Finding a hairstyle that’s stylish yet easy to maintain can feel like a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. Short haircuts for men are the perfect solution for anyone looking to combine fashion and functionality.
Buzz cut, crew cut, French crop, Ivy League, textured crop, Caesar cut, faux hawk, pompadour, high and tight, and side part are popular short haircuts for men. These cuts are not only trendy but also require little upkeep—ideal for busy lifestyles.
In this article, we’ll dive into the best short haircuts for men that are both stylish and low maintenance, giving you the tools to choose the right one for your face shape, hair type, and daily routine.
Classic Buzz Cut
The buzz cut is one of the most iconic and low-maintenance men’s hairstyles. This cut is uniform across the entire head, providing a clean and sharp look. It’s perfect for men who prefer a minimalistic style that doesn’t require styling tools or products.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular trims every 4-6 weeks to keep the shape.
- A buzz cut works best when paired with a razor or clippers to maintain the same length all over.
Ideal For:
- Busy individuals who want to keep their grooming time to a minimum.
- Those with thicker hair who prefer a no-nonsense look.
Crew Cut
The crew cut is similar to the buzz cut but with a bit more length on top. It features short sides with slightly longer hair on top, allowing for a bit more styling freedom without much extra effort. This cut is ideal for men who want a clean look without having to do too much.
Maintenance Tips:
- This cut can last 4-6 weeks without requiring much touch-up.
- Use light styling gel or mousse to add texture on top if desired.
Ideal For:
- Men with straight or slightly wavy hair who want to add a bit of volume without too much fuss.
- Those who enjoy a classic, polished style.
Textured Crop
For a more modern look, the textured crop is a great choice. With short sides and a slightly longer, messy top, this cut creates a natural, effortless appearance. It’s especially suited for men with wavy or curly hair, as the texture can enhance the natural waves or curls.
Maintenance Tips:
- Keep the sides shaved or faded, while the top remains long enough to create texture.
- A little bit of pomade or styling cream will help keep the messy look intact without extra fuss.
Ideal For:
- Men who like a bit of edge to their style but don’t want to deal with time-consuming grooming.
Short Quiff
The short quiff is a stylish haircut that combines a modern touch with an easy-to-maintain style. It features a longer front section styled upwards and back. While it might seem like a high-maintenance style, the short quiff requires minimal effort if you use the right products and tools.
Maintenance Tips:
- Use a light styling product to keep the quiff in place.
- Trim the sides regularly to maintain the contrast between the top and the sides.
Ideal For:
- Men who want to add height to their look without dealing with long hair.
French Crop
The French crop is a short, trendy cut that works especially well for men who want a low-maintenance style but still want some edge. This cut features short sides and a fringe that sits just above the eyebrows, creating a clean and sophisticated look.
Maintenance Tips:
- It’s easy to maintain, needing only occasional trims.
- Avoid heavy styling products; a light pomade or wax will suffice to keep the fringe in place.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a stylish but simple cut that requires minimal maintenance and no styling drama.
High & Tight
Inspired by military cuts, the high and tight is a sharp, clean look with shaved sides and a short top. The high and tight haircut is bold and masculine, and it’s perfect for men who want a no-nonsense, stylish look without worrying about regular maintenance.
Maintenance Tips:
- This style needs frequent touch-ups to maintain the sharp, tight appearance.
- You’ll want to visit your barber every 3-4 weeks for trimming.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a crisp, clean look that doesn’t require a lot of grooming.
Butch Cut
The butch cut is another short, military-inspired style. It’s a bit longer than the buzz cut, offering a little more freedom in terms of style, but still incredibly low-maintenance. It’s a simple, functional look that works well for men who don’t want to spend time on their hair.
Maintenance Tips:
- The butch cut requires a trim every few weeks to keep the length even.
- A small amount of styling cream can be used to enhance texture, though it’s usually unnecessary.
Ideal For:
- Men who appreciate simplicity but still want a polished, clean appearance.
Ivy League
The Ivy League is a classic and sophisticated short haircut. This style, often associated with elite universities, features short sides with a slightly longer top. It provides a clean, sharp look that works well in professional settings while still being trendy enough for casual wear.
