Modern hairstyles are all about breaking norms, and undercuts for women are a bold expression of individuality and style.
This edgy haircut offers endless opportunities for customization, from subtle shaved patterns to dramatic designs that make a statement.
Its versatility allows it to complement any hair length, texture, or personal aesthetic, making it a go-to choice for those seeking a fresh, contemporary look.
Whether paired with long locks, a pixie cut, or vibrant colors, undercuts balance femininity and rebellion effortlessly.
If you’re ready to redefine your hairstyle with confidence and creativity, explore the top undercut trends shaping 2024. Keep reading!
1. Small Hidden Side Undercut
Creating a subtle yet striking look, this hairstyle cleverly tucks a shaved section under the top layers of hair, making it visible only when styled to reveal it.
The hidden side undercut balances edginess with sophistication, making it ideal for professionals seeking a bold touch that’s easy to conceal when needed.
With precise shaping, this cut enhances natural volume and texture in the remaining hair, complementing various lengths and colors.
Consider pairing it with loose waves or sleek finishes for maximum versatility. This design works well for first-timers exploring undercuts without committing to a fully exposed shave.
Hair accessories like clips can strategically showcase the hidden detail, allowing you to switch seamlessly between playful and polished styles.
2. Disconnected Nape Undercut
Shaving the nape while maintaining a stark contrast with longer locks creates an edgy, layered dynamic.
This style offers a modern appeal with its clean lines and defined disconnection between the shaved area and the remaining hair.
Perfect for warmer climates or active lifestyles, the nape undercut keeps things cool while offering a striking aesthetic when hair is tied up.
This cut allows for intricate designs or minimalist shaves, depending on personal preferences. Versatile styling options make it easy to alternate between sleek ponytails, messy buns, or loose, cascading hair.
The visual impact is undeniable, whether showcasing the undercut’s detail casually or dressing it up for formal occasions with high-volume hair arrangements.
3. Half-Shaved Hairstyle
Combining boldness with creativity, this style shaves one-half of the head while leaving the other side longer for striking asymmetry. It’s a favorite for those who love edgy, fashion-forward looks without compromising versatility.
Styling options abound, from sleek, straight finishes to tousled waves that enhance the contrast.
This design offers endless possibilities for personal expression, as the shaved portion can incorporate artistic patterns or remain simple for understated elegance.
The longer side provides balance, allowing for dynamic styles such as braids or side-swept curls.
Whether you prefer to highlight the shaved detail or subtly blend it into the overall hairstyle, this undercut makes a powerful statement without sacrificing functionality.
4. Peek-a-Boo Nape Undercut
Positioning the shave at the nape ensures a playful surprise when hair is lifted or styled upward.
This hairstyle offers the perfect mix of subtlety and boldness, making it a go-to for those who want hidden flair.
When the hair is worn down, the nape undercut stays concealed, offering professional polish.
Once tied up or braided, the shaved section adds a striking, unexpected element. Suitable for straight, wavy, or curly hair, this style enhances necklines and pairs beautifully with high ponytails, buns, or half-up hairstyles.
Add intricate designs or a splash of color to the undercut for added dimension. The peek-a-boo approach ensures maximum flexibility, catering to a wide range of personal styles and occasions.
5. High Undercut
Placing the shaved section higher up on the scalp creates a bold, fashion-forward edge. This striking style contrasts dramatically with longer hair, giving the appearance of volume and structure.
High undercuts allow for creative patterns, geometric designs, or clean shaves for minimalist appeal.
Ideal for confident individuals who want their undercut to take center stage, this hairstyle works best with medium to long hair for added dimension.
Styling options include braids, half-up buns, or dramatic sweeps that reveal the shaved detail. Pairing the high undercut with vibrant colors or highlights can amplify its impact.
This daring cut offers unparalleled versatility, blending effortlessly with casual street styles or avant-garde fashion statements, ensuring it turns heads everywhere.
6. Nape Fade with a Design
Focusing on the nape area offers a subtle yet impactful way to experiment with undercuts. This fade, enhanced with intricate patterns, provides an edgy twist that remains versatile for any occasion.
Hidden under long hair, it becomes a surprise feature when tied up in buns or ponytails.
The fade’s precision and symmetry make it visually appealing, while the added design creates a personalized touch, ranging from abstract lines to floral motifs.
Maintenance is straightforward with periodic touch-ups to retain sharpness. This style suits all hair textures, seamlessly blending practicality with individuality.
Whether paired with casual or formal outfits, it allows for a modern, customizable look that adapts effortlessly to varying style preferences.
7. Long Hair with Undercut Temples
Shaving the temples creates an eye-catching contrast against long, flowing hair. This undercut hairstyle provides a striking combination of boldness and femininity, perfect for those seeking a modern edge.
Temple undercuts work particularly well with side-swept or pinned-back hairstyles, revealing the shaved detail for added drama.
