Having a moment: the undercut

The undercut is having a moment again, thanks to celebs like Cara Delevingne and Scarlett Johansson rocking the punky style. Originally popular in the Edwardian era as an alternative to the preceding era's long locks, the style gained popularity for its sporty feel. Worn long on top and cropped at the back and sides, the undercut became popular with street gangs because longer hair put its wearer at a greater disadvantage in fights - and who said it was just girls that pulled hair?! The undercut underwent a revival in the 80s - again in stark contrast to what went before. The sharp, shaved style was the polar opposite of the primped and preened mullets and pompadours associated with glam-metal bands and New Romantic looks. Over the last couple of years, the look has gained popularity with gents thanks to shows like Peaky Blinders and Boardwalk Empire. But what about on women? We spoke to HJ's Eastern Hairdresser of the Year, Angelo Vallilo, for his verdict on the look. "It was only a matter of time before celebrities started cutting their hair off again and it’s not surprising some are going for the undercut," says Angelo. "It’s edgy yet sexy and easy to style. It is a great way to make a statement, but it’s one you can hide if you want to with the longer lengths. I love it and push it a lot in my salon and to my clients. "You must think carefully about how to get the best out of the undercut for the client; it's important she understands how to look after it. Undercuts aren’t always aggressive but you still have to ensure your client feels sexy. "The best way is to ease the client into it by starting with a section taken from below the temple to behind the ear. I promise you the client will be back asking for more." Angelo Vallillo, creative director, Zullo & Holland, Nottingham

Celebs with Undercuts

[hji-gallery-legacy]     [Images: Rex Features]