32 Best Braided Hairstyles With Shaved Sides And Faux Undercut (2024)

Braids with shaved sides can make for cool and edgy hairstyles. This hairstyle can be done in many different ways – from simple designs and intricate works of art to being paired with sidecuts and undercuts that have given trendsetting women a new outlook towards evolving hairstyles. Moreover, you don’t actually need a shaved head to sport braids with shaved sides.

Curly hair expert and owner of Royal Locks Curl Care Casey Simmons says, “Naturally wavy hair and curls add another ‘pop’ to these styles, without even trying. The dimension of wavy and curly hair to the short side and undercut can be all things edgy, trendy, and chic.”

Intrigued? Here’s a tutorial on how to do braided undercut hairstyles easily at home. Scroll down!

32 Best Braided Hairstyles With Shaved Sides And Faux Undercut (1) Before You Get Started

  • Shaved sides and undercuts complement oval face shapes. People with heart-shaped faces should avoid shaved sides as they magnify the wide forehead.
  • You might have to use hair spray to keep the hairstyle in place. Avoid braids that are too tight since they might strain the roots and perhaps result in hair breakage.
  • Always detangle your hair before braiding to prevent hair damage. Use a wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush.
  • Keep bobby pins and other hair accessories handy to fix your hairstyle with braids and shaved sides.

In This Article

DIY Braided Undercut Hairstyle

What You Need

  • Hair brush
  • Blowdryer
  • Straightening iron
  • Elastic band
  • Hair clips
  • Bobby pins
  • Hairspray

Related: 5 Ways To Straighten Hair With A Flat Iron Like A Pro

How To Do

  • Wash your hair and let it air-dry for a bit until it is just damp. Use a blow dryer and hair brush to dry your hair the rest of the way. Brush your hair forward, starting at the roots and pushing your hair toward your forehead, while blow drying it.
  • Curl your hair in small sections with the help of a straightening iron. You can use hairspray to set the curls.
  • Part your hair down the middle from the back until the crown. Leaving out the hair at the front, clip up one half of the divided section.
  • Make French braids from the back hairline with the other section.
  • Once you reach the crown, pin the braid to secure it in place.
  • Repeat the same with the other section of hair.
  • Arrange your curls, so they fall on your forehead like bangs and finish off with a few spritzes of hairspray.

It’s time to check out the top 32 masterpiece undercut designs that you will definitely want to try out!

32 Best Braided Hairstyles With Shaved Sides

1. Chunky Twisted Braids

Keke Palmer’s chunky twist braids with shaved sides are to die for! Adorn this style, and you’ll look no less than a rockstar. This hairstyle will enhance your face beautifully and provide volume to your mane. The best part? These thick twists are done with extensions, so you can change your hair look conveniently as many times as you want without causing damage to your hair.

2. High Braided Mohawk

Ditch those high ponytails and opt for a high mohawk braid instead! This look with a long mohawk pulled back into a thick braid that flows from the top of the head is effortless and chic. For all the curly-haired beauties, this look is a perfect way to manage your tresses. It will give you a clean look and prevent your hair from tangling too much.

3. Braided Curly Undercut

Isn’t this a perfect Hollywood look? Zoe Kravitz’s dreamy blonde curls and bold lips are a treat to the eyes. The braids on the top and the undercut are a perfect combination that makes her stand out. Show off your one-of-a-kind personality with this look and make heads turn wherever you go!

4. Edgy Braids And Bun

Want an edgy yet classy look? This braided bun and undercut might be just what you are looking for. Try it out if you have an undercut on both sides. Weave your hair in a protective style with lots of little braids and pull them back into a neat bun.

5. Side Cornrow Undercut

This cornrow braided style is perfect if you want that undercut look without shaving your head. Once you have your cornrow braids at the side, simply pull back the rest of your hair in a long ponytail. If you wish to stand out, opt for a hidden color or a single-colored strand. The blue peek-a-boo color here looks stunning, right?

6. Braided Pompadour Undercut

Need braids with shaved sides for long hair? This stunning braided pompadour is here to your rescue! MC Lyte carries the look with utmost elegance and grace, and so can you. To adorn this look, get your hair braided in micro braids. Once you have all the braids ready, simply pull the top braids back, secure them, and you are good to go!

7. Side-Shaved Braided Updo

Another undercut braided bun updo to make you the star of the night! Anyone with blonde hair, dark roots, and shaved sides can carry this style with ease. Pair this stunning, edgy, and classy high bun with an elegant dress to rock any evening gathering. All you need for this shaved hairstyle is some extra time to get your hair done up in micro braids, and half your work is complete!

8. Long Braids Undercut

This look with tons of micro braids is fab and goes with a variety of outfits. From pantsuits to breezy dresses and trendy tops, you can pair it with anything. The hairdo transitions easily from a busy work look to a night out with friends. Choose this style with side undercuts and micro braids, and leave all your styling worries behind!

