There is something to be said for a winning haircut, and not only how great it looks, but also how it makes you feel. There are literally dozens of ways to cut hair in varying lengths, however, there are two ways that seem to flatter the majority of hair types. The V-Haircut and the U-Cut are pretty self-explanatory terms based on their names and the shape they create to your hair. The “V” is heavily layered to create a V-shaped point at the ends, while the “U” is largely rounded on the sides to the ends. The great thing about these particular haircuts is that they both flatter long, medium and short hair equally, by creating depth, dimension and movement within your strands.
V-Cut or U-Cut Hairstyle?
Deciding on which cut works best for you and your hair largely depends on the look you are trying to achieve. For instance, if you are looking for a heavily layered style with tons of movement, then the “V” is best, but if you want something decidedly more subtle with more of an equal length, then you should opt for the “U”. If you still need a little help in your decision-making process, take a look at some of the hottest “V” and “U” cuts from around the Web for inspiration. Ready, set, CUT!
1. Long Wavy V-Cut
If your natural hair is very thick, it may be difficult to create the desired shape because of the bulk of your locks. However, the best way to combat extreme thickness is to try V-shaped layers, seen here on this long style.
2. Blonde Wavy Centre-Parted V-Cut
Long, blonde and wavy are always the characteristics that promise a beautiful hairstyle, especially when they are derived from a V-shaped haircut like this one. These long blonde strands are given life and movement thanks to the soft waves, middle part and expert V cutting technique.
3. Short Red U-Cut with Side Bang
Short hair is something that commands attention, especially if the haircut is shaped so professionally that you have to do a double take. That is the case with this edgy yet sexy U-shaped cut that features a deep chestnut hair color with caramel highlights, a sleek side part, subtle layers and a soft bang.
4. Blonde Ombré U-Cut
Combining several elements that make for a head-turning style, this hair affair features an edgy blonde ombré color (from dark blonde to platinum), soft and subtle curls and a flattering U- haircut to add movement and depth to the look.
5. Long, Red V-Cut
Super long hair doesn’t have to be dated or boring, all it takes is a little magic with the scissors to create a cool and flattering shape. This long, red hair is given an update courtesy of the V-shape to keep it from being all one length.
6. Short Black V-Cut with Shaved Sides
If you were ever unsure of what exactly a perfect short V-shape haircut looks like, this is it. This V cut with its short length and jet black hair color is fierce and edgy, perfect for girls who are daring with their hair choices. The finishing touch of the shaved sides brings this style together flawlessly.
7. Sleek Dark Blonde V-Cut
One of the most important things for long hair is to give your locks life with a feel of movement. Incorporating movement is easy once you decide on a cut with layers and the right silhouette, like the V-line version seen here.
8. Layered Red V-Cut with Side Bang
V-cut hair has never looked better than it does in this photo. Here, you have bright red hair color, a deep side part with a swoop bang and long hair that is layered to perfection. The V-shape is so prominent in this cut that you can see the details from both the front and the back.
9. Long, Beach Blonde V-Cut
You might not notice that this blonde hairstyle is a product of the V cutting technique until you get a look at the back view. From the front you see some subtle layers, but the back is where the “V” really shines.
10. Black & Curly V-Cut
Although the curls are the focus, this V-cut hair still benefits from the V cutting technique that gives it depth and dimension. Unlike most V-cuts, this one features most of its layering in the front, while the back retains the most length.
11. Long Sleek Black U-Cut
If you are one of the many women who like to wear their hair as long as possible without much fuss, then this lengthy style with a U silhouette is perfect for you. The sleek, dark strands are given just a hint of depth thanks to the finely chopped layers.
12. Pink Ombré V-Cut with Waves
Your hair is one of the forms of your self expression to let the outside world know a bit about who you are. If you opt for this style, you’re likely to be very daring and bold. Punctuated by bright pink ombré hair color and feminine waves, this V-cut hairstyle is definitely a head-turning statement.
13. Flipped, Bright Red V-Cut
Cute and sassy are a few words that best describe this hot red haircut that gets a boost thanks to its V-cut technique. The back of this style is an impressively layered “V”, while the ends are flipped just a bit to add some spice and break the perfection typical for V-styles.
14. Short Black V-Cut with Nape Undercut
Sometimes V haircuts with layers take on a bit of a different style and shape, as seen in this intricate snipped look. The back of this haircut features four shaved V lines, while the rest of the hair is curled and layered.
15. Curly Brown V-Cut with Ombre Highlights
When wearing your hair curled, it may be a little harder to tell the exact intricacies of your haircut, like the V style seen here. However, the cut allows the curls to flow and fall better, just like this lovely dark brown style with caramel highlights demonstrates.
16. Brown U-Cut with Curls
A V-haircut would look good with this hairstyle, but this medium brown hair is given a shot of personality thanks to the soft curls and U-shaped cutting technique. What keeps this hairstyle from looking juvenile, is the curls that start mid shaft and flow to the ends for a super soft feminine look.
17. Blonde Wavy V-Cut with Highlights
Thanks to the soft curl pattern and cool blonde hair color, this V-cut is a hair dream that has come true. Even if you want to wear this hairstyle straight, it will still look amazing because of the cute V-cut silhouette.
18. Brown Wavy V-Cut with a Delicate Dip Dye
Yes, a V-layered haircut can look just as fabulous on curled hair as it does on straight hair and this photo is a good proof. Highlighted by a subtle ombré effect, the V formation in this hairstyle can easily be seen from the back despite the mountain of curls that populate it.
