The Ultimate Guide to Short Men’s Hairstyles

Short hair can be a great look for men of all ages and styles. Whether you are going for a classic look or something more modern and trendy, there are plenty of short men’s hair options to choose from.

Hair trends may come and go, but one thing is certain – there will always be plenty of great options when it comes to men’s short hairstyles. Whether you prefer classic cuts or modern takes on old favorites, there is sure to be something out there that will perfectly suit your personality and style.

In this article, we’ll dive into 36 various styles of short haircuts for men and explain how to style each!

33 short haircut styles for men:

1. French Crop

The French crop style showcases short hair on the sides and back, while the longer hair on top is styled forward. Your barber will trim the sides and back of your head with clippers to achieve the French Crop.

They will then retain some length on top to create the distinctive forward sweep. You can style the hair on top by adding a bit of product to enhance texture and volume.

For added style points, incorporate a taper fade. In general, the French Crop is a timeless choice that offers a chic yet effortless look, requiring minimal maintenance or styling expertise.

2. Angular Fringe

The Angular Fringe involves a short, textured cut on the sides with longer hair on top styled into an angular fringe. Typically, individuals sweep the top hair forward and to the side, crafting an angular shape that frames the face in an appealing manner.

You have the freedom to style it in numerous ways according to your personal taste or the occasion at hand. You can add some pomade or gel for a sleeker, more formal look, or opt for some messy texture with sea salt spray for a more casual vibe.

Another advantage of this haircut is how well it complements facial features such as cheekbones and jawlines. Additionally, it’s an excellent choice if you have curly hair because it can help define your curls and add volume to your locks.

3. The Top Fade

When it comes to short men hairstyles, the top fade is one of the most popular choices. This style features a gradual taper from longer hair on top to shorter hair on the sides and back. The look is highly versatile, allowing customization to suit any guy’s face shape or hair texture.

Many men opt for a weekly or bi-weekly trim depending on how quickly their hair grows. One of the great things about this style is that it works with a variety of different short hairstyles for men, from classic crew cuts and Ivy League styles to more modern looks like the disconnected undercut and textured crop.

For those looking for a more formal look, this style can also work as a short haircuts for weddings or other dressy events. Adding some product like pomade or wax can help create texture and hold throughout the day.

Another variation of this style is the taper fade, which features an even sharper gradient from longer to shorter hair on the sides and back. The high and tight is also similar, but with an even shorter length on top.

4. The Short Push Up

The short push up is a popular hairstyle amongst men who want to add a little bit of height and volume to their hair. This style involves pushing the hair up and towards the center of the head, creating a fun and stylish look that is perfect for any occasion.

To achieve this look, start by applying some pomade or hair wax to your hair while it’s still damp. Then, using a blow dryer and your fingers, work your hair upwards towards the center of your head until you have achieved the desired height.

One great thing about this style is that it works well with all types of short haircuts, including buzz cuts and crew cuts. It’s also very easy to maintain – simply apply some more product throughout the day as needed and use a trimmer to keep the sides neat.

5. Side Part Hairstyle

The side part hairstyle is a versatile haircut that works well with all hair types and face shapes. The style has been around for decades, and it remains one of the hottest trends in the world of men’s haircuts.

This haircut features short sides, which are usually tapered or faded, with longer hair on top that is swept to one side or parted in the middle. To get this look, your stylist will start by trimming your hair to an appropriate length.

They will then use clippers to taper or fade the sides depending on your preference. For the top section of your hair, they will create a part either on one side or in the center using scissors.

You can slick back your hair with some pomade for a more formal look or keep it messy for a laid-back vibe. If you’re looking to add some edge to this classic cut, you can opt for an undercut or disconnected undercut instead of tapered sides.

6. Crew Cut

The crew cut is a classic hairstyle that has been popular for decades. For individuals seeking a low-maintenance appearance, this style proves to be an excellent choice as it requires regular trims to maintain its effortless look.

The crew cut is a short haircut where the sides and back are tapered, while more length is retained on top. It’s a versatile style that can be adjusted to complement various face shapes and hair types.

