The shaved sides long hair style, also known as the undercut, has exploded in popularity, offering a striking contrast between closely cropped sides and flowing, often voluminous, top hair. This bold look offers versatility, allowing for various styling options and catering to diverse hair textures and face shapes. But achieving and maintaining this look requires understanding and dedication. This guide will explore everything you need to know about shaved sides long hair, from choosing the right style to maintaining its sharp look.
What are the Different Types of Shaved Sides Long Hair?
The beauty of the shaved sides long hair style lies in its adaptability. There's no single "right" way to do it; the possibilities are nearly endless. Here are some popular variations:
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Classic Undercut: This is the quintessential shaved sides long hair style. The sides are cleanly shaved, often using clippers at a very short length, creating a sharp contrast with the longer hair on top. The top hair can be styled in numerous ways, from slicked back to textured waves or even a voluminous pompadour.
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High Fade Undercut: A high fade gradually blends the shaved sides into the longer hair on top, creating a softer transition. This style is excellent for those who want a less dramatic look.
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Low Fade Undercut: The fade starts lower down on the head, leaving more of the sides with longer hair before the shaved section begins. This is a great option for those with thinner hair or who prefer a less drastic change.
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Temple Fade: This style involves fading just the temples, leaving the rest of the sides at a longer length, but still creating a noticeable contrast with the longer top hair.
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Disconnected Undercut: This daring style features a stark separation between the shaved sides and the top hair, often with a visible line separating the two.
How Do I Choose the Right Shaved Sides Long Hair Style for My Face Shape?
Choosing the right style is crucial to complementing your features. Here's a basic guideline:
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Round Face: Styles with height on top, such as a pompadour or textured quiff, can help elongate the face. Avoid very short sides which might emphasize the roundness.
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Oval Face: You're lucky! Most styles will look good on an oval face shape. Experiment and find what you like best.
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Square Face: Soften angular features with a high fade undercut or textured styles that add volume on top without being too structured.
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Heart Face: Aim for styles that add volume around the jawline to balance the wider forehead. A low fade with textured top hair could be ideal.
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Long Face: Styles that add width to the sides, such as a low fade or even leaving the sides slightly longer, can help balance a long face. Avoid extremely high fades that might further elongate the face.
How to Style Shaved Sides Long Hair?
Styling depends greatly on your chosen undercut variation and the length of your top hair. Some popular styling options include:
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Slicked Back: Use a strong-hold pomade or gel for a clean, sophisticated look.
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Textured Waves: Use a sea salt spray or texturizing paste to create loose, beachy waves.
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Pompadour: Requires a bit more styling skill and product, but the result is a bold and stylish look.
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Quiff: A slightly less dramatic version of the pompadour, the quiff is versatile and easy to manage.
What Products Do I Need to Maintain Shaved Sides Long Hair?
Maintaining this style involves regular upkeep and the right products. Essential products include:
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Clippers: For maintaining the shaved sides.
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Hair Trimmer: For cleaning up edges and detailing.
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Pomade/Gel/Paste: For styling the top hair, depending on your desired look.
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Shampoo and Conditioner: To keep your hair healthy and manageable.
How Often Should I Get My Shaved Sides Touched Up?
How often you need a touch-up depends on your hair growth rate. Most men find that a touch-up every 2-3 weeks is sufficient to maintain a sharp look.
Can I Grow My Shaved Sides Long Hair Back Out?
Absolutely! It's just hair; it will grow back. Be patient, and you can gradually transition back to a longer style if you choose.
Is Shaved Sides Long Hair a High-Maintenance Style?
The maintenance level depends on the specific style and your commitment to upkeep. Regular trims are essential to keep the shaved sides clean and the overall look sharp. However, the versatility in styling the top hair allows for various easy-going looks as well.
This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for understanding and rocking the shaved sides long hair style. Remember to consult a barber to discuss the best options for your hair type and face shape for optimal results. Experiment, find your perfect style, and own it!
