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Ready to ditch the mop and rock a fresh chop? From 1920s grit to this years slickest short haircuts. Check out 50 killer styles for men from fades, crops and buzz cuts, we cover them all.
A killer haircut can reshape your vibe, crank up your confidence, and sharpen your style. Back in the 1920s, short haircuts for men ruled as barbers snipped away Victorian fluff for sleek, bold looks and now in 2025, we remix that grit with fresh new twists.
From razor-sharp fades to tousled modern classics, men’s hair is having a moment. This guide drops 50 epic short haircuts, split into categories to inspire your next chop but, before that, let’s give you some tips on how to decide which short haircuts will suit you.
How to Choose the Best Short Haircut for You
Jump to the haircuts for men.
Finding the perfect short men’s haircut isn’t just about following trends, it’s about choosing a style that complements your face shape, hair type, and personal style. Here are key factors to consider before getting your next cut.
1. Face Shape Matters
Your face shape is the blueprint for picking the right short haircut. It’s not just about what’s trending, it’s what works for you.
Round faces look sharper with short cuts that add height, like a high fade or textured crop. Oval faces can rock pretty much any short style, think buzz cuts or tight side parts. Square faces shine with crisp crew cuts or tapered fades that play up a strong jaw.
2. Consider Your Hair Type
Hair texture’s a big deal when nailing short cuts, get this right, and you’re golden.
Straight hair suits clean, polished looks like side parts or mini pomps. Wavy or curly hair pops with short textured crops or tight undercuts that show off the bounce. Thick hair needs short layers or fades to keep it under control without feeling heavy. Thin or fine hair? Go for a buzz cut or choppy crop to fake some gutsy volume.
3. Lifestyle & Maintenance
Before you commit to a short haircut, ask yourself: how much mirror time do you want? Most short styles are low-fuss, buzz cuts and fades barely need a comb. Slightly longer crops might demand a quick style in the morning, but nothing crazy. Match your haircut to your routine, whether you’re a roll-out-of-bed kinda guy or a bit more deliberate.
The trick? Pick a short haircut that fits your face, hair, and life. Nail that, and you’re walking out of the barber’s chair looking unstoppable.
The Best Short Haircuts
Short haircuts are timeless, low-maintenance, and versatile. Whether you prefer a classic crew cut or a modern textured style, these short haircuts for men offer clean, stylish options for all face shapes. From very short haircuts for men to slightly longer cropped styles, these are the best cuts to consider.
1. Buzz Cut
@vurvesalon
@the.one.salon1
@headshotsbyliliana
The buzz cut is one of the most timeless and very short haircuts for men, offering a clean, low-maintenance look. Achieved with clippers, this style works well for all face shapes and requires minimal styling. Perfect for those who want a tough, no-fuss appearance while keeping things ultra-short.
2. Crew Cut
@glamourhairstyless
@hairstyleformenscom
@salmanhairstudio01
The crew cut is a classic short haircut for men, featuring slightly longer hair on top with shorter, faded sides. It’s a stylish yet professional look that balances a modern aesthetic with easy upkeep, making it a go-to choice for many men who want a sharp and clean-cut style.
3. High and Tight
@_alytristan_
@nicos.cuts_
@beardbeasts
Originally a military haircut, the high and tight is one of the very short haircuts for men with a striking contrast between closely shaved sides and a slightly longer top. This ultra-clean look is easy to maintain and is perfect for men who want a sharp, masculine aesthetic.
4. French Crop
@masbritish
@be_haircut
@iamdavidfalla
A modern favorite, the French crop blends short sides with a cropped fringe, offering a sleek yet edgy look. It’s a top pick among medium short haircuts for men, especially for those who prefer a bit of texture and styling while keeping things effortlessly cool.
5. Ivy League
@blancojakarta
@gracesonhair
@thegreasebarbers
A sophisticated variation of the crew cut, the Ivy League haircut keeps the top slightly longer, allowing for side-swept styling. One of the best short haircuts for men who prefer a polished look, it’s ideal for business settings while still being versatile for casual styling.
