Guys' Short Hairstyles: Top Picks and Trends for 2024

Why is short hair so popular?

Short hair's popularity for men stems from a combination of practicality, aesthetics, and individuality. It's generally low-maintenance, requiring less washing, styling, and upkeep compared to long hair. This convenience is a major plus for busy guys on the go. On the aesthetic side, short hair can accentuate strong facial features and create a clean-cut, put-together look. It's often associated with confidence and masculinity, making it a safe bet for professional settings or social occasions. Culturally, short hair has been the dominant style for men throughout history, with trends evolving within that framework. From the classic crew cut to the modern undercut, short styles offer endless possibilities for personalization and self-expression. So, whether it's for ease, aesthetics, or tradition, short hair remains a timeless choice for men.

Why is short hair attractive?

Men's short hair can be attractive for several reasons. It can highlight strong features like the jawline and cheekbones, which many find aesthetically pleasing. It also projects confidence and self-assurance. Long hair can be seen as a way to hide behind something, while short hair shows a man is comfortable with his appearance. There's also a practicality factor. Short hair is easier to manage and style, requiring less time and effort to maintain a neat look. This low-maintenance aspect adds to the impression of a man who's put-together but effortless. Short hair has often been associated with masculinity, maturity, and even professions like the military or athletics, which can be seen as desirable traits. So, short hair can be a sign of attractiveness not just because of aesthetics, but because of the confidence and positive associations it carries.

Buzz Cut Hairstyles

A buzz cut is a super short hairstyle achieved with electric clippers. It's typically all one length around the head, ranging from very close to the scalp (think military cuts) to a slightly longer, uniform buzz. Simple and low-maintenance, it's a popular choice for guys who want a clean-cut look with minimal styling. Buzz cuts can also be a base for variations like fades, where the hair gets progressively shorter on the sides and back for added contrast.

Points to note when setting hair

While a buzz cut requires minimal styling, a touch of product can enhance its look. Opt for a pea-sized amount of matte clay or wax to avoid a greasy appearance. Rub it between your palms and distribute evenly through your hair to add subtle texture and definition. Skip the combing – use your fingers to achieve a natural, effortless finish.

Short Mullet Cut

The short mullet is a modern take on the 80s classic, offering a low-maintenance and stylish option for men. It keeps things short on the sides and back, similar to a fade or buzz cut. But the key difference lies in the top. Hair on the top is left longer, with some variations keeping it slightly textured or even swept back. This creates a cool contrast between the short sides and longer back, offering a touch of rebellion without going full-on 80s mullet. It's perfect for guys who want a hairstyle that's both edgy and easy to manage.

Points to note when setting hair

For a short mullet, start with damp hair. Apply a dime-sized amount of product, like a wax or cream to your fingertips. Work it through the top section, focusing on the ends for texture. For the sides, use a lighter touch to avoid weighing them down. Use your fingers to style the fringe and create loose definition throughout. Aim for a lived-in, effortless look rather than a stiff, overdone style.

Crew Cut Hairstyles

Short Caesar

The short Caesar haircut for men is a classic with a modern twist. It features short, horizontally cut bangs across the forehead, creating a blunt fringe. The sides and back are typically kept short with a scissor cut or faded for a clean, sharp finish. This style is low-maintenance and works well for most hair types, straight or slightly wavy. Compared to the traditional Caesar with very short bangs, modern variations allow for some textured length on top, adding versatility for styling.

Points to note when setting hair

When using products for your Short Caesar, less is often more. Start with a dime-sized amount of wax or clay, warming it between your fingers for better distribution. Apply it evenly throughout damp hair, focusing on the top and fringe. Use a comb to define the fringe forward or upwards, depending on your desired style. Avoid over-applying, as this can weigh down the hair and lose the Caesar's signature clean silhouette.

High Fade

A High Fade haircut features short hair on the sides and back that seamlessly blends into longer hair on top. The "high" part refers to where the fading effect starts, way up near the temple and crown area, leaving a significant portion of the head with longer hair. This creates a sharp contrast between the short, faded sides and the volume on top. The top hair itself can be styled in various ways, like a pompadour, quiff, or messy crop, allowing for a lot of versatility within the high fade base. It's a popular choice for men who want a stylish and modern look with enough length up top to experiment with different styles.

Points to note when setting hair

For a textured look, work a small amount of wax or styling powder through damp hair. Blow dry on low heat with your fingers to create messy volume. For a pompadour, use a blow dryer with a comb to lift hair upwards and back. Apply a strong-hold gel or clay for definition and secure the style with hairspray. Remember, the key is to focus product application on the top section to maintain the clean fade contrast.

Full Beard Crew Cut

The full beard crew cut is a powerful combination that combines a short, easy-to-manage crew cut on top with a full, well-groomed beard. This look offers a clean-cut yet rugged aesthetic. The crew cut's short length keeps things sharp, while the full beard adds a touch of masculinity and balance to the face. It's a versatile style that works well for various face shapes and hair types, making it a popular choice for men who want a low-maintenance but stylish look.