7. Ivy League

The Ivy League is a classic hairstyle that is perfect for short men haircuts. This style features a short cut on the sides and back with longer hair on top, which can be styled into a side part or slicked back.

The Ivy League is a great choice for anyone looking for a refined and polished look. To achieve the Ivy League look, you’ll need to start with a tapered cut on the sides and back of your head, leaving about an inch or two of length on top.

You can then part your hair to one side and style it using pomade or gel to keep it in place. Alternatively, you can slick your hair straight back for a more formal look.

8. Outgrown Buzz Cut

The outgrown buzz cut is a popular hairstyle for men who want to keep their hair short, but not too short. It’s perfect for those who have grown tired of the military buzz cut and want to try something new while still keeping it simple.

A good stylist will know how much length to leave on top while still maintaining the overall structure of the haircut. Trims every four weeks or so are recommended to keep the length in check and avoid awkward growth stages.

A taper fade can be added around the back and sides of the head for a more polished look. This can make a big difference in elevating the overall style of the outgrown buzz cut, especially if you have curly or wavy hair that tends to get frizzy at longer lengths.

If you like the buzz cut style, check out our top picks for the 15 buzz cut styles right now!

9. The Short Crop Cut

The short crop cut is a popular hairstyle among men who want to keep their hair short but still maintain some length on top. This style works well for guys with thick hair, as it allows them to showcase their natural texture.

To achieve this look, the sides are generally cut shorter than the top, creating a taper fade effect that adds dimension and depth to the overall look. Trims are important when it comes to maintaining this style, as regular visits to your stylist will ensure that your hair continues to grow evenly and in the right direction.

If you have curly hair, an undercut can help to control the volume and create a more defined shape. Short hairstyles for men can be just as stylish as longer hairstyles if done correctly.

This cut features longer hair on top with shaved sides, creating a clean and polished look. If you’re looking for something edgier, consider a Disconnected Undercut or Fade for short hair – this style features shaved sides that contrast with longer hair on top.

10. Swept Back Pompadour

To get the swept back pompadour style, you’ll need to have medium to long hair on top and shorter hair on the sides. The key to getting the swept back pompadour right is to start by styling your hair into a deep side part.

Use a comb to create a clean and defined part, then apply some styling product to your hair. You can use a pomade or wax, depending on your preference.

Once you’ve applied the product, use your fingers or a comb to sweep your hair back towards the crown of your head. The goal is to create volume at the top of your head while keeping the sides sleek and smooth.

To finish off the look, you can add some texture by using a bit of hairspray or dry shampoo. This will help keep your hair in place all day long.

11. Messy Hairstyle

One of the best things about the messy hairstyle is that it works well with different hair types. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, you can rock this style with ease.

For those with curly hair, adding some pomade or hair wax can help to define your curls and add texture to your look. A key component of the messy hairstyle is texture.

To achieve this look, start by getting a haircut short enough so that your strands won’t weigh down your hair. Then use a texturizing spray or sea salt spray to add volume and movement to your locks.

You can also use your fingers to create separation in your strands for an even messier appearance. The messy hairstyle is versatile enough for many occasions, including weddings!

12. Comb Over with Hard Side

If you’re looking for a style that’s simple yet stylish, then the comb-over with hard side is definitely worth considering. This cut has become increasingly popular in recent years and is a great option if you have short hair. The style involves combing your hair over to one side and creating a hard part on the other side using clippers or scissors.

You can also experiment with different products like pomades or gels to give your hair texture and hold. Overall, the comb-over with hard side is a classic hairstyle that never goes out of fashion.

As such, it’s perfect for those who want a timeless yet contemporary look that’s easy to maintain. Whether you’re attending a wedding or just going about your daily life, this style will make sure you look good wherever you go!

13. Classic Pompadour

The classic pompadour is a timeless hairstyle that has been around for decades. It’s a great option for those with short hair who want to add some edge and style to their look.

This haircut features short sides and longer hair on top that is combed back and styled with volume. To achieve the classic pompadour, start by getting a trim on the sides of your head.