6. Caesar Cut
@beardbeastsofficial
@beardbeastsofficial
@beardbeastsofficial
Inspired by Julius Caesar, this cool short haircut for men features a short, even-length cut with a forward-styled fringe. It’s great for those with thinning hair or receding hairlines, as it adds texture and definition to the front without requiring a lot of styling.
7. Short Spiky Hair
@beardbeastsofficial
@latesthair
@petersplacesalon
A fun and energetic short haircut for men, this style features short, choppy layers styled into spikes. Great for younger guys or those looking to add some edge, it works well with fade variations and adds a playful yet masculine vibe to any look.
8. Short Textured Cut
@Hairstyleology
@hairmanz
@beardedbeasts
This cut embraces movement and volume, making it one of the best short haircuts for men who want a slightly messy yet controlled look. The textured top is styled with a matte product for a relaxed, natural finish, while the short sides keep it neat and modern.
9. Flat Top
@club4men
@club4men
@club4men
A bold and structured short haircut for men, the flat top features a squared-off, high-cut top that gives a sharp, retro vibe. Best suited for thick or coarse hair, it’s a standout choice among cool short haircuts for men, offering a unique, eye-catching style.
10. Brush Cut
@fashinisto
@fashinisto
@fashinisto
A men’s brush cut is a sharp, short hairstyle that’s all about clean lines and low maintenance. It’s clipped tight on the sides and back, usually with a fade or taper whilst the top is left slightly longer but buzzed to evenly to stand up like the bristles of a brush. Popular since the mid-20th century, it’s a rugged, no-fuss look that suits most face shapes, especially square or oval, and works best with straight or thick hair.
The Best Medium-Length Haircuts
For men who want balance between length and manageability, medium short haircuts for men provide stylish, adaptable options. These cuts allow for added texture, volume, and movement while still being easy to style. Whether it’s a quiff, pompadour, or messy layered look, these styles offer the perfect mix of casual and professional.
11. Taper Fade with Side Part
@latesthair
@tiyo_barber
@madame.barber
The taper fade with a side part is a refined choice among medium short haircuts for men, blending a gradual fade with a sharp, defined part. This haircut is ideal for those who want a balance between classic and modern, offering a polished yet stylish appearance for both formal and casual occasions.
12. Pompadour
@beardedbeasts
@latest-hairstyles
@mailroombarberco
A timeless style, the pompadour features voluminous hair swept back, creating a bold and elegant look. One of the best short haircuts for men who like a retro touch with a modern twist, it pairs well with fades or undercuts to add contrast and a fresh, updated aesthetic.
13. Modern Mullet
@wellcut_
@aeshthetic.addict
@f.s_change
The modern mullet is a contemporary take on the classic 80s style, with a shorter front and sides while keeping length at the back. A bold, fashion-forward look, it’s a great pick for those who want a unique and edgy cut while still maintaining some structure.
14. Slicked-Back Undercut
A sophisticated and trendy style, the slicked-back undercut features long hair on top combed backward while the sides are clipped short. It’s one of the cool short haircuts for men who want a bold, striking contrast between lengths, offering a sleek and powerful appearance.
15. Bro Flow
The bro flow is a relaxed and effortlessly cool style, making it a top choice among medium short haircuts for men. With hair swept back naturally, this look works well for guys who prefer a laid-back, yet stylish vibe, perfect for wavy or slightly longer hair types.
16. Messy Textured Hair
For men who want a cool short haircut, the messy textured hair look provides volume and dimension while maintaining a carefree, tousled style. It’s perfect for those who prefer a low-maintenance, easy-going aesthetic that still looks effortlessly stylish and modern.
17. Side-Swept Undercut
This haircut combines a voluminous top with neatly clipped sides, offering a stylish contrast that works for both professional and casual settings. The side-swept undercut is one of the best short haircuts for men who want a trendy yet versatile style that suits various hair types.
18. Faux Hawk
A more subtle alternative to the mohawk, the faux hawk keeps the edgy appeal while maintaining wearability for everyday life. One of the cool short haircuts for men, it features a textured top with faded or short sides, creating a dynamic and eye-catching look.
