Finding the perfect short haircut is essential for men who want to stay stylish and confident. Whether you’re looking for a modern short hairstyle for men that complements your face shape or a low-maintenance short haircut, this guide has you covered.
Short hairstyles are versatile, easy to manage, and can be tailored to suit any lifestyle, from professional settings to casual weekends.
- Trendy short hairstyles for men are more than just a fashion statement; they’re a reflection of personal style and individuality.
- With the right cut, you can enhance your features, express your personality, and simplify your grooming routine.
- From the timeless buzz cut to the sophisticated fade haircut, there’s a modern short hairstyle for every man.
In this article, we’ll explore 33 of the best short haircuts for men in 2024, providing detailed insights into each style. We’ll cover the latest trends, including how to choose a haircut based on your hair type, face shape, and lifestyle. Whether you’re aiming for a professional look or something more relaxed, these men’s short hairstyles will help you stay ahead of the curve. Dive in to find the perfect short haircut that suits your style, and discover how to maintain and style it with ease.
Understanding Your Face Shape
Before choosing a short hairstyle, it’s crucial to understand your face shape. The right haircut can accentuate your best features and create a balanced look. Men typically have one of the following face shapes: oval, round, square, oblong, diamond, or heart. Identifying your face shape involves measuring the width of your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline, as well as the length of your face.
- Oval Face Shape: Considered the most versatile, an oval face can pull off nearly any hairstyle. Men with this face shape can experiment with various modern short hairstyles, such as the quiff or crew cut.
- Round Face Shape: A round face benefits from hairstyles that add height and angles. Look for styles that elongate the face, like the pompadour or faux hawk.
- Square Face Shape: Known for its strong jawline, a square face pairs well with haircuts that soften the edges, such as the textured crop or side part.
- Oblong Face Shape: With a longer face, it’s important to avoid hairstyles that add too much height. Opt for styles that provide balance, like the buzz cut or short shag.
- Diamond Face Shape: Narrow at the forehead and jawline with wider cheekbones, this shape looks great with hairstyles that add width to the forehead, like the fringe or undercut.
- Heart Face Shape: Wider at the forehead and tapering to the chin, a heart-shaped face benefits from haircuts that create balance at the jawline, such as the low fade or taper cut.
Understanding your face shape is the first step in selecting the perfect short hairstyle. Once you know what works best for you, you can explore the various options available in the following sections.
The Buzz Cut
The buzz cut is a classic, no-nonsense hairstyle that has been a favorite among men for decades. Known for its simplicity and ease of maintenance, the buzz cut is perfect for those who prefer a clean, minimal look. This style is especially popular among men in the military and athletes due to its low-maintenance nature.
- Military Buzz Cut: The most straightforward version, where hair is cut very short all over the head, offering a neat and uniform appearance.
- Induction Cut: Even shorter than the military buzz cut, this style is almost shaved down to the scalp, ideal for men with strong facial features who want a bold look.
- Burr Cut: A slightly longer variation, the burr cut leaves a bit more length on the scalp, offering a softer appearance while still being easy to manage.
The buzz cut is particularly well-suited for men with square or oval face shapes, as it highlights the jawline and cheekbones. It’s also a great option for those with thick hair that can be difficult to manage.
- Maintenance Tips:
- Visit your barber regularly (every 2-3 weeks) to keep the buzz cut looking sharp.
- Use a good quality trimmer at home for touch-ups between barber visits.
- Moisturize your scalp to prevent dryness, especially if you opt for a very short buzz cut.
The buzz cut is a timeless choice that never goes out of style. It’s perfect for men who want a low-maintenance short hairstyle that requires minimal effort while still looking sharp and stylish.
The Crew Cut
The crew cut is another classic hairstyle with a military origin, known for its clean, polished look. This short hairstyle is versatile and can be adapted to suit different face shapes and hair types. The crew cut is defined by its short length on the sides and back, with slightly longer hair on top, allowing for some styling options.
- Short Crew Cut: This version keeps the hair very short on top, similar to the buzz cut, but with a bit more length for a subtle style difference.
- Long Crew Cut: A slightly longer version that allows for more styling flexibility, such as creating a subtle part or adding texture to the hair.
