There are tons of hairstyle options available for men these days, with different styles suited for different scenarios. Whether it be short, medium-length, or long hair, there's bound to be a hairstyle that suits you best. And even if you can't find one that you like, it never hurts to get out of your comfort zone and experiment with some yourself.
If you were to look at a random selection of old photographs of men and had to guess what decade they were taken in, two of the most significant indicators would no doubt be their hair- styles and facial hair (or lack thereof). Each decade, men’s grooming evolves to reflect the nature of the times. In this guide, we will list 50 styles and their variations that we believe will be emphasized as we progress through the 2020s.
Short Hairstyles for Men
Short hairstyles can go from simple, lowkey cuts to longer, more striking hairstyles. They're generally also one of the most accessible types of haircuts to work with, but you'll need to frequent your local barbershop if you're looking to keep up with the look.
Short Quiff Haircut for Men
Let's start off with one of the most popular short hairstyles today. The quiff is a massively popular haircut among teens and young adults. It is a safe pick if you want to go for a cool-looking hairdo that's great for almost any situation.
Textured Quiff Mohawk Haircut
The term "quiff" refers to a hairstyle that contains aspects of various older hairstyles. It may combine the pompadour and flattop of the 1950s or the popular mohawk in some cases. Basically, it takes the best parts of these hairstyles and transforms them into one neat and stylish package.
With quiff hairstyles, keeping good form is vital. That's why you'll need durable hair styling products to be able to hold the hair in place for extended periods, especially if you're the active type. Overall, it's one of the more demanding short cuts, but a beauty nonetheless.
Short Curly Quiff
As an alternative to the regular quiff, the short curly quiff offers a more natural version of the quiff cut. That's because the curly quiff relies on the natural curliness and messiness of the person's hair, and doesn't need to rely on hair products to look good, unlike the mohawk.
Short Crop and Low Undercut
While quiffs are great hairstyles for those who want to try short-haired looks, they aren't the shortest hairstyles around. In fact, there are plenty of other, even shorter hairstyles that require little to no effort to look good.
These hairstyles involve an undercut, which refers to a type of buzz haircut done on the sides and back. But not just any undercut. We're covering low undercuts, which aren't as neat-looking as middle or high fades but offer a simpler and more natural look that's easy on the eyes.
Low Fade & Hard Part
If you really want to stand out without even using hair at all, then you should go for a hard part. As the name suggests, a hard part is a type of hairstyle that involves parting the side and top of the hair. It is usually accompanied by a minor shave along the gap to intensify it, hence the term.
One of the best accompanying hairstyles of the hard part is the low fade, which just means that the sides and back of your hair fade more towards the end of your hairline. This gives enough space for the hard part to stand out even more, which really gives it that extra impact. It's a tough-looking haircut, no doubt about it.
Curly Flat Top
While the flat top is usually associated with straight hair, curly flat tops are definitely a thing. Often not as long as a straight flat top, a curly flat top shapes the curls of the hair as flatly as possible. Curly flat tops can present a different look, depending on the type of curly hair. Frizzy, curly hair (the kind that you'd see in afros) can seem more full of volume. Meanwhile, the wavier variants of curly hair look messier (in a good way) than the average flat top.
Short Curly Hair & Low Drop Fade
Here's another curly haircut to add to the list for all those curly-haired readers out there. This particular curly hairstyle focuses on looking as neat as possible. And while that may sound like a challenge for curly hair in general, this hairstyle manages to pull it off quite nicely.
Since curly hair is best left curly, you'll want to complement it with more natural-looking hairstyles. A straight, low fade wouldn't really do the trick, as it doesn't blend well with the curls on the top of your head. That's why a drop fade is used instead - by fading behind the ear, it gives off a smoother, more natural vibe to the cut, which goes really well with curls.
Messy Cropped Top & Low Fade
For those looking for a messier hairstyle that involves low fades, there are few better options than the messy cropped top. Cropped tops are hairstyles that, as the name suggests, crop the top part of the hair while cutting the back and sides, usually in the form of a fade. Cropped tops are typically paired with middle or high fades, but low fades work just as well.
