Being a man with good hair isn’t easy. Women have entire magazines dedicated to staying current, while most men rely on a friendly barber with scissors and no sense of what year it is outside.
Those days are over, friends, as long as we’re around. Men’s haircuts—and staying current on the latest styles—shouldn’t be a headache. We tracked down Baxter of California global educator Whitney VerMeer for a firsthand take on what you should be wearing. Unlike the average man, VerMeer spends her whole day thinking about hair. So, it makes sense that she has a finger on the pulse of the next big haircuts.
Relax, because there are no man buns, elaborate fades, or neon color choices here. VerMeer’s main interest is a cut that feels fresh and flatters its wearer. She broke down the three most popular styles she’s seeing now and even shared her secret source for hair inspiration.
Hair Inspiration For The Average Guy
Although women have dozens of style resources, men have only a few magazines and forums to dictate trends. So, where does a guy go to keep tabs on the current looks? According to VerMeer, the answer is probably already at your fingertips. More specifically, it’s on your phone.
If you’re looking for a fresh new ‘do, the hair pro has a few favorite hashtags to recommend: #mensgrooming, #menshaircut, #fade, #taper. That’s just the beginning, especially because the feed is always updating with new posts.
Still, VerMeer says it’s important to view the styles as inspiration, not something your hair professional will be able to copy perfectly. For one thing, the cut you like may not be one that would look particularly flattering on you.
“I always relate the style to [my clients],”, VerMeer explains. “A version of the cut may look good on them, but the exact cut may not be ideal for their head shape or lifestyle.”
If you happen to find a dream haircut that’s not a fit for your daily routine, it’s always worth having a conversation with your barber or stylist to find a compromise. Remember that you’re paying an artist to help you look more attractive, so giving them some degree of creative freedom can only help you.
Ready for a few of the most popular styles VerMeer is seeing now? Read on. All you have to do is call your stylist and make an appointment. Just like that, you’ll have a whole new look.
The High And Tight Textured Crop
The first look VerMeer’s been trying quite a bit is a military-inspired style that’s not exactly what your average recruit is wearing.
“The haircut I am doing a lot of right now is a high and tight textured crop,” VerMeer says. “The best way for a guy to ask either a barber or stylist for this look would be a high fade with slight length on the top. Close to a buzz cut, but something with contrast between the sides and top.”
In other words, this cut is all about business on the sides, party on the top. Because this style includes extra length, you’ll be able to create volume and movement. Everyone will want to touch your hair.
Although the fade has enjoyed quite a bit of popularity in recent years, VerMeer is quick to crush any ideas that the style is a fad.
“I think fades are clean, crisp, and classic,” she says. “They will always be on trend. It’s the top portion of the haircut that creates a relevance to trends.”
Thinking of asking your stylist to try this style out? Before you ever sit down in the chair, VerMeer has a few caveats. The style looks best on those with thick hairlines and chiseled features. Those of you with round faces or receding hairlines may find a different style more flattering.
The Lived-In Look
During VerMeer’s daily cuts, she sees quite a few men who don’t want to seem too coiffed or purposely done. Just as bedhead has taken over for the ladies, lived-in hairstyles are the new cool guy move.
Instead of visiting your stylist for a cleanup every few weeks, you’ll allow the style a little more time to grow in. Although you’ll be using product to hold it in place, the resulting effect is laidback and easygoing.
“This haircut is definitely a good option for someone with a lifestyle that is not able to come in frequently and who wants a no-fuss look,” VerMeer explains. “With summer coming, more guys want to be outside versus in the chair.”
Interestingly, VerMeer says the popularity of bedhead-inspired styles is only growing. The look is easy-looking and caters to the average man’s lifestyle. There’s no word, yet, if it happens to also be meeting-appropriate. We’ll keep you updated.
The Forward Flow
When you think of the classic men’s hairstyle, it’s probably some knockoff of a hedge fund manager’s in the 1980s. Combed back and sleek may have been in style at one point, but it’s certainly not in today’s world (that is, unless you’re a woman).
Instead of getting out your comb, VerMeer advises you to think about pushing hair the other way. She sees many clients who finger comb their hair forward at an angle. It’s a fresh take on men’s hair, one that’s flirtatious and a little daring.
“I’m a big fan of this look on the right guy,” she says. “It’s different than the overplayed trends that are currently out there.”
Notably, the forward flow isn’t just for fraternity brothers or young bankers. The style projects a kind of laidback confidence that we can’t get enough of. On a more practical note, the look can disguise a receding hairline or large forehead. Think of it like faux bangs for men.
Need more ideas for popular haircuts? We’ve got you covered.
Mod Crop
If you haven’t spotted it on the streets yet, be prepared to get an eyeful of the 1960s-inspired mod crop all summer long. The brushed-forward style features sharp, precise lines around the face.
Curly Disconnected Fade
The last few years have brought us a serious increase in curl styling techniques for men. If you like the texture but don’t want to spend every morning trapped under a diffuser attachment, try the disconnected version of this cut.