19. Auburn, Wavy V-Cut
Looking for a new and incredibly sexy way to wear curls? Well, this style is the answer you’ve been looking for. The V-shape with the vibrant auburn color is accentuated by some chunky, smooth curls that are left slightly undone at the ends.
20. Flaxen Blonde U-Cut
Sure a V-line haircut is nice, but a U-cut is just as interesting and flattering, as evidenced by this funky style. The hair is cut into a precise U formation with well-distributed layers on top.
21. Long Messy V-Cut Style
A V-shaped cut is useful for women with long thick hair because it allows you to maintain the length without the feel and look of overpowering heaviness. An ombre with light caramel highlights also provides a weightless and airy feeling to dark, dense strands.
22. V-Cut Style Upgraded with Ombre
A V-haircut does not always have to come to a dramatic point at the ends; it can also be soft and subtle as shown here. You can play this game further and blur the contours of the cut with a cute ombre featuring all the sweetest tones – chocolate, caramel and honey.
23. V-Cut and Bouncy Curled Hairstyle
Texture is important in any hairstyle, and the key is to make sure that it complements your haircut. Bold bouncy curls may seem overdone, too heavy and shapeless without layers and the proper contouring that comes from a quality V-haircut.
24. Shaved and Undercut V-Cut
If you are a woman who shuns convention, this non-traditional V –shaped haircut is for you. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a long layered cut; you can take the concept literally by actually etching the letter into your undercut.
Instagram/ @johnny_spanakos
25. Blue-Black V-Cut
This type of haircut and ombre is a famous couple, but you can always make your look less predictable with a new hair color idea. Dark blue highlights in high-shine black layers seem mysterious and absolutely unhackneyed.
26. Casual Glam V-Cut
Loose waves are the most universally appealing style because they work well with any hair color and almost any length. This medium-length v-cut hair style is perfect for women who need to look pulled together every day… and it can easily take you to any event if you have a super packed schedule.
27. In-Between V-Cut and U-Cut
Long and soft loose curls are a no-brainer. Plus, with the length that falls far below the shoulders, this haircut is long enough to pull your locks into a comfortable ponytail or any sophisticated updo you see in a new hair trend report.
28. Chocolate Brown V-Cut
Sometimes the best hair colors are inspired by decadent desserts. This chocolate v-shape hair style is delicious and sensual, being a perfect fit for a brunette who loves to embrace her inner vixen.
29. Romantic Wavy V-Cut Style
Great styles are the ones that don’t require much effort, whether you are focusing on fashion or beauty. Although it seems like laziness, natural bedhead waves are actually stylish and effortless, being a great daily look for women who don’t work in a conservative environment.
30. Double Layer V-Cut
If you have thick hair, have some fun with a double-layered V-haircut that provides a terrific volume. It will look best on women with mid-length straight or slightly wavy thick hair.
31. Full and Flirty V-Cut
If you are blessed with thick luscious locks like these, you don’t need to do much to make them stand out. Regular trims of long layers are all you need to maintain the structure and shape of your hairstyle, which will inevitably lead to the overall stunning appearance.
32. Marvelous Merlot V-Cut
Plum red and burgundy curls are a fiery treat for women who demand attention and know how to get it. A v-cut hair style allows you to rock heavy curls which still look compact and well-organized. While the color is deep, it is also vibrant, so if you have a conservative work environment this may not be the color for you.
33. V-Cut with Bumped Ends
When you want to give straight hair some body without heavy curls, bumping the ends provides a quick dose of volume. Drawing attention to your ends is especially useful with a v-style because it showcases the special design of the cut. Pay attention to the beautiful chocolate to black ombre – it’s a rare thing to see.
34. Chic Curls V-Cut
Sometimes simple is best when it comes to your v-shaped haircut. There is nothing groundbreaking about this hairstyle, but that doesn’t take away from its flair. Loose soft curls and sun-kissed highlights are timeless, because they are a good option for many different hair types.
35. Champagne Curls and V-Cut
An ash-toned light brown hue is perfect for women with a rosy complexion. When you style your curls mid shaft to ends you achieve a gorgeous modern hairstyle, keeping your hair from looking too big or too dated like an 80’s perm.
36. Glossy Black V-Cut
Jet black hair is alluring for many reasons; it is mysterious, it reflects light and it may hide breakage better than lighter hues. The v-cut hairstyle on this photo combines all three for a perfectly lovely look. If you need a hairdo that will look good in any environment, this is your best bet.
37. Preppy V-Cut
The best part of this pointed v-cut is that no matter how long you take between trims, the style will still retain its shape. To achieve easy beach waves, tie your hair in a high bun and let it air dry and set overnight.
38. Smoky Purple V-Cut
Ombre hair is one of the top color trends of the season. But that doesn’t mean that you have to go with the typical dark to light variations to highlight your v-line style. Have some fun with shades of purple and a hint of gray for a unique, head-turning hairdo.
39. Brown V-Cut Style with Blonde Ends
Blonde ends instantly brighten dark hair and bring life to long, limp locks. The best part is that this style doesn’t require any touch-ups, because the roots remain dark and do not hinder the growing-out phase.
40. Simple and Sweet V-Cut
The key to having healthy straight hair is regular trims—nothing ruins a good haircut like split ends. If you dye your hair, it is even more crucial to pay attention to the ends, because they can break more easily. A layered cut will structurize thin strands and provide body.
The V-haircut and U-haircut have been around for quite awhile, but the key to keeping them modern is to incorporate new ways to wear them. Whichever cutting style you choose, always remember that the actual cut is the key thing and the style is secondary, but important nonetheless. So have fun with your V- and U-shaped formations…just remember to always look fabulous!
