Best Short Haircuts For Men: Top Stylish Looks

Looking to upgrade your look? Short haircuts for men are the ultimate choice for a stylish, masculine, and low-maintenance vibe. Whether you want to stand out or keep it sharp for work, short hairstyles offer versatility and confidence. From timeless classics to modern trends, you’ll discover a variety of cuts that suit every personality and lifestyle. Explore the top short haircuts for men and find the perfect style to elevate your grooming game today!

Why Short Haircuts For Men Are Great

Short haircuts for men are perfect for those seeking fresh, manageable, and masculine styles that fit any occasion. These cuts are adaptable, easy to maintain, and can complement various hair textures and face shapes. Whether you’re in the office or out on the weekend, short men’s hairstyles offer unbeatable flexibility and effortless charm.

Benefits of Short Haircuts For Men:

Low-maintenance and quick styling.
Keeps you cool and comfortable year-round.
Works well with professional or casual outfits.
Complements beards and facial hair effortlessly.

Top 21 Short Haircuts For Men

1. Crew Cut

Description

The crew cut is a classic, short haircut for men that offers a clean, neat appearance. This style features slightly longer hair on top with closely cropped sides and back, typically paired with a fade or undercut for modern contrast. The top can be styled in different ways, including textured, messy, or side-swept. It’s a timeless, low-maintenance look that works for most face shapes and hair types.

Benefits

Low-maintenance and easy to style.
Works with all face shapes.
Perfect for professional settings.
Can be worn textured for volume.
Great for active lifestyles.

Consideration

May expose scalp for those with thinning hair.
Requires regular trims to maintain shape.

2. Comb Over

Description

The comb over is a sophisticated short haircut for men that combines longer hair on top with shorter sides, often blended with a fade or undercut. This versatile style can be adapted with low, mid, or high fades, making it suitable for both formal and casual occasions. The comb over’s defining feature is the side-swept top, which creates a structured, elegant appearance while allowing for creative personal styling.

Benefits

Elegant and versatile for any occasion.
Works with straight, wavy, or thick hair.
Looks great with a hard part for definition.
Can easily be styled with pomade.
Suitable for both young professionals and mature men.

Consideration

Needs regular styling to hold the part.
Can fall flat without proper hair product.

3. Fade

Description

The fade is a modern, low-maintenance haircut for men that focuses on the gradual blending of hair from short to shorter on the sides and back. Fades can be low, mid, or high, creating subtle or sharp contrasts with the top hair length. This adaptable technique complements many styles, from textured crops to slick backs. Its clean finish and easy upkeep make it a go-to choice for stylish, everyday grooming.

Benefits

Sharp and modern appearance.
Works with nearly all hairstyles.
Easy to maintain with occasional touch-ups.
Can be customized: low, mid, or high fade.
Blends seamlessly for a sleek look.

Consideration

Frequent barber visits required to keep the fade sharp.
Not ideal if you prefer uniform hair length.

4. Quiff

Description

The quiff is a stylish short haircut for men that adds height and volume to the front of the hair while keeping the sides short with a fade or undercut. It’s typically styled by brushing the top hair upwards and back, using pomade or wax for a natural or polished look. The quiff offers a balance between classic and contemporary, making it a versatile and fashionable haircut that suits various face shapes.

Benefits

Adds noticeable volume and texture.
Perfect for formal and casual occasions.
Can be worn messy or polished.
Flatters most face shapes.
Looks great with a beard.

Consideration

Requires daily styling and blow-drying.
Not suitable for extremely fine hair.

5. Buzz Cut

Description

The buzz cut is an ultra-short, military-inspired haircut for men that features an even length all over the head. Some modern versions include a fade on the sides and a line-up to sharpen the hairline. Known for its simplicity and masculine edge, the buzz cut is one of the easiest styles to maintain. It’s especially popular among guys seeking a rugged, clean-cut look that requires minimal daily grooming.

Benefits

Extremely low-maintenance.
Highlights facial structure.
Great for active lifestyles.
Keeps you cool in warm climates.
Can complement facial hair well.

Consideration

Exposes scalp and uneven growth patterns.
Offers limited styling options.

6. French Crop Top

Description

The French crop top is a trendy short haircut for men that features short sides and back with a slightly longer, textured fringe. This cut is often combined with a fade to highlight the contrast between the lengths. The top is typically styled forward, giving the haircut a modern, casual vibe. Ideal for thick, straight, or wavy hair, this style is easy to manage and works well with minimal styling products.

Benefits

Easy to style with minimal product.
Frames the face attractively.
Suits thick, straight, or wavy hair.
Pairs well with skin fades.
Offers a modern, trendy vibe.

Consideration

Fringe requires regular trimming.
Not ideal for curly or highly textured hair.

7. Messy Hair

Description

Messy hair is a relaxed short hairstyle for men that offers an effortlessly cool and casual vibe. The look features short to medium-length hair on top with shorter, often faded sides. It’s typically styled by tousling the hair with a light styling product to create a loose, disheveled finish. Perfect for those who prefer a carefree appearance, this style embraces natural texture while remaining trendy and easy to maintain.