19. Layered Cut
For those who want movement and volume, the layered cut is a top contender among medium short haircuts for men. The varying lengths create depth and texture, making it a great choice for men with thick or wavy hair who prefer a natural, flowing look.
20. Quiff
The quiff is a versatile and stylish choice, often seen as a blend between a pompadour and a modern textured crop. It’s one of the best short haircuts for men, offering volume, movement, and a contemporary edge, making it a favorite for those who want a refined yet trendy appearance.
The Best Long Haircuts
Long hairstyles have become increasingly popular, offering a rugged, stylish, and versatile appeal. From man buns and Viking braids to shaggy layers and surfer waves, these cuts allow men to express personality while embracing their natural hair texture. Whether sleek or wild, long hair provides endless styling possibilities.
21. Braided Styles
Braids offer both a stylish and practical way to manage long hair. Whether it’s cornrows, two-strand twists, or intricate Viking-inspired braids, this style suits men looking for a bold yet low-maintenance option. One of the cool long hairstyles, braids add character while keeping hair secure and manageable.
22. Samurai Bun
The samurai bun is a sleek and structured variation of the man bun, inspired by traditional Japanese warriors. Ideal for men with thick, long hair, this style keeps hair tied high at the crown, creating a sophisticated and powerful look that pairs well with fades or undercuts.
23. Straight & Slick
A polished and elegant choice, straight & slick long hair exudes confidence and refinement. This style works best for men with naturally straight hair, allowing for a smooth, sleek finish. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a clean and sophisticated appearance while embracing longer locks.
24. Curly Long Hair
For men with natural curls, long curly hair is an effortlessly stylish option. Whether left loose or slightly layered for definition, this hairstyle adds movement and volume, making it a standout choice for those wanting to embrace their natural texture while maintaining a modern, relaxed look.
25. Man Bun
The man bun remains a top choice for men growing out their hair, offering a practical yet fashionable way to keep long hair secure. It’s a go-to style for those who want versatility–whether paired with a fade for contrast or worn loose for a casual, laid-back aesthetic.
26. Viking Hair
A rugged and warrior-like look, Viking hair is all about embracing a long, untamed style. Often paired with braids or undercuts, this hairstyle is ideal for men who want a bold, fearless appearance. It’s a powerful statement look that works well with both thick and wavy hair textures.
27. Surfer Waves
Inspired by beach culture, surfer waves are a carefree and relaxed hairstyle that works best with natural waves or curls. This style is perfect for those who prefer a sun-kissed, tousled look, offering effortless movement and volume for a cool, laid-back vibe.
28. Shaggy Layers
A rock-inspired cut, shaggy layers add depth and texture to long hair. This haircut is perfect for men who want a medium-short to long style with a natural, undone feel. Great for wavy or straight hair, it offers movement and a stylishly unkempt look.
29. Dreadlocks
A bold and cultural hairstyle, dreadlocks offer a unique and expressive way to wear long hair. Whether styled in thick locks, thinner twists, or pulled back into a bun, this look stands out while being relatively low-maintenance once properly formed.
30. Half-Up, Half-Down
Combining the best of both worlds, the half-up, half-down style allows men to keep their long hair out of their face while still showcasing its length. A great option for those with Viking hair, dreadlocks, or waves, this look is practical, stylish, and works well for any occasion.
The Best Fade and Undercuts
Fades and undercuts are among the coolest short haircuts for men, offering sharp, defined looks that work with any hairstyle. Whether you prefer a skin fade, low fade, or disconnected undercut, these styles create a clean contrast, elevating everything from classic buzz cuts to modern pompadours.
31. Bald Fade
The bald fade is one of the best short haircuts for men, featuring a clean-shaven fade that seamlessly blends into the skin. This style creates a sharp, modern look and works well with short or medium-length hair on top. It’s a favorite for those who prefer a sleek and polished appearance.
32. Taper Fade
A versatile and stylish option, the taper fade gradually decreases in length, offering a subtle yet refined look. This is one of the most popular medium short haircuts for men, as it works well with various hairstyles, from pompadours to textured crops, making it adaptable to any occasion.
