Hairstyles are more than just fashion—they’re a reflection of identity, culture, and individuality. For women looking to embrace boldness and creativity, one side shaved hairstyles for Black women have become a powerful trend. These styles represent confidence, edge, and versatility, blending natural textures with innovative cuts.
With endless options, shaved hairstyles can be as subtle or as dramatic as you want. From pairing curls with an undercut to combining braids and shaved patterns, the styles are limitless. Whether you’re aiming for a chic everyday look or a daring design for special occasions, side shaved styles allow you to highlight your natural beauty while making a fearless statement.
One Side Shaved Hairstyles for Black Women
Below, we’ll explore 30 shaved hairstyles that celebrate strength, creativity, and individuality.
Curly Afro with Side Shave
The curly afro paired with a side shave is a modern twist on a timeless classic that continues to be celebrated across generations. This style highlights the natural volume and bounce of your curls while introducing a contrasting element that keeps the look current and edgy. By shaving one side of the head, the afro instantly gains a sharper silhouette, drawing attention to your natural texture while giving it a bold frame. Many women love this because it strikes a balance between embracing natural beauty and showcasing an adventurous, fashion-forward spirit. The best part is that the look can be adjusted depending on your comfort level—you can keep the shave minimal and subtle or go for a deeper cut that really makes the contrast pop.
What makes this one of the most versatile trendy shaved hairstyles for Black women is its ability to fit multiple lifestyles and occasions. You can wear it confidently to work, social events, or even more formal occasions, simply by adjusting how you shape and style the curls. Moisturizing creams and leave-in conditioners are key to maintaining curl health and ensuring the afro remains full of life. For added flair, some women incorporate hair color on the longer side, which enhances the contrast and makes the style even more unique. Whether you’re looking for a casual everyday cut or something with major wow factor, the curly afro with side shave remains one of the most empowering and versatile options available.
Braided Mohawk with Shaved Side
The braided mohawk combined with a shaved side is a show-stopping hairstyle that merges cultural heritage with a modern, rebellious twist. The braids, running through the center, create structure and order, while the shaved portion adds a sense of boldness that breaks convention. This hairstyle frames the face beautifully by elongating the overall silhouette, making it a flattering option for many different face shapes. It’s particularly loved because it allows women to hold onto the beauty and meaning of braids while stepping into a more daring, fashion-driven space. Adding accessories such as beads, cuffs, or colorful extensions elevates the look even further, making it as bold or as subtle as you want it to be.
Among the many one side shaved hairstyles for Black women, this one stands out for its cultural richness and striking aesthetic. It gives off a fearless vibe that signals creativity and confidence, whether you’re walking into a professional setting or enjoying a night out. Maintenance is relatively simple—you can refresh the braids and keep the shaved area cleanly trimmed for maximum impact. The mohawk shape can also be adapted, ranging from thick, chunky braids for a dramatic effect to thinner, more intricate plaits for a softer approach. This hairstyle is also long-lasting, which makes it a great option for women who want something protective yet bold. If you’re seeking a look that’s both rooted in tradition and unapologetically modern, the braided mohawk with a shaved side is one of the best choices you can make.
Short Pixie with Undercut
The short pixie cut paired with a side undercut is one of the boldest and most manageable looks for women who prefer short hairstyles. It’s chic, low-maintenance, and instantly stylish, making it perfect for women with busy lifestyles. The shaved portion adds sharpness to the cut, turning a classic pixie into something fashion-forward and edgy. What makes this hairstyle so appealing is its adaptability—you can go super short for a sleek, polished appearance or keep a little more length on top for a textured, playful vibe. Either way, the contrast between the short hair and the shaved detail makes the look stand out.
As one of the most popular short hairstyles with shaved sides, the pixie with undercut is both practical and expressive. It works in professional environments while still letting you show off your individuality. Styling is minimal—you can simply brush and shape the hair, use a little gel or mousse for definition, and you’re ready to go. Adding highlights or bold hair colors can enhance the edgy appeal even more. This is a hairstyle that grows out beautifully too, making it easy to switch between looks. For women who want something fierce yet functional, the short pixie with undercut continues to be a timeless choice.