Points to note when setting hair

Start with damp hair and a pea-sized amount of matte styling cream or paste. Work it through the top to achieve texture and control any flyaways. Let it air dry or use a blow dryer on low heat with your fingers to style the hair in the direction you want it to flow. This will keep your crew cut looking sharp and complement the clean lines of your full beard.

Ivy League Haircut

The Ivy League haircut is a classic short style named after prestigious American universities. It offers a clean-cut look with short, tapered sides and back. The key difference from a crew cut is the slightly longer hair on top, allowing for a side part and some styling versatility. It can be worn neat and tidy for a polished look, or with a touch of texture for a more modern feel. This timeless style is perfect for guys who want a low-maintenance haircut that still projects confidence and sophistication.

Points to note when setting hair

Taming your Ivy League starts with damp, towel-dried hair. Apply a pea-sized amount of matte clay or paste. Rake your fingers through the top hair, creating texture and pushing it in your desired direction, typically to the side. Use a comb for a sharper part or a more polished look. Finish with a blow dryer on low heat, following the direction of the hair for a natural flow.

Low Undercut Hairstyles

The low undercut is a versatile short hairstyle for men that combines clean lines with style. The sides and back are cut short, typically faded from longer on top to a very short buzz near the bottom. This creates a sharp contrast that emphasizes the hair on top. Unlike a high undercut where the short hair reaches higher on the head, a low undercut keeps the shortened area lower, closer to the neckline and ears. The hair on top can be styled in various ways, from a classic side part to a textured pompadour or even left messy for a relaxed look. It's a low-maintenance cut that offers a clean and modern aesthetic.

Points to note when setting hair

For a sleek back, use a blow dryer with a comb to direct hair upwards and backwards. Apply a water-based pomade or gel for strong hold and shine. For a textured look, blow dry hair roughly and use a matte wax or cream to create definition without weighing down the top section. Remember, the key is to focus product application on the top hair, leaving the faded undercut clean for maximum contrast.

Mid-Fade Haircuts

The mid-fade haircut is a versatile and stylish option for men. It features gradually shorter hair on the sides and back, starting from the mid-point of the head and blending seamlessly down to the skin. This creates a clean contrast with the longer hair on top, which can be styled in various ways. The mid-fade offers the perfect balance between a high fade (which starts very high on the head) and a low fade (which begins near the bottom of the head). This makes it suitable for most head shapes and hair types, and it can be adapted to complement a classic pompadour, a messy crop, or even longer, textured styles.

Points to note when setting hair

For a sleek finish, apply a small amount of pomade or styling cream to damp hair and comb it back. Use a blow dryer on low heat with a comb attachment to smooth and define. For a textured look, use a wax or styling powder on dry hair. Scrunch sections with your fingers to create volume and messiness. Work the product primarily on the top section, avoiding the faded sides to maintain a clean line. Remember, a little product goes a long way – you can always add more for hold as needed.

Quiff Short Curly Hairstyles

The quiff with short curly hair is a stylish combination that works great for men with natural curls. It takes the classic quiff – longer hair on top styled upwards with shorter sides and back – and adds texture with the wearer's natural curls. This creates a cool, effortless look with volume and definition. The curls can be styled to flow with the quiff or for a more modern twist, sculpted into separate sections for added texture. It's a versatile option that allows men to embrace their curls while still achieving a polished, trendy hairstyle.

Points to note when setting hair

Apply a curl-enhancing product like a cream or mousse to damp hair. Use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to dry hair upwards and forward, creating volume at the roots. For the quiff itself, finger-style sections of hair back while blow drying to achieve the desired height and flow. Finally, use a small amount of wax or pomade to define the quiff and hold everything in place. Remember, embrace the natural texture of your curls for a cool and unique look!

Short Comb-over Hairstyles

The short comb-over is a classic men's haircut with a modern twist. It features short hair on the back and sides, often faded for a clean contrast. The hair on top is left slightly longer and swept diagonally to one side. This creates a touch of volume and can help elongate a round face shape. Styling products like pomade or wax can be used to keep the hair in place for a polished look. While the comb-over has a traditional image, the shorter length and faded sides give it a contemporary edge, making it a versatile option for men who want a hairstyle that's both stylish and easy to manage.

Points to note when setting hair

Apply a light hold product like a cream or water-based pomade for control without stiffness. Use a fine-tooth comb to create a clean part on the desired side. Blow dry the hair on the side you're combing over with a low setting, directing the airflow in the direction you want the hair to flow. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to lock everything in place.

Slicked Back Short Hair

The slicked back short hair hairstyle is a timeless classic with a modern twist. It features short hair on the sides and back, typically faded or tapered for a clean look. The top hair is styled with a strong hold product like gel or pomade to be smooth and swept backward. This style can be adapted to different lengths on top, creating a variety of looks – from a conservative, close-to-the-head version to a more dramatic, high-volume pompadour. The slicked back style exudes confidence and sophistication, making it a popular choice for formal occasions or men who want a polished everyday look.

