Men’s hairstyles change how your cut looks and feels. With the right styling tips for your hair type, you can shape every day into a better grooming experience.
You don’t need perfect hair to pull off a great style; you just need the right approach.
Men’s hairstyles work best when they match your hair type, face shape, and routine.
This guide focuses on real techniques that help you style short, medium, or long hair without overcomplicating the process.
You’ll find practical tips for managing straight, curly, wavy, or thick textures, along with product advice that makes a difference.
From defining your fringe to building volume or keeping it controlled, every choice affects how your hairstyle turns out.
Men’s hairstyles aren’t one-size-fits-all, and this guide shows you how to make each one work for you.
You might be getting ready for work or a night out, and what you do with your hair should feel simple, sharp, and yours.
Recommended: Men’s Haircuts and Hairstyles Guide
Table of Contents
- What Are Men’s Hairstyles?
- Factors That Affect How You Style Your Hair
- Popular Men’s Hairstyles by Length
- Classic vs Trendy Hairstyles
- Hairstyles by Hair Texture
- Styling Products: What to Use and Why
- Styling Tools You Should Own
- How to Maintain Your Style Daily
- Common Men’s Hairstyling Mistakes to Avoid
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
What Are Men’s Hairstyles?
Men’s hairstyles are the different ways hair is arranged or styled after a haircut. They involve shaping, parting, or adding texture using hands, tools, or products.
While a haircut shapes the structure, a hairstyle is how you wear it day to day. It changes based on your mood, routine, or occasion.
Styling is where personal taste shows; it’s how you take the cut and make it yours.
Hair length, texture, and the products or tools you use all affect the outcome. Short hair can be neat or messy.
Long hair can be tied back or left down. Your haircut sets the base, but your hairstyle brings it to life.
Using pomade, gel, or cream, along with tools like a blow dryer or brush, helps you control the shape and finish.
With the right steps, you can switch up your style without changing the cut itself. Did you miss our post on haircuts? Check out the ultimate guide to men’s haircuts here.
Factors That Affect How You Style Your Hair
The way you style your hair depends on what grows naturally on your head. Your hair type, length, and face shape all play a big part in what works.
Men’s hairstyles are not one-size-fits-all; the best results come when you work with what you’ve got.
Hair Type: What You Start With Shapes Everything
Your hair texture decides how styles will look and hold throughout the day. Straight hair lies flat and takes shape easily, while wavy and curly textures bring movement.
Coily hair needs more moisture and care, but gives you bold structure when styled right.
Know your texture and choose styles that don’t fight against it. Use the right products for your type to make styling smoother and results cleaner.
Hair Length: Short, Medium, or Long Changes the Game
Length affects how many styling choices you have. Short hair is easier to manage and keeps things clean.
Medium hair lets you play with texture, volume, and parting. Long hair opens up more styles like buns, slick backs, or braids, but needs more upkeep.
Your morning routine, time, and personal style should guide what length makes sense for you.
Most men’s hairstyles fall into these three length groups, so know what fits your lifestyle best.
Face Shape: Let Your Features Guide the Style
Your face shape should guide how you style the hair around it. If your face is round, styles with more height and short sides help add balance.
For square faces, softer edges or natural texture can tone down strong lines.
Long faces need width on the sides to avoid stretching the look.
Always shape your hair to complement, not compete with, your facial features.
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Popular Men’s Hairstyles by Length
The way you style your hair depends a lot on how long you keep it. Men’s hairstyles fall into three main groups: short, medium, and long.
Each one works differently.
Short Hairstyles
If you like clean looks without spending too much time in front of the mirror, short men’s hairstyles give you structure and freedom.
You can shape them fast and move on with your day. These styles suit many face shapes and hair textures, making them a go-to for sharp everyday grooming.
Whether you prefer textured, polished, or bold, these short looks help you stay neat without high effort.
Textured Crop: Easy Shape with a Bit of Edge
The textured crop is a trendy hairstyle that involves cutting the hair short on the sides and back, while leaving the top slightly longer.
The textured crop gives your hair shape without the weight. The top is cut into rough layers that boost movement and body, especially for straight or wavy hair.
Use sea salt spray or light cream to style, then blow-dry with your fingers for a casual finish.
It holds well through the day and fits into most routines. This is one of the most wearable men’s hairstyles for short hair.
