The undercut hairstyle has typically been a staple hair trend in men’s runway and editorial looks. Not only strictly popularised in fashion, this haircut is common amongst many film and television stars. The hairstyle has also celebrated a long-lasting popularity in street style, particularly with the younger generations eager to embrace the trend. There are several reasons for this. Firstly, it’s youthful and can work incredibly well for curly, straight or wavy hair types. The other great thing about the undercut is that it can be interpreted in many ways. With the wide range of different undercut hairstyles available, it may be a bit overwhelming when choosing how to harness this hair trend. From the classic versions of this haircut to the more modern adaptations and everything in between, consider this your ultimate guide for the top six undercut hairstyles you should try now.

1. The Classic Undercut

For something a little more conservative, go for a classic undercut which still maintains trimmed sides, but leaves the top not too long. The classic undercut is recommended for those who may be a little apprehensive about this haircut, because it is relatively simple and isn’t too extreme. Styling the classic undercut is simple, and a bit of hair product will keep it clean and polished. A wet look gel or mousse will give this cut a forties/fifties touch which can be great to change the proportions up.

2. Layered Undercut

For something a bit different, a layered undercut is what you will want. This version of the undercut is also advised for those who want to add fullness and depth to your hair from a visual perspective. By adding layers, this will visually amplify your locks, working to make the hair look more voluminous. You should also determine to what degree you wish to layer your hair. This means when you’re getting your hair cut by a barber, you should start off by cutting shorter segments off your hair, and then proceed to take off longer portions if you are liking the way it suits your face.

3. Slicked Back Undercut

The trick to pulling off the slicked back undercut is to ensure your hair is long enough up top for the styling of this version of the undercut hair trend. You’ll want your hair longer and the key to ensuring it looks polished is to use a great quality hair product to tame the longer proportions up top. For a more modern take on the slicked back undercut, opt for a matte hair mousse to keep things relatively textured. For a more old school adaptation of the trend, a wet look hair product will ensure the cut looks more structured whilst maintaining a relaxed reference to the past.

4. Side Swept Undercut

The side swept version of the undercut is best channeled in pompadour-esque styling. Much like the slicked back undercut, the first step to harnessing a side swept undercut is to ensure you have longer proportions up top, so that the slicking of the hair works well with the shorter sides of your haircut. The key to pulling off the side swept undercut is to make sure that you are parting your hair the right way. This differs for everyone, so ensure that you are choosing the best part for your face. This is generally determined by which way your hair naturally falls.

5. Puffy Undercut

The one thing that you will need to pull off the puffy undercut is a lot of volume and texture. This version of the undercut is also dependent on the kind of hair that you naturally possess. Gentlemen with curlier or wavier hair types will find this styling easier to recreate, particularly when it comes to applying product to your hair to enhance your natural waves. For men with straighter hair types, creating more texture with the layering of your hair is important and will aid when it comes to styling a puffy undercut. Keep in mind that matte hair product works nicely with this version.

6. Disconnected Undercut

The disconnected undercut relies on a stark contrast between your hair up top alongside the shaven sides of your hair, distinguished with a line. There is a refined way to interpret this version of the undercut and it comes down to styling. Our advice? Adopt this version with a forties inspiration, maintaining a side part and products which will make your hair look more glossy to amplify the retro elements of your styling.