For more casual settings, loose hair can conceal the undercut, offering flexibility in styling. Pairing the shaved sections with creative patterns or a pop of color further amplifies the impact.
This hairstyle suits various hair textures, enhancing manageability by reducing weight around the face.
Regular trims are essential to maintain the sharpness of the undercut, ensuring it stays polished while providing a fresh, sophisticated look.
8. Asymmetrical Undershave
Positioning the shave asymmetrically elevates the standard undercut into a statement hairstyle.
The uneven placement creates visual intrigue, blending sleek shaved sections with textured or flowing layers.
Perfect for those wanting a unique twist, this design adds depth and complements various face shapes.
The asymmetrical undershave can be tailored to suit personal style, with options ranging from simple fades to intricate patterns.
This hairstyle shines when paired with high ponytails or loose waves that highlight the contrast between the shaved and unshaved areas.
Suitable for any hair type, it balances boldness with everyday wearability. Routine maintenance ensures the shaved portion remains clean and defined, preserving its edgy and contemporary appeal.
9. Pixie with a Fade Undercut
Blending a classic pixie cut with a fade undercut introduces a modern edge to a timeless style. The fade creates a gradual transition that enhances the pixie’s structured silhouette, adding a touch of sophistication.
This hairstyle is ideal for those seeking low-maintenance options without compromising on style.
Adding details like shaved designs or vibrant highlights personalizes the look, ensuring it reflects individual tastes.
The pixie with a fade suits various face shapes, as the short layers emphasize features like cheekbones and jawlines.
Styling versatility includes tousled textures for casual days or sleek finishes for formal settings.
Regular trims keep the fade sharp and the pixie well-defined, ensuring this chic hairstyle remains polished and fresh.
10. Curly Mohawk with Buzzed Sides
Combining voluminous curls with clean, buzzed sides delivers a bold and confident look.
This mohawk-inspired style celebrates texture while maintaining a practical edge through the shaved sections.
The buzzed sides emphasize the curls’ natural volume, creating a striking contrast that’s both edgy and elegant.
Styling options include defining the curls for added drama or pinning them for a more subdued appearance.
Adding fades or designs to the buzzed areas enhances the hairstyle’s uniqueness, offering room for creativity.
Ideal for medium to thick hair, this style provides structure and shape, making it suitable for various face shapes.
Maintenance involves regular trims to keep the buzzed sections crisp, ensuring the mohawk remains bold and stylish.
11. Undercut with Long Sideburns
Pairing an undercut with extended sideburns creates a sleek and edgy hairstyle that complements various face shapes.
The elongated sideburns add definition to the jawline, making this style both bold and flattering.
This design works well with short or medium-length hair, offering a dynamic contrast between the cropped sections and the length at the sides.
It can also be tailored to suit personal preferences, with sideburns styled as sharp and angular or soft and blended.
This hairstyle is perfect for those seeking a modern update that’s still versatile. Styling options include sleek finishes for a polished look or textured layers for a casual vibe. Regular trims ensure the lines remain crisp and the overall style refined.
12. Hidden Nape “Hair Tattoo”
Shaving intricate designs into the nape area introduces a hidden detail that’s both stylish and surprising.
This “hair tattoo” concept allows for artistic expression, with patterns ranging from geometric shapes to delicate motifs.
Concealed by longer hair, it remains versatile, only visible when hair is styled up in buns, ponytails, or braids.
This style suits all hair textures, offering a playful edge while maintaining a professional appearance when covered.
Maintenance involves regular touch-ups to keep the design sharp and the fade clean. For added flair, pair the shaved area with vibrant hair colors or highlights that enhance the pattern.
This nape undercut blends creativity with practicality, making it a standout choice for women who love bold, hidden details.
13. Long Pixie with a Cropped Side
Combining a classic long pixie cut with one cropped side adds a modern twist to this timeless style.
The asymmetry enhances the overall look, drawing attention to facial features while offering a bold contrast between the longer layers and the shorter, shaved section.
This hairstyle works well for all face shapes, as the layered top provides volume and movement. Styling options range from tousled textures for a casual aesthetic to sleek finishes for formal occasions.
Adding highlights or shaved patterns on the cropped side further personalizes the design.
Maintenance requires regular trims to preserve the structure and sharpness of the undercut, ensuring the style stays fresh and polished. This versatile haircut is ideal for those seeking effortless sophistication.
14. Spiky Style with an Undercut
A spiky finish paired with an undercut brings an energetic, youthful vibe to women’s hairstyles.
The shaved section creates a clean, sharp contrast that highlights the edgy texture of the spikes.
This style suits short hair lengths and works well with thick or fine textures, as the spikes add dimension and lift.
Use styling products like pomades or waxes to sculpt the spikes into bold points or soft, tousled peaks for added versatility.
For a more dramatic effect, consider combining this look with vibrant hair colors or fades in the undercut.