Low fades look best with cropped tops when they're messy. Messy cropped tops aren't best suited with the neatness of high and middle fades, which is why they work so well with low fades. If you'd rather have a neater cropped haircut, you may want to go for the middle and high fades instead.
Mid Fade Haircut
Mid fades are the type of fades that aren't too small to be considered a low fade, nor too big to be called a high fade. They're perfect for those of you who just can't decide which type of fade you want to get. They're more low-key than the high fade but still offer that neat finish that high fades are known for.
Short Textured Quiff Haircut & Mid Fade
We covered a quiff haircut earlier in another section, but they didn't have the combination with a mid-fade. Quiff haircuts are very versatile, as you can look neat and tidy or rugged and macho depending on how you style and comb it.
That's what makes mid fades so good with the quiff - no matter what style you're going for, it'll blend right in. So if your lifestyle is dynamic, with a mix of both formal and informal gatherings that you attend daily, you'll want to go for this look.
Scissor Crop & Mid Fade
Remember the messy cropped top from earlier? Well, here's a similar haircut, but this time with a mid-fade instead of a low undercut. This hairstyle uses a scissor crop on the top of your head, which is a variation of the crop haircut. As the name suggests, the scissor crop involves the use of scissors instead of shavers to get the job done.
Combine the scissor crop with a mid-fade, and you've got yourself a neat-looking and even hairstyle that's similar to a bowl cut. This makes the hairstyle perfect for men who are a little insecure about their forehead size. Don't worry, we got you.
High and Tight Fade
As the highest of the fades, the high fade is a guaranteed standout. The exposure of the scalp makes it hard not to look at it. If fades could talk, the high fade would be the loudest. But that's not all it does - with little to no hair on the sides, the high fade helps focus people's attention on other hairy parts of your face, such as your top or your mustache and beard.
Crew Cut, High Fade & Full Beard
Do you want your beard to stand out? Like really, really, stand out? Then you should definitely get this hairstyle. The crew-cut was always a simple hairstyle, which is great in this case as it doesn't take away the attention from your beard at all.
Add a high fade to the haircut, and you've got yourself a beard that's on full display. What's great about this particular hairstyle is that it makes your head hair the least of your hair care problems. You'll have more time getting your beard looking stunning.
Fauxhawk
Don't like how bold of a statement the mohawk makes, but like the general idea of it? Don't worry, there's a more low-key alternative to the regular mohawk. Known as a fauxhawk, it's a modern take of the mohawk, with less defined features that make it acceptable in just about any scenario.
Fauxhawks are also divided further into sub-categories based on length. You've got your short fauxhawks, your long fauxhawks, and even more stylish variants such as the taper fade faux- hawk. Even fauxhawks with undercuts are a thing. There are lots of options to choose from, so feel free to pick one that suits you best.
Modern Mohawk
The fauxhawk is just one of the many contemporary (or modern) mohawks in style these days. In fact, while there are plenty of types of fauxhawks to choose from, there are just as many (if not more) modern mohawk styles. But we're not referring to the contemporary mohawks as a whole. We're talking about a mohawk that's literally named "the modern mohawk."
This type of mohawk pretty much follows the footsteps of the classic mohawk, but with more modern features. For one, it looks neater, thanks to the way that the mohawk is styled. It's also thicker than most classic mohawks, giving the hair more volume than before.
High Temp Fade & Short Spiked Wavy Hair
Looking to add a little extra edge to your look? Then a spiked haircut may be your best bet. At first glance, short spiky hair may seem just like a quiff haircut or even a fauxhawk. But the main difference lies in how the hair is positioned - spiky hair tends to be styled upwards, hence the term "spiked."
Should you choose to go for this hairstyle, we recommend using either pomade or gel for best results. You'll need something that can hold the spikes up at all times, and both pomade and gel are suited for just that. If you're looking for a little extra gloss, then a gel is excellent, but pomade will do the job for you almost all the time.