- Ivy League: A stylish variation of the crew cut, the Ivy League features longer hair on top that can be combed to the side, offering a more polished, preppy look.
The crew cut is particularly flattering for men with square or oval face shapes. Its clean lines and defined structure can help accentuate strong facial features, making it a popular choice for professionals and those who prefer a neat appearance.
- Styling Tips:
- Use a lightweight pomade or gel to add texture to the top hair.
- For a more formal look, comb the top hair to the side or back.
- The crew cut pairs well with a low fade or taper on the sides for a modern twist.
The crew cut is a low-maintenance hairstyle that offers just enough length on top to play with different styles. It’s perfect for men who want a modern short haircut that’s both versatile and easy to manage, making it a go-to choice for many.
The French Crop
The French crop is a stylish, modern haircut that’s gaining popularity among men who want a trendy yet low-maintenance look. Characterized by its short length and a cropped fringe at the front, the French crop is a versatile hairstyle that suits various hair types and face shapes.
- Textured French Crop: This version adds layers and texture to the top hair, giving it a more relaxed and modern appearance. It’s ideal for men with thick or wavy hair, as the texture enhances the natural volume.
- Classic French Crop: A more uniform cut where the hair is kept short and even across the top, with a defined fringe at the front. This style is perfect for men with straight hair and those who prefer a clean, structured look.
The French crop is especially flattering for men with oval or round face shapes. The cropped fringe can help create the illusion of a longer face, while the short sides keep the overall look clean and sharp.
- Styling Products:
- Use a matte clay or pomade to add texture and hold to the top hair.
- For a more polished look, apply a small amount of styling cream to smooth down the fringe.
- A sea salt spray can enhance the natural texture of wavy or curly hair.
The French crop is an excellent choice for men looking for a trendy short hairstyle that requires minimal styling. Its combination of a cropped fringe and textured top makes it a versatile and fashionable option for those who want to stay on-trend with a modern twist.
The Fade Haircut
The fade haircut is a modern staple in men’s grooming, known for its smooth transition from short to even shorter hair as it moves down the sides and back of the head. This technique can be incorporated into almost any short hairstyle, making it one of the most versatile and popular haircuts for men today.
- Low Fade: The fade starts just above the ears and gradually tapers down to the neckline. This subtle fade is ideal for professional settings and pairs well with hairstyles like the crew cut or side part.
- Mid Fade: The fade begins midway down the sides, offering a balanced look that’s not too bold but still adds a modern touch. It’s perfect for men who want a more noticeable fade without going too extreme.
- High Fade: Starting high on the sides, close to the temples, the high fade is a bold choice that creates a striking contrast between the top hair and the faded sides. It’s ideal for men who want to make a statement with their hairstyle.
- Skin Fade: Also known as a bald fade, this variation fades the hair down to the skin, creating a very sharp and clean look. It’s a popular choice for men who prefer a sleek, modern appearance.
The fade haircut works well with various face shapes, particularly square and oval faces, as it can add definition and structure. It’s also suitable for different hair types, including straight, wavy, and curly hair.
- How to Choose the Right Fade:
- Consider your lifestyle: A low fade is more subtle and professional, while a high fade or skin fade is more daring and edgy.
- Think about your hair type: Thicker hair works well with a high fade, while finer hair might benefit from a low fade.
- Take your face shape into account: Fades can help balance and enhance facial features.
- Maintenance: Regular trips to the barber (every 2-3 weeks) are necessary to keep the fade sharp. At home, use a quality trimmer for touch-ups and a light styling product to keep the top hair in place.
The fade haircut is a cornerstone of modern men’s hairstyles, offering endless possibilities for customization. Whether you opt for a subtle low fade or a bold high fade, this haircut can elevate any look, making it a must-try for men who want to stay on-trend.
The Undercut
The undercut is a bold and edgy hairstyle that has become a modern classic. Characterized by its sharp contrast between the short sides and longer hair on top, the undercut offers a wide range of styling possibilities, making it one of the most versatile haircuts for men.
- Classic Undercut: The hair on top is left long while the sides and back are clipped short, creating a clean and defined look. This style works well for men who want a sharp and polished appearance.