You’ll want to keep these short so that all of the focus is on the voluminous top section of your hair. Next, use a styling product like pomade or wax to create volume and hold in your hair.

14. Slicked Back Undercut

Short hairstyles are always in fashion, and the slicked back undercut can be a great option for those who want to keep their hair short but still stylish. The undercut is a type of haircut in which the sides and back of the head are shaved or cut very short, while the hair on the top is left longer.

To achieve the slicked back undercut, you need to have some length on top. It can work well with straight or curly hair, making it one of the versatile short hairstyles for men with curly hair.

The key to this style is to use a good quality pomade or wax to create a sleek and shiny look. You will need to apply the product evenly to your damp hair and comb it backward from your forehead.

15. High-Top Fade

If you desire a timeless and classic look that suits any occasion, the high-top fade is the ideal cut for you. This style, which originated in the 80s and has experienced a resurgence in recent years, involves longer hair on the top of the head that gradually transitions into shorter hair on the sides and back.

Some guys like to keep their hair straight and neat, while others prefer to add some texture with styling products like pomade or wax. To get this style, your barber will need to use clippers to create a gradual fade on the sides and back of your head.

The length of the top portion of your hair will depend on how high you want it to be – some guys opt for a subtle rise while others go all-out with several inches of height. Once you have your high-top fade, there are plenty of different ways to style it depending on the occasion.

16. Ombre Curls

If you have naturally curly hair, then the ombre style is one that you should definitely consider.

The ombre style involves adding a gradual, subtle change in color from the roots to the ends of your curls. This can be done with any color combination, but natural colors tend to work best.

This may involve bleaching certain sections of your hair before adding in the new colors. After coloring your hair, maintaining its hydration and health is crucial, and this can be achieved by utilizing products specifically formulated for curly hair.

For short haired men with curly textures, this could mean going for a tapered fade or disconnected undercut haircut, with an emphasis on pompadour or Ivy League styles. Alternatively, if you prefer longer hairstyles then you can opt for something like an angular fringe or side swept fringe.

17. Induction Cut

The Induction Cut is a popular choice among men who want to achieve a clean, minimalist look. This style involves shaving the entire head using clippers set to a very short length. Military personnel are known for sporting this cut because when they are inducted into the military, they shave their heads completely. Hence, the name “induction cut”.

For those who prefer haircuts that require minimal maintenance, the Induction Cut may be one of the best options available. It requires little styling and trimming, making it a practical and low-maintenance haircut.

It can be combined with various fade styles such as taper fade or high and tight to create different looks that suit your face shape or mood on any given day. Its simplicity means that it can complement any outfit regardless of whether you’re going casual or formal.

18. Classic Buzz Cut

A buzz cut is a short men’s haircut in which the hair is buzzed off with clippers. It is a popular hairstyle for men who want a low maintenance, no-fuss look. The buzz cut can be achieved with different lengths, ranging from one-eighth of an inch to half an inch.

One of the advantages of a buzz cut is that it suits most face shapes and hair types. It is also perfect for guys who are experiencing thinning or receding hairlines because it minimizes the appearance of balding areas.

Additionally, it works well with facial hair, so you can grow out your beard or mustache without having to worry about looking unkempt. There are several variations of the buzz cut that you can try out depending on your preference and style.

19. Military Cut

If you’re looking for a short and simple haircut, the military cut is definitely worth considering. This low-maintenance style is perfect for those who want to look neat and clean without spending too much time on their hair each morning. The military cut is a classic buzz cut that’s been around for decades.

It’s characterized by its short length all around the head, with no real variation in length between the top and sides. This gives it a very clean, uniform appearance that’s easy to maintain.

20. Disconnected Undercut

The shaved sides create a sharp line where the hair stops, which makes the longer top stand out even more. This cut has become popular among guys who want to experiment with different styles but still maintain a professional look.

This style also works well for men with curly hair because the longer length on top allows for more control and styling options. If you’re looking to get this cut, make sure you find an experienced barber who knows how to execute it properly.