Benefits

Quick, easy styling with your hands.
Works with most hair types.
Creates a youthful, carefree appearance.
Can be worn with fades or undercuts.
Looks great even as it grows out.

Consideration

May appear unpolished in formal settings.
Can lose structure without light product.

8. Undercut

Description

The undercut is a bold, short haircut for men where the sides and back are clipped to a uniform short length while the top remains significantly longer. This creates a distinct contrast that highlights the top style, whether it’s slicked back, spiked, or combed over. The undercut can be worn as a disconnected or blended look, providing a striking, versatile option for guys wanting a sharp, fashionable edge.

Benefits

Clean, striking contrast between top and sides.
Suits various hair textures and styles.
Can be combined with slick backs, pompadours, or comb overs.
Looks sharp with facial hair.
Easy to maintain the sides.

Consideration

The sharp contrast may not suit all workplaces.
Requires regular trims to maintain clean lines.

9. Slicked Back Hair

Description

Slicked back hair is a polished short hairstyle for men where the hair on top is combed straight back for a smooth, sleek finish. It’s commonly paired with faded or undercut sides to emphasize the clean silhouette. This style works best with straight, thick hair and is held in place using pomade, wax, or gel. Slicked back hair combines classic appeal with modern edge, perfect for professional or social settings.

Benefits

Great for thick, straight hair.
Suitable for formal or business looks.
Can be worn shiny or textured.
Pairs well with beards and fades.
Keeps hair out of the face.

Consideration

Requires strong hold products to stay in place.
Can appear greasy if over-styled.

10. Spiky Hair

Description

Spiky hair is a fun, short hairstyle for men that features short sides with a textured top styled into distinct spikes. Often combined with a taper fade or undercut, the spiky style has regained popularity for its bold, youthful appearance. Styling typically involves using a matte wax or clay to create thick, structured spikes that stay in place. It’s a versatile look that can be sharp or slightly messy depending on preference.

Benefits

Modern, edgy style with volume.
Easy to spike with minimal effort.
Works with most face shapes.
Ideal for younger men or teens.
Great with faded or undercut sides.

Consideration

Spikes may droop without quality products.
Not as suited for formal environments.

11. Blowout

Men Style Lab — *Image Source: menshairstylestoday.com*

Description

The blowout is a voluminous short hairstyle for men that keeps the sides short and blends them into longer hair on top that’s brushed up and back. This creates a lifted, airy look that adds texture and movement. Often combined with a taper fade, the blowout offers a modern, breezy style that works well with most hair types. Proper styling requires a blow dryer and quality hair products to maintain volume.

Benefits

Adds volume and dimension.
Works well with fades.
Can be customized with messy or sleek finishes.
Great for all hair textures.
Pairs well with facial hair.

Consideration

Requires styling time with a blow dryer.
May flatten without a strong hold product.

12. Side Part

Description

The side part is a timeless short haircut for men that emphasizes a clean, structured appearance. Featuring short, faded sides and longer hair on top, the defining characteristic is a prominent side part that creates natural separation. The style can be worn with either a shiny, slicked finish or a matte, textured look depending on the desired vibe. The side part’s versatility makes it perfect for both professional and casual settings.

Benefits

Professional and timeless appearance.
Easy to maintain and style.
Works with most face shapes.
Can be formal or casual.
Looks great with or without a hard part.

Consideration

Needs styling products for a firm hold.
May not suit very curly hair without modification.

13. Faux Hawk

Description

The faux hawk is a stylish, edgy short haircut for men that mimics the classic mohawk without the extreme shaved sides. It features shorter sides, often faded, with a longer, spiked center section styled towards the middle. This versatile look is popular among younger men and those seeking a modern, rebellious edge. The faux hawk can be easily adjusted for subtle or bold impact, making it suitable for different occasions.

Benefits

Trendy and youthful style.
Easy to customize the length and height.
Works well with textured products.
Suitable for most hair types.
Can be dressed up or down.

Consideration

Requires daily styling for best results.
May not suit conservative workplaces.

14. High and Tight

Description

The high and tight is a military-inspired short haircut for men that features very short sides and back, usually faded to the skin, with slightly longer hair on top. Known for its sharp, masculine look, this low-maintenance style is perfect for those who prefer a clean, functional haircut. It works well for all hair types and face shapes, providing an effortlessly neat appearance that stays stylish with minimal daily grooming.

Benefits

Extremely easy to manage.
Keeps you cool in hot climates.
Great for athletic lifestyles.
Pairs well with facial hair.
Offers a sharp, masculine profile.

Consideration

Limited styling versatility.
Needs regular trims to maintain the tight fade.

15. Ivy League

Description

The Ivy League is a refined, short haircut for men that combines the sharpness of a crew cut with the elegance of a side part. It features tapered sides with longer hair on top, typically styled to the side for a polished finish. This preppy, collegiate-inspired style works well in both professional and social settings. The Ivy League offers a balanced, sophisticated appearance that’s easy to maintain while still looking fresh.

