Appearance isn’t everything but it counts for a lot when your hair is the first or second thing people clock when they look at you. Men’s haircuts have gone through some serious renovation, the 1980s were just so bad. Glam-rock did a number on so many scalps while lining the pockets of hairspray companies. Then again the 1990s mullets weren’t amazing either.
But come 2022 and you’re looking for a trim, what should you go for to enhance your look and make you feel good about yourself, while potentially attracting the odd nice comment your way. Here are 10 we recommend for the contemporary man.
1. Textured Pompadour Haircut
Outrageously popular with celebrities; the textured pompadour combines short sides with a longer top to give some contrast and sophistication. Elvis Presley rocked it clean-shaven while David Beckham sports it with a well-kept beard these days. It’s an incredibly versatile style that lends itself to most faces and fashions.
2. Messy Waves Hairstyle
Ever wanted to get out of bed and just get on with your day with zero attention to your hair? Well, this is the next best thing. If you’ve got wavy hair just grow it out so it has some length and apply a small amount of product so it shows you styled it. It can be difficult to strike the balance between total bedhead and too much gel, but when you’ve mastered it you’ll be the king of this casual do.
3. Slicked Back Haircut
The slicked-back haircut speaks volumes. It’s become a mainstay of the hip professional man in the office as well as the city slicker. While trends have seen the slick-back weave in and out of ultra-popularity it remains a great choice if you’ve got the head of hair.
Be mindful however it’s easy to overuse the product with this one; so you can end up with hair that looks heavy rather than slick.
4. Side-Part Hairstyle
Can any other style scream stylish businessman more than the side parting? While appearing short; this actually requires more hair to pull off well and typically looks best with thick straight hair. Once you’ve got it cut you need little more than product and a comb to craft your perfect look. Just pull the hair over to your favourite side and there you go.
5. Long Wavy Hair
There’s a very fine line to walk when it comes to growing your hair out. Everyone thinks it’s a given that after X months their hair will be on the floor and it’ll be great. Usually your sprouts all over and at different rates. If you’re patient enough and get it neatened up on occasion then long hair can work for you. While anyone can objectively grow their hair, wavy hair typically suits growing out long as it flows better.
It’s best to retain the groomed image by keeping it fresh; if you do so you’re likely to stand out with glances often going your way. Be sure to check out our specialist article on long hair for more information.
6. Buzz Cut
An absolute classic. Simple and true to its name, the electric hair buzzer is simply set and goes all around making everything short. It dips in and out of popular culture but never disappears. While the list of popular endorsements is endless; Jason Statham, Kanye West, and Ryan Reynolds are to name a few.
Be wary not to go to the next level however as the ‘shaved head’ isn’t nearly as popular as the buzz cut and conjures imagery of English football hooligans.
7. Short Dreads
Dreadlocks can often get a bad name for being unwashed and less-than-pleasing odours. Yet short dreadlocks are often a lot more manageable. While the upkeep can be troublesome; not mentioning the time and cost of the specialist shampoo and products you’ll need – if you’re dedicated you can rock this timeless look. If you get used to them and don’t mind the maintenance, grow them even longer.
8. Undercut Hairstyle
The undercut is a modern-day classic which isn’t going away anytime soon. In fact, there’s little to separate this from the ‘short-back-and-sides’ of yesteryear excluding contemporary styling and possibly keeping all the length on the top.
Short on the sides, party on the top. The undercut works with all hair types and can be cut in two distinct manners; the faded or the disconnected. They fade gradually sees the hair increase in volume while its counterpart is a stark contrast with shaved meeting long.
9. Short Curly Hair with a Trimmed Beard
This combination is the full package for giving off vibes. The short curly hair denotes playfulness and approachability; while the trimmed beard enforces masculinity and power. Use more or less product on top to adjust your formal/casual compass and define this complete look.
10. Caesar Cut
There might not be another haircut that beats the Caesar cut for longevity, given its origins date back to the Roman Emperor of the same name.
Remember the buzz cut from earlier? Well buzz the back and sides but not the top, and ensure you’ve got a tight horizontal fringe. The Caesar cut defines power and distinction with its stark differences in length and harsh angles.
General FAQ
What men’s hairstyles are in right now?
Judging from the amount of them in popular society any variation of a quiff or some slicked-back element is the most in right now.
What are the most popular men’s hairstyles?
All 10 of the styles above are currently very popular. But the most visible is likely to be the pompadour, the undercut, and the slicked back.
Which one should I get?
Look at your hair and consider the texture of your hair. That’ll determine what will look best with your hair. What have you had before and did you like it? Also, ask your barber what they think. They work with hair all day long – so can probably point you in the right direction.