Buzz Cut with Texture: Sharp, Clean, and Done
A buzz cut becomes more modern when you add texture. Keep the top slightly longer than the sides, then shape it with matte pomade or wax.
You’ll get clean lines without losing style.
This cut works well in hot weather or if you need something low-maintenance.
With just a few seconds of product, it transforms into one of the boldest short men’s hairstyles you can wear. See a dedicated post on buzz cut men’s haircut.
Short Spiky Hair: Youthful and Straightforward
Short, spiky styles give you instant edge. After towel-drying, apply firm-hold gel and push the hair upward with your fingers.
Spikes look best at the crown and front. This cut adds volume and works especially well with straight or thick textures.
It keeps its shape with quick touch-ups and regular trims. A great option if you want a fun and expressive take on men’s hairstyles.
Short Fringe: Frame Your Face Without the Fuss
The short fringe gives your haircut structure while keeping the face open. It works by leaving length in the front while the sides and back stay short.
Style it forward or lift slightly for volume using mousse or cream.
It’s easy to wear and simple to maintain. Best on straight or wavy hair, it adds a modern touch without much daily effort.
Medium-Length Hairstyles for Men
If you like room to style your hair without dealing with long upkeep, medium-length men’s hairstyles give you that balance.
They let you shape your look with the right amount of effort. Whether you want polish or texture, these styles work well across face shapes and hair types.
With the right product and a bit of maintenance, these look to hold their shape and match your pace.
Mohawk Hairstyles
Mohawk variations refer to different styles derived from the classic mohawk haircut.
The traditional Mohawk involves shaving the sides of the head and leaving a strip of longer hair in the middle.
However, variations can include different hair lengths, fades, or designs on the sides.
Mohawk variations offer a bold and attention-grabbing look, allowing for creativity and personal expression.
Side Part: Clean Shape That Works Anywhere
The side part keeps your look sharp without extra effort. Use a comb and a light styling cream to define the part and hold the shape.
This style works best on straight or wavy hair and fits both formal and casual outfits. Keep your part clear with trims every few weeks.
It’s one of the most reliable men’s hairstyles when you want structure without a lot of daily styling.
Pompadour: Volume Up Front with a Strong Finish
The pompadour gives your hair height and a clean shape. Blow-dry the front upward while brushing back, then use firm-hold pomade to keep it there.
You decide how bold or relaxed it looks by changing the volume. It works best on thick or medium-density hair.
A fade or taper cut around the sides sharpens the whole look. This style remains a classic choice in men’s hairstyles for medium hair.
Quiff: Lifted Shape That Feels Relaxed
The quiff gives you a lifted look with movement. Start with mousse or a volume spray on damp hair, then blow-dry upward using your hands or brush.
This adds height without stiffness. A light hairspray can help hold the shape longer.
The quiff is less structured than a pompadour but still looks styled and confident. It’s perfect for medium men’s hairstyles that balance casual and sharp.
Slick Back: Clean Finish That Holds
If you like a smooth look that stays in place, go for the slick back.
Comb your hair straight back with a gel or cream that gives shine.
It works best on thick or straight hair. Keep your scalp clean by washing out the product regularly.
It’s a reliable option for formal settings, office days, or when you want a sharp profile without loose strands.
Slicked-back Undercut
The slicked-back undercut combines the sleekness of a slicked-back hairstyle with the edginess of an undercut.
The sides and back are shaved or cut very short, while the top is left longer and styled back with a styling product for a polished and refined look.
This hairstyle exudes confidence and sophistication, making it a popular choice for both formal and casual settings.
Messy Brush Back: Loose Style with Minimal Effort
The messy brush back gives shape without hard lines. Spray a little sea salt mist or apply light cream, then brush or finger-style the hair back.
It creates a lived-in texture that looks casual but intentional.
Best for wavy or straight hair, this style is great when you want control with little styling time.
Just refresh it with your hands during the day to keep it looking fresh.
Surfer Hair
Surfer hair is a laid-back and beachy style that mimics the natural texture and volume of hair after spending time in the ocean.
It typically involves growing out the hair to medium or long length and allowing it to flow freely.
Surfer hair is characterized by loose waves or curls, a slightly messy appearance, and a carefree vibe.
It’s a low-maintenance option that exudes a cool and effortless charm.
Long Men’s Hairstyles
If you wear your hair long, you already know it gives room for personal style and freedom.
