18 Locs with Undercut Styles Women Are Loving Right Now
If you’ve been searching for fresh, head-turning locs with undercut looks, you’ve landed in the right spot. I’ve spent years digging into hair trends, talking with loctitians, and testing which cuts actually hold up on real heads with real schedules. Every style on this list earned its spot because it looks good and it’s livable.
So what are the best locs with undercut styles for women? The top picks include shaved-side buns, faux hawks, micro loc undercuts, and colored-tip designs. Each pairs a bold shaved section with loc length for a striking, low-maintenance, versatile result.
Stick with me and I’ll walk you through 18 distinct takes on this trend, plus which face shapes, hair textures, and occasions each one actually fits.
Why Locs with an Undercut Are Having a Moment
Honestly? This combo just works. You get the depth and personality of locs with the edge of a shaved cut. It’s a style that says “I know what I want” without needing much daily effort. Before we dive into the 18 looks, it helps to know your loc type, since that affects which undercut style will look best.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Sisterlocks — Tiny, thin locs installed with a special tool, giving a soft, flowing look.
Microlocs — Slightly thicker than sisterlocks, still fine and flexible enough for updos.
Traditional locs — Medium to thick, the most common size, great for bold styling.
Freeform locs — Grown without much manipulation, giving a natural, organic shape.
Jumbo locs — Thick and few in number, making a strong statement with minimal styling.
Knowing your loc size helps you (and your stylist) pick an undercut that balances well against your length and thickness. Now let’s get into the styles.
1. The Classic Top Knot with Clean Undercut
This one’s a staple for good reason. All your locs get gathered into a neat top knot while the sides and back are shaved close, creating serious contrast. The technique relies on a tapered fade that gradually blends into the bun’s base, so there’s no harsh line. I’d suggest asking your stylist for a low-to-mid taper if you want something office-appropriate, or a high fade for a bolder edge. This style solves the “what do I do with long locs” problem instantly. It works beautifully for round, oval, and heart-shaped faces. Next up, a variation that swaps the tight bun for something looser.
2. Shaved-Side Loc Bun
Similar to the top knot but with a twist: only one or both sides get shaved, leaving the back length untouched. This creates an asymmetrical vibe that feels a little more casual and less structured. Thicker traditional locs work great here because they hold the bun shape without slipping loose. A lightweight loc gel or edge control keeps flyaways tame around the shaved section. This look suits square and oblong faces especially well since the shaved sides soften angular jawlines. It’s a solid pick for work, weekends, or dressing up with hoop earrings. Speaking of edgy, let’s talk faux hawks.
3. Loc Faux Hawk with Tapered Sides
A faux hawk brings drama without permanent commitment. Locs on top get pulled into a raised strip down the center, while both sides are shaved or closely tapered. The trick to a clean faux hawk is sectioning: pull hair up in even rows and pin or twist as you go so the top stays uniform. This style shines on medium-length locs and looks incredible with a slight color pop at the tips. It’s a favorite for concerts, festivals, or anytime you want to feel a little fearless. Micro locs bring a softer version of this same energy, which we’ll cover next.
4. Micro Locs with Full Undercut
Micro locs are thin and lightweight, which makes them perfect for a fuller undercut without feeling heavy. The shaved portion can extend higher on the head since micro locs create less bulk up top, giving a sleeker silhouette. Styling is easy: just brush the top locs back or to one side and use a light shine spray. This combo suits fine or thinning hair types since micro locs don’t strain the scalp as much as thicker locs. It’s a smart choice for professional settings because it reads polished rather than casual. If you want more movement, a half-up style might be your next stop.
5. Half-Up, Half-Down Locs with Undercut
This one gives you the best of both worlds. Half your locs stay down for length and movement, while the top section pulls back, showing off the shaved sides underneath. It’s low-effort but high-impact — I love it because you barely need product, just a hair tie and maybe a small clip. This style works on almost any face shape and any loc length past shoulder height. It’s ideal for everyday wear, running errands, or dressing it up with a few gold cuffs threaded onto the locs. Now, let’s add some color into the mix.
6. Ombre or Color-Tipped Locs with Undercut
Color changes everything. Adding a gradient — think honey blonde, copper, or even a bold burgundy — to the ends of your locs draws the eye downward and adds dimension the shaved sides can’t provide alone. Bleaching locs requires patience and ideally a professional colorist, since over-processing weakens the strands. Keep hair porosity in mind: highly porous locs absorb color fast but fade faster too, so a color-safe conditioner is a must. This look suits anyone wanting a statement piece for special events or just a personality boost. Freeform locs take a more natural approach, which we’ll explore next.
7. Freeform Locs with Tapered Undercut
Freeform locs grow without combing or manipulation, giving them a wild, organic texture. Pairing them with a tapered undercut adds just enough structure to keep the look intentional rather than unkempt. The taper should be subtle here — a low fade works best so it doesn’t compete with the natural texture up top. This style is low-maintenance by nature since freeform locs need minimal styling between washes. It suits thick, coarse hair types especially well and fits casual, everyday settings perfectly. For something with more precision, sisterlocks offer a totally different texture.