Characteristics
- Short, tapered sides
- Longer hair on top, styled neatly to the side
- Clean, defined part
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular trims are essential to keep the sharp look intact.
- Use a lightweight styling gel or pomade to maintain the clean part and sleek top.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a stylish, easy-to-maintain cut that works for both professional and casual settings.
Caesar Cut
The Caesar cut is a timeless, low-maintenance hairstyle that’s easy to style and maintain. With short, horizontal bangs and a uniform length all around, this haircut creates a clean, angular look that is flattering on most face shapes.
Characteristics
- Short, blunt bangs across the forehead
- Even length throughout the hair
- Slightly textured top
Maintenance Tips:
- Trim every 4–6 weeks to keep the blunt bangs neat.
- Use a small amount of product to avoid weighing down the top.
Ideal For:
- Men looking for a low-maintenance yet sophisticated style that’s easy to maintain without much effort.
Fade Cut
The fade cut is a popular choice for men who want a sharp, edgy look with short hair. This style features hair that gradually shortens from the top down to the sides, creating a smooth transition and emphasizing the natural texture of the hair.
Characteristics
- Tapered hair length from the top to the sides
- Can be combined with different top styles like a buzz cut or pompadour
- Types include skin fades, low fades, mid fades, and high fades
Maintenance Tips:
- Maintain the fade by getting regular touch-ups every 2–4 weeks.
- Use a light styling cream to highlight the texture on top.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a modern, edgy look that remains easy to style.
Pompadour
The pompadour is a classic, stylish look that has seen a resurgence in recent years. This style features voluminous hair on top, styled back and upwards, with shorter sides. While it’s a bit more involved than some other short haircuts, it can still be kept low-maintenance with the right products.
Characteristics
- Full volume on top, styled upwards and back
- Short sides, which can be either tapered or faded
- Requires a bit of styling for the top section
Maintenance Tips:
- Use volumizing products to add height and keep the top styled in place.
- Trim the sides regularly to maintain the contrast with the voluminous top.
Ideal For:
- Men looking for a classic yet bold style that can be both formal and casual.
Undercut
The undercut is a stylish haircut where the hair on top is left longer, and the sides and back are clipped short or shaved. This creates a stark contrast between the length on top and the short sides. The undercut is versatile and can be paired with almost any hairstyle on top, making it perfect for a personalized look.
Characteristics
- Long hair on top with short or shaved sides
- Can be combined with a pompadour, slick back, or quiff
- Sharp contrast between top and sides
Maintenance Tips:
- Get the sides trimmed every 3–4 weeks to keep the undercut sharp.
- Apply a strong hold gel or wax to keep the longer top in place.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a bold, edgy look that can be customized to suit different styles.
Tapered Cut
The tapered cut is a clean and polished style where the hair gradually shortens from the top to the sides. This cut works well for men who want a sophisticated look without going too short on the sides.
Characteristics
- Hair gradually shortens from top to bottom
- Can be paired with a variety of top styles, from a short quiff to a sleek side part
- Clean, professional look
Maintenance Tips:
- Maintain the smooth transition between the top and sides with regular cuts.
- Light styling cream is best for a clean, polished look.
Ideal For:
- Men looking for a clean, sharp haircut that requires little effort to maintain.
Spiky Hair
For a more youthful, bold look, the spiky hair style is an excellent choice. This cut features short hair on top that is styled upwards into spikes, with the sides kept shorter. Spiky hair adds volume and texture while maintaining a fun, carefree vibe.
Characteristics
- Short hair on top styled into spikes
- Sides can be buzzed or kept short and neat
- Textured, spiky finish
Maintenance Tips:
- Use a texturizing spray to add volume and structure to the spikes.
- Trim regularly to avoid hair looking unkempt or too long.
Ideal For:
- Men looking for a fun, bold style with a bit of personality.
Brush Up
The brush-up style is a simple yet stylish haircut where the hair on top is combed upwards and slightly back. It’s similar to a pompadour but with less volume. The sides are kept short and clean, which makes it easy to maintain.
Characteristics
- Hair brushed up and slightly back
- Short, clean sides
- Minimal styling required
Maintenance Tips:
- Keep the sides short with regular cuts.
