Effortlessly showing the world your keen sense of style starts with a great haircut. Delve into a curated selection of the best short haircuts for men, blending timeless classics with modern flair to elevate your grooming game.
Choosing the perfect cut is a bold way to express yourself, offering a polished, low-maintenance look especially appealing with the current trend towards longer styles. Committing to the perfect style ensures your hair stands out. This year’s selection of short hairstyles for men is not to be missed for those looking to make a sophisticated statement.
Fond as we are of the recent move towards longer, shaggy men’s haircuts (think early-nineties Kurt Cobain or new-wave mullet haircut), a sharper-than-sharp short cut is the perfect time-saving tool when getting ready in the morning.
“Cuts on the longer side take more time to style and maintain, while shorter cuts need little, if any, work at all,” says Steve Robinson from multi-award-winning salon chain Electric. “That said, they don’t always have the flexibility to suit different looks, so ensure you’re happy with a ‘one does for all’ approach.”
It’s not as simple as barking “short back and sides” at a barber, either. Doing so will likely result in an unremarkable snip rather than something that will turn heads. Instead, take time to understand the different short hairstyles for men, and have a conversation with a stylist about which might suit your face shape and overall look.
Best Short Haircuts for Men
It’s also possible to ‘accessorize’ men’s short haircuts with details such as a fade (often incorporated into the Edgar haircut) — take your pick from tapered, high, skin or scissored techniques — or texture on slightly longer styles, perfect for unruly hair or those with cow’s licks.
As for maintenance, you need less of everything except time in the barbers. You can get away with shampooing less frequently (once every three to four days will suffice) and you’ll require less product than medium-length hairstyles like the quiff. However, the style will visibly grow out faster, so aim to rebook every few weeks — and browse some of the best short haircuts for men to take with you, below.
1. High and Tight
One of the most universally flattering short haircuts for men, the high and tight, is clean and smart. This classic cut is popular within the military and combines skin-shaved sides with a length on top and is an excellent option for men with thinner hair. For celebrity inspiration, look no further than everyone’s man crush, David Beckham.
2. Ivy League
The Ivy League perfectly embodies the on-trend ‘old money’ aesthetic. Short sides paired with the subtle volume on top make this one of the best short haircuts for men looking for a preppy style. Play around with length to suit your tastes but keep the proportions in check to stay true to the original.
3. Crew Cut
Are you a low-maintenance guy who doesn’t want to spend much time grooming? Then check out the crew cut. This short haircut for men is minimalistic and timeless. To achieve the look, closely trim the hair at the back and sides but keep more hair on top, leaving strands longer at the front of the head for a graduated finish.
4. Buzz Cut
A buzz cut is undoubtedly one of the best haircuts for men with oval or oblong face shapes hoping to balance proportions. What’s more, a buzz cut is one of the few short hairstyles men can achieve at home. So grab some good-quality clippers, set them to a No.1 or 2, and shave evenly all over the head.
5. Buzz Cut With Line-Up
Adding a line-up to a more stylized version of the original buzz cut creates a modern, fashion-forward finish. Sharp, solid edges will frame and draw attention to the face, so this trim is worn best by confident men who like to stand out. A buzz cut is one of the few short hairstyles men can do with little or no grooming.
6. Bowl Cut
In the 60s and 80s, the bowl cut was one of the most cutting-edge men’s hairstyles. Today’s modern version, though, is way cooler. It’s edgy, messy, and masculine, with an even-cut fringe sitting mid-forehead and a textured top with buzzcut sides. An evolving style, it is one of the best short haircuts for men.
7. Butch Cut
A butch cut is up there with the best short haircuts for men whose mission is not to spend too much time styling their hair. The hair is cut very short, military-style, and looks good paired with an undercut or fade on the back and sides. What’s more, it’s easy to achieve the style at home using clippers.
8. Caesar Cut
From ancient Rome to the red carpet, the Caesar cut is timeless. It features short hair on the sides, top, and back with the top brushed forward to highlight the fringe. It’s ideal for anyone with thinning hair on top and is one of the best short haircuts for men with an oval, diamond, or square face shape.
9. Undercut
Sleek, stylish, and in the moment, an undercut is one of those short haircuts for men looking to stand out from the crowd. It showcases strong features, and while the back and sides of the head are buzzed or cut closely, it leaves some length on top to emphasize volume.
10. Edgar Haircut
Another take on the Caesar cut, the Edgar features a high skin fade blended into a short Caesar cut. There are some short haircuts for men you’ll either love or hate. It’s a bold style, whichever side of the fence you sit on. Short, manageable, and ideal for oblong, oval, and pointed face shapes.
