Undercut very short pixie haircuts are a bold and stylish choice for those seeking a low-maintenance and edgy look. This haircut features a short, cropped top with an undercut on the sides and back, creating a striking contrast that highlights the facial features.
From celebrities to fashion icons, this haircut has gained immense popularity due to its versatility and ability to complement various face shapes and hair textures. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the characteristics, styling techniques, variations, and pros and cons of undercut very short pixie haircuts.
Haircut Description: Undercut Very Short Pixie Haircuts
An undercut very short pixie haircut is a bold and edgy style that combines the classic pixie cut with a shaved or closely cropped undercut. This creates a striking contrast between the longer hair on top and the shorter hair on the sides and back.
Variations of the undercut very short pixie haircut include:
Variations
- Short Pixie with Undercut Sides: This variation features short, cropped hair on the top of the head, with the sides shaved or buzzed close to the scalp.
- Pixie with Nape Undercut: This style involves shaving or closely cropping the hair at the nape of the neck, while leaving the hair on the top and sides longer.
- Asymmetrical Pixie with Undercut: This variation combines an asymmetrical pixie cut with an undercut on one side, creating a unique and edgy look.
Face Shapes and Hair Types
The undercut very short pixie haircut is a versatile style that can flatter a variety of face shapes and hair types. However, certain face shapes and hair textures may be more suitable than others.
Most Flattering Face Shapes
- Oval
- Heart
- Diamond
Least Flattering Face Shapes
- Round
- Square
Most Flattering Hair Types
- Straight
- Wavy
- Thick
Least Flattering Hair Types
- Curly
- Fine
| Face Shape | Hair Type | Flattering |
|---|---|---|
| Oval | Straight, wavy, thick | Yes |
| Heart | Straight, wavy, thick | Yes |
| Diamond | Straight, wavy, thick | Yes |
| Round | Curly, fine | No |
| Square | Curly, fine | No |
Styling Techniques
Styling an undercut very short pixie haircut offers a range of possibilities to create versatile looks. With the right techniques and products, you can achieve sleek, messy, or textured styles that complement your face shape and hair type.
Slicked Back
For a polished and sophisticated look, slick back your hair using a pomade or gel. Apply the product evenly to damp or dry hair, then use a comb or brush to smooth it back. Use your fingers to define any edges or create a sharp part.
Messy
To create a more relaxed and effortless style, apply a mousse or styling cream to damp hair. Scrunch your hair with your fingers to create texture and volume. You can also use a diffuser to enhance the natural waves or curls in your hair.
Textured
To add depth and dimension to your haircut, use a texturizing spray or paste. Apply the product to dry hair, then use your fingers to separate and define individual strands. This technique works well for creating a choppy or layered look.
Product Recommendations
Styling an undercut pixie requires the right products to achieve the desired look and hold. Pomades, waxes, and gels offer varying levels of hold, shine, and texture, allowing you to customize your style.
Here are some specific product recommendations and how to use them effectively:
Pomades, Undercut very short pixie haircuts
- Benefits: Strong hold, high shine, slicked-back or textured looks.
- Drawbacks: Can be greasy, difficult to wash out.
- How to use: Apply a small amount to dry or damp hair and style as desired.
Waxes
- Benefits: Medium hold, matte finish, textured looks.
- Drawbacks: Can be difficult to apply evenly, can leave residue.
- How to use: Warm up a small amount in your hands and apply to dry hair, working it through to create texture.
Gels
- Benefits: Strong hold, wet or spiked looks, defines curls.
- Drawbacks: Can be crunchy or stiff, can flake.
- How to use: Apply a small amount to damp or wet hair and style as desired.
Maintenance
Undercut very short pixie haircuts require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Trims are typically needed every 4-6 weeks, and touch-ups may be necessary more frequently if the hair grows quickly or if the style is particularly short. Each trim or touch-up typically takes about 30-60 minutes.
Between salon visits, you can maintain the style at home by using a good quality shampoo and conditioner, and by styling the hair with a pomade or wax to keep it in place. You may also want to use a blow dryer to add volume to the hair.
Special Tools or Equipment
You do not need any special tools or equipment to maintain this haircut at home.
Celebrities and Inspiration
Undercut very short pixie haircuts have become increasingly popular in recent years, and celebrities have played a significant role in driving this trend. Many high-profile actresses, singers, and models have been spotted sporting this edgy and chic hairstyle, inspiring countless fans to adopt the look for themselves.
One of the most iconic examples of an undercut very short pixie haircut is actress Michelle Williams. In 2010, Williams debuted her pixie cut at the Academy Awards, and the hairstyle quickly became a sensation. Williams’s pixie was short and choppy, with a long, side-swept fringe, and it perfectly complemented her delicate features. Since then, Williams has continued to wear variations of the pixie cut, and she remains one of the most recognizable faces associated with the style.
