22 Side Shaved Hairstyles That Turn Heads
Side shaved hairstyles aren’t just a fashion trend—they’re a bold form of self-expression. With roots in punk, high fashion, and street style, this look has evolved into something surprisingly adaptable. Whether you’re aiming for soft rebellion or full-on drama, shaving one side of your head allows you to keep things edgy without losing all your length or versatility. Below are 22 stunning ways to rock a side shave, whether your vibe is fierce, feminine, or somewhere in between.
1. Long Hair with One Side Shaved
This style strikes the perfect balance between soft and bold. Keeping your hair long on one side or on top allows you to maintain a traditionally feminine look, while the shaved side adds contrast and personality. It works especially well with wavy or straight textures and can be tucked behind the ear or braided to reveal the shave. It’s ideal for those who want something daring without sacrificing length.
2. Pixie Cut with Shaved Side
A pixie cut is already known for its daring appeal, but adding a shaved side elevates it to an ultra-modern level. This look emphasizes your bone structure and is low-maintenance to style. For extra flair, keep the top slightly longer and tousled, or slick it down for a sleek, editorial finish. This haircut is perfect for people with fine or straight hair and a confident personality to match.
3. Shaved Side with Curls
Natural curls can bring beautiful volume and shape to a hairstyle. Adding a shaved side introduces an element of contrast, showing off your texture while creating a frame for your face. It’s a great way to emphasize your curl pattern and stand out without losing the essence of your natural hair. Regular moisturizing and curl definition are key to keeping this look fresh and fierce.
4. Undercut Bob
An undercut bob offers a chic and subtle take on the side shaved trend. From the front, it appears as a sleek, angled bob, but when the wind hits just right—or when you tuck your hair behind your ear—it reveals the edgy, shaved detail. This style is ideal for professionals or students who want something modern yet appropriate for most environments. It pairs especially well with straight or lightly waved hair.
5. Faux Hawk with Shaved Side
If you love the look of a mohawk but want something a little more flexible, a faux hawk with a side shave is your go-to. This style gives height and volume at the top, tapering into a clean shave on one side. Use styling products like mousse or pomade to lift and shape the top section. This look works well for parties, gigs, or whenever you want to add attitude to your appearance without going all-in.
6. Braids with Shaved Side
Combining braids with a shaved side creates a striking contrast that celebrates both tradition and edge. Whether you’re into box braids, goddess braids, or cornrows, the shaved part acts as a clean canvas to let your braid pattern shine. It also helps with scalp cooling and reduces styling time for thick hair. This style is not only cool but also protective and practical.
7. Side Shaved with Bangs
This combo might sound unexpected, but it works beautifully. The bangs soften the look and add youthfulness, while the shaved side offers a modern twist. Blunt, wispy, or curtain bangs all pair well depending on your face shape. It’s a great way to keep your hair playful while still introducing an element of surprise.
8. Colored Shaved Side
Dyeing your shaved section a contrasting color turns it into a real focal point. Think deep jewel tones, icy platinum, or pastel shades like lavender or mint. It’s a great option if you’re looking to push creative boundaries and add dimension to your hairstyle. The color can also highlight any tattoo-style designs etched into the shave.
9. Taper Fade Side Shave
A taper fade introduces a clean, barbered look that transitions gradually from long to short hair. It’s a polished and structured version of the side shave, popular in both masculine and androgynous styles. It requires regular trips to the barber for upkeep but pays off with a crisp, professional edge that looks effortlessly sharp.
10. Shaved Side with Top Knot
Keep your hair long enough to tie into a top knot or bun while keeping one side shaved for contrast. This style is practical, especially for hot weather or active lifestyles, and also adds a bold streetwear vibe. It’s a great hybrid of convenience and personality, easily styled for casual or formal settings.
11. Punk Rock Shave
If you want to dive headfirst into rebellion, go all-out with a punk-inspired side shave. Pair it with bold colors, spiked styles, or messy textures. This style channels attitude and confidence. Maintenance is low on the shaved part, but the top requires some styling to keep that raw edge alive.
12. Half-Up, Half-Down with Side Shave
This versatile style lets you wear your hair both ways—literally. Tie the top section up to show off your shave, or let it all fall down when you want a subtler look. It’s a perfect option for those who like to switch up their style from day to night or for different settings like work and events.
13. Side Shaved Afro
For natural hair lovers, a side shaved afro combines bold geometry with voluminous texture. It frames the face beautifully and makes the curl pattern the center of attention. This look is powerful and deeply expressive, often worn with pride and cultural meaning. Use curl-enhancing creams and pick the afro for maximum height and shape.
14. Sleek Ponytail with Shaved Side
A high or low ponytail pulls your hair back to reveal the side shave in full glory. The contrast between the sleek, smooth pony and the shaved part is dramatic and eye-catching. This style is easy to achieve, great for second-day hair, and works for both sporty and elegant occasions.
15. Bob with Zigzag Side Shave
Spice up a classic bob by incorporating a zigzag pattern into the shaved side. It’s a great way to personalize your haircut and show creativity without altering the main structure of the bob. Ask your barber for clean lines or custom artwork that makes the style completely yours.
16. Shag Cut with Side Shave
The shag has layers, texture, and a rockstar vibe, making it a great partner to a side shave. This combo works especially well on wavy or curly hair, adding volume on top while keeping the side structured. It’s low-maintenance yet full of personality—ideal for creatives and free spirits.
17. Shaved Side with Hair Tattoo
Turn your head into a canvas by adding intricate designs into your shaved section. These “hair tattoos” can include tribal patterns, stars, symbols, or even geometric art. It’s a temporary way to make a lasting impression and can be updated every time you visit the barber.
FAQs About Side Shaved Hairstyles
Will a side shave suit all face shapes?
Yes, but the key is to balance it with the right length and styling. Round faces benefit from volume on top, while angular faces can handle tighter fades or bold patterns. Consult a stylist to adapt the cut to your features.
How often should I maintain the shaved part?
To keep it crisp, plan for a touch-up every 1–3 weeks. If you’re adding patterns or tattoos, they may need even more frequent maintenance to stay sharp.
Can I hide the shaved side if I want to?
Absolutely. If you keep enough length on the other side, you can simply part your hair differently or wear it down to conceal the shave.
Will the shaved area grow back evenly?
Yes, the hair will grow back normally, but the regrowth stage may be awkward, especially if you’re aiming to match it with the longer side. Consider a fade or tapered blend as it grows.
Is this style suitable for work or formal settings?
Many workplaces have relaxed their grooming standards, especially in creative fields. Opt for a more subtle variation, like an undercut or hidden shave, if you want to keep it professional but still edgy.
Final Thoughts
Side shaved hairstyles are bold, stylish, and surprisingly adaptable. Whether you’re dipping your toes into edgy fashion or fully embracing your wild side, there’s a version of this look for you. They offer a powerful way to express personality, play with contrasts, and modernize almost any hairstyle. The best part? You can always grow it back or tweak it as your style evolves. Just remember: confidence is the key accessory to pull off any side shaved look.
