The shaved sides, long top hairstyle—a modern classic—offers a versatile blend of edgy cool and sophisticated style. This cut, popular among men and increasingly embraced by women, is incredibly adaptable, allowing for personalization to suit various face shapes, hair textures, and personal aesthetics. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about this popular look, from styling tips to maintenance advice.
What is a Shaved Sides, Long Top Haircut?
The shaved sides, long top haircut involves shaving or significantly shortening the hair on the sides and back of the head, while leaving the hair on top significantly longer. This contrast creates a striking visual effect, allowing for a wide range of styling options. The length on top can vary dramatically, from a few inches to shoulder-length or even longer. The shaved sides can be closely buzzed, faded, or even undercut, offering further customization.
How to Style a Shaved Sides, Long Top Haircut?
Styling this haircut is where the true versatility shines. The possibilities are virtually endless, depending on your hair type, length, and desired look.
For Straight Hair:
- Slicked Back: Use a strong hold pomade or gel to slick the top hair back neatly for a sophisticated and polished look.
- Textured Top: Apply a matte texturizing paste or clay to create a tousled, textured effect, ideal for a more casual and modern vibe.
- Side Swept: Use a styling product to sweep the longer hair to one side, creating a more romantic or dramatic style.
For Curly Hair:
- Defined Curls: Use a curl-enhancing cream or mousse to define and separate your curls, allowing them to naturally fall over the shaved sides.
- Loose Waves: For a more relaxed look, let your curls air dry naturally, perhaps applying a lightweight leave-in conditioner for manageability.
- Braids or Twists: Incorporate braids or twists into your long top hair for an added touch of style and personality.
For Wavy Hair:
Wavy hair often offers a happy medium, accommodating many styles. Experiment with different styling products to find what works best for your waves, achieving anything from loose beachy waves to more structured, defined waves.
How to Maintain a Shaved Sides, Long Top Haircut?
Regular maintenance is key to keeping this style looking its best. This usually involves regular trips to the barber or stylist for touch-ups on the shaved sides and trimming the longer top section to prevent split ends and maintain shape. The frequency of these visits will depend on how fast your hair grows.
How Often Should I Get a Haircut With Shaved Sides and Long Top?
Most people with this style need a touch-up every 2-4 weeks to maintain the shaved sides and keep the top hair looking neat. This can vary depending on individual hair growth rates and the desired level of precision.
What Products Should I Use to Style a Shaved Sides, Long Top Haircut?
The best products will depend on your hair type and desired style. For straight hair, pomades, gels, or clays are excellent choices. For curly or wavy hair, curl-enhancing creams, mousses, or leave-in conditioners can be ideal. Experiment with different products to find what works best for you.
Which Face Shape Suits a Shaved Sides, Long Top Haircut?
This haircut is surprisingly versatile and can flatter many face shapes. However, certain variations might work better than others:
- Oval Faces: Can usually pull off any variation of this cut.
- Round Faces: A higher fade on the sides can help elongate the face.
- Square Faces: Soften harsh angles with slightly longer hair on top and a less severe fade.
- Heart Faces: A slightly longer top balances the wider forehead.
- Long Faces: A fuller top can balance the length of the face.
Is a Shaved Sides, Long Top Haircut Good for Fine Hair?
While it might not be the most volumizing cut, with the right styling products and techniques, even fine hair can look great with this style. Texturizing products can create the illusion of thicker hair, and the contrast between the shaved sides and longer top draws attention upward, enhancing the appearance of volume.
Does a Shaved Sides, Long Top Haircut Require a Lot of Maintenance?
The level of maintenance depends on how often you want to get your sides touched up and how much styling you want to do. The shaved sides will require regular trimming, usually every 2-4 weeks. Styling the top can range from low maintenance (air drying) to high maintenance (using several products and tools). Ultimately, the maintenance level is directly proportional to your desired level of precision and styling.
This guide provides a starting point for exploring the stylish shaved sides, long top haircut. Remember to consult with your stylist to determine the best variation to suit your individual features and preferences. Remember, the most important element is confidence – rock your style with pride!