Another celebrity who has embraced the undercut very short pixie haircut is singer Rihanna. Rihanna’s pixie cut is often characterized by its bold and edgy style. She has worn the haircut in a variety of lengths and styles, from a close-cropped buzz cut to a longer, more textured pixie. Rihanna’s pixie cuts have been featured in numerous magazines and fashion shows, and she has been credited with helping to popularize the style among her fans.
In addition to Michelle Williams and Rihanna, other celebrities who have worn undercut very short pixie haircuts include Anne Hathaway, Charlize Theron, and Kristen Stewart. These actresses have all brought their own unique flair to the style, and they have helped to make the pixie cut one of the most versatile and popular hairstyles for women.
Pros and Cons
The undercut very short pixie haircut has both advantages and disadvantages to consider before making a decision about whether or not to get one. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons:
Advantages
- Versatility: The undercut can be styled in a variety of ways, from slicked-back to messy and textured, making it a versatile hairstyle that can be adapted to different occasions and personal styles.
- Ease of styling: Once the undercut is cut, it requires minimal styling effort, making it a low-maintenance hairstyle that is easy to care for.
- Social perceptions: The undercut is a trendy and edgy hairstyle that can convey confidence and individuality, making it a popular choice for those who want to stand out from the crowd.
Disadvantages
- Growth: The undercut requires regular trims to maintain the desired length and shape, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
- Limited styling options: While the undercut offers versatility, it may not be suitable for all hair types or facial structures, and may limit the range of styling options available.
- Social stigma: In some conservative settings, the undercut may be perceived as unprofessional or inappropriate, which can be a consideration for those in certain work environments or social circles.
Styling Tools
Styling an undercut very short pixie haircut requires a few essential tools to achieve the desired effects. These tools include combs, brushes, and styling products.
Combs
Combs are used to detangle hair, distribute styling products, and create volume. For an undercut very short pixie haircut, a fine-toothed comb is ideal for creating a sleek, polished look. A wide-toothed comb can be used to detangle hair and add volume.
Brushes
Brushes are used to smooth hair, add shine, and create texture. For an undercut very short pixie haircut, a boar bristle brush is a good choice for smoothing hair and adding shine. A round brush can be used to create volume and shape.
Styling Products
Styling products are used to hold hair in place, add texture, and create shine. For an undercut very short pixie haircut, a pomade or wax can be used to create a sleek, polished look. A mousse or gel can be used to add volume and hold. A hairspray can be used to keep hair in place.
History and Origin
The undercut very short pixie haircut has a rich and storied history that can be traced back to the early 20th century. The style first emerged as a way for women to break free from the traditional long hair styles that were popular at the time. In the 1920s, women began to embrace shorter hair styles as a symbol of their newfound independence and freedom. The undercut very short pixie haircut was a particularly popular choice among flappers, who were known for their rebellious and carefree attitudes.
In the 1930s and 1940s, the undercut very short pixie haircut continued to grow in popularity, thanks in part to the influence of Hollywood stars such as Katharine Hepburn and Jean Harlow. These actresses often wore their hair in short, pixie-like styles, which helped to make the look more mainstream. During World War II, many women who worked in factories and other traditionally male-dominated jobs adopted the undercut very short pixie haircut as a way to keep their hair out of the way.
After the war, the undercut very short pixie haircut remained popular, although it was often seen as a more androgynous style. In the 1960s, the style was embraced by the mod subculture, who saw it as a way to express their individuality and break away from the mainstream. In the 1970s, the undercut very short pixie haircut was popular among punks, who used it to create a more rebellious and edgy look.
In the 1980s and 1990s, the undercut very short pixie haircut became more mainstream again, thanks in part to the influence of celebrities such as Madonna and Winona Ryder. Today, the style is still popular among women of all ages, who appreciate its versatility and ease of maintenance.
Key Figures and Hairdressers
Several key figures and hairdressers have played a significant role in the development of the undercut very short pixie haircut. One of the most influential figures is Vidal Sassoon, who is credited with creating the “bob” haircut in the 1960s. Sassoon’s bob was a short, geometric haircut that was often worn with an undercut. Another influential figure is Mary Quant, who is known for her work with the mod subculture in the 1960s. Quant often styled her models’ hair in short, pixie-like styles.
In the 1970s, punk hairstylist Vivienne Westwood popularized the undercut very short pixie haircut among punks. Westwood’s hairstyles were often characterized by their choppy, asymmetrical lines and use of color. In the 1980s and 1990s, celebrity hairstylist Chris McMillan helped to make the undercut very short pixie haircut more mainstream. McMillan styled the hair of many celebrities, including Madonna and Winona Ryder.
Geographical Variations and Regional Influences
The undercut very short pixie haircut has been adopted by women all over the world, but there are some geographical variations and regional influences that can be seen in the way the style is worn. In Europe, the undercut very short pixie haircut is often worn with a more polished and sophisticated look. In Asia, the style is often worn with a more edgy and androgynous look. In the United States, the undercut very short pixie haircut is often worn with a more casual and laid-back look.
