Are Undercuts Still Popular in 2025?

In 2025, hair trends are leaning into subtle structure, low-maintenance blends, and modern silhouettes. That’s left a lot of men wondering: is the undercut still cool, or has it finally run its course?

The undercut has always been a cut rooted in contrast—a statement hairstyle that intentionally exaggerates the difference between the long top and the shaved or tightly cropped sides. And while it can still look sharp on the right person, the vibe in 2025 is undeniably shifting. Let’s break down where the undercut came from, how it got so popular (again), and why it might be time to retire it for something a little more current.

The Origins of the Undercut

The undercut may seem modern, but it’s got roots deep in 20th-century history. The style first gained popularity from the 1910s through the 1940s, largely out of necessity. Associated early on with poverty and class divides, it was a haircut commonly worn by working-class men and military recruits. Street gangs in Manchester and Birmingham, including the Peaky Blinders, favored it for its practicality in fights—long hair could get in the way. At the same time, military barbers in World War I used it for hygiene and speed, reinforcing the look as a masculine standard.

Despite its practical roots, the cut became fashionable during the Jazz Age, often slicked back with paraffin wax. Variants like the short back and sides or brush cut became normal for soldiers, and the style carried well into the mid-century.

Eventually, the cultural tide turned. By the 1960s, longer, shaggier styles became the norm thanks to the mod subculture and bands like The Beatles. The undercut faded into the background.

The 2010s Revival

The undercut came roaring back in the 2010s with a twist: a little more volume on top, usually slicked back, parted, or styled with pomade. It was modernized but unmistakably inspired by the looks of 1930s gangsters and soldiers. Celebrities like Macklemore and David Beckham gave it mass appeal. Pop culture picked it up too—characters from Peaky Blinders, Boardwalk Empire, and even Jared Leto’s Joker solidified the undercut’s new place in trend cycles.

It worked because it hit the sweet spot between edgy and clean. It looked good with a suit or a hoodie, it let you show off tattoos, and it gave a sharp profile that looked great on camera. And while it looked like high-maintenance style, the sides required very little daily work.

But even at its peak, it wasn’t for everyone. The sharp contrast of a disconnected undercut doesn’t flatter every face shape or hair type. And by the late 2010s, it was everywhere.

So, What Happened?

Trends are cyclical. As the undercut became the default choice for guys trying to look trendy, it lost the edge that made it feel special. By 2020, it had become a haircut that symbolized trying too hard—especially when everyone from hipsters to hedge fund bros had the exact same cut.

Meanwhile, new styles were rising. The mini mullet started gaining traction for its rebellious throwback vibe. Burst fades brought dimension and movement. Low and mid fades offered a seamless, more modern profile that was easy to grow out and easy to wear. Most importantly, all of these new styles offered low-maintenance grooming with natural transitions and versatility.

That shift toward natural and effortless has only gotten stronger in 2025.

Choosing Between an Undercut and a Fade: Lifestyle, Image, and Practicality

Choosing the right haircut isn’t just about trendiness—it’s about lifestyle fit, professional context, and how much effort you’re realistically willing to put in day-to-day.

For someone with a demanding corporate job or a fast-paced routine, a fade is typically the smarter option. These cuts require less day-to-day upkeep, grow out evenly, and look presentable longer. The low fade in particular is popular among professionals who want to look polished with minimal effort. It matches well with business attire and presents a clean-cut image that feels appropriate for client meetings, office settings, or networking events.

By contrast, if you work in a creative industry or have a job where self-expression is encouraged—think marketing, design, entertainment, or freelance work—a textured or side-parted undercut might be more aligned with your personal brand. The stark contrast and stylized volume of an undercut can be part of what makes someone stand out. It’s a more assertive look, great for people who don’t mind turning heads and making a visual statement.

Your grooming habits and personality should also factor in. The undercut demands regular trips to the barber every two to three weeks to keep that crisp contrast, especially on the sides. It usually involves more styling effort too, using tools like a blow dryer, a comb, and products like matte pomade or light dressing cream to maintain shape and volume.

