18 One Side Shaved Hairstyles for Black Women: Sharp Contrast, Easy Wear
One side shaved hairstyles have a way of making any look feel sharper right away. You get contrast, shape, and that clean profile that shows off your cheekbones, earrings, and neckline. The best part is you can go bold or keep it subtle, depending on how much skin you want showing.
This roundup is for Black women who want something fresh without overthinking it. Some of these styles are protective, some are quick and sleek, and a few are all about texture. You will see ponytails, puffs, mohawks, buns, and braided looks that hold up in real life.
Before you pick one, think about two things: maintenance and comfort. A shaved side looks best with regular touch ups, usually every 1 to 2 weeks. If you want the grow out to feel softer, ask for a taper or fade instead of a super sharp undercut. And if you are tender headed, keep your braids or ponytail base secure but not tight.
Alright, let’s get into the styles.
1. Sleek Feed In Braided Ponytail
This sleek feed in ponytail gives you drama without the extra weight. The side shave keeps it sharp, while the braids lay clean and tight at the scalp. Ask for a smooth taper and a wrapped base so the ponytail looks finished from every angle.
2. Curved Cornrow Ponytail With Side Shave
These curved cornrows pull into a thick braided ponytail and make the side shave look even cleaner. It is a great pick if you like a sporty profile that still feels polished. A little mousse and a satin scarf at night keeps the parts crisp.
3. Casual High Ponytail With Clean Fade
A soft, everyday ponytail with one side shaved is the easiest way to look put together fast. The texture does the talking, and the fade keeps it modern. Keep the ponytail slightly high to lift the face and show off earrings.
4. Curly Mohawk With Tapered Side
This curly mohawk is all about shape. The shaved side lets the curls sit taller and look intentional, not messy. Ask your barber for a low fade that blends, then style the top with curl cream and a diffuser for definition.
5. Curly Ponytail With Side Part Line
This curly ponytail has a clean side shave and a simple part line, so it looks neat even on busy days. It works well for medium density hair that likes to puff up. Refresh with a little water and gel around the hairline.
6. Side Shaved Curly Puff
A curly puff with a side shave feels playful but still grown. The volume sits forward, which flatters cheekbones and frames the eyes. Use a soft brush and gel for the slicked section, then pick the curls to keep them full.
7. Textured Mohawk Ponytail With Shaved Design
This textured mohawk ponytail brings edge without going too loud. The shaved design adds personality, and the longer back keeps it wearable. Ask for a razor line that is thin and clean. Style the top with mousse for lift.
8. Braided Mohawk With Faded Sides
This braided mohawk is a protective style that still gives that one side shaved look. The braids sit like a ridge down the center, with the sides faded tight. It is great if you want low maintenance for a couple weeks plus a bold profile.
9. High Feed In Braids Ponytail
Feed in braids into a high ponytail always look expensive. The side shave makes the ponytail pop and keeps the silhouette snatched. Tell your braider you want small, even stitches at the front. Finish with edge control and a light oil sheen.
10. High Bun With Curly Ponytail
This high bun with a curly ponytail is the best of both worlds. The bun keeps the base sleek, while the curls add softness and movement. The shaved side and line detail make it feel intentional. Wrap at night to protect the edges.
11. Voluminous Top With Side Shave
This style gives you that bold, lifted shape with a clean shaved side to keep everything sharp. The top has airy volume, so it feels edgy but still feminine. Use a light wax or pomade to define the pieces and tame flyaways.
12. Sleek High Ponytail With Double Razor Lines
If you love a clean, snatched finish, this sleek ponytail delivers. The double razor lines add detail without feeling too loud. Ask for a smooth fade under the part so it blends nicely. Wrap the base with hair for a polished look.
13. High Ponytail With Graphic Side Design
This one is all about that side design. The shaved section makes the ponytail look even higher and sleeker. It works best when your top is super smooth, so use gel and a firm brush. Finish with shine spray for a glassy look.
14. Long Straight Ponytail With Clean Side Shave
A long straight ponytail paired with a side shave looks simple, but it hits every time. The contrast is the whole point. Keep the ends blunt for a stronger finish. If you sweat a lot, seal the hairline with holding spray after you tie it up.
15. Low Braided Ponytail With Side Shave
This low braided ponytail feels sleek and grown, especially with a clean shaved side. It is a great option if you want something protective that still looks sharp. Ask for neat, even braids at the top, then a thick braid down the back.
16. Rainbow Braided Top Knot
Color lovers, this one is for you. The rainbow braids stacked into a top knot look playful, but the shaved side keeps it structured. Choose 2 to 3 colors that blend well so it does not look random. A little edge control finishes it off.
17. Sleek Bubble Ponytail With Side Pattern
This bubble ponytail looks clean and expensive, especially with the shaved pattern on the side. The bubbles add volume without teasing, so it photographs really well. Use small elastics wrapped in hair for a smoother finish. Keep it tight at the crown.
18. Textured High Bun With Sleek Top
A sleek top with a textured bun is the perfect balance. The side shave keeps the silhouette sharp, while the bun adds softness. This is great for hot weather or busy weeks. Smooth the top with gel, then fluff the bun for fullness.
FAQs: One Side Shaved Hairstyles for Black Women
How often do I need to touch up the shaved side?
Most fades and undercuts look their best with a clean up every 1 to 2 weeks. If you like a softer grow out, ask for a taper or a lower fade. It keeps the shape longer and does not look harsh as it comes in.
Will a one side shaved style work with natural hair?
Yes. It looks especially good with curls because the contrast makes the texture stand out. If you wear your natural hair up, the shaved side keeps the shape neat. Use gel or a strong hold cream on the slicked section, then refresh your curls with water and leave in.
What should I tell my stylist so I do not shave too much?
Ask them to show you the section before they start and confirm the height above the ear. If you want it subtle, keep the shave low and behind the temple. If you want bold, take it higher and add a razor line or design for extra detail.
Wrap up
If you have been wanting a change that actually shows, a one side shaved style is one of the quickest ways to get there. It adds structure instantly, even when the rest of your hair is simple. You can keep it sleek and polished, go curly and textured, or lean into braids for a protective option.
When you choose your favorite, save a photo and bring it to your stylist or braider. Be clear about where you want the shave to start and how high you want it to go. That small detail changes the whole vibe.
And remember, the best version of any of these styles is the one that fits your routine. If you like low effort mornings, pick a look that still holds its shape on day three. If you love switching it up, go for something with a design that makes even a basic ponytail feel new.