Short Comb-Over
Classic Short Comb-over Haircut
Arguably one of the cleanest-looking haircuts on this list, the classic short comb-over haircut reminds you of a kid getting their hair ready for their class pictorial. Of course, this doesn't make the comb-over just for kids - in fact, it looks great on any teen and young adult who wants a clean finish on their look.
One of the great things about the comb-over is that it can also be customized to have a different look and feel every time. For example, you could use either a high or medium fade, depending on your preference. You could also even incorporate a hard part below the comb-over if that's what you'd prefer. You really can't go wrong with a good comb-over.
Short Hairstyles for Men
Haven't found any short hairstyles that you like yet? Fear not, we have a few more options that don't really fall under any category so far but are great enough hairstyles to be featured here.
Short Pompadour
Named after a mistress of a former king of France, the pompadour is now used to refer to a men's hairstyle that's similar to a comb-over, only that this time the hair is combed backwards rather than to the side.
As a side-note, pompadours are just as versatile as comb-overs. They're great when combined with different fade lengths and even side parts. Just be sure to use the right pomade or wax if you're planning on getting this hairstyle, as some may find that their hair returns to its natural shape after a while.
Side Swept Crew Cut
This hairstyle is the perfect example of how even a little adjustment to a popular haircut can achieve an entirely different look. All you need to do for this haircut is to get yourself a crew cut. Then, just comb your hair to the side, and voila - a simple adjustment that delivers surprising results.
Short Textured Haircut & Long Fringe
Relive that emo phase with this stylish hairstyle. While fringes (or bangs, as some call them) are most commonly remembered as a defining trait of emos, they're definitely still fashionable to this day. Fringes also look surprisingly good when paired with a short haircut, such as a fade or undercut down the sides. What you get as a result is a long, healthy fringe that's given a spotlight thanks to the short sides not getting in the way.
French Crop
Crops aren't for everyone, and this particular crop may be for even fewer people. The French Crop is an interesting combination of your typical cropped haircut and a short to long fringe in front. Not everybody can pull this look off without looking a little silly, so be sure you know you're right for the hairstyle before committing to getting one yourself.
Flat Top
If you've played any of the Street Fighter games, you probably recognize this haircut from the character Guile. The flat top is a particular type of hairstyle that gets its name from the flat shape of hair on top. Flat tops can be short, medium, or long, depending on personal preference and how well the hair can be held up with gel or pomade.
Short & Spiked
We're ending this section of short haircuts with a simple one. If you aren't really sure what to get at all, then try going for a short and spiked look. It's not too bold, not too low-key, is relatively low-maintenance, and can even be styled into other hairstyles when grown out thanks to the top not being too much longer than the sides.
Medium Hairstyles for Men
For a lot of men, the medium spectrum of hairstyles provides the most options. It's basically the Goldilocks zone of hairstyles, as it isn't too short nor too long for the average joe. You can quickly tell who'd look great (and not-so-great) in short or long hairstyles, but it's challenging to do the same for medium haircuts, as they work well with most face shapes and types. This makes medium haircuts extremely popular among all kinds of men.
Classic Undercut Haircut
Undercut With Stylish Pomp
Let's start off the medium hairstyles with a familiar face. The pompadour can definitely be classified as a short hairstyle, but pomps can be longer than an inch or two. The result is a hairstyle that's full of volume thanks to both the pomp and the undercut.
Classic Taper
Arch Fringe & Scissor Taper
This haircut is perfect if you want to drop the shaver and go for a hairstyle that's made with a lot of scissor work. Fringes are already usually cut with scissors, and with a scissor taper to boot, you can get yourself a nice haircut that has more of a human touch than most. All that's really holding you back is the skill of your barber, so be sure to find a skilled one before getting this haircut.
Modern Slicked Back Men's Haircut
Slicked Back Medium Style
Don't confuse the slicked-back look with your average pompadour. While the pomp does involve a slicked-back look, it has a particular shape that defines it as a pomp. Slicked back hair, on the other hand, can refer to pretty much any hairstyle that slicks the hair back. This particular hairstyle involves longer hair for a more hipster feel to it.
Classic Combed Back Style
Who doesn't love a good old combed hairstyle? Sure, it may require more work than, say, a crew or buzz cut, but combed hairstyles are usually considered stylish and sophisticated. There are more than a few ways to comb your medium-sized hair, as you'll see below.