A bad haircut can ruin the entire look! When getting your hair trimmed or cut short, communicate your desired style clearly with your barber.

21. Flat Top

The flat top is a classic men’s haircut that never goes out of style. It is characterized by short hair on the back and sides of the head, with a flat top that is cut horizontally to create a box-like shape. This haircut requires some skill to achieve, but it looks great on many different face shapes.

There are different variations of the Flat Top hairstyle, such as the Buzz Cut Flat Top and the High and Tight Flat Top. The Buzz Cut Flat Top has shorter hair on the sides and back than the classic variation, while the High and Tight version has even shorter sides and a longer top.

This popular hairstyle gained popularity during early 1950s fashion trends with famous faces like Elvis Presley sporting it proudly. Another popular variation was seen during late 1980s when hip hop took over with stars like Will Smith often sporting this look in music videos.

22. Short Caesar Cut

The Short Caesar Cut is a classic short men’s hairstyle that has been popular for decades. It is a low-maintenance haircut that requires little styling and looks great on guys with all face shapes and hair types.

The Short Caesar Cut is characterized by short hair on the sides and back of the head, with slightly longer hair on top that is styled to form a small, horizontal fringe. s are perfect for men who want to keep their hair short and neat without sacrificing style.

To keep your Short Caesar Cut looking sharp, you’ll need regular trims every four to six weeks. This will help prevent split ends and keep your hair looking healthy.

23. Bowl Cut

The bowl cut is a short men’s hairstyle that features hair that is cut to the same length all around the head, creating a rounded bowl shape. This style was popular in the 1990s and it has made a comeback in recent years.

This will add some dimension and texture to the style while keeping it low maintenance. Another option is to add some layers at the top of the head, which will create more volume and movement.

The bowl cut can be styled in many different ways. For a classic look, comb it straight down and use some pomade or wax to keep it in place.

For a more modern look, try using some gel or mousse and tousle the hair with your fingers for a messy yet stylish finish. This style can work well for many occasions, including weddings.

24. Modern Bowl Cut

The modern bowl cut is a trendy and stylish option for men who prefer to keep their hair short. This style involves cutting the hair into a bowl shape around the head, with the top of the hair slightly longer than the sides and back. The modern version of this classic haircut features a more textured and layered look than its predecessors.

To style this haircut, it’s best to apply some styling gel or mousse to damp hair before blow-drying it with your fingers in an upward motion for volume and texture. Finish off by using wax to add definition and control flyaways.

25. Modern Mohawk

One of the key features of the modern Mohawk is its faded sides, which create a dramatic contrast between the longer hair on top and the shorter hair on the sides. If you’re looking for something bold and eye-catching, consider opting for a disconnected undercut with your modern Mohawk.

This involves having the sides shaved or buzzed very short, creating an even greater contrast between the top and bottom sections of hair. The high and tight variation of this style is particularly popular among military personnel, but it can look great on anyone who wants an ultra-masculine look.

Short hairstyles like this one tend to grow out quickly, so make sure you book regular appointments with your barber or stylist to keep everything in check. Experimenting with fades (such as taper fades) can also help you achieve different looks within this distinct style trend.

26. Side Part Fade

If you like a more polished and professional look, the side part fade is a great hairstyle to try. This style offers the perfect balance between classic and contemporary, with a sharply cut short hair on the sides and back with an elegantly styled top. To achieve this style, you should use scissors or clippers to cut the hair short on the sides and back.

The top should be left longer, so it can be styled into a side part or slicked to one side. One of the best things about this haircut is that there are many different variations of it to suit your desired look.

And if you’re looking for a style that will work well in any context, from casual to formal events like weddings or business meetings, then this hairstyle is definitely worth considering. Overall, the Side Part Fade is one of the most popular short hairstyles right now among men’s hair trends.

27. Butch Cut

The Butch cut is a simple yet classic hairstyle. A Butch cut involves keeping the hair on the top of the head short while leaving a little more length on the sides and back.

A Butch cut is perfect for men who want a low maintenance haircut that requires little upkeep. One great thing about a Butch cut is that it complements most face shapes, making it one of the most versatile short hairstyles out there.