Natural Curls with Fade Design
If you want to highlight your natural curls while also adding a unique edge, pairing them with a shaved fade design is a perfect option. The curls bring softness and volume, while the shaved side creates balance and sharpness. Fade designs add another layer of artistry, as you can choose anything from simple lines to intricate patterns carved into the shaved portion. This creates a hairstyle that is both expressive and customizable, giving you a chance to show off your personality.
As one of the most creative edgy cuts for Black women, natural curls with a fade design stand out because of how much freedom they offer. No two styles are alike since the shaved designs can be tailored specifically to your taste. This hairstyle works beautifully for everyday wear, but it can also be dressed up for special occasions. The contrast between soft curls and bold geometric designs ensures that your hair is always the center of attention. With the right curl care products, your natural texture stays defined and healthy, making this both a protective and fashionable style.
Long Braids with Shaved Undercut
For women who love length but also want to experiment with bold contrast, long braids with a shaved undercut are an excellent choice. The braids provide a protective element, keeping your natural hair safe and well-maintained, while the shaved portion introduces an unexpected edge. This combination balances femininity and toughness, offering the best of both worlds in one hairstyle. The longer the braids, the more striking the contrast with the shaved section becomes, making this style visually captivating.
Among the many protective edgy styles for Black women, this one is particularly popular because of its versatility. The braids can be styled into buns, ponytails, or left hanging, allowing you to switch up your look whenever you want. The shaved undercut remains visible no matter how you wear your braids, giving the hairstyle a consistently bold flair. Maintenance is also straightforward—refresh your braids as needed and keep the shaved side clean for maximum effect. This style is perfect for women who want to stand out while still keeping their hair protected and manageable.
For a softer, more playful contrast to bold shaved styles, Short Hairstyles with Wispy Bangs offer light and chic options that frame the face beautifully.
Side Swept Bob with Shaved Detail
The side swept bob is already a stylish, sophisticated choice, but when paired with a shaved detail, it transforms into a modern masterpiece. This asymmetrical cut adds movement and elegance, while the shaved side gives it an edgy twist. It’s a hairstyle that balances sleekness and rebellion, making it perfect for women who love blending classic beauty with a contemporary edge. The side sweep also frames the face beautifully, highlighting cheekbones and jawlines.
This style is one of the most elegant one side shaved hairstyles for Black women because it transitions easily from professional settings to nightlife. You can wear it sleek and polished for formal events or tousle it for a more casual, relaxed vibe. Adding a pop of color or highlights on the longer side makes the contrast even more striking. It’s a style that reflects confidence and individuality while still being easy to maintain. For women who want sophistication with a twist, the side swept bob with shaved detail is a perfect match.
Locs with One Side Shaved
Locs carry deep cultural and spiritual significance, and when paired with a side shave, they take on a fresh, modern edge. The beauty of this style lies in the contrast between the thick, textured locs and the sleek, shaved portion of the head. It’s a bold look that allows women to honor tradition while embracing innovation. Depending on the length and thickness of your locs, this hairstyle can range from subtle and understated to dramatic and powerful.
As one of the most empowering natural hair designs for Black women, locs with one side shaved are incredibly versatile. You can style your locs into buns, ponytails, or leave them flowing freely while still showcasing the shaved side. Some women even add designs or fades to the shaved area, further personalizing the look. Beyond style, this is also a practical choice, as the locs protect natural strands while the shaved side keeps the cut lightweight and breathable. It’s the perfect balance of tradition and trend, making it a favorite among women who want to embrace both heritage and individuality.
High Bun with Shaved Side
The high bun paired with a shaved side is a striking style that combines elegance with edginess. The bun adds sophistication and height, while the shaved section introduces a bold and contemporary twist. This combination creates a hairstyle that can easily transition from day to night, offering versatility for women who want something polished yet daring. The high bun also protects the ends of your hair, making it both practical and stylish.
As one of the most versatile protective shaved styles for Black women, this look works beautifully for formal occasions, office settings, and casual outings. You can keep the bun sleek and tight for a professional appearance or go for a messy, textured bun for a more relaxed vibe. Adding hair jewelry or colorful wraps makes the look even more eye-catching. The shaved side ensures that no matter how you style the bun, you’ll always have that element of uniqueness and edge.
