short · faded
High Fade
A high fade begins its transition well above the temples, creating strong contrast between close sides and the remaining top.
Hairstyle guide
Undercut: What It Looks Like and How to Ask for It
Explore the Undercut, defined by closely cut sides beneath a distinctly longer top section. Compare its shape, maintenance, salon wording, styling, and virtual try-on tips.
Published 18 July 2026
Quick answer
An undercut removes substantial length from the sides or lower section while preserving a visibly longer top, creating clear structural contrast.
- Length
- mixed
- Shape
- disconnected and top-focused
- Finish
- textured
- Maintenance
- high
What defines the look
The defining feature is closely cut sides beneath a distinctly longer top section. That distinction is more useful than relying on the style name alone, since names can be interpreted differently between salons.
- mixed length
- disconnected
- short sides
- bold
What to ask your stylist
Specify how high the short section should sit, whether the transition should be disconnected or blended, and how the longer top will be worn.
Bring a saved preview and clarify which parts of the generated result matter most to you. Your stylist can translate the reference for your current hair and practical routine.
Styling and upkeep
The longer section can be swept, textured, or slicked back, while the shorter area needs regular upkeep to preserve the contrast.
Maintenance labels are broad comparisons within this guide library. Your starting texture, chosen length, and preferred finish can change the real routine.
How to preview it
A photo with the sides of the head visible helps show the defining difference between the close section and longer top.
Try the UndercutCompare nearby looks
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