9. Braided Half Bun Undercut

If you are looking for something funky and cool, stop right here! This might be the look for you. Lalah Hathaway is a vision in this half-bun braided undercut with Senegalese twists and streaks of purple. Anyone with their sides shaved and vibrant hair can pull off this look effortlessly. Pair it with equally bold makeup, and sparkle all day!

10. Two-Toned Braided Undercut

Do you want an undercut but are afraid to go all out? Let your inner diva shine with this two-toned look that requires you to shave your head only on one side. This style with multiple micro braids is sure to make heads turn. Pair it with a dressy top and hoop earrings to amp up your style quotient.

11. Long Mohawk Braid

Jennifer Hudson knows how to bring it! Gel the sides of your hair and comb it back to give it a faux shaved sides look. Gather all your hair at the mohawk section and weave it in a long braid.

Related: 34 Edgy Braided Mohawks You Need To Check Out

12. Mohawk Side Braid With Side Lines

Keeping up with the previous theme, this haircut is minimalistic but in no way shabby. An undercut can really jazz up a short hairstyle like a bob or a pixie cut. If you want to go for a slightly bold hairstyle, add some linear designs on one side.

32 Best Braided Hairstyles With Shaved Sides And Faux Undercut (2) Quick Tip

If you have short hair length, a mohawk hairstyle with one side shaved is perfect to get a younger look. This especially works for middle aged women with black hair.

13. Blonde Highlighted Braided Undercut

Blonde hair can make everything better! If you agree, this hairstyle is for you. Keep your roots dark and color the rest of your hair blonde. Add some height to your hair by backcombing it. Gather your hair at the mohawk section and weave it in a braid.

Related: 53 Eye-Catching Blonde Highlights For Brown Hair (Bronde Hairstyles)

14. Rat-Tail Braid Undercut

The undercut started out as a haircut invented for people who couldn’t afford a barber. Now, it has become one of the most fashionable and sought-after cuts. But if you don’t want to shave your hair, a faux look is a brilliant alternative. Just look at this messy rat-tail braid undercut sported by Keke Palmer. Doesn’t it look retro with a modern twist?

15. Intricate Twisted Braid Undercut

You can do elegant hairstyles even with shaved sides. If you love edgy looks but are looking for something classy, this is it! Simply weave your hair in big stitches, tie the ends in knots, and pin them up.

16. Multiple Braided Sidecut

This sidecut hairstyle is uber cool and edgy. Weave your hair in lots of small braids. Connect them with safety pins to add a punk touch. It might take a little more time to do than your normal hairdo, but it’s totally worth it.

17. Mohawk With Rat-Tail Braid

Kelly Osborne shows us why she’s at the top of the game with this hairstyle. No one pulls off pastel lilac the way she does. If you have fine hair, this is a great way to flaunt a sidecut with a braid. If you want to make the ‘do look a little fuller, backcomb your hair before braiding it.

18. Heavily Braided Undercut

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from the black braids trend, it’s that the more the braids, the better the hairstyle! So, if you have kinky locks and love sporting protective styles, try out this Dutch braid mohawk.

19. Braided French Twist Braid

The French twist is phenomenal. It is one of the most trendy hairstyles on the red carpet. To take it up a notch, pair it with shaved sides and add some height to it by teasing your hair at the top. Then, French twist your hair and tuck the ends underneath.

20. Fulani Braided Undercut

Alicia Keys sported Fulani braids for her song Fallin, and it’s been trending the world over ever since then. It’s a great way to jazz up any hairstyle. Try them out if you have an undercut on both sides and a layered cut.

21. Pinned Braided Shaved Sides

If you’re on the fence about an undercut with shaved sides, try this look. Get just one side shaved. Kelly Osbourne shows us how to style this haircut like a boss! You can accessorize with safety pins or decorative pins.

22. Side-Swept Shaved Side Braid

If you love being creative, you can experiment with your undercut. Just look at this sidecut. Keep the rest of your hair to one side with a French braid. Pair this look with a fancy ear cuff, and you are ready to slay!

32 Best Braided Hairstyles With Shaved Sides And Faux Undercut (3) Quick Tip

If you have long hair with shaved sides, you can also go for dreadlocks which is one of the trending hairstyles today .


Related: 23 Awesome Hairstyles With Side-Swept Bangs For Women

23. One-Sided Braid

I get that not everyone wants to go all out and get a crazy pattern shaved on their head. So, this is an edgy alternative. You can fake a shaved sidecut by French braiding your hair close to your scalp.

24. Boho Braid With Undercut

If you have a side cut then this boho look is for you! Take a page from Cassie Ventura and weave a loose braid. Allow strands of hair to fall free of the braid, so it looks more boho.