8. Sisterlocks with a Side-Swept Undercut
Sisterlocks are thin, soft, and incredibly versatile because of their small size. A side-swept undercut on one side creates a striking asymmetry while the rest of the locs sweep across the opposite side for coverage. Styling is simple: a light hold gel keeps the swept section in place all day. This combo flatters oval and heart-shaped faces since it draws attention diagonally across the face. It works well for formal events too, especially when the swept side is pinned with a decorative clip. Next, let’s crank up the drama with a mohawk.
9. Loc Mohawk with Shaved Sides
This is the boldest option on the list. Both sides get shaved down close, sometimes with a design shaved in, while the center strip of locs stands tall or falls into a braid. It takes commitment, so it’s best for someone ready to lean into an edgy identity. Styling gel or pomade helps hold the center section upright if you want height. This look is a showstopper for photoshoots, concerts, or anytime you want to be remembered. If that feels like too much, a sleek ponytail offers similar shaved-side appeal with way less fuss.
10. Sleek Loc Ponytail with Undercut
A high, smooth ponytail paired with a shaved undercut gives serious sophistication. The key here is gathering the locs tightly at the crown and smoothing any baby hairs with a boar-bristle brush and a bit of edge control. This style works incredibly well for thick or medium locs because the weight helps the ponytail hang nicely. It’s a great pick for job interviews, weddings, or any event where you want to look put-together fast. Now let’s shrink things down with a shorter, pixie-inspired take.
11. Short Pixie-Inspired Locs with Undercut
If you’ve got shorter locs, don’t worry — this style is made for you. Short locs on top get styled loosely or twisted while the sides are shaved close, mimicking a pixie cut’s silhouette. This is one of the most low-maintenance options on this list since there’s less length to manage overall. It flatters oval, heart, and diamond face shapes by keeping volume up top and visual weight minimal elsewhere. It’s a fantastic option for anyone transitioning into locs or growing out a previous short cut. For something more textured, Bantu knots bring a fun alternative.
12. Bantu Knots with Undercut Locs
Bantu knots wrapped from sectioned locs create a beautiful, sculptural top while the shaved sides keep things sharp. Each knot should be twisted tightly at the base and coiled until secure — a bit of loc gel helps knots hold shape overnight too. This style is fantastic for special occasions since it looks intricate but actually takes less time than you’d think. It suits thick, traditional locs best since thinner locs can slip out of the knot shape. Turban-style wraps offer a similarly striking but even quicker alternative.
13. Wrapped or Turban-Style Locs with Undercut
Wrapping your locs in a fabric turban or scarf over a shaved undercut instantly elevates the whole look. This is a favorite for busy mornings since you can hide unwashed locs or a rough hair day without anyone knowing. Choose a silk or satin scarf to protect the loc ends from friction damage. It works for literally any loc length and any face shape, which makes it one of the most forgiving styles here. It’s perfect for errands, travel days, or covering a fresh undercut while it heals. Twisting things up, let’s look at two-strand twist locs next.
14. Two-Strand Twist Locs with Undercut
Two-strand twists give locs a slightly looser, more textured look compared to traditional single-strand locs. Combined with an undercut, the twisted sections on top create visual interest against the smooth shaved sides. A curl-defining cream applied while twisting keeps the pattern crisp longer. This style suits medium to long locs and works for both casual days and slightly dressed-up occasions. It’s especially great for those wanting definition without heavy styling products. Adding beads brings even more personality, so let’s cover that next.
15. Beaded Locs with Undercut Accent
Threading wooden or metal beads onto the ends of your locs adds movement and sound — yes, sound, and it’s oddly satisfying. Paired with an undercut, the beads draw attention downward while the shaved sides keep the top half sleek. Make sure beads are lightweight so they don’t strain the loc’s root over time. This look is fantastic for festivals, vacations, or anytime you want a playful, boho edge. It suits thicker locs best since they can support the bead’s weight without sagging. Asymmetry offers a different kind of visual interest, which we’ll explore now.
16. Asymmetrical Locs with Undercut
Uneven, asymmetrical cuts paired with a one-sided undercut create a modern, artistic vibe. One side might be shaved completely while the other keeps full length, or locs are cut at varying lengths across the head. This requires a skilled stylist to balance the proportions so it looks intentional, not accidental. It’s a striking option for anyone wanting a fashion-forward, editorial look. This style pairs beautifully with bold lip color and minimal jewelry for a clean, artsy finish. For a completely different mood, let’s talk about embracing gray.
17. Silver and Gray Locs with Undercut
Gray hair is having a real moment, and locs are no exception. Whether it’s natural gray or a silver dye job, pairing it with a shaved undercut looks incredibly chic and modern. Purple-toned shampoo helps keep brassiness away from lightened gray locs between salon visits. This style works on any age and flatters nearly every skin tone when the right silver shade is chosen. It’s a bold, confident look for anyone ready to skip the “covering gray” routine altogether. Last but not least, let’s go big with jumbo locs.