Another advantage of this hairstyle is that it requires only occasional trims, which makes it an ideal option for those who are looking for something simple and hassle-free. If you’re looking to add some personality to your Butch cut, you can always try adding a fade to your haircut.

28. High and Tight

The high and tight is a classic military haircut that has become a popular choice for short men’s haircuts. The style involves shaving the sides and back of the head very short, while leaving a slightly longer section on top. This creates a neat, clean look that is easy to maintain.

Short men hairstyles such as high and tight are versatile enough to go well with various face shapes, styles, and occasions. For example, some grooms opt for a style for short hair for wedding like this one to keep their hair looking sharp on their big day.

29. Short and Spiky

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance yet stylish haircut, the short and spiky look might be perfect for you. This cut is achieved by leaving the hair short on the sides and back, while leaving a bit more length on top to create those signature spikes.

Short and spiky haircuts are one of the most popular styles for short hair for weddings or other formal occasions. You can easily achieve this look by applying some high-quality styling gel to your hair and using your fingers to shape the spikes into place.

One great thing about this haircut is that it works well with almost any face shape. Whether you have a square jawline or a round face, the short and spiky style can be tailored to suit your unique features.

30. French Crop with High Fade

The French Crop with High Fade is a perfect hairstyle for guys who want a stylish and low-maintenance look. This short men hairstyle requires short haircuts, but it is perfect for those who prefer a clean-cut appearance. The style features high and tight fades on the sides and back of the head, while the top remains slightly longer than the sides.

This style has been around for years, but it continues to be one of the most popular hair trends among men today. When done correctly by an experienced stylist, this fade for short hair can be one of the most stylish haircuts you’ll ever get.

31. Textured Crop

The textured crop is a great style for short hair that looks effortlessly cool. It’s a low maintenance hairstyle that doesn’t require too much styling, yet it looks stylish and trendy.

This style works best for men with straight hair as it accentuates the texture of the hair. To achieve this look, the hair should be cut relatively short on the sides with a taper fade.

The top is left longer and texturized to create movement and volume. The length can vary depending on personal preference, but it’s typically around two to three inches.

Trims are important to maintain this style as it can quickly become unruly if left unattended. It’s recommended to visit your stylist every four to six weeks for upkeep.

32. Short Quiff

The short quiff is a style that works well with most face shapes and hair types. The look consists of short sides, longer hair on top, and a textured, swept-back fringe.

To achieve this look, you’ll need to have a good amount of length on the top of your head. You can then use some pomade or styling cream to create texture and volume.

Start by applying the product to your wet hair and blow-drying it into place with a brush. 

It looks great when paired with a suit or dressy attire. Just make sure to keep it neat and trimmed with regular trims at the barber shop.

33. Side Swept Fringe

For those with short hair, the side swept fringe is a versatile and trendy option. This style involves leaving the hair on top longer than the sides and then sweeping it to one side. Any hair texture can achieve the look, but it particularly flatters men with thick hair who can style it with ease.

To rock this style, start by getting a trim on the sides and back of your head to create a tapered look. You can also ask your stylist for a fade for short hair if you prefer a more defined look.

Then, leave the hair on top long enough to sweep to one side. The length should be just long enough to style but not too long that it becomes unmanageable.

To style your side swept fringe, apply some product to damp or dry hair and comb it over to one side. You can use pomade or wax for added hold and texture.

Conclusion

There are so many short hairstyles for men out there to choose from, and it’s all about finding what works best for you. 

Short haircuts can be low maintenance, perfect for busy guys who don’t have time to fuss with their hair in the morning. If you’re a man with curly hair, don’t be afraid to rock short hairstyles!

There are plenty of styles that can work with your natural texture while still keeping things trimmed and tidy. 

Overall, hair trends may come and go but short men hairstyles will always be in style. From trims to fades to crew cuts and everything in between, there’s something for everyone when it comes to style for short hair.

So if you’re ready to experiment with different cuts and see what feels most comfortable and confident on you – go ahead!