With the right care and a few tools, men’s hairstyles at longer lengths can stay sharp without daily stress.
Man Bun: Tidy Look That Feels Relaxed
The man bun helps you control your length without losing the look. Pulling your hair into a bun keeps it neat while showing off your style.
Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle gently before tying it up.
This prevents breakage and keeps the bun full. Keep your hair hydrated with conditioner and light oils.
A clean man bun pairs well with fades or undercuts for a balanced shape in men’s hairstyles.
Long Waves: Loose Texture with Natural Flow
Long waves give your hair a soft, casual look that feels easygoing. You can boost natural texture with sea salt spray or define waves using a curling wand on low heat.
Use a leave-in conditioner or styling cream to keep the hair hydrated and flexible. Avoid dry ends by moisturizing regularly.
This style works best when your hair has bounce, body, and movement, qualities that make long men’s hairstyles stand out.
Undercut Ponytail
The undercut ponytail combines the edginess of an undercut with the practicality of a ponytail.
The sides and back of the head are shaved or cut very short, while the top is left long and tied into a ponytail.
This haircut offers a bold and modern look, with the contrast between the shaved sides and the flowing ponytail creating a unique style.
Half-Up: Sharp Shape with Low Effort
The half-up style keeps the top section tied back while leaving the rest down.
It’s clean without looking too styled. Start with detangled hair to keep the top smooth and even. A light mousse adds volume and helps keep it in place.
This works well for formal looks, casual days, or when you want to switch things up without pulling your whole head of hair back.
Dreadlocks
Dreadlocks are a bold and cultural men’s hairstyle created by matting or twisting sections of hair into rope-like strands.
This style requires patience and regular maintenance to keep the locks clean, shaped, and healthy.
Dreadlocks work best on curly or coily hair, but can be achieved on straight hair with effort.
You can wear them long, short, tied back, or combined with a fade for contrast.
Regular washing, palm rolling, and moisturizing keep the hair looking neat and prevent buildup.
Dreadlocks allow for self-expression and carry strong cultural meaning, making them more than just a hairstyle for many men. More on dreadlocks here.
Layered Shoulder-Length Hair: Movement Without the Bulk
Layered long hair gives you motion and shape without weighing everything down.
Ask your barber for long layers to avoid that flat or boxy look.
Trim the ends every few months to avoid split ends and dull edges. Keep the layers fresh by using conditioner and a smoothing product.
This haircut works well for men with thick or textured hair who want easy, flexible men’s hairstyles that last.
Classic vs Trendy Hairstyles
When choosing between men’s hairstyles, it helps to know what works long term and what fits the moment.
Classic styles give you timeless structure. Trendy ones let you break the rules.
Side Part: Clean Cut That Never Fails
The side part gives you structure and polish with barely any effort. It’s a go-to if you want a sharp look for the office or formal events.
Comb it into place with a light styling cream. This style works best on straight or wavy hair.
It stays sharp through the day and pairs well with suits or smart casual outfits. A regular trim keeps the part clean and defined.
Pompadour: Volume with a Touch of Class
The pompadour stands tall, literally and stylistically. Blow-dry the front upward, then set it in place with pomade or cream.
It suits medium to thick hair best. The pompadour works for events where you need to dress well but still want a bit of flair.
It blends sharp edges with volume and gives your hairstyle presence without being loud. Among classic men’s hairstyles, this one remains a favorite.
Faux Hawk Hairstyle for Men: A Bold Look with Flex
The faux hawk lets you play with the edge without committing to a full mohawk.
The sides stay tight while the center holds the lift. Use matte wax or gel to style it upward.
It suits guys who want energy in their look without breaking dress codes.
Perfect for weekend hangouts, night outs, or just adding personality to your daily fit.
It stands out among trendy men’s hairstyles that still work day to day.
Messy Fringe: Loose Style with Minimal Fuss
The messy fringe is low-effort but makes a statement. The longer front adds movement and shape while the back and sides stay neat.
Use a small amount of mousse or styling cream to shape it forward or slightly up.
Best for wavy or straight hair. This style gives you an undone look without looking lazy. It works well for casual days and lets you show off a laid-back mood.
Hairstyles by Hair Texture
The texture of your hair decides how styles will look and how well they hold. Straight, wavy, curly, or coily hair all come with their approach to men’s hairstyles.
