The shaved sides, long top hairstyle—a bold, versatile cut that's been a staple in men's and women's fashion for years—offers a striking contrast and endless styling possibilities. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about this edgy yet sophisticated look, from choosing the right style for your face shape to maintenance tips and styling inspiration. Whether you're a seasoned style aficionado or considering this daring cut for the first time, read on to become a true expert.
What is a Shaved Sides, Long Top Hairstyle?
The shaved sides, long top hairstyle is characterized by, as its name suggests, closely shaved or undercut sides and a significantly longer top section. This dramatic contrast creates a visually interesting silhouette and allows for a wide range of styling options, from sleek and sophisticated to messy and rebellious. The length of the top can vary greatly, from a few inches to shoulder-length or even longer. The shaved sides can also be customized, ranging from a subtle fade to a completely bald undercut.
Choosing the Right Shaved Sides, Long Top Style for Your Face Shape
The key to rocking this hairstyle lies in choosing a style that complements your face shape.
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Round Faces: Opt for a high fade or undercut on the sides to create the illusion of length and slim down the face. A longer top with some texture will add height and balance.
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Oval Faces: Oval faces can pull off almost any variation of this hairstyle. Experiment with different fade heights and top lengths to find what suits your personal style best.
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Square Faces: Soften angular features with a mid-fade and a slightly longer, layered top. Avoid overly sharp lines.
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Heart Faces: Balance a wider forehead with a low fade or undercut and a slightly longer top that's styled to add volume at the bottom.
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Long Faces: Minimize the length of your face by choosing a style with more volume on the sides. A slightly shorter top can also help balance the proportions.
How to Style a Shaved Sides, Long Top Hairstyle
Styling this cut depends heavily on the length and texture of your top hair. Here are some popular styling techniques:
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Sleek and Straight: Use a straightening iron and strong-hold hair product for a polished and sophisticated look.
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Textured and Messy: Use a texturizing product like sea salt spray or a matte pomade to create a tousled and carefree vibe.
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Spiky and Edgy: Use a strong-hold gel or wax to create defined spikes and an aggressive look.
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Curls and Waves: If you have naturally curly or wavy hair, embrace it! Let your curls loose or define them with a curl-enhancing product.
What are the Best Hair Products for Shaved Sides, Long Top?
The right hair products can make or break this hairstyle. Consider the following:
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Pomades: Great for sleek, controlled styles. Choose a water-based pomade for easier washing.
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Hairsprays: Essential for holding your style in place, particularly for longer hair lengths.
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Gels: Offer a strong hold, ideal for spiky or textured styles.
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Texturizing Sprays: Add volume and texture, perfect for messy or tousled styles.
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Mousses: Add volume and body, especially useful for finer hair.
How Often Should I Get My Shaved Sides, Long Top Trimmed?
To maintain the sharp lines and overall shape of your shaved sides, long top hairstyle, you should aim for regular trims every 2-4 weeks. The frequency will depend on how quickly your hair grows. Regular trims will also prevent the shaved sides from becoming too overgrown, maintaining the style’s intended look.
Is a Shaved Sides, Long Top Suitable for All Hair Types?
While this style can be adapted for various hair types, it works best with medium to thick hair. If you have very fine hair, you may need to use volumizing products to achieve the desired look on top. Very coarse hair might require more frequent trims.
Can I Style Shaved Sides, Long Top Hair at Home?
Yes, with the right tools and products, you can definitely style shaved sides, long top hair at home. Start by watching some tutorials to get a feel for the techniques and experiment with different styling products to find what works best for your hair.
What are the potential downsides to a shaved sides, long top hairstyle?
While stylish, this cut requires regular maintenance. The shaved sides will need frequent touch-ups, and you'll need to put some time and effort into styling the longer top. Additionally, if you’re considering this for a job interview, consider how this bold style will be perceived in your specific workplace.
This ultimate guide provides you with a thorough overview of the shaved sides, long top hairstyle, helping you make an informed decision and confidently rock this trendsetting look. Remember, finding the right variation and maintaining it are key to maximizing its impact.