Twisted Updo with Undercut
The twisted updo with an undercut is a creative hairstyle that mixes protective twists with a bold shaved design. The twists are styled into an elegant updo that keeps hair off the neck and shoulders, while the shaved undercut adds an unexpected contrast. This creates a hairstyle that is not only protective but also expressive, showing that functionality and fashion can go hand in hand.
Among the many trendy shaved hairstyles for Black women, this one stands out for its balance between sophistication and daring. The updo can be styled for formal events such as weddings or proms, while the undercut brings in an edgy, modern element. You can add designs to the shaved section or incorporate colored extensions into the twists for a more dramatic effect. It’s a hairstyle that works year-round, offering protection for your natural hair while letting you showcase your individuality.
Side Part Waves with Shaved Edge
Side part waves combined with a shaved edge create a hairstyle that is both soft and sharp. The waves add movement and texture, while the shaved portion provides contrast and boldness. This style highlights the beauty of natural or heat-styled waves while ensuring the look stays modern and edgy. The side part frames the face elegantly, making it flattering for a variety of face shapes.
This is one of the most stylish edgy cuts for Black women because of how easily it can be adapted. For a softer appearance, keep the waves loose and natural. For something bolder, define the waves more sharply and add color or highlights. The shaved side can also be customized with designs for added flair. It’s a hairstyle that blends femininity with toughness, showing that you don’t have to choose between being elegant and edgy—you can be both.
Faux Hawk with Shaved Side
The faux hawk with a shaved side is an adventurous style that draws inspiration from punk fashion while being adapted to highlight natural hair textures. The central section is styled upwards to create volume and height, while the shaved portion enhances the mohawk effect. This hairstyle gives the illusion of a full mohawk without committing to shaving both sides, making it a versatile option.
As one of the boldest one side shaved hairstyles for Black women, the faux hawk is perfect for women who want to stand out. It works well for natural curls, braids, or even straightened hair, depending on your preference. The style can be dressed up with accessories or left simple for a more laid-back vibe. Maintenance is relatively easy—just keep the shaved section trimmed and style the top with gel or mousse to hold its shape. This hairstyle screams confidence and individuality, making it a popular choice for those who want to make a statement.
Colored Curls with Shaved Undercut
Adding color to your curls takes the one side shaved look to the next level. Colored curls combined with a shaved undercut create a hairstyle that is bold, vibrant, and full of personality. Whether you choose bright hues like red, purple, or blue, or stick with softer highlights, the contrast between the colored curls and the shaved section makes the style unforgettable.
This is one of the most eye-catching trendy shaved hairstyles because it blends artistry and individuality. The colored curls draw attention to your natural texture, while the shaved undercut adds sharpness. Together, they create a look that’s dynamic and expressive. It’s also a great way to experiment with temporary or semi-permanent colors without committing to a full head of dye. With proper care and hydration, your curls stay healthy and defined, ensuring that your hairstyle looks vibrant and polished at all times.
Cornrows with Shaved Side
Cornrows paired with a shaved side are both traditional and modern, offering a protective style that’s deeply rooted in culture while also pushing fashion boundaries. The cornrows keep your hair neat, manageable, and safe from breakage, while the shaved side introduces a bold twist. This combination makes the style practical for everyday wear while still being unique enough to stand out.
Among the most practical protective hairstyles for Black women, cornrows with a shaved side offer endless customization. You can opt for straight-back cornrows, zig-zag patterns, or even intricate designs. The shaved side provides a canvas for fades or artistic cuts, further personalizing your look. This hairstyle is long-lasting, low-maintenance, and stylish, making it a top choice for women who want to protect their hair while embracing an edgy aesthetic.
Sleek Ponytail with Shaved Detail
A sleek ponytail paired with a shaved detail is the perfect combination of elegance and edge. The ponytail creates a polished, high-fashion look, while the shaved portion ensures the style has a modern, daring vibe. This hairstyle highlights the length and shine of your hair while keeping things neat and manageable.
As one of the most versatile shaved ponytail hairstyles, it works for both formal and casual settings. You can keep the ponytail straight and sleek for a professional look or curl it for a more playful, romantic style. The shaved detail can be as subtle or dramatic as you want, making the hairstyle fully customizable. It’s a practical option for women who want to look put-together while still showcasing their bold personality.
