Tired of the same old short back and sides? Ready to embrace a little more length and versatility? You’re in the right place. Medium-length hair for men is reigning supreme, offering the perfect balance between low-maintenance and endless styling possibilities. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, there’s a medium-length cut that will elevate your look.
From timeless classics to modern trends, we’ve curated a list of 15 stylish medium hairstyles for men that are sure to inspire your next visit to the barber.
1. The Modern Quiff
A perennial favorite, the quiff is all about volume and height at the front. The modern take on this classic style often features shorter, faded sides to create a striking contrast with the longer hair on top. It’s a versatile look that can be styled neatly for a formal occasion or left messy for a more casual vibe.
Best for: Most hair types, especially those with some natural volume. How to style: Apply a volumizing mousse or pomade to damp hair and blow-dry the front section upwards and back. Use your fingers to create texture.
2. The Classic Pompadour
Channel your inner Elvis with the timeless pompadour. Similar to the quiff, it involves sweeping the hair up and back, but the pompadour is typically more structured and polished. The key is to create a seamless, voluminous “pomp” at the front.
Best for: Straight or wavy hair. How to style: Use a strong-hold pomade and a comb to slick the sides back and create a defined, high-volume shape at the front.
3. The Effortless Slick Back
For a look that’s both sophisticated and edgy, the slick back is a go-to. While it can be achieved with shorter hair, medium length provides more weight and a more dramatic effect. Keep the sides trimmed or opt for an undercut for a contemporary feel.
Best for: Straight hair. How to style: Apply a high-shine pomade or gel to damp hair and comb it straight back from the forehead to the nape of your neck.
4. The Bro Flow
The epitome of laid-back cool, the “bro flow” is all about letting your hair do its thing. This low-maintenance style works best with hair that has a natural wave or curl and is long enough to be pushed back and away from the face.
Best for: Wavy or curly hair. How to style: A light-hold cream or leave-in conditioner can help manage frizz and define your natural texture. Simply use your fingers to push your hair back.
5. Messy Waves
Embrace your natural texture with a messy, wavy style. This look is all about creating a relaxed, just-stepped-off-the-beach vibe. It’s a fantastic option for guys with naturally wavy hair who want a stylish yet low-effort cut.
Best for: Wavy hair. How to style: Apply a sea salt spray to damp hair to enhance your natural waves and let it air dry or use a diffuser.
6. The Shaggy Crop
A nod to 90s grunge, the shaggy crop is making a major comeback. This hairstyle features layers and texture, creating a purposefully undone look. It’s a great way to add movement and dimension to your hair.
Best for: Straight or wavy hair. How to style: Use a texturizing paste or clay to enhance the layers and create a piecey, separated look.
7. The Textured Comb-Over
A modern update to a classic, the textured comb-over is less rigid and more relaxed than its predecessor. By incorporating texture and a slightly looser part, this style feels fresh and contemporary.
Best for: Fine or straight hair. How to style: Create a side part and use a light-hold cream or wax to comb the hair to one side, using your fingers to add texture and volume.
8. The Curtain Haircut
Another 90s revival, the curtain haircut, is back in a big way. Characterized by a center or slightly off-center part with the hair falling to either side, this style frames the face and works well with medium-length hair.
Best for: Straight or wavy hair. How to style: Create a part and let your hair fall naturally. A light cream can help to control any flyaways.
9. Medium-Length Curls with a Fade
For those blessed with curls, pairing them with a fade on the sides creates a clean and stylish look. The contrast between the tight sides and the voluminous, textured top is visually striking.
Best for: Curly or coily hair. How to style: Use a curl-defining cream or mousse on damp hair to enhance your natural curl pattern.
10. The Side-Swept Fringe
A side-swept fringe is a great way to add some interest to a medium-length cut. The longer fringe is swept to one side, creating a dynamic and stylish look that can help to soften stronger jawlines.
Best for: Most hair types. How to style: Use a light-hold product to direct your fringe to the side. You can use a blow dryer for more volume and control.
11. The Faux Hawk
A more wearable version of the punk-rock classic, the faux hawk involves pushing the hair towards the center of the head to create a “hawk” shape, without the shaved sides of a traditional mohawk.
Best for: Straight or wavy hair. How to style: Use a strong-hold gel or wax to push the hair on top upwards and towards the middle.
12. The Undercut with a Longer Top
The undercut remains a popular choice for its sharp and clean appearance. With a medium length on top, you have plenty of hair to play with, whether you want to style it into a quiff, slick it back, or leave it messy.
Best for: All hair types. How to style: The styling possibilities are endless. Experiment with different products and techniques to find what works for you.
13. The Tapered Haircut
A tapered haircut gradually shortens in length from the top of the head down to the nape of the neck. It’s a more subtle and classic alternative to a fade and works beautifully with medium-length hair on top.
Best for: All hair types. How to style: This cut is incredibly versatile and can be styled in numerous ways, from neat and professional to more casual and tousled.
14. The Modern Mullet
Yes, the mullet is back, but not as you remember it from the 80s. The modern mullet is more subtle and stylish, with a less dramatic transition between the shorter front and longer back. It’s a bold choice for the fashion-forward man.
Best for: Adventurous individuals with straight or wavy hair. How to style: Embrace the texture. A bit of mousse or texturizing spray can enhance the look.
15. The Natural Look
Sometimes, the best style is the most natural one. If you have healthy, well-maintained medium-length hair, don’t be afraid to let it air dry and fall naturally. A good cut is key to making this simple approach look intentional and stylish.
Best for: All hair types with a good natural texture. How to style: Use a light leave-in conditioner to keep your hair healthy and manageable.
There you have it – 15 stylish medium hairstyles to inspire your next look. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. The world of medium-length hair is your oyster!