- Disconnected Undercut: A more extreme version where the transition between the top and sides is abrupt, with no blending. This creates a stark contrast that’s perfect for making a bold statement.
- Textured Undercut: Adds layers and texture to the top hair, giving it a more relaxed and natural look. This variation is ideal for men with wavy or thick hair.
The undercut is particularly suited for men with square or oval face shapes, as it highlights strong jawlines and cheekbones. It also works well with various hair types, including straight, wavy, and curly hair.
- Styling Tips:
- Use a strong-hold pomade or wax to style the top hair and keep it in place throughout the day.
- For a more relaxed look, apply a texturizing spray to add volume and enhance the natural texture of your hair.
- The undercut can be styled in various ways, from a slicked-back look to a messy, tousled appearance.
- Maintenance: The undercut requires regular upkeep to maintain the sharp contrast between the top and sides. Plan on visiting your barber every 2-3 weeks for a trim. Additionally, use quality hair products to keep the top hair styled and in place.
The undercut is a versatile and stylish choice that allows for creativity and personalization. Whether you prefer a classic, polished look or something more daring and textured, the undercut offers endless possibilities for men looking to make a statement with their hairstyle.
The Quiff
The quiff is a timeless hairstyle that combines volume and height, making it a favorite among men who want a stylish and sophisticated look. This hairstyle features longer hair on top that is swept upward and back, creating a voluminous and structured appearance.
- Classic Quiff: The hair is styled back and slightly to the side, offering a polished and refined look. This version is perfect for formal occasions and professional settings.
- Textured Quiff: Adds layers and texture to the top hair, giving it a more relaxed and natural appearance. This style is ideal for men with thick or wavy hair.
- Modern Quiff: A contemporary take on the classic quiff, featuring a more voluminous and exaggerated look. It’s perfect for men who want to make a statement with their hairstyle.
The quiff is particularly flattering for men with oval or square face shapes, as the height and volume of the style help to elongate the face and accentuate strong features.
- How to Style:
- Start by applying a volumizing mousse or styling cream to damp hair.
- Blow-dry the hair while lifting it with a round brush to create volume.
- Use a strong-hold pomade or wax to shape the quiff and keep it in place throughout the day.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray for added hold and shine.
- Maintenance: The quiff requires regular styling to maintain its shape and volume. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair healthy and hydrated, and visit your barber every 3-4 weeks for a trim to maintain the length and shape.
The quiff is a versatile and stylish choice for men who want a modern short hairstyle with a classic twist. Its combination of volume, structure, and height makes it a go-to option for those who want to stand out with a sophisticated and polished look.
The Pompadour
The pompadour is a classic and iconic hairstyle that has stood the test of time. Characterized by its voluminous top and shorter sides, the pompadour is a statement hairstyle that exudes confidence and style. This haircut is perfect for men who want a bold and polished look.
- Classic Pompadour: The hair is styled high and back, creating a smooth and sleek appearance. This version is perfect for formal occasions and professional settings.
- Modern Pompadour: A contemporary take on the classic style, featuring more texture and a slightly messier appearance. This version is ideal for men who want a stylish yet relaxed look.
- Disconnected Pompadour: The sides are kept very short or faded, creating a sharp contrast with the voluminous top. This style is perfect for men who want to make a bold statement with their hairstyle.
The pompadour is particularly suited for men with oval or square face shapes, as the height and volume help to elongate the face and highlight strong features.
- How to Style:
- Start by applying a volumizing mousse or pomade to damp hair.
- Blow-dry the hair while lifting it with a round brush to create volume.
- Use a strong-hold pomade or wax to shape the pompadour and keep it in place throughout the day.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray for added hold and shine.
- Maintenance: The pompadour requires regular styling to maintain its shape and volume. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair healthy and hydrated, and visit your barber every 3-4 weeks for a trim to maintain the length and shape.
The pompadour is a timeless and stylish choice for men who want a modern short hairstyle with a classic twist. Its combination of volume, structure, and height makes it a go-to option for those who want to stand out with a sophisticated and polished look.