If you want inspiration for adding volume and texture, Hairstyles for Thin Wavy Hair provides ideas that enhance natural waves while keeping the look effortless.
Afro Puff with Side Shave
The afro puff combined with a side shave is a playful and youthful hairstyle that highlights natural curls while adding a sharp, modern twist. The puff sits high and full, drawing attention to the volume of your natural hair, while the shaved side creates contrast and balance. This look is both fun and functional, allowing you to show off your texture while keeping the style fresh.
This is one of the most popular natural hair designs for Black women because of its simplicity and impact. It’s easy to achieve, maintain, and style, making it perfect for busy women who still want to look chic. The puff can be accessorized with headbands, scarves, or clips, while the shaved side ensures the hairstyle always stands out. It’s a look that celebrates natural beauty while embracing boldness, making it a favorite among women of all ages.
Tribal Braids with Shaved Edge
Tribal braids with a shaved edge merge cultural tradition with a modern twist. The braids, often intricate and symbolic, provide a protective and meaningful style, while the shaved edge brings in sharpness and edginess. This combination creates a hairstyle that is deeply expressive and full of cultural pride while still being fashion-forward.
As one of the most statement-making braided shaved hairstyles, tribal braids with a shaved edge are perfect for women who want their hair to tell a story. The braids can be adorned with beads, shells, or cuffs to enhance their cultural significance, while the shaved edge adds a rebellious touch. This style is protective, long-lasting, and customizable, making it an excellent choice for women who want to balance tradition and individuality.
Curly Bob with Shaved Side
The curly bob is a timeless hairstyle that suits many face shapes, but when paired with a shaved side, it takes on a whole new dimension. The curls provide bounce, movement, and softness, while the shaved section adds sharpness and edge. Together, they create a hairstyle that is chic, modern, and versatile.
As one of the most stylish curly shaved hairstyles for Black women, this look works for both everyday wear and special occasions. The bob length makes it manageable, while the shaved side ensures it remains bold and eye-catching. Adding layers or highlights to the curls can enhance the overall shape, making the style even more dynamic. It’s a hairstyle that’s both classic and modern, proving that you can embrace natural beauty while also being adventurous.
Box Braids with Shaved Undercut
Box braids are one of the most popular protective styles, and when paired with a shaved undercut, they instantly gain a bold and modern twist. The braids keep your natural hair safe from damage and breakage while the shaved portion creates contrast, turning a traditional look into something daring. This combination provides the perfect balance between function and fashion, giving you both longevity and uniqueness in one hairstyle.
As one of the most versatile box braids with shaved styles, this look allows endless experimentation. You can wear the braids long and flowing, tie them up in a bun, or pull them into a sleek ponytail—all while showcasing the shaved undercut. For even more personality, consider adding colored extensions, ombré effects, or hair accessories like cuffs and beads. The undercut keeps the style lightweight, while the braids ensure your hair remains protected. It’s a bold yet practical choice for women who love to experiment with protective hairstyles.
Bantu Knots with Side Shave
Bantu knots are a cultural hairstyle that celebrates heritage while also offering a stylish, eye-catching look. Adding a side shave to this style creates a bold contrast that elevates the entire appearance. The Bantu knots themselves are protective and versatile, while the shaved portion gives the hairstyle an edgy, modern appeal. This combination reflects both tradition and individuality.
Among the most unique protective hairstyles with shaved sides, Bantu knots with a side shave stand out because of how dramatic and customizable they are. You can style the knots in neat symmetrical patterns or go for a freestyle look. Adding accessories like gold cuffs or colorful wraps makes the style even more striking. The shaved portion can also include creative fade designs, making the hairstyle a true work of art. For women who want to embrace their roots while also making a bold statement, this style is an unforgettable option.
Side Bangs with Shaved Detail
Side bangs paired with a shaved detail offer a mix of softness and edginess that flatters a wide variety of face shapes. The bangs frame the face beautifully, while the shaved portion adds a sharp, fashion-forward element. This style works especially well for women who want a more subtle take on the shaved trend without committing to a large undercut.