25. Side Braids With Undercut

You don’t need to braid your hair just to create a faux undercut. Braids can be used to accentuate the shaved sides and the rest of your hair as well. Braids can flaunt your highlights and natural hair color well.

26. Fishtail Braid Faux Undercut

Talk about over the top hairstyles! If you love epic hairdos, I’m sure you’re drawn to this look like a moth to a flame. Beyonce has stunning hair and knows how to style it as well.

27. Cornrow Undercut

If you have kinky hair, some cornrows can help you create a faux undercut look. The best part about the goddess braids hairstyle is that you can play around with patterns and braiding styles to create a unique look for yourself.

28. Mohawk Braided Undercut

Kelly Osbourne is giving us yet another gem of a hairdo! If you have shaved your sides but the center hair is growing out, this is a great way to style your hair. Divide your hair into sections and weave each section into a braid. Simply join the halo braids with hairpins to create this look.

29. Loose Braided Undercut

Well defined lines clearly seem to be an undercut favorite, especially when the sides have been shaved neatly. Gather your center hair and French braid it, starting from the nape of your neck. Keep the braid loose and use gel or mousse to maintain neat lines.

30. Mohawk Fishtail Undercut

A mohawk, a braid, and shaved sides walk into a bar. There’s no joke here because this hairstyle looks stunning! Gather your hair at the center and backcomb it to add height. Then, braid the hair neatly. Spritz on some hairspray to set your hairstyle in place.

31. African Banana Braids In A High Pony

Elevate your hairstyle with the allure of African banana braids in a high pony. This chic and culturally inspired look combines the artistry of traditional African braids with a contemporary high ponytail. Start with intricately weaving traditional braids from the crown and secure them into a high ponytail for a chic fusion of culture and modern style

32. Knotted Braids With Shaved Sides

Achieve an edgy and bold look with knotted braids paired with shaved sides. Simply section your hair, create tight knots along the length, and shave the sides for a stylish and low-maintenance statement. This trendy hairstyle adds a touch of attitude while embracing a modern and daring vibe.

Infographic: Top 7 Braided Hairstyles With Shaved Sides And Faux Undercut

Braided hairstyles with shaved sides and a faux undercut combine edginess with femininity. The shaved sides and undercut provide a bold and daring look, while the braids add a touch of elegance and intricacy. These versatile hairstyles exude confidence and reveal a unique sense of style. Check out the following infographic for these hairstyles that will surely turn heads wherever you go.

32 Best Braided Hairstyles With Shaved Sides And Faux Undercut (4)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Braids with shaved sides give you an edgy look. There are many braided hairstyles that will make you look bold. Long mohawk, blonde highlighted braided undercut, intricate twisted braid undercut, heavily braided undercut, and Fulani braided undercut are the best braided hairstyles with shaved sides. Fortunately, you can learn how to do braided undercut hairstyles at home with the help of the tutorial listed above. Check out this article to get the best ideas on how to combine the modern shaved side with various types of braids!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a butterfly braid?

A butterfly braid includes two large braids on each side of the head that join together to form a single braid on the back of the head. You can wear this style for 4 to 6 weeks if properly maintained.

What are bohemian box braids?

Bohemian box braids are a hairstyle in which several hair sections are left out from the braid for a casual and bohemian look. It gives a fuller and voluminous look.

Are knotless braids better?

Knotless braids are better for hair as they are less damaging and put less tension and stress on the hair and scalp.

What are knotless braids?

Knotless braids are a variation of box braids created with the feed-in technique. They do not include knots at the scalp and are weightless and pain-free.

How often should you braid your hair?

It is advised not to keep the braids for more than 6 to 8 weeks. Maintain a gap of 2-4 weeks before braiding your hair again.

How long will knotless braids last?

Knotless braids will last for at least 2 to 3 months. It also depends on your hair texture, how large the braids are, and how you care for them.

Key Takeaways

  • Braided undercut hairstyles are for those who love edgy yet classy hairstyles.
  • Mohawk with rat-tail braid is a great way to flaunt a sidecut with a braid if you have fine hair.
  • Cornrow undercut can help you create a faux undercut look if you have kinky hair.

Check out this awesome video on latest side-shaved undercut braid hairstyles! They’re totally dope, and you won’t want to miss them!

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Casey SimmonsCurly Hair Expert

32 Best Braided Hairstyles With Shaved Sides And Faux Undercut (8) 32 Best Braided Hairstyles With Shaved Sides And Faux Undercut (9)

Casey Simmons is a curly hair expert with over 20 years of experience in management, operations, and consulting. She has done extensive consumer research and worked directly with chemists and the factory to create curl enhancing products built for simple routines.