Straight Hair: Sharp Lines and Smooth Finish
Straight hair gives you a smooth base to work with. It’s great for clean, polished styles that stay put.
A side part adds structure with little effort; just use a light pomade to keep it neat.
If you go for an undercut with a comb over, a texturizing cream will help the top hold shape without looking stiff.
Straight hair makes it easy to keep your style clean and tight throughout the day.
Wavy Hair: Natural Movement with Easy Control
Wavy hair brings shape even before you style it. A messy top works well with this texture.
Apply sea salt spray and let your waves fall into place. For something more structured, a loose pompadour lifts your front while keeping the natural bend.
Mousse or curl cream helps you avoid frizz and keep control. These styles use what’s already in your hair to add texture without extra effort.
Curly Hair: Shape and Volume That Stands Out
Curly hair lets you show off volume and pattern. Defined curls are easy to create with curl cream that locks in shape while keeping strands soft.
If you like more control, twist-outs are a solid choice.
Use a rich styling cream and twist in sections, then untwist once dry. This gives length, shape, and structure. Focus on keeping curls moisturized so they stay healthy and shaped all day.
Coily Hair: Strong Texture with Bold Style
Coily hair gives you bold structure but needs moisture to stay healthy. Try twist styles or defined curls using cream-based products that soften while giving hold.
A sponge brush can also help form coils with ease. When styling, work in sections to reduce breakage and frizz.
Coily textures give you powerful volume and definition, especially when trimmed into shape by someone who understands your curl pattern.
Styling Products: What to Use and Why
The products you use can change how your hairstyle looks and feels. The right one depends on your hair type and the style you want to shape and hold.
Pomade: For a Slick Finish with Control
Pomade gives you that smooth, shiny look without stiffness. It works well if you want a side part or a slick back that stays in place.
Start with damp hair, rub a small amount between your palms, then run it evenly through your hair.
Use a comb for control. Pomade is best for straight or slightly wavy hair that needs structure without looking dry or flaky.
Clay: For Texture with a Matte Look
Clay gives you hold and thickness without shine. It’s great when you want volume or a messy, lived-in style.
Use it on dry hair by rubbing a bit into your fingers and working it into the roots and ends.
It grabs best on fine or flat hair, helping it feel fuller and shaped. This product works well if you want to hold without the glossy finish.
Cream: For Soft Control and Easy Styling
Styling cream is the go-to for light hold and natural movement. It adds moisture without weighing hair down.
Apply it to damp hair for smooth control or to dry hair to shape and soften your style.
It works well on curly or thick hair that needs extra hydration and flexibility. Use cream when you want your hair to stay in place but still move naturally.
Styling Tools You Should Own
The right tools make styling your hair faster and easier. A few basics can help you shape your look, manage your hair type, and get better results from your products.
Blow Dryer: Shape and Dry with Control
A blow dryer helps you dry your hair fast and shape it the way you want. It’s especially helpful for adding volume or directing hair in a certain direction.
If your hair is thick or takes a while to dry, this tool saves time and gives you control.
Always use a heat protectant before drying to help prevent damage. Pair it with a brush to smooth, lift, or define as you go.
Round Brush: Build Volume and Smooth the Surface
Round brushes help you style while drying. They add lift at the roots and can bend your hair slightly for shape. Use a smaller brush for tighter curls or a larger one for more body.
When paired with a blow dryer, a round brush works well on medium to long hair and helps manage waves, add polish, or reduce frizz. Use it to guide your style into place as it sets.
Comb: Shape, Part, and Smooth with Ease
Combs are small tools that do big work. A wide-tooth comb helps you detangle wet or curly hair without pulling too much.
A fine-tooth comb is better for clean parts and smooth styles like side parts or slick backs.
Keep both in your kit to handle different jobs. You can also use a comb to apply product evenly or get that clean, sharp finish after styling.
How to Maintain Your Style Daily
Keeping your look sharp every day doesn’t need to be complicated. With the right habits and a few simple tools, men’s hairstyling can be fast, clean, and consistent.
Night Routine: Prep Before You Sleep
If your hair is medium or long, what you do before bed affects how it looks in the morning.
A loose braid or bun helps reduce tangles and holds the shape. Use a satin or silk pillowcase to avoid frizz.
When you wake up, shake your hair out gently and refresh it with water or leave-in conditioner. This helps bring back your natural wave or curl without starting over.