As one of the most stylish bangs with shaved hairstyles, this look can be worn in multiple ways. The bangs can be kept sleek and straight for a polished appearance or styled in waves or curls for added volume and movement. The shaved detail can be kept simple for a minimalistic vibe or enhanced with fade designs for more creativity. This hairstyle strikes the perfect balance between chic and edgy, making it a versatile option for women of all ages.
Mohawk Braids with Shaved Side
Mohawk braids paired with a shaved side are an adventurous hairstyle that radiates confidence and creativity. The braids are styled down the middle of the head to create the mohawk effect, while the shaved side enhances the boldness of the look. This combination allows women to enjoy both the structure of braids and the sharpness of a shaved design.
This is one of the most daring braided shaved hairstyles for Black women, as it combines protective braiding with an edgy haircut. You can experiment with different braid thicknesses, patterns, and even add beads or accessories for a more dramatic flair. The shaved side provides the perfect contrast to the braids, ensuring that the hairstyle always stands out. It’s a high-impact style that works beautifully for festivals, special events, or simply for making a strong personal statement.
Side Shave with Natural Tapered Cut
A natural tapered cut is already a stylish and manageable option, but adding a side shave takes it to the next level. The tapered cut maintains volume and texture on top while gradually shortening toward the sides and back, creating a flattering shape. The shaved side intensifies the look, giving it a sharper, more modern appeal.
As one of the most practical natural tapered shaved hairstyles, this style works for women who prefer shorter hair while still wanting versatility. You can define your curls for a polished appearance, or go for a more carefree look with looser styling. The side shave allows you to play with designs, lines, or patterns, further personalizing the hairstyle. It’s a great option for women who want a balance between low-maintenance styling and a bold fashion statement.
Space Buns with Shaved Undercut
Space buns are playful, youthful, and full of personality. When paired with a shaved undercut, they become even more fun and edgy. This hairstyle balances cuteness with boldness, making it ideal for women who love experimenting with creative styles. The buns can be worn high and tight or loose and messy, depending on the vibe you want to achieve.
This is one of the most exciting playful shaved hairstyles for Black women, as it allows you to express your individuality in multiple ways. The shaved undercut can be customized with patterns, while the buns can be accessorized with wraps, clips, or glitter for a more festival-ready look. Despite its playful appearance, the style is also practical, as the buns keep your hair secured while the shaved undercut keeps things lightweight. It’s a fun yet functional hairstyle perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Goddess Braids with Shaved Side
Goddess braids are bold, thick braids that exude strength and elegance. Adding a shaved side to this look creates a powerful combination of beauty and edge. The goddess braids provide a protective style that lasts for weeks, while the shaved section ensures the look remains modern and eye-catching.
As one of the most empowering protective shaved hairstyles, goddess braids with a shaved side showcase confidence and individuality. You can style the braids in various ways—straight back, curved, or even into updos—while still highlighting the shaved portion. Adding hair jewelry, metallic threads, or bold colors can enhance the overall effect. This style not only protects your natural hair but also makes a strong fashion statement that is both regal and contemporary.
Side Ponytail with Shaved Detail
A side ponytail paired with a shaved detail creates a hairstyle that is both chic and unconventional. The side ponytail adds a playful, asymmetrical element, while the shaved portion ensures the style stays bold. It’s a hairstyle that combines femininity with a rebellious twist, perfect for women who want something fun yet daring.
This is one of the most stylish ponytail hairstyles with shaved sides, as it provides room for creativity. The ponytail can be sleek and straight for a sophisticated appearance or curled and voluminous for a more playful look. The shaved detail can be customized with designs, making the hairstyle even more unique. It’s a versatile option that works for everyday wear, parties, and even professional settings when styled appropriately.
Half-Up Half-Down with Shaved Side
The half-up half-down style is a classic look that’s both elegant and casual, but adding a shaved side completely transforms it. The longer hair offers softness and flow, while the shaved portion introduces sharpness and edge. This creates a balanced style that feels both feminine and daring at the same time.
Among the most versatile shaved hairstyles for Black women, the half-up half-down look is especially appealing because it allows endless styling options. You can keep the half-up section sleek and polished or go for a messy, carefree vibe. Adding curls, waves, or braids to the longer portion creates even more dimension. The shaved side ensures the hairstyle always has an element of uniqueness, no matter how you choose to wear it.