Fades, on the other hand, are perfect for men who want something they can forget about between trims. A mid fade or low taper allows for flexibility—it can look styled or casual with minimal intervention. You can leave the house with bedhead and still pull off a presentable look. This makes fades incredibly appealing to people who travel often, work outdoors, hit the gym daily, or simply don’t want to fuss with their hair each morning.

Ultimately, both haircuts allow room for self-expression—but in very different ways. The undercut is loud, deliberate, and draws attention. The fade is clean, subtle, and works with you instead of demanding constant styling.

Whether you’re a buttoned-up consultant, a laid-back remote worker, a style-conscious content creator, or somewhere in between, the best haircut is the one that feels effortless, fits your schedule, and reflects your personality.

Types of Undercuts: Styles That Still Work in 2025

While the undercut may not be the reigning trend in 2025, it still has its place—especially when tailored to match your vibe. Here’s a deeper look at the undercut styles still holding their ground this year:

Classic Undercut: This timeless style features longer hair on top, often slicked back or neatly combed, with the sides and back closely cropped or shaved. It channels a vintage, dapper energy that works well for guys into structured fashion or grooming routines. The classic undercut pairs best with pomades or light dressing creams that offer shine and control.

Disconnected Undercut: The boldest version of the undercut, this style features a dramatic difference between the top and sides—with no taper or fade between them. It makes an instant statement and is popular among men who want to stand out or embrace a more fashion-forward aesthetic. This cut looks sharp on camera but requires frequent upkeep to maintain the clean break.

Textured Undercut: For those who prefer a messier, lived-in look, the textured undercut keeps the sides tight but allows the top to be layered, tousled, or voluminous. This cut works well for wavy or curly hair types and pairs well with matte products and a bit of blow-drying. It’s a little less aggressive than a disconnected undercut but still carries attitude.

Side-Parted Undercut: A great compromise between bold and classic, the side-parted version builds structure into the top using a hard part or natural parting. It offers sharp lines and defined shapes but can still feel clean enough for more formal settings. With the right styling, it walks the line between vintage and modern.

Each variation has its own energy, and while they might not be topping trend charts, they’re still valid choices—especially when they reflect personal style. In 2025, it’s less about chasing the “it” haircut and more about finding a version of a classic that fits your daily life and overall vibe.

Undercut Styling in 2025: Who They Work For and How to Wear Them

Undercuts today are less about the trend and more about how they align with your lifestyle and aesthetic. If you're someone who enjoys structure in your grooming routine and doesn’t mind putting in a little extra effort for a sharp finish, undercuts still deliver big style returns. They’re ideal for men who want a look that photographs well, shows off personal flair, or complements vintage or edgy wardrobes.

Styling-wise, they do require some finesse. The cleanest looks benefit from a blow-dry and a matte or semi-shine product that holds volume without weighing hair down. Tools like round brushes and combs also come into play to help achieve that slicked-back or sharply parted effect.

Professionally, undercuts can still work—especially the side-parted or classic variation—but they demand polish. You can’t phone it in with this haircut. If you're in a formal or client-facing role, this may mean daily styling, routine trims, and making sure the contrast always looks intentional rather than grown-out.

Culturally, undercuts are still embraced by musicians, stylists, barbers, and creatives who use their hair as an extension of their brand. If you're someone who thrives on visual identity and self-expression, the undercut continues to be a viable canvas in 2025.

Types of Fades Trending in 2025

While undercuts still have their place, fade haircuts have surged ahead in 2025 as the go-to style for men across industries and lifestyles. Their versatility and easy upkeep have made them staples in both classic grooming and modern streetwear.

Low Fade: The low fade begins just above the ears and offers the most subtle transition from skin to longer hair. It’s a discreet, polished choice—perfect for corporate professionals, lawyers, and anyone working in conservative or client-facing roles. It keeps the neckline and ears tidy while maintaining a strong shape through the sides.