Points to note when setting hair

Prep damp hair with a light styling cream for hold without grease. Use a comb to smooth hair back, directing it where you want it to lay. Apply a strong-hold gel or hairspray, starting at the roots and working back. Use a boar bristle brush to lay down any flyaways and achieve a polished finish. Remember, a little product goes a long way – you can always add more for extra hold.

Modern Pompadour Short Hairstyles

The modern pompadour for men takes the classic high-volume style and gives it a contemporary twist. It features shorter hair on the back and sides, often faded for a clean look. The top is left longer with enough volume to sweep back and create a pompadour, but with a looser, more textured finish compared to traditional styles. This gives it a more modern and effortless vibe, perfect for guys who want a hairstyle that's both stylish and manageable.

Points to note when setting hair

To conquer the modern pompadour, prep is key, and towel-dried hair is your canvas. Blow-dry with a round brush, directing hair upwards and back, focusing volume in the front. Use a pre-styling product like wax for extra hold and manageability. Once dry, apply a matte finish product for a modern touch. Work it through the front section, shaping the pompadour with your fingers. Finally, a light mist of hairspray will lock your masterpiece in place.

Short Messy French Crop

The short messy French crop is a modern take on a classic. It features short, faded sides and back, just like the traditional French crop. But where it breaks the mold is on top. Instead of a clean, cropped look, the top hair is left slightly longer with textured layers. This allows for a more relaxed, bedhead hair vibe. Styling products like wax or powder can enhance the texture and create a cool, effortless messiness.

Points to note when setting hair

For a messy French crop, keep things light and textured. Apply a pea-sized amount of wax or styling powder to damp hair. Scrunch sections upwards with your fingers to create messy volume. Don't overdo it – aim for separation and natural flow, not stiff spikes. Let it air dry or use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer for added texture without losing that effortless feel.

Recommended styling products for short hair

GATSBY MOVING RUBBER GRUNGE MAT

Tired of stiff, helmet hair that limits your style? Gatsby's MOVING RUBBER GRUNGE MAT lets you achieve that effortless, messy hairstyle you see everywhere. This wax delivers a strong hold without the crunch, allowing you to create textured, movable styles with a natural, matte finish. With Gatsby, you can sculpt messy spikes, tousled waves, or a carefree bedhead look – all without sacrificing hold or shine control. It's a great product for guys who want to stay stylish and confident, no matter what the day throws their way.

GATSBY MOVING RUBBER AIR RISE

Struggling to achieve that perfect balance of volume and natural texture in your short hairstyle? MOVING RUBBER AIR RISE is a good product.. This innovative wax defies expectations. Gatsby's formula offers a strong hold with a lightweight, matte finish. Think of it like sculpting your hair – you get the control to define your style, but with a soft, touchable texture that moves freely throughout the day. This makes it ideal for trendy short styles like messy crops and textured fades, allowing you to achieve that effortlessly cool, "I woke up like this" look without sacrificing volume or hold. Plus, its clear floral fragrance (mildly fragrant, non-lingering scent) adds a subtle touch of confidence. So ditch the helmet hair and embrace the freedom of natural movement with MOVING RUBBER AIR RISE.

FAQs

Which haircut is trending right now for men?

Right now, short styles with a modern twist are dominating men's haircuts. Think textured crops for a messy, effortless look, disconnected pompadours for a touch of volume, and classic fades with clean lines for a sharp finish.

How do I tell my barber what I want?

Clearly communicate your desired haircut to your barber and be specific! Briefly describe the overall style you want, then mention details like length on top and sides (inches or clipper numbers work well). Show pictures if possible, and don't be afraid to ask questions or point out aspects of your current hair you want kept or changed. Remember, barbers are there to help you achieve your best look!

How do I know which hairstyle suits me?

The perfect hairstyle for you includes three key factors: face shape, hair type, and lifestyle. Talking to a stylist can help you find a cut that flatters your features, works with your hair's natural texture, and complements your daily routine.

What is the easiest haircut to maintain?

The easiest haircut to maintain depends on your hair type, but generally, short styles with minimal layering are the winners. A classic short crew cut or a buzz cut requires minimal styling and grows out cleanly, needing infrequent trims. For slightly longer hair, a long on top, short on the sides style offers versatility and can be air-dried or styled with a touch of product.

How do I choose the right styling products for my hair style?

To pick the perfect styling product for your short hairstyle, consider two key factors: hold and finish. For styles that need structure like a pompadour, choose a clay or mousse for strong hold. If you prefer a looser, textured look like a messy crop, opt for a wax or styling powder for a more natural hold and matte finish. Remember, thicker hair can handle stronger products, while fine hair might be weighed down – look for "volume" or "weightless" labels for guidance.