Read full bio of Casey Simmons

32 Best Braided Hairstyles With Shaved Sides And Faux Undercut (2024)

FAQs

What braided hairstyles make you look younger? ›

Wearing a cornrow will make you look younger. Box braids are the way to go if you want a long-lasting, simple-to-maintain hairstyle. You may create boho braids or bohemian box braids by adding curly hair to your box braids. The wavy hair can have knots or be knotless.

What is the hairstyle called with shaved sides and long on top? ›

There are many variations of the short side, long top hairstyle, also known as tapers, fades or undercuts.

What is the least damaging braid style? ›

What Protective Style Is Best for Natural Hair
  1. Marley Twists. ...
  2. Goddess Braids. ...
  3. 3. Box Braids. ...
  4. Knotless Box Braids. ...
  5. Senegalese Twists. ...
  6. Faux Three Strand Braided Ponytail. ...
  7. Bantu Knots. ...
  8. Faux Locs.

What braid style is best for thinning edges? ›

Hairstyles like loose crown braids, soft low ponytail braids, or gentle knots are excellent choices because they distribute the tension evenly throughout the hair without putting excess pressure on the scalp. This helps in reducing the risk of thinning at the hairline and minimizes damage caused by pulling.

Can a 50 year old woman wear braids? ›

Perhaps Cindy Brady, Pippi Longstocking or Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz come to mind. Braids long have been the exclusive domain of youth, but the truth is, if done right, braids are an interesting–and free–hair accessory, even for women over 50 and especially in summer.

What hair length makes a woman look younger? ›

Will having long hair or short hair make me look younger? If you have medium to thick hair, a lengthier mane can give off an air of youthfulness. But if your hair leans thin, it's best to go with a cut that's mid-length or shorter to lend natural volume to your look.

What is a ghost haircut? ›

Using ghost layers is a technique that focuses on the horseshoe section of hair that is layered or uses a slicing method to create movement. While the illusion of one length is still intact. The ends are usually left blunt to give the illusion of soft movement, adding a thicker-looking appearance.

What is a faux hawk haircut? ›

A fauxhawk is a hairstyle that resembles a mohawk, with relatively short sides and a longer hair on top.

What is a mermaid haircut? ›

"A mermaid haircut is long layers that are overdirected forward to frame the face," Akaneya says.

What is the easiest braid to make? ›

For Beginners: French Braid

As you braid down and back towards the nape of your neck, each time you will add a small piece of hair to the side strand as you're crossing over the middle strand. Continue doing this until you've reached the nape of your neck.

What braiding hair doesn't have chemicals in it? ›

EZBRAID is
  • 100% PVC FREE. ​ The Safetest Synthetic Hair. ​ Safe for Kids. No Acrylonitrile. No Polyvinyl Chloride.
  • TOXIC & ITCH FREE. ​ Made with Antibacterial Fiber. ​ No Phthalates. No Dioxin. No Hair Dye.
  • ECO - FRIENDLY. ​ Nature & Environment Friendly. ​ Recyclable. Recyclable. Recyclable.

What braids make your hair look thicker? ›

French Plait

French plaits are a quick, easy style to do. "You can literally part your hair down the middle and do a feed in for two cornrows on each side," says Sims. Parting your hair down the center and splitting the difference makes thin hair look thicker, and helps to cover up any patches.

What braids don't damage your hairline? ›

Loose Braid Hairstyles

If you want a hairstyle that will keep your hair out of the way, opt for a loose braid. Start with a regular three-strand braid and secure with an elastic. This hairstyle is perfect for when you don't want hair strands getting in the way of your eyes and face.

What are Dutch braids? ›

Now, a Dutch braid is actually very similar to a French braid hairstyle, with the minor tweak that you are crossing the side sections of hair underneath the middle strand each time as opposed to over it. It creates a more 3-D effect, with the braid displayed on top of the hair style.

Does braid make you look younger? ›

“Braids, such as box braids or a crown braid, are not only protective styles but they also add a youthful, bohemian flair to any look,” says Ross. You can see this effect in action on 51-year-old Thandiwe Newton (below).

Which hair part makes you look younger? ›

The Center Part

"The middle part is one of the most fashionable hair trends," Bergamy tells us. "It gives a more youthful look without looking childish." It tends to work best on faces that are more or less symmetrical, but can also help elongate shorter, wider face shapes.

How do you wear your hair to make you look younger? ›

Medium-Length Cut with Long Layers

Hemple says long layers always give off a youthful appearance. She adds that off-center or side parts that "fall naturally in place can make the eyes seem wider to give you a more youthful appearance."

Which braid is best for hair growth? ›

You can wear this hairstyle for weeks or months with proper maintenance including oiling and washing. (1) It provides protection, allows healthy hair growth, and can be good for your hair if it is braided correctly. Cornrows are a chemical-free hairstyling method that is casual and easy and requires low maintenance.

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