A 2 on the sides haircut is a popular men’s hairstyle in which the hair on the sides of the head is cut with a #2 clipper guard, leaving the hair approximately 6mm or 1/4 inch in length. The hair on top is left longer, creating a contrasting look between top and sides.
This haircut is favored by many because it is easy to maintain, not too long or short, and can be styled in various ways.
Check out this Youtube video if you’re looking for a cool, trendy haircut that’s easy to maintain. The “Number 2 on Sides Only” cut is a popular choice among men and this tutorial shows you how to achieve it.
History of 2 On The Sides Haircut
2 on the sides haircut has a long history, dating back to the 1920s. During this time, short haircuts became popular amongst men, including the undercut, which features shorter hair on the sides and a longer top.
The 2 on the sides haircut took inspiration from this trend, with barbers using the number two clipper guard to achieve a balanced look. In the decades that followed, the 2 on the sides haircut evolved and has remained a staple in men’s grooming, favored for its low maintenance and versatile styling options.
Benefits of 2 On The Sides Haircut
When it comes to men’s haircuts, the 2 on the sides haircut is becoming increasingly popular. Here are some advantages to consider:
1. Easy to Maintain
One of the greatest benefits of the 2 on the sides haircut is its simple maintenance. With the side hair cut short (usually around 6mm or 1/4 inch), it eliminates the need for constant styling and trips to the barber.
This makes it a practical choice for men with busy lifestyles.
2. Slims Down The Face
The 2 on the sides haircut also has aesthetic advantages. By keeping the sides trimmed down significantly shorter than the top, it helps to create a slimming effect on the face.
This look can work well for men with rounder or fuller faces.
3. Grows Out Attractively
Furthermore, as the hair grows out, the 2 on the sides cut has a tendency to look more natural and attractive than other shorter haircuts. This means that it requires less maintenance and can save time in the long run.
Taking these benefits into consideration, it’s easy to understand why the 2 on the sides haircut is a top choice for many men looking for a stylish yet low maintenance hairstyle.
Types of 2 On The Sides Haircuts
A 2 on the sides haircut is a popular and versatile cut among men which involves cutting the side hair with a number 2 clipper guard while leaving the top hair longer. Here are some common variations:
Disconnected Undercut with 2 On The Sides
This is a bold and trendy cut that features a sharp contrast between the long hair on top and the faded or buzzed undercut on the sides along with a disconnected look. This type of haircut is ideal for those who want a daring and stylish look.
Side-Parted Fade with 2 On The Sides
This style has a timeless and classic look that is achieved by cutting the side hair down to a 2 and slowly tapering it down to the skin, then leaving the top hair longer to create a side part. This haircut is great for men who want a sophisticated and stylish look.
Short Textured Crop with 2 On The Sides
The short textured crop is a modern version of a classic haircut that features shorter hair all around with slight texture on top. The clipper with number 2 on the sides and scissors on the top combine to create a look that’s easy to maintain but still trendy.
How to Get a 2 On The Sides Haircut
Getting a 2 on the sides haircut is a popular option for men who want a stylish, low-maintenance look. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect haircut:
Step 1: Choose a Style
Take some time to research different 2 on the sides haircut styles and choose the one that best suits your face shape and personal preferences. Some popular styles include the Buzz Cut, Low Fade, Undercut, and Man Bun.
Step 2: Find a Skilled Barber
Look for a skilled barber who understands your desired style and can execute it properly. Make sure to communicate clearly about the length and style of the cut you want.
Step 3: Prepare for the Cut
Before heading to the barber, make sure to wash your hair and dry it completely. This will help the barber to get a better sense of your hair texture and style.
Step 4: Get the Cut
When getting a 2 on the sides haircut, the barber will use a number 2 clipper guard on the sides of your head and fade the length to the top. The length on top is usually longer, but make sure to communicate exactly how much you want taken off.
Step 5: Maintain the Style
Since the 2 on the sides haircut is a low-maintenance style, it’s easy to keep up with at home. Simply trim the sides every few weeks to keep the length consistent and use a little bit of product to style the top as desired.
Styling a 2 On The Sides Haircut
A 2 on the sides haircut is a popular style that features trimmed back and side hair, usually cut with a number 2 clipper guard, while the top hair is left longer. This haircut is neither too long nor too short, making it easy to maintain and perfect for those who want a fresh look without drastic changes.
DIY Trims
One of the benefits of the 2 on the sides haircut is that it is pretty easy to DIY. If you have a pair of clippers, you can easily give yourself a fresh trim.
With this cut, you can experiment with different lengths on the top and sides to find the perfect balance.
Slims Down The Face
The 2 on the sides haircut has aesthetic benefits as well. Trimming the sides down significantly shorter than the top slims down the face and creates a sharp, clean look.
This is why it is commonly paired with a fade on the back and edges.
Grows Out Attractively
If you’re worried about maintaining your haircut, the good news is that the 2 on the sides haircut grows out attractively. The longer top hair adds volume and creates a variety of styling options.
You can slick it back for a professional look, or add some texture with a matte finish product for a more casual feel.
Variations
There are different variations that you can achieve with a 2 on the sides haircut, such as:
| Buzz Cut | A simple and low maintenance cut that features an all-around 2 clipper guard length. |
| Low Fade | This variation combines the 2 on the sides with a gradually tapered fade at the back and edges for a smoother finish. |
| Undercut | This style features a disconnected top and shaved sides. The top hair can be styled differently for a unique and edgy look. |
| Man Bun | The man bun features a 2 on the sides and back with long top hair that can be tied back into a bun for a stylish and trendy look. |
Choose the variation that suits your style and personality to achieve the perfect 2 on the sides haircut.
Common Mistakes When Getting a 2 On The Sides Haircut
A 2 on the sides haircut is a popular style for men that is easy to maintain and looks great. However, there are some common mistakes that people make when getting this haircut.
Here are some things to avoid:
- Not being clear about the length you want. Make sure you communicate clearly with your barber or stylist about how short you want the sides to be.
- Going too short. While it might seem like a good idea to go for a shorter length, going too short can make it difficult to style and maintain your haircut.
- Forgetting to maintain the look. Once you’ve gotten your 2 on the sides haircut, it’s important to maintain it by getting regular trims to keep the length consistent.
- Not considering your face shape. A 2 on the sides haircut can be flattering for many face shapes, but it’s important to consider how it will look on yours.
- Worrying too much about trends. While it’s always fun to try out new styles, it’s important to choose a haircut that works for you and your lifestyle, rather than just following a trend.
- Ignoring your hair type. Different hair types have different needs, so make sure you choose a haircut that works with your hair type, whether it’s thick, thin, curly, or straight.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a touch-up for my 2 on the sides haircut?
What type of hair works best for a 2 on the sides haircut?
Can I still style my hair despite having a 2 on the sides haircut?
Conclusion
A 2 on the sides haircut is a versatile hairstyle that has been around for years, and for good reason. It is easy to maintain, slimming to the face, and grows out attractively.
The haircut has many variations such as a low fade, buzz cut, and an undercut. It also blends well with other styles such as the man bun and the popular KPop trend, the two-block cut.
The hairstyle is also DIY-friendly, making it perfect for those who prefer to cut their hair at home.
In conclusion, a 2 on the sides haircut remains a popular style for men of all ages and personalities. It continues to provide confidence and style to anyone who wears it with its timeless appeal and minimalist look.