11. Disconnected Undercut
Are you wondering what the main difference is between an undercut and a disconnected undercut? In a nutshell, a classic undercut blends gradually, while the disconnected version creates a dramatic contrast between the top length and shaved sides with no fading. As a result, short haircuts for men can often pack a punch and don’t go unnoticed.
12. Short Hair With Hard Part
If you’re searching for a simple way to freshen up your short hairstyle, consider a hard part. A precise, thin line shaved down the side parting, a hard part, often separates two sections of the head that have different hair lengths. Think quiff, fade or a comb-over and undercut. Short haircuts for men rock, so go hard or go home!
13. Soft Part
If it’s good enough for George Clooney, it has to be one of the best short haircuts for men. There are two ways to create a soft part. For a professional look, make the parting using a comb. Alternatively, if you’re happy with a more relaxed vibe, separate the hair using your fingers. Either way, this is a red carpet look for aspirational guys.
14. French Crop
Oh, la la! Europeans have a reputation for exuding effortless, classy style, and the French crop is no exception. Ask your barber to complement the short hair around your head with a fringe section. The French crop is just one of the short haircuts for men suitable for both straight and curly hair, adding attractive definition and texture.
15. Short Dreadlocks
Did you know Rastafarians coined the term ‘dreadlocks‘ in the 50s? It referred to “living in dread of God.” You don’t need to be religious to choose this style, though. These days, dreadlocks can symbolize a natural, free spirit. Coil, braid, or twist; there is more than one way to achieve these meaningful short haircuts for men.
16. Military Cut
From the butch cut to the crew cut, buzz cut, regulation cut, and more, if you’re looking for a hassle-free military vibe, there isn’t a one-hairstyle-suits-all. So before you decide which style you want to sign up for, talk to your barber about all of the short haircuts for men available in this genre.
17. Regulation Cut
This military-style cut often features a side part, making it top of the most suitable short haircuts for men on a mission. The trim features longer hair on the top with faded or shaved sides. To make this look full-on, Officer and a Gentleman, pair it with a clean-shaven face. It works for straight and curly hair.
18. Comb-Over
We can thank George Clooney for making a comb-over one of the most sought-after short haircuts for men. To rock this movie-star cut, part the hair to the side and comb across the head. The sides are short, while in comparison, the top is longer, making it perfect for anyone with early-onset hair thinning or balding.
19. Flat Top
This style features upright hair on top with tapered short or shaved sides to make a box-like top. This retro-style made famous by celebs such as MC Rakim in the 80s is today, topping the short haircuts for men charts. If you want to flaunt your flat top, you’ll need to visit your barber for regular trims.
20. Line Up Short
To get this look, your barber will straighten the hairline by using clippers to line up and shave straight lines and sharp, precise angles into the hairline, parting, or temples. This clean-cut will draw attention to the striking shapes it creates. Some short haircuts for men say a lot about your personality, so let yours do the talking.
21. Short Spiky Hair
Short spiky hair was the most popular short haircut for men in the 90s. That doesn’t mean this style isn’t current; ask Adam Levine. For the full effect, you’ll need to style your hair after washing with matte-effect products. Reach for a styling paste or clay and separate strands into textured spikes.
22. Short Mullet
Mullets are as much a part of the eighties as leg warmers, neon, and spandex. They are a style that proves retro short haircuts for men are a fun, attention-grabbing look for the guy who doesn’t take himself too seriously. The modern mullet brings a fresh take to the short in the front, long in the back cut with taper fade sides.
23. Mohawk Fade
The Mohawk hairstyle was a big, bold symbol of anarchism during the punk era. These days, they are one of the less extreme short haircuts for men and far more mainstream. If you have a rebellious side, ask your barber to leave a long strip of hair down the center of your head and fade the sides.
24. Faux Hawk
The faux hawk is the best short haircut for men who love the original Mohawk style but aren’t prepared to go all the way. The sides are clipped close to the head rather than shaved. Meanwhile, in subtle contrast, the top length is shorter than on a regular Mohawk. What’s more, this version requires less styling and maintenance.
25. Faux Hawk With Fringe Cut And Fade
Take the faux hawk one step further by asking your barber to incorporate a fringe and fade. A longer top section and fringe means plenty of hair to play with, so you can customize the look to match your style. The best short haircuts for men are versatile, so go messy and brooding like Zayn Malik or cool and sleek à la Cristiano Ronaldo.