Confident Quiffed Brush-Up
The quiff haircut can be rocked with medium hair too, giving off a lot of attitude and suave. To achieve this quiff, all you need is a little gel or pomade and a brush or comb. Apply the hair product, and with a bit of combing here and there, and your hair should look just like the one in the picture. Just be sure to either apply a lot of gel or get a good brand of matte wax or clay, as it's easy for the quiff to fall apart if not kept in place properly.
Side-Shaved Comb Over
If a quiff isn't doing it for you, then you can go for a more straightforward combed haircut with a side-shaved comb-over instead. But you don't need a fade or an undercut to keep some of your hair, though - you can go for wholly shaved sides. As you may have guessed, this makes your comb-over stand out more than it usually would.
So, if it's standing out, you may as well go all the way. By not cutting your top too much, you can comb over a good chunk of hair, which will look really stylish with the shaved sides. Throw in a beard or a mustache, and you've become your local hipster.
Brush-Backed Scissor Crop
Scissor crops are usually short in length, but if you've grown out the crop, or decided to keep it a bit longer intentionally, then this hairstyle is perfect for you. Just brush out the hair on top, and you're all set.
Mid Length Pompadour
Here are a few more pomp ideas for all of you out there who think that a short pomp just isn't long enough.
Modern Pompadour Undercut
The modern pompadour is pretty much the definition of manliness. There's a lot of hair to appre- ciate, and it's a hairstyle that will make you stand out. While pomp is the main attraction in this one, it’s a style that can look great whether you are clean-shaven, or want to rock some facial hair. It’s versatile enough that you can confidently wear it even with a full beard.
Remember that the undercut is still as relevant as ever, and it can be combined with the pompa- dour for some striking results. Many choose to take a classic undercut approach to the sides while keeping the pompadour the star of the show. A clean undercut is one of the hottest looks right now. With short sides and smooth, slicked-back pomp, nobody can stop you!
Messy Textured Pompadour & Low Fade
There is one exception to having low fades with pompadours. Since low fades are for more natural and messy-looking hairstyles, you'll want your pomp to look messy or wavy if you want a low fade cut. That way, you won't have a mismatch of styles. This hairstyle achieves a more natural and rugged feel to the usual pomp.
Classic Pompadour
Finally, let's end the pomp section with the hairstyle that started it all - the classic pompadour. The key difference between the traditional pomp and the more modern pomps is the cut on the sides. Modern pomps are usually paired with short sides, such as fades, undercuts, or shaved sides. On the other hand, the classic pomp simply has the sides of the hair a bit longer and slicked back.
Medium Length Haircut & Mid Fade
Here are a couple of other medium length hairstyles that make good use of a nice mid fade.
Temple Fade & Side-Swept Mop
Side-swept mops are like comb-overs, but a lot messier and with a right amount of extra volume. This hairstyle also incorporates the temple fade, which is basically just a taper fade that starts at the temples. Since the fade comes in at the temples, the side-swept mop can line up perfectly with the fade, which adds a nice little touch.
Curly Fringe
Last but certainly not least, we have the curly fringe. It's hard to not appreciate a good curly fringe, as it really sends that playful and carefree vibe. Curly fringes are also a convenient way to hide a little forehead if you wish to do so.
Curly Fringe & Classic Taper Fade
Curly fringes will almost always be in style, as it's something that only certain people can pull off well. If you're one of those lucky people, then you really should try this hairstyle out. Combined with your classic taper fade, you set the stage for your curly bangs to really shine. This is without doubt one of the hottest hairstyles, and it’s starting to trend. Lead the pack by jumping on the movement early!
Men's Hairstyle with Added Mess
Men's Hairstyle for Men with Thick Hair
Feeling a little wild lately? A messy hairstyle can really go well with that personality. If you've got thick hair, though, you may find it difficult to shape your hair the way you want it. Fortunately, some styles can make you look as wild as you want without forcing your hair to stand up in weird shapes. This haircut, for example, is a simple spiked haircut that uses wax to keep in place.