Mid Fade: The mid fade sits higher, around the temples, and provides more contrast without being too bold. It’s ideal for those who want a clean silhouette that still shows off some edge. Great for men working in creative, tech, or hybrid workplaces where a polished-yet-casual look is preferred.

High Fade: A bold option, the high fade begins well above the temples and dramatically removes length on the sides. It’s often paired with textured tops or comb-overs to emphasize structure and shape. The high fade is popular among fashion-forward individuals, fitness enthusiasts, and those who want a modern and sharp profile.

Skin Fade: The skin fade, also known as a bald fade, blends seamlessly into the skin at its base. It provides a crisp, ultra-clean finish that pairs beautifully with lineups, parts, and textured styles. It’s a favorite among barbers for showcasing their precision, and it remains one of the most high-impact fades available.

Taper Fade: Though technically different from a full fade, the taper fade deserves mention. It features a subtle tapering of the neckline and sideburns, keeping the bulk of the hair intact. This low-maintenance option is ideal for men who want a slight touch of sharpness without going all-in on contrast.

Fades work on nearly all hair types—straight, wavy, curly, or coiled—and are suitable for any age. Their versatility makes them just as fitting for young professionals as they are for seasoned executives.

Why Fades Are Dominating in 2025

The rise of fade haircuts can be attributed to more than just style—they fit into a modern grooming routine. With people juggling demanding schedules, gym visits, hybrid work setups, and social events, a fade offers structure without constant styling demands.

They grow out more gracefully than undercuts, often extending the time between cuts while still looking intentional. For men who want a “set it and forget it” hairstyle that always looks clean, the fade wins. And because of the range—low, mid, high, or skin—there’s a version of a fade for every personality and profession.

Fades also pair well with today’s trending tops: textured crops, mini mullets, broccoli cuts, and even long hair slicked back. Whatever the choice up top, a fade provides the clean foundation that lets the rest of the style shine.

Barbers are increasingly using textured tops with fades to create visual interest without high maintenance. Combine that with a quality matte styling product or pliable cream, and you’ve got a look that transitions seamlessly from morning meetings to evening plans.

In short, fades in 2025 are the new foundation—they’re classic, practical, and easy to customize for any look or lifestyle.

Undercut vs. Fade: What’s More Popular in 2025?

Across style circles, barbershops, and professional settings, fades are clearly the more dominant haircut in 2025—but that doesn’t mean the undercut is obsolete. It all depends on who you are, what your schedule looks like, and how much time you want to spend in front of a mirror.

In corporate and finance sectors, the low fade or mid fade paired with a classic side part or comb-over wins for its tidy, controlled appearance. These styles convey professionalism, discipline, and a sense of attention to detail. They’re the haircuts of choice for startup entrepreneurs, consultants, and executives alike.

Among creative professionals, the undercut still finds its audience—especially when worn with volume or contrast. The disconnected or textured undercut offers a bold silhouette that helps artists, stylists, and influencers stand out. These looks are less about conforming and more about making a visual statement.

Young professionals and fashion-forward men are increasingly opting for fades that emphasize practicality and adaptability. A mid fade with a textured top, for example, looks sleek at work and cool on weekends. The fade’s lower maintenance profile makes it a top pick for men who value grooming but don’t want it to dominate their routine.

That said, the undercut still has niche appeal. It’s the haircut of choice for men who are meticulous about their look, who want to evoke a vintage or edgy style, or who simply prefer the dramatic contrast that only an undercut can offer.

In terms of versatility, maintenance, and mass appeal? Fades are ahead in 2025.

But when it comes to personality and presence, the undercut still packs punch.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re team undercut or team fade, the most important consideration in 2025 is how your haircut fits your life. Choose structure if it boosts your confidence. Choose contrast if it captures your personality. Just don’t choose based on trends alone—choose what makes you feel like you.

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