The Side Part
The side part is a classic and versatile hairstyle that has been popular for decades. Characterized by a defined parting on one side of the head, this haircut offers a clean and polished appearance that suits both casual and formal settings. The side part is a go-to option for men who want a timeless and professional look.
- Classic Side Part: The hair is combed neatly to one side, creating a sleek and structured appearance. This version is perfect for professional settings and formal occasions.
- Modern Side Part: A contemporary take on the classic style, featuring more texture and a slightly messier appearance. This version is ideal for men who want a stylish yet relaxed look.
- Disconnected Side Part: The sides are kept very short or faded, creating a sharp contrast with the longer top. This style is perfect for men who want to make a bold statement with their hairstyle.
The side part is particularly flattering for men with oval, square, or round face shapes, as it helps to create a balanced and symmetrical appearance.
- How to Style:
- Start by applying a lightweight pomade or styling cream to damp hair.
- Comb the hair to one side, following the natural parting.
- Use a blow-dryer to set the style and add volume if desired.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray for added hold and shine.
- Maintenance: The side part requires regular styling to maintain its shape and definition. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair healthy and hydrated, and visit your barber every 3-4 weeks for a trim to maintain the length and shape.
The side part is a versatile and stylish choice for men who want a modern short hairstyle with a classic twist. Its combination of structure, balance, and symmetry makes it a go-to option for those who want to stand out with a sophisticated and polished look.
The Ivy League
The Ivy League is a stylish and sophisticated variation of the crew cut, offering a slightly longer top that can be styled in various ways. This haircut is perfect for men who want a polished and preppy look that’s suitable for both professional settings and casual occasions.
- Classic Ivy League: The hair on top is kept longer than a traditional crew cut, allowing for a side part or a combed-back look. This version is perfect for formal occasions and professional settings.
- Textured Ivy League: Adds layers and texture to the top hair, giving it a more relaxed and natural appearance. This style is ideal for men with thick or wavy hair.
- Short Ivy League: A shorter version that offers a clean and neat appearance, ideal for men who prefer a low-maintenance hairstyle.
The Ivy League is particularly flattering for men with oval or square face shapes, as the longer top helps to elongate the face and highlight strong features.
- How to Style:
- Start by applying a lightweight pomade or styling cream to damp hair.
- Comb the hair to one side, following the natural parting.
- Use a blow-dryer to set the style and add volume if desired.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray for added hold and shine.
- Maintenance: The Ivy League requires regular styling to maintain its shape and definition. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair healthy and hydrated, and visit your barber every 3-4 weeks for a trim to maintain the length and shape.
The Ivy League is a versatile and stylish choice for men who want a modern short hairstyle with a classic twist. Its combination of structure, balance, and sophistication makes it a go-to option for those who want to stand out with a polished and preppy look.
The Textured Crop
The textured crop is a modern and trendy hairstyle that’s perfect for men who want a stylish yet low-maintenance look. This haircut features short hair on the sides and back, with a longer, textured top that adds volume and movement. The textured crop is ideal for men with thick or wavy hair, as the layers and texture enhance the natural volume.
- Classic Textured Crop: The hair is kept short on the sides and back, with a slightly longer top that’s textured for added volume and movement. This version is perfect for men who want a clean and structured look.
- Messy Textured Crop: A more relaxed version that features a messier and more casual appearance. This style is ideal for men who want a laid-back and effortless look.
- Fringed Textured Crop: The top hair is styled forward into a fringe, adding a modern twist to the classic crop. This style is perfect for men who want a trendy and edgy look.
The textured crop is particularly flattering for men with oval, square, or round face shapes, as the added volume and movement help to create a balanced and symmetrical appearance.
- How to Style:
- Start by applying a lightweight styling cream or mousse to damp hair.
- Use your fingers or a comb to create texture and movement in the top hair.
- Allow the hair to air-dry for a natural and relaxed look, or use a blow-dryer for added volume.
- Finish with a texturizing spray or matte clay for added hold and definition.
- Maintenance: The textured crop is a low-maintenance hairstyle that requires minimal styling. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair healthy and hydrated, and visit your barber every 3-4 weeks for a trim to maintain the length and shape.
