32 Best Braided Hairstyles With Shaved Sides And Faux Undercuts
Make all heads turn around with these ultra-stylish shaved side hairdos.
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.
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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!
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
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!
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.
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 easy braided hairstyle 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.
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.
Quick Tip13. 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.
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 side braid hairstyle with a fancy ear cuff, and you are ready to slay!
Quick Tip23. 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.
These braided hairstyles with shaved sides can be both stylish and empowering. Here are some styling tips to keep your braids looking fresh and pretty.
Styling Tips For Braids With Shaved Sides
Braids with shaved sides offer a super edgy look. It allows for plenty of styling creativity. Here are some styling tips to help you rock this hairstyle:
1. Play With Braiding Styles
Experiment with different types of braids to add variety to the look. Since the sides are shaved, you can focus the braiding on the crown or down the center. Multiple small braids can also help to create an intricate look.
2. Accessorize
Accessories like beads, cuffs, or colorful threads can add some flair to your braided look. If you’re feeling creative, you can also incorporate fun shapes into the shaved sides.
3. Try Ponytails And Buns
Styling your braids into a high ponytail or a top knot can help emphasize the contrast between the braided top and shaved sides. For a more casual look, go for a loose low bun or half-up bun. It keeps the look fresh and trendy.
4. Go For An Undercut Fade
Opt for an undercut fade on the shaved sides to give your style a polished finish. The gradual fade from shorter hair to longer braids creates a clean appearance and is perfect for balancing the boldness of the braids.
5. Add Color
You can incorporate bold or pastel colors into your braids and can take the hairstyle to the next level. Whether you dye your natural hair or use colored extensions, adding vibrant shades brings more attention to the braids.
6. Maintain The Shaved Sides
To keep the style looking fresh, regular upkeep of the shaved sides is essential. Whether you go for a buzz cut or a clean fade, trimming the shaved areas every couple of weeks will maintain the neatness and sharpness of the look.
Following these tips will make sure you get the best of your hairstyle.
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.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Braids with shaved sides give you an edgy look. There are many braided hairstyles for girls 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
How can I maintain my braids with shaved sides?
To maintain braids with shaved sides, keep the shaved areas trimmed regularly. You need to moisturize your scalp and braids, and cleanse your hair to prevent buildup while protecting your style.
What products should I use for styling?
For styling your braids you can use a lightweight styling cream, hair gel or mousse for holding your hair in shape.
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 braid hairstyles are better for natural, type 4 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.
Check out this awesome video on latest side-shaved undercut braid hairstyles! They’re totally dope, and you won’t want to miss them!
Read full bio of Casey Simmons
Casey Simmons is a curly hair expert with over 20 years of experience. She specializes in creating curl enhancing products and aims to encourage people to wear their natural curls more often.Casey Simmons is a curly hair expert with over 20 years of experience. She specializes in creating curl enhancing products and aims to encourage people to wear their natural curls more often.
Read full bio of Anjali Sayee
Read full bio of Subhrojyoti Mukherjee
Read full bio of Anu Pallavi
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