- Apply a light mousse to add texture and volume for the brushed-up top.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a simple, stylish look that doesn’t require much time to maintain.
Flat Top
The flat top is a bold and classic hairstyle that gained popularity in the late 80s and early 90s. This cut features hair on top that is kept flat and squared off, with the sides kept shorter. It’s a great option for men who want to stand out and enjoy a retro-inspired look.
Characteristics
- Short sides with a flat, squared-off top
- Adds height and volume on top
- Often paired with a fade or taper on the sides
Maintenance Tips:
- Ensure the top stays flat with regular trims to maintain shape.
- Use a hair gel with strong hold for structure.
Ideal For:
- Men who enjoy a bold, eye-catching style and want to make a statement.
Crew Top Fade
The crew top fade is a clean, military-inspired style that’s easy to maintain and looks sharp. The top is kept slightly longer while the sides are tapered or faded down, creating a sleek and tidy appearance.
Characteristics
- Short, cropped hair on the top
- Faded sides that gradually get shorter toward the ears
- Neat, uniform look
Maintenance Tips:
- The fade needs to be touched up every 2–4 weeks for a clean look.
- Apply a light pomade or cream to keep the top neat and styled.
Ideal For:
- Men who prefer a low-maintenance yet stylish haircut, often favored in professional environments.
Bald Fade
The bald fade is a high-contrast fade style where the sides are shaved very close to the skin, creating a dramatic effect. The hair on top is left longer, allowing you to style it however you like.
Characteristics
- The fade starts high and gradually shortens down the sides
- Sides are shaved to the skin for a bold look
- The top can be styled in various ways (buzz cut, comb over, etc.)
Maintenance Tips:
- Shave the sides regularly to maintain the bald effect.
- Use a light product on top for easy styling.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a sharp, edgy look that’s easy to manage and maintain.
Slicked Back
The slicked back style is timeless and works well for both formal and casual settings. The hair on top is kept slightly longer and combed back for a smooth, sleek look, while the sides are trimmed short.
Characteristics
- Long hair on top, combed back for a polished look
- Short sides or a fade for contrast
- Requires styling gel or pomade to keep hair in place
Maintenance Tips:
- Trim sides every 3–4 weeks to keep the contrast clear.
- Regular use of pomade or gel will help maintain the sleek appearance.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a classic, sophisticated appearance with minimal maintenance.
Short Afro
The short afro is a great choice for men with curly or textured hair who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look. The hair is cut short but retains the natural texture and volume, giving it a clean and bold appearance.
Characteristics
- Short, tightly curled hair all around
- Volume and texture are key
- Works best with natural curls
Maintenance Tips:
- Trim the hair to ensure evenness and volume.
- Use curl-enhancing products to keep the texture defined.
Ideal For:
- Men with curly hair looking for a stylish, low-maintenance way to showcase their natural texture.
Disconnected Undercut
The disconnected undercut features a stark contrast between the long hair on top and the short or shaved sides. There’s no gradual fade—just a sharp line separating the two. This edgy cut is perfect for men who want to stand out and make a statement.
Characteristics
- Long hair on top with short or shaved sides
- A sharp contrast between top and sides, no fade
- Versatile for different top styles (pompadour, quiff, slicked back)
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular trims for the sides and the top are necessary for a sharp contrast.
- Use a strong hold product to maintain the edgy look.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a bold and dramatic style that offers versatility and personality.
Mullet Fade
The mullet fade is a modern twist on the classic mullet, with the hair in the front and top cut short while the back remains longer. The fade on the sides adds a contemporary touch to this retro style.
Characteristics
- Short front and top with long hair in the back
- Fade or taper on the sides
- Bold and daring look
Maintenance Tips:
- Get the sides trimmed to maintain the fade.
- Use a small amount of product on top for texture and volume.
Ideal For:
- Men who want to embrace a fun, bold style that blends the old with the new.
Shaved Sides with Long Top
This style combines a modern fade with a longer top, allowing you to experiment with different textures and styles while keeping the sides very short or shaved. It’s a clean yet versatile look that suits a variety of occasions.