Classic Cut
Classics rarely go out of style because they look stylish in every situation and don’t require extensive maintenance. If straightforward hair is the best match for your aesthetic, ask your barber for just about an inch of length all over.
Dramatic Volume
For those of you who love the style and customization of your hair, don’t be afraid to own it. Whether you choose waist length hair or something a little more manageable, a volume-boosting product can help you make the most of your mane.
Curly Quiff
A fade is the easiest way to make a dramatic statement without waking up any earlier to style your hair. If you’re working out the best way to wear your curls, this quiff is both modern and stylish.
Modern Pompadour
If your hair grows quickly, make the most of it with a pompadour. This voluminous, brushed-back style is clean and fashion forward.
Beard-Fade Combo
We used to hear it was mandatory to connect your beard and your hair, but that’s no longer the case. Break those old-fashioned style mandates with a bold beard that stops where your fade begins.
‘90s Throwback Wedge
If you lived through the ‘90s, you’ll surely remember the wedge cut that just about every male heartthrob wore. Fashion and music are already echoing the beloved decade—why shouldn’t your hair, too?
Disconnected Undercut
The best haircuts take your habits and lifestyle into account. Those in the habit of running their fingers through their hair will appreciate this dramatic disconnected undercut.
Urban Ivy League
Like a sharp part on your style? This updated ivy league cut combines all the preppiness of the classic collegiate ‘do with an edgy silver shade.
Amped Up Volume
Some men are blessed with model-like hair. If that’s the case, touch it as little as possible. Aim for dramatic, lived-in texture that shows it off.
Long And Air Dried
Growing out long hair takes many months, regular trims, and plenty of dedication to make it through the awkward phases. Once you’ve reached your goal, show off the result with the help of little air dry cream.
Sculpted Texture
Every year, more men embrace their natural hair textures. We love a sculpture cut that’s customized to highlight your favorite facial features, be it your cheekbones or jawline.
Detail Work
One of the newest ways we’re seeing men gussy up classic cuts is with the addition of a hard part or carved-in detail etched by a barber’s steady hand. Whether you choose a few decorative lines or a full design, make sure you’re getting it touched up every few days.
Low Fade
Love the look of a fade but don’t want to sacrifice all your hair? Enter the low fade, which takes just a bit off the bottom.
Updated Man Bun
Man buns can sometimes read like overgrown frat boy hairstyles, implying you were just too lazy to get up and shampoo. Elevate the style to adulthood by making it look very intentional. We love the look of textured, short pieces underneath the bun.
Short Crop
For those who like the look of the crop but not the harsh lines, a short, textured version should feel a bit more wearable. If you’re new to product, make sure to ask your barber how to apply it before leaving the chair.
Shaggy Length
Having natural texture to your hair is a hairstyling boon, which is why we advise wearing it at the jawline instead of cutting it off altogether. With just a pea-sized amount of air dry cream or gel on damp, clean hair, you should be good to go.
Textured Short Cut
Don’t be afraid to play with texture. This shapely style combines a medium fade with some length at the crown, creating a polished final product that’s work (and play) appropriate.
Brushed Back
Got the extra inches but find they’re hanging in your face all the time? Use a medium hold styler to brush your hair straight back from your face. It’s a little 1980s banker, a little early 2000s mogul.
High And Tight
The high and tight is never going out of style because of how easy it is to maintain and how beautifully it shows off natural texture. Try it for summer if you like to feel a little breeze on your scalp.
Slicked Back
Men with fine hair shouldn’t try to fight it—as you may already know, that’s a losing game. Instead, try a slicked-back style that will keep your strands in check.
Hard Part Comb Over
This isn’t your daddy’s comb over. Instead, this faded cut combines volume and drama with a sleek finish.
Long Locs
Locs aren’t a new style, but we’re continually impressed by how endlessly cool they look. Tie them into an oversized bun or ponytail for added visual emphasis.
Textured Hard Part
If you have a steady hand with a blow dryer and a working knowledge of pomade, take advantage of the two skill sets to wear this textured ‘do.
Tons Of Texture
Yet another summer appropriate cut, this textured crop with a skin fade is minimalist styling at its best. You don’t need a whole head of hair to make a bold statement.
Long And Sleek
The most important part of hairstyling is finding a look that suits the wearer’s natural texture and needs. If you’re a low-maintenance man, pick a style that matches that.
Visible Tattoo
As more and more people regularly show off their tattoos, it’s time to think about scalp ink. The idea isn’t for everyone, but if any quality barber would be happy to help you show it off.
Clean Pompadour
Lived-in texture and messy waves aren’t your only two options when it comes to styling. This clean pompadour is perfect for those who prefer a classic men’s look.
Shaved
When your hairline starts to look a little thin, experts agree that the best move is to totally get rid of your hair. The right barber can help you feel confident in your decision to bare it all.
Roughed Up Style
The more height, the better. As you grow out this cut, don’t be afraid to experiment with braids and top knots.
Skin Fade
Just let that extra length go, man! Once you’ve discovered the skin fade, you’ll wonder why you spent years on daily hair maintenance.