Dry Shampoo: Freshen Up Without Washing
Washing every day isn’t always necessary. Dry shampoo is a solid backup in any man’s hairstyling routine.
Spray it at the roots and blend with your fingers to soak up oil and add volume.
It’s great when you’re in a rush and need your hair to hold its shape without looking flat or greasy. Works across all hair types.
Curl Care: Bring Curls Back to Life
If your curls lose shape or frizz overnight, you can bring them back without a full wash. Use a curl refresher spray or light leave-in serum.
Scrunch into damp hair to reshape the curls. Avoid heavy products; they weigh down curls. Light moisture is enough to add bounce and definition. It’s a fast way to stay fresh and tidy.
Product Use: Don’t Overdo It
Too much product can throw off your style. A small amount goes a long way in daily men’s hairstyling. Start with a dime-sized dab and apply from the back to the front to avoid overload.
Whether using pomade, cream, or gel, focus on control, not weight. You want to hold, not build up, so your style stays clean through the day.
Common Men’s Hairstyling Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a good haircut, small mistakes in how you style your hair every day can hold you back.
Avoiding these common issues helps keep men’s hairstyles sharp and easy to manage.
Product Overload: Less is More
Too much product is one of the most common mistakes in men’s hairstyling. A little wax, pomade, or cream can add structure, but too much weighs your hair down and makes it greasy.
Start small and work it in evenly. Add more only if you need it. This keeps your hair light and easy to shape.
Skipping Heat Protection: Easy to Forget, Hard to Fix
If you use a blow dryer or flat iron, you need heat protection. Without it, heat breaks down your hair over time. Use a heat protectant spray before styling.
It keeps your hair healthy and helps hold the shape longer, especially with structured men’s hairstyles that need volume or clean lines.
Picking the Wrong Style for Your Hair Type
Not every style suits every hair type. Thick hair needs control. Fine hair needs volume. Choosing the wrong one leads to frustration.
Look for men’s hairstyles that match your natural texture. You’ll spend less time fixing your hair and get a better result with less product and effort.
Styling Wet Hair the Wrong Way
Hair is fragile when soaking wet. Styling too early with heat or pulling it with a brush can lead to breakage. Let your hair dry a bit before using tools or applying product.
Work with damp hair instead of dripping wet. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to stay gentle.
Dirty Tools: A Hidden Cause of Bad Hair Days
Using dirty brushes or combs spreads oil and leftover product back into your hair. That buildup makes even fresh hair feel messy.
Wash your tools with warm water and shampoo once a week. Clean tools keep your scalp fresh and help your hairstyle stay crisp all day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best men’s hairstyle for my face shape?
Match your men’s hairstyle to your face shape: round faces need height, square faces suit soft edges, long faces benefit from wider sides.
How do I style a short men’s hairstyle quickly?
For a short men’s hairstyle, use matte pomade or gel, shape with fingers, and blow-dry for volume. Keep styling simple and fast.
What products work best for a curly men’s hairstyle?
A curly men’s hairstyle thrives with curl cream or leave-in conditioner. Apply to damp hair, scrunch to define curls, avoid heavy products.
How often should I wash my men’s hairstyle?
Wash your men’s hairstyle 2-3 times weekly to preserve natural oils. Use dry shampoo between washes to refresh and maintain volume.
Can I style a long men’s hairstyle with low effort?
Yes, a long men’s hairstyle like a man bun or half-up style works. Use light oil or conditioner to detangle, and keep it simple.
Conclusion
Men’s hairstyles are all about working with what you’ve got—your hair type, length, and face shape guide the best choices.
From sharp side parts to bold mohawks, each style offers a way to express yourself while keeping grooming simple.
The right products, like pomade for control or cream for softness, make styling easier. Tools like a blow dryer or a comb help shape your look without hassle.
Avoid common mistakes like overloading the product or skipping maintenance to keep your hair sharp.
With practical techniques and a bit of care, you can make any hairstyle feel like yours, whether you’re heading to work or a night out.
References
Pyo Merez is a men’s lifestyle enthusiast and writer about the gentleman’s place and impact on society. Raised by a distinguished gentleman dad, he offers unique insights into how the mind of a gentleman works and how societal norms shape gentlemen’s identity and vice versa.
Through his insightful articles, Pyo taps into the depths of gentleman culture to provide perspectives on etiquette and manners in modern society.