The textured crop is a versatile and stylish choice for men who want a modern short hairstyle that’s both trendy and easy to manage. Its combination of texture, volume, and movement makes it a go-to option for those who want a laid-back yet fashionable look.
The Caesar Cut
The Caesar cut is a short and classic hairstyle that has been popular for centuries. Characterized by its even length and short fringe, this haircut is perfect for men who want a simple and timeless look. The Caesar cut is particularly well-suited for men with straight or wavy hair and is an excellent option for those who prefer a low-maintenance hairstyle.
- Classic Caesar Cut: The hair is kept short and even all around, with a straight fringe that’s cut horizontally across the forehead. This version is perfect for men who want a clean and structured appearance.
- Textured Caesar Cut: Adds layers and texture to the top hair, giving it a more modern and relaxed appearance. This style is ideal for men with thick or wavy hair.
- Fringed Caesar Cut: The fringe is styled forward and slightly textured, adding a contemporary twist to the classic cut. This style is perfect for men who want a trendy and fashionable look.
The Caesar cut is particularly flattering for men with oval, square, or round face shapes, as the even length and fringe help to create a balanced and symmetrical appearance.
- How to Style:
- Start by applying a lightweight styling cream or gel to damp hair.
- Use a comb to style the fringe forward and create a smooth, even appearance.
- Allow the hair to air-dry for a natural look, or use a blow-dryer for added volume and hold.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray for added hold and shine.
- Maintenance: The Caesar cut is a low-maintenance hairstyle that requires minimal styling. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair healthy and hydrated, and visit your barber every 3-4 weeks for a trim to maintain the length and shape.
The Caesar cut is a timeless and stylish choice for men who want a modern short hairstyle that’s both classic and easy to manage. Its combination of simplicity, structure, and low maintenance makes it a go-to option for those who want a polished and sophisticated look.
The Short Shag
The short shag is a trendy and edgy hairstyle that’s perfect for men who want a stylish yet relaxed look. This haircut features layers and texture throughout the hair, creating a messy and tousled appearance. The short shag is ideal for men with thick or wavy hair, as the layers and texture enhance the natural volume and movement.
- Classic Short Shag: The hair is kept short and layered throughout, creating a relaxed and casual appearance. This version is perfect for men who want a laid-back and effortless look.
- Textured Short Shag: Adds even more layers and texture to the hair, giving it a more modern and edgy appearance. This style is ideal for men who want a trendy and fashionable look.
- Messy Short Shag: A more relaxed version that features a messier and more casual appearance. This style is perfect for men who want a laid-back and effortless look.
The short shag is particularly flattering for men with oval, square, or round face shapes, as the added volume and movement help to create a balanced and symmetrical appearance.
- How to Style:
- Start by applying a lightweight styling cream or mousse to damp hair.
- Use your fingers or a comb to create texture and movement in the hair.
- Allow the hair to air-dry for a natural and relaxed look, or use a blow-dryer for added volume.
- Finish with a texturizing spray or matte clay for added hold and definition.
- Maintenance: The short shag is a low-maintenance hairstyle that requires minimal styling. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair healthy and hydrated, and visit your barber every 3-4 weeks for a trim to maintain the length and shape.
The short shag is a versatile and stylish choice for men who want a modern short hairstyle that’s both trendy and easy to manage. Its combination of texture, volume, and movement makes it a go-to option for those who want a laid-back yet fashionable look.
The Faux Hawk
The faux hawk is a modern and edgy hairstyle that’s perfect for men who want a bold and stylish look. This haircut features short sides and a longer, spiked top that creates the illusion of a mohawk without the commitment. The faux hawk is ideal for men who want a trendy and fashionable look that’s suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
- Classic Faux Hawk: The hair is kept short on the sides and back, with a longer, spiked top that creates a bold and edgy appearance. This version is perfect for men who want a trendy and fashionable look.
- Textured Faux Hawk: Adds layers and texture to the top hair, giving it a more relaxed and natural appearance. This style is ideal for men with thick or wavy hair.
- Disconnected Faux Hawk: The sides are kept very short or faded, creating a sharp contrast with the longer top. This style is perfect for men who want a bold and edgy look.
The faux hawk is particularly flattering for men with oval, square, or round face shapes, as the added height and volume help to create a balanced and symmetrical appearance.
