The Best Short Haircuts and Hairstyles for Men

Does it sometimes seem like women have hundreds of haircuts and hairstyles to choose from, while men only have a select few? It may appear that men have gotten the short end of the stick, but you've probably just been looking for inspiration in the wrong place. To get the perfect chop, you'll want to do more than hand your barber a picture of your favorite celeb to show what you're looking for. It's essential to keep ahead of the curve by researching and learning what the latest hairstyle trends for guys are—before everyone else finds them, too.

Ready to pass on cookie-cutter men’s haircuts and opt for a trendy hairstyle? Instead of flipping through magazines and scrolling through your social media feeds to figure out the current trends, you can simply read on for 52 of the best short haircuts and hairstyles for men. Trust us: They'll definitely help you stand out from the pack!

SHORT STYLE #1: THE SUPER-CLOSE BUZZ CUT

Sometimes, you don't want to worry about your hair in the morning. If you want to wake up, throw on your clothes, and head out the door, we know the perfect short men’s hairstyle for you: a super-close buzz cut. This haircut has been around for years, so it's no wonder it's a favorite among A-listers. The best part of a super-close buzz cut? You don't need to use any products to maintain this hairstyle. It's the epitome of a low maintenance look.

SHORT STYLE #2: THE CLASSIC POMPADOUR

For old-school charm that's still very much on-trend, try the pompadour. Pompadours, a.k.a. quiffs, as they're known in England, have been around for years now. And it doesn't seem like the trend is dying down anytime soon. This hairstyle instantly takes you back to an era of muscle cars, hot rods, and old-school rock and roll bands. If you want a hairstyle that has a little bit of the old and a little bit of the new, give this cut a try.

To style your pompadour, enhance the look by applying a pomade or gel, like the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle LOCK IT Clean Style Gel. Rub your desired amount of product in between your hands, then apply the gel evenly throughout damp or dry hair and style. If you want a slicked-back look, apply the gel to wet hair and comb it from front to back. If you'd prefer to give this hairstyle a modern twist, create a side-part pompadour by applying pomade to your hair before parting it to the side.

SHORT STYLE #3: THE UNDERCUT

For men, the hottest haircut of the year has to be the undercut. This high and tight haircut is a short to medium-length hairstyle, where the top of your hair contrasts with the sides. Get the look by leaving your hair long on the top and buzzing the sides and back super short. This haircut is perfect for those who want a clean, buzz cut fade look but still want to have a bit of length on top.

All you need to style this haircut is a touch of putty. Take a dime-sized amount of the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Overworked Hair Putty and rub it between your palms. Work the putty through the top of your hair and shape. You can build volume and add fullness by starting at your roots and then lifting your hair up and out.

SHORT STYLE #4: THE SURFER UNDERCUT

Not feeling the super-short undercut? Keep your length longer on the top with what we like to call the surfer undercut. To really sell the look, bleach the top of your hair for a totally surfer dude vibe. Since this look requires bleaching, it's essential to take care of your color by using a color-safe shampoo and conditioner, like the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Conditioner.

SHORT STYLE #5: THE WAVY TAPERED FADE

If you're looking for a modern guy hairstyle that serves just the right amount of edge, look no further than the wavy taper buzz cut fade. This look makes your natural texture the focal point of the style as the sides get shorter to blend in with your skin. An excellent technique for men that often wear faded styles, this look is easy to master. Use a hair foam or mousse like the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle CURVE IT Elastic Curl Mousse. Dispense an egg-sized amount into your palms and apply evenly to your hair from root to tip. Scrunch as you go and let your hair air dry for a defined finish.

SHORT STYLE #6: THE TRADITIONAL BUZZ CUT

For men who are looking for a low-maintenance style, the traditional buzz cut will become your new best friend. This style keeps your hair short all around in a clean and fresh look that's always on-trend. Get this look by cutting your hair low on the top and cutting along the natural hairline for sharp edges.

SHORT STYLE #7: THE FLAT TOP CUT

Ready to take your hair to new heights? A flat-top high and tight haircut is a great option. Great for short and medium lengths, this style will surely make you stand out in the crowd. Designed with a horizontal cut, this style allows your strands to stand upright for a distinct finish. Since this look requires your hair to stay in place, we recommend using the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Clean Gel.

SHORT STYLE #8: SHORT AND SPIKY HAIRSTYLE

Show off your edgy style with this trendy short and spiky look! A great way to add intensity to your hair, this style is perfect for a night out. To achieve traditional spikes, you need a pomade or hair gel that provides a secure hold. Take a dime-sized amount of whichever product you choose and apply evenly throughout dry or damp hair. Comb through from front to back and shape your hair until you have your desired number of spikes.

SHORT STYLE #9: CLASSIC FADE WITH FINGER WAVES

Faded hairstyles are always on-trend, but if you want to take your style up a few notches, finger waves, which happen to be one of our favorite unexpected, short hairstyles for men, are the way to go. The perfect way to add definition to your look, this style is a fave for a reason. Get the look by leaving the sides of your hair faded and adding a soft wave to the top.

