What hairstyle is characterized by very short sides and longer hair on top?

The hairstyle characterized by very short sides and longer hair on top is known as the undercut. This style involves shaving or cutting the hair on the sides of the head much shorter than the hair on the top. The stark contrast between the lengths creates a distinct and fashionable look. The top can be styled in various ways, such as slicked back, left messy, or even styled into a pompadour. This versatility makes the undercut a popular choice among various demographics.

In contrast, a fade typically refers to a gradual transition from short hair to longer hair, blending the lengths smoothly, rather than featuring a clear distinction like an undercut. A buzz cut is characterized by being uniformly short all around the head, leaving no significant length difference between the top and the sides. The pompadour, while it can be styled atop an undercut, generally emphasizes long hair on top that is swept back and does not necessarily require short sides. Thus, the defining feature of the undercut is the pronounced difference in length between the top and the sides.