Short hairstyles with shaved sides have become one of the most popular hair trends for men. This style offers a bold and edgy look, combining the neatness of a short top with the sharpness of shaved sides. It is a versatile style that can be customized to suit various face shapes and hair textures. Whether you’re looking to achieve a modern, clean look or add some flair to your usual style, a short hairstyle with shaved sides can provide that refreshing change. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about creating a short hairstyle with shaved sides for men, from understanding the basics to achieving the perfect cut.
Understanding the Short Hairstyle with Shaved Sides
A short hairstyle with shaved sides typically involves keeping the hair on the top of the head longer, while the sides are buzzed or shaved very short. This cut can vary in length, but it is most commonly seen with a fade or undercut. A fade gradually shortens the hair as it moves down the sides of the head, while an undercut features a stark contrast between the length of the top hair and the shaved sides.
This hairstyle has gained immense popularity due to its versatility, clean aesthetic, and ability to complement a variety of face shapes. It works well for men with different hair types, from straight and fine to curly and thick. The contrast between the top and shaved sides also helps highlight facial features and create a more angular appearance, which is why many men choose this cut.
Choosing the Right Short Hairstyle with Shaved Sides
When it comes to choosing the best short hairstyle with shaved sides, there are several factors to consider. These include face shape, hair texture, and personal style. Below are some popular variations of this cut that you can explore:
1. The Buzz Cut with Shaved Sides
The buzz cut with shaved sides is one of the most straightforward options. The entire head is clipped short, and the sides are shaved very closely to the scalp, leaving the top slightly longer. This look is clean, low-maintenance, and ideal for men who prefer a no-fuss style.
Pros:
- Easy to maintain
- Works well with various face shapes
- Ideal for men with busy lifestyles
Cons:
- May not work well with all hair textures (particularly curly hair)
- May not suit men with a round face as it can emphasize the roundness
2. The Fade with Shaved Sides
The fade haircut is a popular choice for men who want a more defined contrast between the top and sides. With a fade, the hair gradually shortens as it moves down the sides, creating a seamless transition from long to short. The fade can be high, medium, or low, depending on how much of the sides you want to shave.
Pros:
- Offers a gradual, stylish transition
- Suits most face shapes
- Versatile and can be customized to suit different hair lengths
Cons:
- Requires more frequent touch-ups to maintain the fade
- Can be difficult to achieve a perfect fade without professional help
3. The Undercut with Shaved Sides
The undercut is a bold version of the short hairstyle with shaved sides. With an undercut, the sides are shaved very closely to the scalp, while the top is left long and styled according to personal preference. This sharp contrast creates a dramatic and edgy look.
Pros:
- Ideal for men who want a bold, modern style
- Works well with various hair textures
- Offers lots of styling options for the top hair
Cons:
- May not be suitable for men with a lot of natural curl or wave
- Requires frequent maintenance to keep the contrast sharp
4. The Crew Cut with Shaved Sides
The crew cut is a classic and timeless short hairstyle with shaved sides. The hair on the top is cut short but slightly longer than the shaved sides, creating a clean and structured look. This style is often paired with a fade or undercut for a more modern take on the classic crew cut.
Pros:
- Easy to style and maintain
- Works well with all face shapes
- Provides a sharp, professional look
Cons:
- Not as bold or edgy as other shaved side styles
- May require a bit of styling product to keep the top hair in place
How to Achieve a Short Hairstyle with Shaved Sides
Achieving a short hairstyle with shaved sides involves several key steps, from preparing your hair to choosing the right tools and techniques for the cut. Whether you are going to a barber or cutting your hair at home, here’s how to achieve the look you want.
1. Prepare Your Hair
Before beginning the haircut, it’s essential to prepare your hair. Start by washing your hair thoroughly to remove any product buildup. This will help the clippers glide smoothly through your hair and ensure an even cut. Dry your hair completely before proceeding, as wet hair can be more difficult to manage.
2. Choose the Right Clippers
Using the right clippers is crucial to achieving a clean and even cut. Invest in a high-quality clipper with adjustable guard sizes to ensure precision. For a clean fade, you’ll need clippers with a fade lever that allows you to gradually blend the top and sides.
3. Trim the Top Hair
Start by trimming the hair on top of your head to your desired length. You can use scissors or clippers, depending on the length you want to achieve. Make sure to use a comb to lift the hair and trim it evenly. If you’re aiming for a fade or undercut, you’ll want to leave the top hair longer than the sides.
4. Shave the Sides
Once the top hair is cut to your desired length, it’s time to shave the sides. Begin at the bottom and work your way up to the point where the fade or undercut will start. If you are going for a fade, use a clipper with a lower guard size as you work your way down the sides. The goal is to create a gradual transition from the longer hair on top to the shaved sides.
5. Blend the Fade
To achieve a seamless fade, carefully blend the top and shaved sides. Use a clipper with a higher guard size to work through any visible lines between the longer hair and the shaved sides. This step requires patience and precision, so take your time to ensure a smooth blend.
6. Final Touches
After the fade is complete, take a moment to check for any uneven spots and touch them up. You can also trim any stray hairs along the neckline and around the ears to clean up the overall look. Finally, apply some styling product to the top hair to achieve your desired style.
Maintaining Your Short Hairstyle with Shaved Sides
Maintaining a short hairstyle with shaved sides requires regular touch-ups and some basic hair care. Here’s how you can keep your look fresh and sharp:
1. Regular Haircuts
To maintain the contrast between the top and shaved sides, you’ll need to visit the barber or cut your hair at home every 3-4 weeks. Regular touch-ups will help you maintain the clean, sharp lines that define the style.
2. Use the Right Hair Products
For styling the top of your hair, use products that suit your hair type. If you have fine hair, opt for a lightweight styling gel or pomade to add texture. For thicker or curlier hair, a heavier pomade or wax can help control the volume and maintain the shape of the hairstyle.
3. Care for Your Scalp
Shaving the sides can leave your scalp exposed, so it’s important to care for it. Regularly moisturize your scalp with a hydrating lotion or oil to prevent dryness and irritation. You should also protect your scalp from the sun by wearing a hat or applying sunscreen if you’re outdoors for extended periods.
Styling Options for Short Hairstyles with Shaved Sides
One of the best things about short hairstyles with shaved sides is that they offer a lot of versatility. Here are a few styling options for different occasions:
1. The Slicked-Back Look
For a clean and polished appearance, you can slick back the hair on top using a strong-hold pomade or gel. This look works well for formal events and gives you a sharp, sophisticated style.
2. The Messy, Textured Look
If you prefer a more relaxed look, use a lightweight pomade or texturizing cream to create a messy, tousled style. This is ideal for casual outings and gives you a laid-back yet trendy appearance.
3. The Pompadour
For a bold, vintage-inspired style, you can create a pompadour by adding volume to the top hair. This style is great for those who want to stand out and show off their edgy haircut.
Conclusion
A short hairstyle with shaved sides is a fantastic choice for men who want a modern, sharp, and easy-to-maintain look. Whether you choose a buzz cut, fade, undercut, or crew cut, this style offers plenty of customization options to suit your personality and hair type. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily create this trendy look at home or with the help of a professional barber. With regular maintenance and the right styling products, you can keep your short hairstyle with shaved sides looking fresh and stylish at all times.