Characteristics
- Shaved or buzzed sides
- Longer hair on top that can be styled in various ways
- Clean, sleek appearance
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular trims for the sides to keep them neat.
- Use lightweight styling gel to style the top as desired.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a sharp, contemporary look that’s easy to style.
Viking Style
The Viking style haircut takes inspiration from the fierce warriors of history. This cut features longer hair on top, often paired with shaved sides or a fade. The longer hair on top can be styled in braids or left loose for a rugged, warrior-like appearance.
Characteristics
- Long hair on top with shaved or faded sides
- Often styled with braids, ponytails, or left loose
- Bold, rugged appearance
Maintenance Tips:
- Keep the sides faded or shaved clean for contrast.
- Use a styling cream or pomade for longer hair on top, especially if braiding or tying it.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a powerful, masculine style that stands out.
Side Part
The side part is a classic and simple style that never goes out of fashion. The hair is parted to one side and styled neatly, creating a clean and well-groomed appearance. This cut works well for men with various hair textures.
Characteristics
- Defined part on one side of the head
- Hair styled neatly to one side
- Short sides for a polished look
Maintenance Tips:
- Trim the sides regularly for a neat appearance.
- Use a light styling cream to maintain the part and shape.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a sophisticated, clean-cut look that’s easy to maintain.
Bowl Cut
The bowl cut is one of the most iconic short hairstyles for men. It’s a timeless look that features a rounded shape with the hair cut evenly all around, resembling the shape of a bowl. Despite its retro origins, the bowl cut has made a comeback in recent years, modernized with cleaner lines and shorter lengths.
Characteristics
- Hair cut to the same length all around the head
- Round, bowl-like shape
- Often paired with a fade or undercut for a more contemporary look
Maintenance Tips:
- Keep the bowl-shaped top trimmed regularly.
- Apply a smoothing product to avoid flyaways.
Ideal For:
- Men with straight or slightly wavy hair looking for a bold, statement-making style.
Pompadour Fade
The pompadour fade is a fusion of two classic styles: the pompadour and the fade. The hair on top is kept long and styled upward and back, while the sides gradually fade down to a shorter length. This stylish haircut exudes sophistication and a bit of rockabilly flair.
Characteristics
- Voluminous hair on top, styled backward
- Faded sides that add contrast to the pompadour
- Requires styling products like pomade or gel for hold
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular trims for both the fade and top to keep the look fresh.
- Use pomade for volume and hold to maintain the shape.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a trendy, retro-inspired look with a polished finish.
Flat Top Fade
The flat top fade is a high-contrast hairstyle that combines a flat, squared-off top with faded sides. It was especially popular in the late 80s and early 90s and has made a return as a bold, edgy style.
Characteristics
- Flat, even top with squared-off edges
- Faded sides that create a sharp contrast
- Requires some maintenance and styling to keep the top flat
Maintenance Tips:
- Keep the flat top squared and neat with regular trims.
- Apply strong-hold products for volume and texture.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a bold, high-volume style that stands out.
Short Shag
The short shag is a relaxed, textured style that adds volume and movement to your hair. It’s perfect for men who prefer a laid-back look that doesn’t require too much maintenance.
Characteristics
- Layers throughout the hair, creating texture and volume
- Often worn messy and tousled for a relaxed look
- Works best with naturally wavy or textured hair
Maintenance Tips:
- Trim the layers regularly to maintain volume and texture.
- Use a lightweight texturizing spray for effortless styling.
Ideal For:
- Men looking for an effortless, carefree style with a bit of edge.
Buzzed Top and Sides
The buzzed top and sides is one of the most low-maintenance styles you can opt for. The hair is buzzed short on both the top and sides, creating a clean and streamlined appearance. It’s a no-fuss haircut that’s both practical and stylish.
Characteristics
- Uniformly short hair on top and sides
- Requires minimal styling or maintenance
- Ideal for hot weather and busy lifestyles
Maintenance Tips:
- Minimal maintenance required—just trim regularly to keep the length uniform.
- No product needed, but a light styling cream can help if desired.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a minimalist look that’s quick to style and easy to maintain.