Side Part Hairstyle For Men
Side Part
Side parts, in a way, are more of an accessory to a hairstyle than a hairstyle in itself. For example, you can add one into a quiff, a slicked-back haircut, or even a pomp if you're feeling daring. There are plenty of reasons to throw in a side part, as they make your top more pronounced while giving a cleaner feel.
Medium Haircut for Men
Medium Side Swept Men's Hairstyle
If you're the type of guy who prefers finger combing instead of using an actual comb, then you should get a side-swept haircut. With medium-length hair on top, you'll have enough volume on your hair while keeping it short enough to be supported by gel or pomade.
Natural Waves Medium Length Men's Haircut
Sometimes, it's best to let your hair do all the work for you. In this case, all you need to do is let your hair run freely. This is best suited for wavy hair, as they look great on their own. Of course, you'll want to give your hair a few combs, but try to keep it as natural as possible for full effect.
Bowl Cut
Though this hairstyle was mostly an 80's thing, bowl cuts can still make for a great haircut, provided that you have the face for it. Just be sure to keep the cut at the right length, as keeping it too short may end you up with a weird, overgrown French crop. This is a hairstyle which shows you like to keep things simple without sacrificing your individuality.
Bowl Cut with Side-Swept Bangs
The regular bowl cut not doing it for you? To mix it up, direct the flow to the side by running your fingers through it until you get the desired look. Yes, it does look pretty emo, so do what you will with that knowledge. A simple fix like a side sweep is a great way to make a bowl cut look more modern. This hairstyle manages to be classy without being stuffy. It is also easy to maintain.
Icy Young Cold Young French Crop & Highlights
If you really want to stand out, this hairstyle should do the trick. French crops are already standout material, and with some extra highlights, you'll be looking younger and more colourful than usual. You can even take it one step further and dye your hair before adding highlights.
Natural Hairstyle
Finally, we're ending the medium hairstyles section with straightforward and natural hairstyles that are more relaxed than the haircuts shown so far.
Comma
A popular haircut with male K-Pop artists and Asians, the Comma is a hairstyle that features fringes on both sides of the hair. One fringe is curling towards the centre of the face, hence the term "comma."
Airy Mush
Mush, or Mushrooms, is another term to describe bowl cuts. Airy mushes are just like bowl cuts, but are, well, airier. There's not much to say other than that.
Natural Mush
Natural mushes are an excellent option for people who want to get a bowl cut but don't want to commit to the classic 1980s version of the style. It barely looks like a bowl cut thanks to the messy hair, with only a vague line that dances around the top of the head.
Guile Cut
Popular among trendsetting men in South Korea, the Guile Cut is a mixed hairstyle. The sides are made more prominent with the strategic use of razors and clippers to widen the gap. You can use your own hairline and hair growth pattern form the part in the direction and placement that looks most natural. The result is a style that gives an optimistic yet assertive vibe.
Long Hairstyles for Men
Growing out your hair isn't for everyone, especially if you're living in warm climates. But if you're looking to make a statement with your hair alone, then long hairstyles offer the most striking looks. From fades with extended tops to hairstyles that are all about healthy, long hair, there's plenty of options for you to rock those locks.
Hairstyle for Long Wavy or Curly Hair
Longer Men's Hairstyle for Curly or Wavy Hair
If you've got curly or wavy hair, one of the best ways to show it off is by just letting it all down. It never hurts to keep it simple, and with curly and wavy hair, you don't need any elaborate hairdos to stand out. Just be prepared to maintain the look, as you'll need good hair products and regular combing to maximize the look.
As a complement to your long hair, you can grow out your mustache or beard to match. You could go for a simple, minimal look or a more elaborate look like the anchor beard shown in the picture. If you'd rather just get a clean shave, then that works fine too.
Modern Undercut & Longer Hair
As undercuts are all the rage these days, we get it if you aren't a fan of just growing your hair out. Luckily, you can keep the top of your head nice and long while getting a clean undercut at the same time.