- How to Style:
- Start by applying a strong-hold styling gel or wax to damp hair.
- Use your fingers to spike the top hair and create the faux hawk shape.
- Use a blow-dryer to set the style and add volume if desired.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray for added hold and shine.
- Maintenance: The faux hawk requires regular styling to maintain its shape and definition. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair healthy and hydrated, and visit your barber every 3-4 weeks for a trim to maintain the length and shape.
The faux hawk is a versatile and stylish choice for men who want a modern short hairstyle that’s both trendy and easy to manage. Its combination of texture, volume, and movement makes it a go-to option for those who want a laid-back yet fashionable look.
The High and Tight
The high and tight is a classic and military-inspired hairstyle that’s perfect for men who want a clean and polished look. This haircut features very short sides and back, with a slightly longer top that creates a structured and defined appearance. The high and tight is ideal for men who prefer a low-maintenance hairstyle that’s suitable for both professional settings and casual occasions.
- Classic High and Tight: The hair is kept very short on the sides and back, with a slightly longer top that creates a clean and structured appearance. This version is perfect for men who want a polished and professional look.
- Textured High and Tight: Adds layers and texture to the top hair, giving it a more relaxed and natural appearance. This style is ideal for men with thick or wavy hair.
- Disconnected High and Tight: The sides are kept very short or faded, creating a sharp contrast with the longer top. This style is perfect for men who want a bold and edgy look.
The high and tight is particularly flattering for men with oval, square, or round face shapes, as the structured and defined appearance helps to create a balanced and symmetrical look.
- How to Style:
- Start by applying a lightweight styling cream or mousse to damp hair.
- Use a comb to style the top hair into place and create a smooth and even appearance.
- Allow the hair to air-dry for a natural look, or use a blow-dryer for added volume and hold.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray for added hold and shine.
- Maintenance: The high and tight is a low-maintenance hairstyle that requires minimal styling. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair healthy and hydrated, and visit your barber every 3-4 weeks for a trim to maintain the length and shape.
The high and tight is a versatile and stylish choice for men who want a modern short hairstyle that’s both classic and easy to manage. Its combination of simplicity, structure, and low maintenance makes it a go-to option for those who want a polished and sophisticated look.
The Taper Cut
The taper cut is a classic and versatile hairstyle that’s perfect for men who want a clean and polished look. This haircut features short sides and back that gradually taper into a longer top, creating a smooth and seamless transition. The taper cut is ideal for men who want a stylish yet low-maintenance hairstyle that’s suitable for both professional settings and casual occasions.
- Classic Taper Cut: The hair is kept short on the sides and back, with a longer top that creates a smooth and seamless transition. This version is perfect for men who want a polished and professional look.
- Textured Taper Cut: Adds layers and texture to the top hair, giving it a more relaxed and natural appearance. This style is ideal for men with thick or wavy hair.
- Disconnected Taper Cut: The sides are kept very short or faded, creating a sharp contrast with the longer top. This style is perfect for men who want a bold and edgy look.
The taper cut is particularly flattering for men with oval, square, or round face shapes, as the smooth and seamless transition helps to create a balanced and symmetrical appearance.
- How to Style:
- Start by applying a lightweight styling cream or mousse to damp hair.
- Use a comb to style the top hair into place and create a smooth and even appearance.
- Allow the hair to air-dry for a natural look, or use a blow-dryer for added volume and hold.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray for added hold and shine.
- Maintenance: The taper cut is a low-maintenance hairstyle that requires minimal styling. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair healthy and hydrated, and visit your barber every 3-4 weeks for a trim to maintain the length and shape.
The taper cut is a versatile and stylish choice for men who want a modern short hairstyle that’s both classic and easy to manage. Its combination of simplicity, structure, and low maintenance makes it a go-to option for those who want a polished and sophisticated look.
James Wilson combines a love for hair styling with a commitment to hair health in his informative and engaging articles. As a professional stylist, he understands the importance of both aesthetics and hair care, offering readers well-rounded advice on achieving beautiful, healthy hair. James’s easy-to-follow tips and expert knowledge make him a beloved contributor to Stylishhairz.com.