Curly Mohawk with Shaved Detail
The curly mohawk paired with a shaved detail is a fierce hairstyle that celebrates natural curls while adding an edgy twist. The curls provide height and volume, while the shaved section enhances the mohawk effect, making the style bold and unforgettable. This combination is both playful and powerful, reflecting individuality and confidence.
As one of the boldest natural mohawk hairstyles for Black women, this look works beautifully with defined curls or looser, more voluminous textures. The shaved detail can be as simple or as intricate as you’d like, with fade designs adding an extra layer of creativity. The style is eye-catching and expressive, making it perfect for women who want to embrace their natural hair while also standing out from the crowd.
For vibrant and standout styles, Red Bob Hairstyles for Black Women showcases bold cuts and striking colors that pair well with edgy shaved designs.
Twists with One Side Shaved
Twists are one of the most versatile and protective styles for natural hair, but when paired with a side shave, they instantly gain an edgy, fashion-forward appeal. The beauty of this look lies in the contrast—the neat, textured twists on one side and the sleek, shaved detail on the other. This combination makes it easy to showcase both creativity and individuality while still maintaining a style that’s protective for natural hair.
As one of the trendiest one side shaved hairstyles for Black women, twists with a shaved section provide the perfect balance between practicality and boldness. The twists can be worn in various lengths and thicknesses, styled into buns, ponytails, or left loose for a carefree vibe. Adding color or hair jewelry further elevates the look, making it even more expressive. For women who want a protective style that still delivers modern flair, this hairstyle is the ideal choice.
Faux Hawk with Side Shave
The faux hawk is a bold, dramatic style that creates the illusion of a mohawk without fully committing to shaving both sides of the head. By combining a faux hawk with a side shave, you get a look that’s both edgy and versatile. The top section can feature curls, braids, or locs styled upward to mimic the mohawk shape, while the shaved detail enhances the fierce appeal.
This is one of the most daring one side shaved hairstyles for Black women, as it combines creativity with attitude. The faux hawk can be styled sleek for a polished effect or voluminous for a more rebellious vibe. Women often experiment with fade designs, patterns, or even bright hair colors on the shaved portion to make the style truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re headed to a concert, festival, or just want to make a bold personal statement, the faux hawk with side shave guarantees all eyes will be on you.
High Bun with Shaved Side
The high bun is a timeless, elegant hairstyle that works for every occasion, but when paired with a shaved side, it becomes an instant showstopper. The bun highlights the face and elongates the neck, while the shaved detail adds an edgy contrast that makes the style fresh and modern. It’s a combination of grace and boldness that works beautifully for women who want both sophistication and individuality.
As one of the most versatile one side shaved hairstyles for Black women, the high bun with a shaved section adapts to casual, professional, and formal settings. You can keep the bun sleek and polished for a refined look or opt for a messier version for a more laid-back vibe. Hair accessories like pins, wraps, or metallic cuffs can enhance the bun while allowing the shaved side to remain the star of the style. This hairstyle is elegant yet fearless, making it the perfect way to close out our list of unique and empowering looks.
Conclusion
Exploring different one side shaved hairstyles for Black women opens the door to endless creativity and self-expression. From protective braids and twists to bold faux hawks and elegant buns, each style offers its own balance of beauty, edge, and individuality. These hairstyles not only protect natural hair but also celebrate confidence and uniqueness, ensuring that every woman can find a look that resonates with her personality and lifestyle.
The key to rocking these styles lies in maintenance and personalization—whether that means adding color, designs, or accessories to make the look truly your own. With options ranging from playful to powerful, these 30 hairstyles prove that shaving one side of your hair is more than just a trend—it’s a statement of boldness, creativity, and self-love. By embracing one of these iconic styles, you can showcase your individuality while staying at the forefront of fashion.
I’m Budha Styler, a hair enthusiast who loves creating beautiful, confidence-boosting looks that feel true to who you are. I’m passionate about exploring new trends, techniques, and textures, and I enjoy turning that knowledge into simple, inspiring ideas anyone can try. Through my work, I hope to help you express your unique style, feel amazing in your own hair, and discover everyday looks that make you shine.