To add waves to your hair, grab a dime-sized amount of hair putty. Rub the putty in your palms and work through the hair. You can even use a comb to create the wavy detailing. Complete the look with L’Oréal Paris Elnett Precious Oil Satin Hairspray for a soft and shiny finish.

SHORT STYLE #10: ANGULAR FRINGE HAIRSTYLE

This classic, clean look will bring on the boy next door charm with ease. Featuring tapered sides that build up to a thick fringe at the top, this high and tight haircut is way ahead of the style curve. Comfortable to wear, all you need is a flexible hair spray like the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BOOST IT High Lift Creation Spray. Mist lightly at the roots to build up the volume and you're good to go!

SHORT STYLE #11: HIGH AND TIGHT HAIRSTYLE

For inspiration from the 1920s, the high and tight haircut is the perfect look to try. With short faded edges and about an inch of length at the top, this style will look amazing on all hair types. The best part about this style is that you don't need any styling products to wear this look. Just wake up and go!

SHORT STYLE 12: SIDE SWEPT HAIRSTYLE

A popular hairstyle among Hollywood A-listers, this look will always be a favorite. Perfect for medium-length hair, this style shows off short sides and side bangs for a unique touch. The ideal style for a minimalist, this soft look is easy to emulate. This hairstyle needs volume, so a brushable hold spray like the L’Orèal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold, Light Hairspray Unscented is the perfect match for your hair. All you need to do is spray evenly over your hair and comb in place.

SHORT STYLE #13: BUTCH CUT WITH HARD LINE DISCONNECTION

An excellent style for the style risk-taker, this bold look will definitely turn heads. This short hairstyle for guys highlights faded sides and a hard part for an intense yet stylish finish. The key to wearing this look is all about definition. The ultimate no-fuss style, all you have to do is spray and go, so make sure you have a strong-hold hairspray in your collection.

SHORT STYLE #14: LOW TOP WITH SKIN FADED SIDES

For the men who love to switch up their hairstyles, the low top with skin faded sides will get your attention. This look features faded sides that build to a low cut top. Creating a two-tone appearance, this hairstyle will make quite the statement. Best of all, there are no styling products needed to maintain the cut.

SHORT STYLE #15: FAUX HAWK

Thick-haired men will love this style. A smart way to keep your hair in place with little styling involved, this hairstyle is a great alternative for the busy man. This look can even work for the guy that loves playing around with styles. You can fade the sides with a classic taper, add designs, or take the plunge with shaved sides.

SHORT STYLE #16: TOUSLED FADED HAIR

Let's be honest; sometimes, you just want to throw a product or two in your hair and head out the door. While you don't have time to style your hair, that doesn't mean that your hair should not make a statement. One of the easiest styles to master is the tousled buzz cut faded look. A standout style for its curly, messy top, this look is perfect for the man that's always on the go. It also features gently faded sides to add a bit of dimension to the look.

To bring your curls to life, grab a curl mousse for instant definition. Apply an egg-sized amount to your palms and apply generously from root to tip. Scrunch your hair; and you're ready to go about your day!

SHORT STYLE #17: MEDIUM CROP WITH UNDERCUT

Crop cuts are a great style, but there is nothing wrong with taking things to the next level. This medium crop style allows you to play with your length for a longer look at the top. The sides stay true to the classic style with a buzzed finish for a modern appeal. Great for curly, straight, tightly coiled, and wavy textures, this versatile look is one of our favorites. Even better, all you need is a touch of hairspray, preferably one with a strong-hold.

SHORT STYLE #18: BACK STYLED QUIFF

Quiffs, also known as pompadours, are a great style to try. You can play with length and texture for a unique finish. This style in particular, the back styled quiff, offers up a versatile look that men with various hair textures can try. To really add a bit of length on the top, we recommended using a gel to shape your strands. Get the look by squeezing a dime-sized amount into your palms and spreading evenly throughout your hair. Work in an upward motion for a heightened look.

SHORT STYLE #19: HIGH FADE WITH MESSY TOP

For a modern look with a touch of edge, try the high buzz cut fade with a messy top look. This hairstyle looks great on short and medium lengths and provides the opportunity to play with texture. If you're looking to step outside of the box with your next look, this hairstyle will surely meet your expectations.

SHORT STYLE #20: LOW FADE BRUSH BACK

If you're the type of guy that doesn't mind spending time in the mirror to perfect your hair, the low fade brush back is worth a try. Offering the best of both worlds, you can show off your length and remain on-trend thanks to the faded sides. While sculpting this style can take a while since you have to brush your hair from the front to the back for a smooth finish, it's absolutely worth it. All you need to top off this look is a hairspray that doesn't get stiff, like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray Extra Strong Hold.

