Are you curious about trying a men’s short undercut for your next hairstyle? Or, are you wondering, “What even is an undercut?” We’ve got you!
This guide will help answer all your questions about undercuts on short hair for men.
What Is a Men’s Short Undercut?
First, let’s define an undercut. An undercut has longer hair on the top. The back and sides feature shaved, buzzed, faded, or closely cropped hair.
Sculpting a precise undercut is important for many barbers these days, as the style is versatile and popular.
The undercut is a diverse hairstyle that works for many lengths and textures of hair. This could be one of the reasons it’s so prevalent.
Although it has many variations, the undercut is usually spotted by its tight-on-the-sides and long-on-top look.
Where Did Undercuts Come From?
The historical origins of undercuts date back centuries. According to Wikipedia, the undercut even appeared in Ancient Rome.
In ancient times, wearing an undercut meant you were poor and unable to afford a skilled barber. The lack of blending made it appear like a DIY job.
However, from the 1900s through the 1920s, undercuts became fashionable with young men. It was especially popular with gang members like the Peaky Blinders.
In fact, you can spot some wild undercuts on the Netflix series Peaky Blinders (2013-2022). The cast is also about to shoot a movie, so you might find even more men’s short undercut inspiration there. According to GQ, it’s slated to premiere in September 2024.
By the 1930s, the undercut had moved from street style to the mainstream. Military barbers also frequently gave soldiers undercuts during World War II. That’s because these cuts are relatively quick and easy. They can also look somewhat uniform on different hair types.
On this site, we highlighted men’s short, undercut hairstyles from the 1950s. After half a century of popularity, these hairstyles began to wane.
During the 1960s, the British Invasion of The Beatles and The Rolling Stones made longer, shaggier hair more popular. It was then that the undercut fell out of fashion for a generation or two.
It’s once again rising in popularity in the 2020s. Social media, especially TikTok, made undercuts trendy again these past few years.
Even though a men’s short undercut has waxed and waned in popularity, it’s never really out of style. It’s a classic look that suits many face shapes, hair textures, and lifestyles. It’s easy to see why it remains a popular option in barber shops.
How To Maintain an Undercut
If you want to keep things precise, plan to visit your barber every 1-3 weeks.
Of course, if you choose a style that’s a bit messier, you can probably go a month between trims.
Maintenance is also important when styling your hair, so keep that in mind. Do you prefer to sleep in as late as possible? Then you’ll want something that looks good, even if it’s a little rumpled.
If you enjoy spending time sculpting the perfect do, you can opt for a more defined undercut.
Make sure you’re choosing the right hair products to make your style look its very best. Talk with your barber about what shampoo, condition, and hair products will work for your hair type.
What Is a Disconnected Undercut?
A disconnected undercut means one part of the cut is completely disconnected from the other. The sides of the hair will be much shorter, with no blending into the top section.
A disconnected undercut usually features a sharp line and no transition between the hair lengths.
Basically, a disconnected undercut has length on top, shaved sides, and no blending between the two.
Some people like this stark contrast, while others find it too bold. As with anything style-related, choose something that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
Is the Short Undercut Hairstyle for Men Popular?
Yes. The short, undercut hairstyle for men remains extremely popular. It offers a casual but edgy vibe that works for many modern men’s lifestyles.
It also offers styling versatility. You can slick back an undercut for a neater appearance or keep it textured and messy for a casual vibe.
What Hair Types Are Best Suited for a Men’s Short Undercut?
For a men’s short undercut, straight hair works best. If you have wavy or curly hair, try an undercut at least medium length.
Generally speaking, pompadours and quiffs work well with thicker, fuller hair. Those with fine or thin hair look great with shorter and textured undercuts.
What Hair Products Will I Need To Use With an Undercut?
The hair products you’ll need will differ depending on your hair type and length.
For short undercuts, try a dime-sized dollop of pomade.
If you have textured hair, add salt spray when it’s wet. Then, finish your style with hair wax.
A quarter-sized drop of pomade works well for longer undercuts with straight hair. Use it when you want to slick your hair back or create a pompadour.
7 Examples of Undercut Hairstyles for Men
See below for examples of undercut hairstyles for men. You’ll find various lengths, textures, and styles below.
Undercuts on Short Hair: Classic Men’s Short Undercut
Of course, an extreme look, like a zero fade or a disconnected undercut, isn’t for everybody.
A classic short undercut is still a modern and stylish haircut. For this style, typically, #1 through #4 guards are used. Think of the classic undercut as a template. It’s customizable for your needs.
Want even more proof that this is a classic style? You can see this in our post about vintage hairstyles. This specific short style was called “The Ivy League”.
A Crop-Style Undercut With a High Zero Fade
Do you want an undercut that has more texture than volume? Then, this is a great choice.
The top looks cool and casual, while the sides look neat and intentional. This shorter undercut would work best with straight to mildly wavy hair.
The Disconnected Undercut for Men
As discussed above, the disconnected undercut has an abrupt line between the longer top and shorter sides.
For modern disconnected undercuts, many barbers are shaving a clean line to make the lack of blending more apparent. Since it’s a trendier look, it’s best suited to those with bold style.
Undercut Short Hair Men: Slicked-Back Style
A slicked-back undercut style works well with straight hair. If the hair is too thick, coarse, or wavy, it would look better pushed forward.
This is a very elegant, timeless style that would suit men who prefer classic fashion.
Top Knot Undercut for Men
Previously featured on our post about zero fade haircuts, this undercut style features plenty of length at the top.
Even with the man bun, the clean-shaven sides give this style a clean and tidy appearance.
Short Hair Undercut Men’s: Undercut Curly Hair Fade
Yes, even if you have a textured hair type, you can rock an undercut. The key is to keep the top a bit on the longer side.
The fade at the sides and the wild curls combine to make a unique style. An undercut can look neater than a whole head of curls. Yet, it still showcases your natural texture.
A Short Undercut Hairstyle Men: The Wavy Undercut
The wavy undercut is a classic short undercut hairstyle for men. It’s a great option for guys with textured hair. As you can see in the photo, an undercut has plenty of styling possibilities.
The hair can be pushed up, like a typical quiff. Or, you can slick it back. The hair on top can be neatly parted to one side.
This particular style utilizes the undercut for a loose quiff that looks pretty casual. The shorter sides and back keep the overall cut looking neat and fresh.
If you have this type of haircut, you’ll want to use hair products like matte clay for styling. If you have finer hair, try a lighter product. Always ask your barber for product recommendations if you aren’t sure what would work best for your hair type.
From Ancient Rome to TikTok, Men’s Short Undercut Hairstyles Are a Classic
The men’s short undercut isn’t just a trend. It’s a timeless classic that continues to resurface, each time with a modern twist.
With historical roots dating back to the Roman Empire and 1920s gangsters, undercuts are still a stylish choice today.
Today, the short, undercut hairstyle for men remains extremely popular. It offers a blend of causal edginess and stylish versatility. Whether you opt for a classic short undercut, a textured crop, or a zero fade, something will suit your taste.
Remember, the undercut isn’t limited to one hair type or texture. While straight hair might be the easiest to style, wavy and curly hair can also work. You’ll just need to choose the right length and cut.
As men’s hair trends come and go, the men’s short undercut remains a staple in barber shops worldwide. Is your style elegant and classic or edgy and bold? Either way, there’s bound to be an undercut that works for you.
A short undercut offers endless possibilities for styling and self-confidence. And if you end up with a style you don’t like? Remember, it’s just hair. It grows back!
What do you think about undercuts? Do you love them or hate them? Sound off in the comments!
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