26. Low Fade With Faux Hawk
A faux hawk is less rebellious than a Mohawk making it more office-friendly. No need to buzz or shave the sides of the head. Instead, your barber will create a taper fade on the sides with longer hair on top. Short haircuts for men are popular with celebs, and this look is one of Zac Efron’s favorites.
27. Bald Fade With Short Mohawk
Sexy and smooth, this style makes a statement. Keep it short, and taper the hair into the skin to create contrast. A bald fade with a short Mohawk is more workplace-friendly than a high or mid fade. But any form of Mohawk is up there on the list of stand-out short haircuts for men.
28. High Fade
If you are looking for compliments, then a high fade tops the short haircuts for men chart and will guarantee you get those admiring looks. Modern and sleek with longer hair on the top blending downward to very short hair on the sides and back, it’s a top trending style.
29. Burst Fade
Unlike a drop fade, the burst fade focuses on the hairline’s edge and behind the ear. The great thing about this fresh style is that it works for curly and straight hair. It also couples well with lots of hairstyles. What’s more, it’s on the list of short haircuts for men that work well for all ethnicities.
30. Drop Fade With Slicked Back
The slick back is a retro look, dating back to rocker styles of the 50s. Combine it with a drop fade, though, which tapers down the back of the head to the neckline, and it’s a whole new ball game. It’s one of the very best short haircuts for men to take you beyond 9-5.
31. Mid Fade With Pompadour
Short haircuts for men are trending, and it’s time to go head to head with the mid-fade pompadour. Made famous by Elvis, the pompadour remains popular today, thanks to its old-school, classy appearance. For best results, you’ll need around 4-in of length on top so that the strands are long enough to sit flat when brushed back.
32. Mid Fade With Brushed Back Hair
Need inspiration for work-friendly short haircuts for men? Keeping your hair professional needn’t be boring. Try pairing a mid fade with brushed-back hair for a style that looks expensive and sophisticated. The secret to holding the style in place is to brush it back and apply pomade while the hair is still damp.
33. Low Fade
New to the world of fades? If you’re feeling hesitant, start with a low fade which is a more subtle way to wear one of these on-trend short haircuts for men. Your barber will start the fading process around ear level, creating a softer contrast between the skin-shaved areas and the length on top.
34. Bald Fade
Short haircuts for men are infinitely versatile, and a bald fade is a perfect partner to many styles. A bald fade will add a pinch of extra spice to quiffs, slick backs, pompadours, and more. A typical fade may take the hair down to a No. 2, while a bald fade blends to skin level.
35. Taper Fade With Slick Back
A taper fade refers to hair blended from one length to another, but in a more gradual and subtle way than with a skin or bald fade. If you are a corporate man, pair your taper fade with a dapper slick back. It’s an immaculate hairstyle that will maintain your professional image. Short haircuts for men mean business!
36. Short Fringe
Not all short haircuts for men are high maintenance, and a short fringe is hassle-free. Style it out by sweeping it to the side, spike it up for an edgy vibe, or brush it forward. Messy, angular, blunt, and more, there are lots of banging options. Better yet, a short fringe will always be on-trend.
37. Short Curly Fringe With Fade
A fade emphasizes a short curly fringe and will leave a lasting great first impression to create one of the most statement short haircuts for men. However, curly hair is often unruly, so to tame the look, use matte hair clay to keep the sides smooth and show off the style’s contrasting textures.
38. Fringe With Taper Fade
Some short haircuts for men raise the bar, and a fringe with a taper fade is a confidence-boosting look. In addition, a fringe has an artistic flair, while a taper fade, with the help of a talented barber, is fuss-free. Better yet, there are lots of ways to style a fringe to enhance features and suit different face shapes.
39. Disconnected Pompadour
For short yet thick hair, a disconnected pompadour is a great choice. A blunt break between the long hair on top and the shorter sides are two winning hairstyles that come together to create a cohesive yet dramatic look. It’s what fashion-forward short haircuts for men are all about. Elevate the look with a strong-hold wet finish hair product.
40. Messy French Crop
The best short haircuts for men are timeless. Sexy yet fresh, the messy French crop will tick all the boxes. Here, the hair on top is layered. The hair is then blended with the back and sides and shorter than the top to showcase the contrasting cut. It’s a youthful look that will transition from work to play.
41. Side Part With Quiff
A classic side-parted quiff is all about proportions, so maintain some length around the back and sides. Short haircuts for men are not always about creating a stark contrast. To channel Don Draper’s Mad Men-style, use a high shine product to hold the quiff in place and create that sought-after, glossy 50s finish.