Bowl Cut with Fade
Combining the classic bowl cut with a modern fade on the sides, the bowl cut with fade offers a contemporary twist on a nostalgic look. This updated style keeps the round shape on top but adds a fade on the sides for a cleaner, edgier feel.
Characteristics
- Rounded top with a fade on the sides
- Sharp contrast between the longer top and faded sides
- Clean and modern version of the traditional bowl cut
Maintenance Tips:
- Get the fade touched up every 3–4 weeks.
- Keep the bowl top neat with regular trims.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a bold, unique look that blends retro with modern elements.
Curly Buzz
The curly buzz is a short haircut that works well for men with curly hair. The hair is buzzed short, keeping the natural curls intact for a textured and voluminous look. This style provides a low-maintenance option that still shows off natural texture.
Characteristics
- Short buzz cut that preserves natural curls
- Textured look that adds volume
- Easy to maintain, requires minimal styling
Maintenance Tips:
- Keep the buzzed hair short for easy maintenance.
- Apply curl cream or mousse to enhance texture and prevent frizz.
Ideal For:
- Men with curly hair who want to keep their look neat and easy to manage.
Faux Hawk
The faux hawk is a modern take on the classic mohawk. It features shorter sides with a strip of longer hair on top that can be spiked or styled upward to create the hawk-like shape. This hairstyle is bold, trendy, and full of attitude.
Characteristics
- Short sides with longer hair on top styled upward
- Can be spiked or slicked back for a dramatic effect
- Requires styling products for hold
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular trims for the sides to keep them short.
- Use a strong styling gel or wax to create the spiked top.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a daring, fashion-forward style with an edge.
Military Buzz
The military buzz is a short, neat, and clean haircut often associated with military personnel. It’s characterized by uniformly short hair on the top and sides, providing a sleek and low-maintenance appearance.
Characteristics
- Evenly buzzed hair all over the head
- Extremely short and tidy
- Low-maintenance and practical
Maintenance Tips:
- Minimal maintenance—just trim the buzz cut every 2–4 weeks.
- Use a light product for a clean, neat appearance.
Ideal For:
- Men who prefer a practical, no-nonsense haircut that’s easy to maintain.
Buzzed Sides with Pompadour
The buzzed sides with pompadour is a modern style that blends the classic pompadour with a sharp fade or buzzed sides. The top is left long enough to create volume, while the sides are trimmed short for contrast.
Characteristics
- Voluminous top styled back in a pompadour
- Buzzed or faded sides
- Clean and polished finish
Maintenance Tips:
- Trim the buzzed sides regularly to keep the contrast sharp.
- Use a volumizing product on the top for texture and hold.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a sophisticated yet edgy look that stands out.
Skin Fade
The skin fade is one of the most popular fade styles, where the sides are shaved down to the skin, gradually fading as it moves up. The top can be styled however you like, whether with a buzz cut, pompadour, or quiff.
Characteristics
- Sides fade into the skin with no hair
- The fade is blended into the longer hair on top
- Requires regular trimming to maintain the fade
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular touch-ups every 2–4 weeks are necessary to maintain the fade.
- Use minimal product on the top for a clean, natural look.
Ideal For:
- Men who want a clean, sharp look with a seamless transition from skin to hair.
Curtains
The curtains style, also known as the bro flow, involves the hair being parted in the middle, with both sides cascading down. It’s a retro-inspired look that works well for medium-length hair, often styled with a natural wave or curl.
Characteristics
- Center part with hair flowing on either side
- Works best with medium to long hair
- Often paired with a light texture or wave
Ideal For:
- Men who want a laid-back, vintage-inspired style with a touch of sophistication.
Shaggy Short Hair
The shaggy short hair look is all about texture and movement. It’s a tousled, messy cut that adds volume and works best for men with natural texture. It’s a great option for those who want an easy, carefree look.
Characteristics
- Layers of varying lengths for texture and volume
- Often styled with a bit of product for definition
- Easy-going, casual appearance
Ideal For:
- Men who want a low-maintenance yet stylish haircut that adds volume.
Short Side Swept
The short side swept style is a neat and polished look where the hair is swept to one side for a sophisticated, dapper appearance. The sides are short, and the top can vary in length but is always styled to one side.