Undercut with Long Tousled Top
Tousled looks are definitely standout material, but they're sure not the easiest to pull off. For one, you'll need long, thick hair, and some high-quality matte hard wax. It also takes a while to get used to styling the hair itself, as you'll want to find the right balance between clean and unkempt hair.
Once you're able to perfect the look, though, it'll definitely pay off, as few hairstyles beat the suaveness of a clean yet chaotic tousled look.
Side Swept Undercut
If tousled haircuts aren't your thing, or you'd rather go for a more low-maintenance look, then side-swept undercuts should do the trick. Instead of having to toss your hair around, all you need to do for a nice side-swept haircut is a comb and a little bit of pomade.
As the name suggests, a side-swept undercut features long hair that's combed to the side, accompanied by a clean undercut on the sides. It's also a great emergency hairstyle should you find your hair grown out longer than you'd like.
Long Spiky Hairstyle & High Skin Fade
Undercuts are cool and all, but if you're the type of guy who prefers more cleanly cut sides, then high skin fades are a great alternative. They get rid of almost all of the hair on your sides, which puts focus on your top hair. This makes high skin fades great when paired with striking hairstyles that range from neat and clean to cool and edgy.
Long Hair Slicked Back & Shaved Sides
One of the most popular hairstyles that make use of high skin fades is the long, slicked-back hairstyle. You've probably already seen a few guys in public with this style, and if you have, you know that it screams manliness. With no hair on the sides to compete with, the slicked-back hair gets all the attention it needs.
As a bonus tip, try getting accessories and other looks that further complement your slicked hair. Having your top hair be the star of the show is great, but with an accompanying beard, for example, it'll look a lot better.
Samurai Haircut (aka. Top Knot or Man Bun)
Loosely based on the traditional hairstyles of the ancient Japanese samurai, the samurai haircut or man bun features long, top hair wrapped up in a nice little bun. Paired together with the high skin fade, and you get a hairstyle that's a bit messier than a slicked-back look, but still gives off that manly vibe to it.
Should you decide to get yourself a samurai haircut, remember to find the right type of hair knot beforehand. Usually, a nicely kept bun is the way to go, so you'll need something small enough to hold it tight. If you'd rather go for a messier look, however, you'll want a hair knot that's big enough for a loose bun, but tight enough to hold the bun in place.
Longer Natural Flow Hairstyle & Short Sides
Low Fade & Long Curls
If a more natural look is what suits you, then going for a long fade with long curls is your best bet. Naturally curly hair is best left untouched, which is why this look makes full use of your curls without making it look too messy with the help of a low fade.
Low fades are ideal in this case because they provide a more low-key and natural look to your hair, which is perfect for those curls. While you can definitely compare this look with the tousled hair look, note that the curls here are natural and more free-forming.
Haircut for Long Hair
Long Hairstyle for Men & Beard
Sometimes, you just don't know what to do with your long hair. Maybe you've grown a bit too attached to it, or you just don't like changing the way you look. Regardless, you don't have to shape or cut your long, grown-out locks to look good. Instead, all you need is time - time to grow yourself a beard.
If there's one long-haired hairstyle that's stood the test of time, it's the long hair & beard combo. It looks good on just about anyone who can manage to grow both. It gives off a manly and mature vibe and is definitely a hairstyle among hairstyles.
Long Curly Hair Fade
This confident and contemporary long hair curly fade is a powerful way to embrace your natural curls while keeping things simple and easy. By keeping some length on top, you get to show off your curls, and the undercut fade on the sides emphasizes the look. Be sure to choose a good styling cream.
Conclusion
The right hairstyle can make you look more attractive and fuller of personality. Anybody with a proper haircut, coupled with the right clothes and accessories, can expect to become a head-turner. You don't even have to go overboard with your style - even simple, low-key haircuts are enough, so long as they look good on you.
While having the right cut is the foundation of a proper hairstyle, equally important is using the right products to achieve the full expression of the style and hold it. Each hairstyle has particular needs, and everybody's hair is unique in its properties.
Over many decades, we have developed a range of products specifically designed for men's hairstyling needs. Whether you need pomade, wax, clay, gel or hair spray, we have you covered.