33. Temple Fade
The temple fade, also called the Brooklyn fade, features a sharp, gradual fade around the temples, adding a stylish touch to short or long hairstyles. It’s a great way to enhance a short haircut for men while maintaining a clean yet edgy appearance.
34. Shadow Fade
The shadow fade offers a smooth transition from short to longer hair, creating a subtle gradient effect. This fade is perfect for those who want a natural yet well-blended look, making it one of the cool short haircuts for men looking for a modern yet classic style.
35. Low Fade
A subtle and professional style, the low fade starts lower on the head, making it a great choice for those who want a cleaner look while still keeping some length on top. It pairs well with medium short haircuts for men who prefer a neat and polished appearance.
36. Drop Fade
The drop fade curves downward behind the ears, creating a unique and stylish effect. This variation of the fade adds a modern twist to any haircut, making it a popular choice among those who want a fade with a bit of personality.
37. Skin Fade
A skin fade is one of the very short haircuts for men, featuring a close-cut fade that gradually blends into the skin. This haircut works well with textured tops, pompadours, and even buzz cuts, making it a staple for those who want a bold, clean-cut look.
38. Mid Fade
The mid fade is a perfect balance between the low fade and high fade, offering a clean and stylish blend. It’s ideal for men who want a haircut that’s professional yet modern, making it a popular choice among those who like a cool short haircut.
39. Undercut Fade
The undercut fade is a fusion of the undercut and fade, featuring a dramatic contrast between long hair on top and the closely shaved sides. This is one of the best short haircuts for men who prefer a bold and trendy aesthetic.
40. High Fade
For those who like a sharp and edgy look, the high fade is a standout choice. The fade starts high on the head, emphasizing the length on top and creating a striking contrast. It’s a go-to style for men who want a clean yet stylish haircut.
The Best Unique and Edgy Haircuts
For those who want to stand out, unique and edgy hairstyles push the boundaries of creativity. From mohawks and Edgar cuts to bold dyed hair and shaved designs, these styles showcase individuality and trendsetting confidence. Perfect for men who want a distinctive and fashion-forward look.
41. Curly Undercut
The curly undercut allows men with natural curls to embrace volume on top while keeping the sides short. This style is perfect for those looking for a cool short haircut that highlights their texture while maintaining a modern and structured shape.
42. Takuache Cut
The Takuache cut is a bold and distinctive style featuring a squared-off fringe and a high fade. Popular in Latino communities, this haircut stands out with its sharp lines and modern fade, making it one of the most unique short haircuts for men.
43. Mohawk
The mohawk remains a rebellious and edgy choice, with long hair running down the center of the head and shaved sides. It’s a high-impact look that works well for those who want to make a bold statement with their hairstyle.
44. Hard Part
A hard part is a razor-defined part line that adds a sharp and stylish element to various hairstyles. It works well with short haircuts for men, adding precision and structure to any classic or modern cut.
45. Disconnected Undercut
The disconnected undercut features a dramatic contrast between the long top and the shaved sides, creating a bold, high-fashion look. It’s perfect for men who want a cool short haircut with a strong, defined style.
46. Burst Fade
The burst fade fans out around the ears, creating a unique and stylish look that pairs well with mohawks, textured tops, and even curly styles. This fade is one of the most distinctive options among short haircuts for men.
47. Line-Up (Shape-Up)
A line-up or shape-up defines the hairline with sharp, clean edges, making it a popular addition to fades, buzz cuts, and textured styles. It gives an extra level of precision and a polished finish to any very short haircut for men.
48. Edgar Cut
The Edgar cut is a high-contrast, blunt fringe haircut that has gained popularity in recent years. This style features short, faded sides with a straight-across fringe, making it one of the best short haircuts for men who want an eye-catching, edgy look.
49. Zig-Zag Shaved Design
For men who want to add a unique twist to their fade, zig-zag shaved designs allow for custom patterns and artwork. Whether subtle or dramatic, these designs personalize a short haircut for men, making it an artistic and trendy option.
50. Dyed/Colored Hair
Experimenting with dyed hair is a great way to add personality to any haircut. Whether opting for bold colors like platinum blonde, neon, or subtle highlights, this trend continues to evolve as one of the most creative ways to enhance a cool haircut for men.