Characteristics
- Hair swept to one side for a clean, polished look
- Short sides with a longer top
- Works well for both formal and casual settings
Ideal For:
- Men who prefer a sleek, refined style that works in both professional and social environments.
How to Choose the Right Short Haircut for Your Face Shape
When it comes to choosing the perfect short haircut, face shape plays a crucial role. Here’s how to match your haircut to your face shape:
| Face Shape | Best Short Haircuts |
| Round Faces | Buzz cut, Crew cut, High and tight – to add more height and structure. |
| Square Faces | Caesar cut, Ivy League – emphasize strong jawlines with these cuts. |
| Oval Faces | Almost any style, from the French crop to the quiff. |
| Heart-Shaped Faces | French crop, brush up – these cuts balance a wider forehead. |
Round Faces
If you have a round face, go for haircuts that add height and structure. A buzz cut or crew cut will help elongate your face, making it appear more balanced.
Square Faces
For square faces, go with styles that soften the angles of your jaw. A Caesar cut or Ivy League look will give you a sharp yet elegant appearance.
Oval Faces
Oval faces are the most versatile, as they can pull off almost any short hairstyle. You can experiment with a French crop, quiff, or any other trendy short cut.
Heart-Shaped Faces
Heart-shaped faces benefit from haircuts that add volume at the crown while softening the forehead. A French crop or brush-up cut will help achieve this effect.
Why Choose Short Haircuts for Men?
Short haircuts are incredibly versatile, offering a variety of styles that can complement any look. But why should you consider going short? Here are some reasons why short haircuts for men are a fantastic option:
Time-Saving Benefits
One of the biggest perks of choosing a short haircut is how little time it takes to style. Whether you’re rushing out the door or just want something simple, short haircuts typically require less time to groom. Unlike longer hair that demands more attention, short haircuts can be styled in minutes, leaving you more time to focus on other tasks.
Cost-Effective
Short haircuts often mean fewer visits to the barber. You won’t need to go for frequent touch-ups, saving you money in the long run. With regular trims, your short haircut will maintain its shape and style effortlessly.
Universally Flattering
Short haircuts are flattering on nearly every face shape. From square to oval faces, these haircuts emphasize your features without overwhelming them. The simplicity of short styles also allows your face to stand out, rather than the hair.
Low Maintenance Styling Tips for Short Haircuts
While short haircuts are inherently low-maintenance, there are some essential tips to make sure your hair stays fresh and stylish with minimal effort.
Recommended Products
- Lightweight Wax or Pomade: Keeps your hair in place without weighing it down.
- Dry Shampoo: Perfect for adding volume and freshness on non-wash days.
- Hair Creams: Offers texture and softness while keeping the natural flow of your haircut.
Essential Tools
- Clippers: For trimming the sides and maintaining fades.
- Fine-Toothed Comb: Helps distribute product evenly through your hair.
- Good-Quality Trimmers: To maintain a clean, sharp line around the ears and neck.
Time-Saving Hacks
- Regular Trims: Keeping up with regular trims ensures that your short haircut stays sharp.
- Avoid Over-Styling: Let your hair’s natural texture shine. You don’t need heavy styling to look great.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the barber for a short haircut?
To maintain your short haircut, visit your barber every 3-6 weeks for a trim.
Can short haircuts work for thinning hair?
Yes! Short haircuts like the buzz cut or Caesar cut work well for men with thinning hair, giving a fuller, more even appearance.
Which short haircut is best for an active lifestyle?
The high and tight or buzz cut are great choices for men with active lifestyles as they require little maintenance and stay neat throughout the day.
Conclusion
Short haircuts for men that are stylish and low-maintenance are a game-changer. They offer a balance of convenience, fashion, and versatility that fits a variety of face shapes and hair types. Whether you go for a classic buzz cut, a textured crop, or a sophisticated French crop, there’s a short haircut that will suit your personality and routine.
By choosing one of these stylish yet low-maintenance cuts, you’ll save time, money, and effort while still looking sharp every day. Ready for a change? Visit your barber and try one of these sleek styles today!