18. Jumbo Locs with Full Undercut
Jumbo locs are thick, few, and impossible to ignore. A full undercut underneath gives major contrast since there’s so little hair up top to compete with the shaved design. Because there are fewer locs overall, styling takes way less time — a huge win for anyone tired of long styling sessions. This combo suits round and oval faces especially well, adding length and structure. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a statement style that’s surprisingly easy to maintain day-to-day.
Which Locs with Undercut Style Fits You Best?
With 18 options on the table, picking one can feel overwhelming. These two tables break things down so you can match a style to your face shape, hair type, and how much time you’re willing to spend styling.
Locs with Undercut Styles Compared by Face Shape and Hair Type
| Style | Best Face Shape | Best Hair Type | Length Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top Knot Undercut | Round, Oval | Traditional, Thick | Medium-Long |
| Shaved-Side Bun | Square, Oblong | Traditional | Medium-Long |
| Faux Hawk | Any | Medium locs | Medium |
| Micro Loc Undercut | Oval, Heart | Micro locs | Short-Medium |
| Half-Up Half-Down | Any | Any | Shoulder+ |
| Ombre-Tipped | Any | Any (low-porosity ideal) | Medium-Long |
| Freeform Undercut | Round, Square | Coarse, Thick | Medium-Long |
| Sisterlocks Side-Swept | Oval, Heart | Sisterlocks | Medium-Long |
| Loc Mohawk | Oval, Diamond | Medium-Thick | Medium-Long |
| Sleek Ponytail | Any | Medium-Thick | Medium-Long |
| Pixie-Inspired | Oval, Heart, Diamond | Short locs | Short |
| Bantu Knots | Any | Traditional, Thick | Medium-Long |
| Wrapped/Turban | Any | Any | Any |
| Two-Strand Twist | Any | Medium locs | Medium-Long |
| Beaded Locs | Any | Thick locs | Medium-Long |
| Asymmetrical | Diamond, Oval | Any | Any |
| Silver/Gray Undercut | Any | Any | Any |
| Jumbo Loc Undercut | Round, Oval | Jumbo locs | Short-Long |
Maintenance Level and Styling Time at a Glance
| Style | Maintenance Level | Typical Styling Time |
|---|---|---|
| Top Knot Undercut | Low | 5–10 min |
| Shaved-Side Bun | Low | 5–10 min |
| Faux Hawk | Medium | 15–20 min |
| Micro Loc Undercut | Low | 5 min |
| Half-Up Half-Down | Very Low | 2–5 min |
| Ombre-Tipped | Medium (color upkeep) | 10 min |
| Freeform Undercut | Very Low | 0–5 min |
| Sisterlocks Side-Swept | Low | 10 min |
| Loc Mohawk | High | 20–30 min |
| Sleek Ponytail | Medium | 10–15 min |
| Pixie-Inspired | Very Low | 5 min |
| Bantu Knots | Medium | 20 min |
| Wrapped/Turban | Very Low | 3–5 min |
| Two-Strand Twist | Medium | 15 min |
| Beaded Locs | Low (once installed) | 5 min |
| Asymmetrical | Low | 5–10 min |
| Silver/Gray Undercut | Medium (color upkeep) | 10 min |
| Jumbo Loc Undercut | Very Low | 5 min |
Tips for Success
A great cut only looks great if it’s cared for right. Here’s what I always tell people trying a new locs with undercut style:
- Keep the shaved sides fresh with touch-ups every 2–3 weeks to maintain sharp contrast.
- Use lightweight oils on the scalp along the undercut to prevent dryness and flaking.
- Protect your locs at night with a satin bonnet or pillowcase to reduce frizz.
- Ask your stylist about taper angle before committing — it changes the whole vibe.
- Moisturize locs regularly with a water-based spray to avoid brittleness, especially near the ends.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even a great style can go wrong with a few missteps. Watch out for these:
Skipping regular shave maintenance — the undercut grows out fast and loses its sharp line within weeks. Book touch-ups on a schedule.
Choosing a style too heavy for your loc size — thin locs can look sparse in a jumbo-style undercut. Match the style to your actual loc thickness.
Over-processing color — bleaching locs repeatedly weakens them at the root. Space out color sessions and use bond-repair treatments.
Ignoring scalp care — an exposed scalp from the undercut needs SPF and moisture too, especially in summer. Don’t skip it just because it’s “just skin.”
Forcing a style your hair isn’t ready for — some looks, like the mohawk or asymmetrical cut, need a certain length first. Be patient and let your locs grow into it.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason locs with undercut looks keep showing up everywhere from Instagram feeds to red carpets — they’re bold, personal, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you want something subtle like a half-up style or something show-stopping like a full mohawk, there’s a version here that fits your hair type, your face shape, and your lifestyle.
Take this list to your next salon visit, pick a style that feels like you, and enjoy rocking one of the freshest locs with undercut looks out there.