Routine trims maintain the spiky silhouette and keep the undercut precise. This striking hairstyle is perfect for those seeking an unconventional, attention-grabbing look that’s easy to manage.
15. Undercut and Shadow Roots Combo
Pairing an undercut with shadow roots merges edgy styling with a trendy color technique. The undercut adds sharpness and structure, while shadow roots provide depth and dimension to the overall look.
This combination suits medium to short hairstyles, as the darker roots create a seamless transition into lighter or vibrant hues.
The contrast between the cropped sections and layered hair enhances the visual impact, making it a popular choice for fashion-forward individuals.
Styling options include sleek ponytails to emphasize the undercut or loose waves to soften the look.
Regular maintenance ensures the undercut stays sharp, while root touch-ups keep the color blend fresh.
This hairstyle balances practicality with boldness, offering a versatile yet striking appearance.
16. Two-Level Undercut
Creating dimension and depth, this hairstyle features two distinct shaved sections layered at varying lengths.
The top section is typically slightly longer, blending seamlessly into the lower, more defined shave.
This style works well with medium to long hair, offering a unique edge while remaining versatile.
It’s perfect for high ponytails or buns that reveal both layers, highlighting the contrast. Adding intricate patterns or fades to one or both levels enhances its visual appeal.
Suitable for all hair textures, the two-level undercut balances boldness with manageability, making it ideal for those who want a daring yet practical look.
Regular maintenance is necessary to keep the lines crisp and the layers well-defined, ensuring the hairstyle remains sharp and polished.
17. Temple Undercut with Lines
Sharp lines etched into the shaved temple area elevate the undercut with a touch of precision and artistry.
This style emphasizes the temple region, making it a perfect accent for side-parted or swept-back hair.
Clean geometric or curved line designs add a modern flair, allowing for creative customization.
Suitable for short to medium hair lengths, the temple undercut with lines offers a sleek and structured appearance that complements various face shapes.
Styling options include leaving the hair loose for subtlety or pulling it back to fully showcase the shaved details.
Maintenance involves frequent trims to preserve the design’s sharpness and prevent regrowth from obscuring the lines.
This hairstyle seamlessly combines sophistication with individuality, making it highly versatile.
18. Geometric Nape Undercut
Intricate shapes and symmetrical patterns carved into the nape area turn a simple undercut into a bold, artistic statement.
This style remains hidden when hair is left loose but becomes a standout feature with updos or high ponytails.
Geometric designs, ranging from triangles to interlocking shapes, add a structured and contemporary edge to the hairstyle.
It suits all hair textures and pairs well with medium to long lengths, offering flexibility for casual or professional settings.
For extra flair, consider incorporating vibrant hair colors to accentuate the design. Regular touch-ups are essential to keep the patterns precise and the overall style polished.
This undercut effortlessly blends creativity with practicality, making it a favorite for fashion-forward individuals.
19. Chevron Nape Undercut
A sharp, V-shaped pattern at the nape creates a striking and defined look that enhances the overall hairstyle.
This chevron design adds an edgy touch, whether paired with straight, wavy, or curly hair. Perfect for medium to long lengths, it stays concealed with loose styles and shines with high buns or braids.
The chevron pattern elongates the neckline, adding a sleek and polished finish. This style works well with fades or solid shaves, depending on personal preference.
Adding color gradients or highlights to the chevron enhances its boldness. Maintenance requires consistent trims to keep the lines crisp and symmetrical.
This hairstyle offers a balanced combination of elegance and edge, ensuring it stands out without overwhelming the overall look.
20. Two Tone Undercut Pixie
Combining contrasting shades with a short, structured cut creates a vibrant and eye-catching hairstyle.
The undercut provides a sharp base, while the pixie layers on top add softness and movement.
Opting for two-tone coloring—such as dark roots with a lighter crown or vibrant hues against neutral tones—amplifies the visual impact.
This style works particularly well for women seeking a chic, low-maintenance look with personality.
Styling options range from tousled textures to sleek finishes, allowing for versatility. The sharp contrast between colors highlights the pixie’s layers and the undercut’s precision.
Regular trims maintain the style’s structure, while touch-ups ensure the color stays vibrant. This hairstyle is ideal for those wanting a playful yet sophisticated transformation.
Lives In: New York, NY
Expertise: Cosmetology (Hair, Skin & Nails)
I’m Anna Peterson, the founder of Salon Route and a seasoned beauty salon owner. As a licensed cosmetologist, I pursued in-depth studies in Cosmetology at the Aveda Institute. My professional journey spans over a decade, during which I’ve worked with top-tier brands like Sephora, L’Oréal Paris, MAC, and RMS Beauty. This experience has been invaluable in managing my salon, where I regularly cater to diverse client needs and preferences. At Salon Route, we provide practical guides and information, helping real-world individuals navigate the beauty landscape with confidence. My expertise in various beauty domains, coupled with my experience in addressing unique client requirements, underscores my commitment to excellence in the beauty and wellness industry.
