult with your barber to discuss the best approach for your specific hair type.
This style guide provides a comprehensive overview of the shaved sides, long top haircut. Remember to consult with a skilled barber who can assess your hair type, face shape, and preferences to help you achieve the perfect look. With the right approach, this versatile haircut can be a transformative addition to your style.