42. Short Curtains
Nineties poster boy Leonardo DiCaprio elevated curtains to heartthrob level. If you have around 5-6-in of length to play with, this iconic short haircut for men could very well be your next look. To achieve the trademark floppy look, leave your center-parted long curtain fringe hitting around eye level and hang fire on using any hair products.
43. Short Textured Hair
A textured crop is one of the best haircuts for men striving for that sexy and disheveled just-rolled-out-of-bed appearance. This style gives the impression its wearer is artsy, laidback, and effortlessly cool. If this sounds like the message you’re trying to convey, then ask your barber for 2-3-in long textured layers with some weight snipped out.
44. Braids For Short Hair
There are so many braid options for men to choose from you’re guaranteed to find plenty of short haircuts for men to suit your vibe and style. However, there is something to keep in mind regarding braids, and that is you’ll need to take them out after 6-8 weeks. Doing this will give the roots some relief and help reduce the risk of unwanted hair loss.
45. Short And Messy
Do you remember the Twilight and One Direction era when it seemed as if Robert Pattinson and Harry Style’s hair was more famous than the men themselves? Messy, tousled tresses are still attractive short haircuts for men. Update this look to meet current trends by pairing a short and messy top with an undercut or fade.
46. Short Waves
Make waves with one of the most iconic short haircuts for men. Waves are a fresh, timeless way for black men to embrace and celebrate their natural hair texture. Better yet, it takes very little length and a bit of wave grease to achieve this look. There are many different options, from 360s to 180s, so visiting a specialist barber is best for the most effective results.
47. Short Layered Haircut
For men with short hair, layers are a great look regardless of hair texture. It’s pretty easy to add volume to all sorts of short haircuts for men. To do this, keep the top the shortest length, the hairline longer, and the middle length cut to create a contrast between each section.
48. Textured Crop
It’s official; textured hair is trending. And this is never more so than the textured crop, one of the hottest short haircuts for men. Waves work well for guys of all ages with wavy, curly, or straight hair. The cut features cropped sides with layered and texture hair on top.
49. Peaky Blinders Haircut
Do you have an oval face and killer cheekbones? Then ask your barber for a No.3 on the back and sides with a cropped textured cut, leaving some length at the front. Brush and blow-dry the hair forward, sweep the fringe across the forehead, and achieve one of the edgiest Peaky Blinder haircuts for men.
50. Side Part
Colin Farrell, Ryan Reynolds. and 007, what do these three hot men have in common? They all have a side part and rock short haircuts for men. This timeless look entails classically cutting the top and sides to create a sophisticated style. It works best with thick hair, but you can still achieve this dapper ‘do’ with fine hair.
51. Short Haircuts For Men With Beards
The best short haircuts for men often get paired with a beard style. When combining your cut with facial hair, there are a few things to consider, such as hair type and the natural ability to grow a beard. From a big bushy beard to a petite goatee, chat to your barber about the best style to suit your face shape.
52. Short Haircut For Thin Hair
The best short haircuts for men with thin hair will make it appear thicker. These include a buzz cut, textured French crop, crew cut, and side part. Avoid hair products that may clump the hair, and opt for hair wax instead. Remember, a barber is your best friend when you have fine hair.
53. Short Haircut For Receding Hairline
There’s no shame in a receding hairline; just ask Matthew McConaughey and Henry Cavil. Likewise, there’s no need to hide your hairline or shave it away when there are short haircuts for men that will help flatter your hair. Opt for styles with a longer top and short sides; think modern comb-over or faux hawk.
54. Short Haircut For Curly Hair
If you have short curly hair, you’re a lucky guy. Although curls can be a challenge, on the plus side, they provide texture and volume, opening up a world of options for short haircuts for men. Style choices include a fade to minimize volume, slick back, comb-over, or even a buzz cut.
55. Short Back And Sides With Comb-Over
A comb-over typically involves sweeping the hair on the top of the head to one side. To showcase your look, you can combine it with a short back and sides haircut to create one of the best short haircuts for men that is presentable, trendy, and a breeze to style.
Short Haircuts for Men FAQ:
What is the best short haircut for men?
The crew cut and buzz cut are the top two trending best short haircuts for men. Next, check out the pompadour, quiff, fade, slick back and comb-over. If you’re looking for more versatility, though, opt for an undercut with a longer top, as this will give you more styling options.
What is the easiest short haircut to maintain?
It’s no surprise that military-style cuts are the easiest short haircuts for men to maintain. They suit most face shapes and are easy to style while still looking on-trend and masculine. A French crop is also a good option if you aren’t quite ready to sign up for this signature look.