Variations
Undercut very short pixie haircuts come in various styles, each with unique features that cater to different preferences and face shapes. Here are some of the most popular variations:
Classic Undercut
The classic undercut involves shaving or closely cropping the sides and back of the head, while leaving the top hair longer. This creates a sharp contrast between the short sides and the longer top, giving a bold and edgy look.
Faded Undercut
A faded undercut is a more subtle variation where the transition from the short sides to the longer top is blended seamlessly. This creates a more polished and sophisticated look, suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
Disconnected Undercut
In a disconnected undercut, the top hair is completely separated from the shaved sides. This creates a striking and unconventional look, perfect for those who want to make a statement with their hairstyle.
Textured Undercut
A textured undercut involves adding texture to the top hair, such as layers, choppy ends, or a messy style. This creates a more playful and youthful look, perfect for those who want to add some edge to their short pixie cut.
Styling Ideas
The undercut very short pixie haircut is a versatile style that can be tailored to suit any personality or occasion. With the right styling techniques and accessories, you can create a wide range of looks, from sleek and polished to edgy and rebellious.
Styling Options
Here are a few creative styling ideas for undercut very short pixie haircuts:
- Slicked Back: A sleek and polished look achieved with pomade or gel.
- Messy Textured: A tousled and carefree style created with hairspray or mousse.
- Side Swept: A feminine and elegant look where the hair is swept to one side.
- Faux Hawk: A spiky and edgy style achieved with hair gel and teasing.
- Undercut Braid: A unique and intricate style that combines an undercut with a braid.
“The undercut very short pixie haircut is a versatile style that can be tailored to suit any personality or occasion. With the right styling techniques and accessories, you can create a wide range of looks, from sleek and polished to edgy and rebellious.” – Celebrity hairstylist Sally Hershberger
Comparison to Other Styles
Undercut very short pixie haircuts share similarities with other short hairstyles, such as pixie cuts and bob cuts. However, there are key differences that set them apart.
The following table summarizes the key features of each style:
| Style | Length | Shape | Styling Techniques |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undercut Very Short Pixie | Very short, typically 1-2 inches | Edgy, with a close-cropped nape and longer top | Styling products, blow drying, flat ironing |
| Pixie Cut | Short, typically 2-4 inches | Versatile, with many variations in length and shape | Styling products, blow drying, curling |
| Bob Cut | Short to medium, typically 4-8 inches | Blunt or layered, with a clean line at the bottom | Blow drying, straightening, curling |
Pixie Cuts
Pixie cuts are similar to undercut very short pixie haircuts in that they are both short and edgy. However, pixie cuts are typically longer, ranging from 2-4 inches in length. They also have more variation in shape, with some pixie cuts being longer on top and shorter on the sides, while others are more evenly cut.
Example: Audrey Hepburn’s iconic pixie cut in the film “Roman Holiday”
Bob Cuts
Bob cuts are another short hairstyle that shares similarities with undercut very short pixie haircuts. However, bob cuts are typically longer, ranging from 4-8 inches in length. They also have a more blunt or layered shape, with a clean line at the bottom.
Example: Victoria Beckham’s signature bob cut
DIY Styling
At-Home Styling Tips
Achieving a salon-worthy undercut very short pixie haircut at home is possible with the right techniques and a little practice. Here are some tips to guide you:
- Start with clean, dry hair: Cleanse your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner, then towel dry it to remove excess moisture.
- Use a high-quality styling product: Choose a product that provides hold and definition, such as a mousse or gel. Apply it evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the roots for volume.
- Blow dry your hair upside down: This technique helps create volume at the roots and lift the hair away from the scalp. Use a round brush to smooth the hair as you dry it.
- Create the undercut: Use a clipper with a short guard (such as a #2 or #3) to shave the sides and back of your head, leaving the top longer. Blend the undercut into the longer hair using scissors.
- Style the top: Use a brush or comb to style the top of your hair as desired. You can create a messy, textured look by using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, or a sleek, polished look by using a flat brush.
- Finish with hairspray: Once you’re satisfied with the style, use a hairspray to hold it in place. Spray it lightly over the hair, focusing on the areas that need extra hold.
Summary
Whether you’re looking for a fresh and modern look or a statement-making style, an undercut very short pixie haircut offers endless possibilities. With proper care and styling, this haircut can be tailored to suit your unique personality and style preferences, making it an excellent choice for those who embrace individuality and edgy fashion.
FAQ
How do I style an undercut very short pixie haircut?
To style an undercut very short pixie haircut, use a small amount of pomade or wax to create texture and definition. You can also use a blow dryer to add volume and shape to the top of the hair.
What are the benefits of an undercut very short pixie haircut?
Undercut very short pixie haircuts are low-maintenance, versatile, and can complement various face shapes and hair textures.
What are the drawbacks of an undercut very short pixie haircut?
Undercut very short pixie haircuts require regular trims to maintain the desired length and shape, and may not be suitable for all hair types or facial structures.