Benefits

Professional and polished appearance.
Can be worn casually or formally.
Easy to style with lightweight products.
Works with most hair textures.
Complements clean-shaven or bearded looks.

Consideration

Requires precise trimming to maintain balance.
May not provide volume for thin hair.

16. Fringe

Fringe Haircuts — *Image Source: menshairstylestoday.com*

Description

The fringe is a contemporary short hairstyle for men that highlights longer bangs styled forward across the forehead. Paired with tapered or faded sides, this look offers a youthful, fashion-forward edge. The fringe can be worn structured or messy, making it adaptable to personal style and hair texture. Popular among teens and young adults, the fringe haircut is a great way to soften facial features and add visual interest to short hair.

Fringe Hairstyle Men — *Image Source: menshairstylestoday.com*

Benefits

Frames the face well.
Offers a youthful, trendy appearance.
Great for straight and wavy hair.
Can be styled neat or messy.
Pairs well with skin fades.

Consideration

May require frequent trims to keep fringe manageable.
Not ideal for very curly or coarse hair.

17. Mohawk

Description

The mohawk is a bold short haircut for men that features shaved or faded sides with a prominent strip of longer hair running from the front to the back of the head. Modern mohawks often use fades instead of fully shaved sides for a more wearable version. This striking style can be styled upright with gel or wax for maximum impact. The mohawk is perfect for those seeking an edgy, standout appearance.

Mohawk Fade Haircuts — *Image Source: menshairstylestoday.com*

Benefits

Iconic, standout style.
Highly customizable length and width.
Works well with high-hold styling products.
Can be adapted to skin fades.
Pairs well with facial hair for added edge.

Consideration

Not suited for formal or conservative settings.
Requires styling time to maintain height.

18. Pompadour

Short Pompadour. — *Image Source: menshairstylestoday.com*

Description

The pompadour is a classic, voluminous short haircut for men that showcases extra height and fullness at the front, gradually tapering toward the back. Typically combined with faded or undercut sides, the pompadour is styled by sweeping the hair up and back using pomade or wax. This high-impact look is both timeless and modern, offering a polished, stylish appearance that suits confident men who enjoy maintaining a well-groomed, statement hairstyle.

Pompadour Fade Undercut — *Image Source: menshairstylestoday.com*

Benefits

Adds significant height and volume.
Looks sharp with fades or undercuts.
Works with thick, straight, or wavy hair.
Can be dressed up or down.
Perfect for confident, style-forward men.

Consideration

Requires blow-drying and daily styling
Not ideal for men with very fine hair.

19. Side Swept Undercut

Side Swept Undercut Haircuts — *Image Source: menshairstylestoday.com*

Description

The side swept undercut is a trendy, short haircut for men that combines closely clipped sides with a longer, flowing top swept to one side. The dramatic contrast between the top and the undercut creates a bold, fashion-forward silhouette. This style works well with thick, straight, or wavy hair and can be finished with a lightweight cream or pomade for natural movement. It’s perfect for those seeking a stylish, versatile option.

Short Side Swept Undercut — *Image Source: menshairstylestoday.com*

Benefits

Offers a modern, fashionable look.
Works well with light styling creams.
Perfect for medium to short top lengths.
Complements most face shapes.
Easy to style with fingers or comb.

Consideration

Requires upkeep to maintain undercut contrast.
May need frequent product application for hold.

20. Short Hair with Beard

Description

Short hair with a beard is a rugged, masculine style combination that balances neat, cropped hair with facial hair for added depth and character. Whether paired with a fade, undercut, or classic short style, this look provides a striking contrast between the sharp hairlines and the fuller beard. Maintaining clean edges and a well-groomed beard is key to achieving a refined finish. This pairing is ideal for men who enjoy bold, defined styles.

Short Hairstyles with Beard — *Image Source: menshairstylestoday.com*

Benefits

Adds masculine dimension to short styles.
Works with almost any haircut.
Allows personal expression through beard styles.
Keeps maintenance focused on grooming.
Pairs well with fades, undercuts, or buzz cuts.

Consideration

Requires regular beard grooming.
Balance between hair and beard length is key.

21. Very Short Haircuts

Description

Very short haircuts for men include styles like buzz cuts, skin fades, and high and tights, focusing on maximum simplicity and minimal maintenance. These haircuts often expose the scalp, creating a fresh, clean look that’s perfect for hot climates or active lifestyles. Easy to manage and requiring little to no styling products, very short cuts are popular among men who prioritize convenience, functionality, and a sharp, no-nonsense appearance that’s always in style.

Benefits

Extremely low-maintenance.
Perfect for hot climates.
Quick, easy grooming.
Suitable for all face shapes.
Can self-cut with clippers.

Consideration

Minimal styling variety.
May fully expose scalp and hairline imperfections.

Conclusion

Short haircuts for men offer endless possibilities to achieve stylish, masculine, and low-maintenance looks. Whether you prefer timeless classics or modern trends, these short styles can easily complement your lifestyle and elevate your appearance. Explore these versatile short haircuts for men and confidently make your next barbershop choice.