SHORT STYLE #21: SHORT BRUSH-UP WITH UNDERCUT

For men who love the traditional undercut style but want to experiment with texture, the short brush-up style is a great choice. While this look is long on the top and short on the sides with a stylish fade, the brushed-up front takes things to new heights. This look is also super easy to style. All you need is a brush and a styling cream, like the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BLOW DRY IT Thermal Smoother Cream. Squeeze a quarter-sized amount into your palms, apply on damp hair before blow-drying, and brush to define your texture.

SHORT STYLE #22: SCISSOR CUT

A true classic, the scissor cut will never go out of style. It looks great on all hair types and is a no-fuss style that low maintenance men will appreciate. It's also versatile enough that high maintenance men will love it, too. The style features choppy, thick strands that show off the length of your hair. From curly hair to straight hair, you can wear your natural texture with this style. You also don't need to add any styling products to this look. This is the perfect get-up-and-go hairstyle.

SHORT STYLE #23: NATURAL PART WITH MEDIUM FRINGE

Middle part styles are not reserved for women. Men can get in on the fun, too. This short haircut almost veers into being a medium-length cut, but we’ll let it slide. The center part will highlight your natural texture, while the symmetrical style serves up a touch of boy band fever and '90s vibes. The only product you need to keep this haircut in place is a brushable hold spray.

SHORT STYLE #24: CLASSIC SHORT WITH HIGH FADE

Nothing beats a classic style, and this short cut with a high fade is no exception. A fresh alternative for men who like trendy styles without the long styling time, this cut is a winner! With faded sides and a short top, this style takes no time to master. Get the look by lengthening your hair toward the front with a styling cream.

SHORT STYLE #25: SLEEK SKIN FADE

If you have thick hair and are looking for a trendy change, the sleek skin fade is the perfect style for you. To try this look, cut the hair on the sides of your head and shape what’s on top in an upward motion. This cut is all about highlighting your texture, and you can do so with the help of a hair paste or pomade. Grab a dime-sized amount and work through your hair to shape and hold your style.

SHORT STYLE #26: CLASSIC TAPER

While some men like head-turning styles, there are many who love to keep their hairstyles simple and refined. If you fit into this category, the classic taper style is just what you need. With long hair on the top that gradually gets shorter down the back and sides of the head, this style is a classic for a reason.

SHORT STYLE #27: SIDE BRUSHED TEXTURES

For a standout style that you can create on your own, side brushed, textured hair is a great way to go! The style highlights your natural texture without having to cut or fade any part of your hair. While this style does require a product or two to maintain its definition (try a lightweight styling cream), you will be happy you tried it.

SHORT STYLE #28: SHORT CURLS WITH A BURST FADE

This hairstyle is popular among men with thick, coily hair. With a low burst fade along the sides, this style builds to textured curls at the top. If you're currently growing out your hair and looking for a short hairstyle that will complement your texture, look no further. Best of all, you'll only need one product to keep your curls defined: a curl cream. Apply a dime-sized amount to your damp hair from root to tip. Scrunch your hair and air dry for soft and defined curls.

SHORT STYLE #29: MODERN MILITARY FLAT TOP

The modern military look combines fading with soft styling for a stylish finish. This high and tight haircut is an excellent option for men looking for a short hairstyle that's on-trend. If you're ready to bring this style to life, you'll only need a gel or brushable hair spray. If you would like to add a bit of texture to this hairstyle, you can also use gel on damp hair for instant definition.

SHORT STYLE #30: BUZZ CUT + MID FADE

For men who like to combine classic styling with a trendy touch, the buzz cut and mid fade style should be next on your must-try list! A style that looks great from any angle and on every hair type, this look is the true epitome of versatile styling. This buzz cut fade leaves hair on the top with a fade that starts on the temples and finishes on the sides. With no products needed to enhance this style, low maintenance men will not be able to get enough of this short buzz cut fade style.

SHORT STYLE #31: WAVES WITH HIGH FADE CUT

Are you over the traditional fade hairstyle? Then it's time to expand your horizons and try out this hairstyle that combines waves with a high buzz cut fade. Hugely different from the classic fade, this look features thicker hair at the top that's cut into waves. Complete with a sharp hard part at the side, this short hairstyle is perfect for curly and wavy hair textures.

Since this look requires deep waves, we recommend using a hair putty to define your texture. Apply a dime-sized amount to your hair and shape as you desire. Brush your hair in an upward motion to highlight its wavy texture.

SHORT STYLE #33: TEXTURED CROP CUT

Bridging the gap between classic styling and modern trends, the textured crop cut is one of the most popular short hairstyles. Offering versatility and suiting all hair textures, this cut enhances separation with a low fade, leaving you with a unique style. This clean-cut look is easy to manage and only requires one product to keep your style together.

To style your textured crop cut, apply a flexible hold hair spray. Mist over your hair evenly to hold your texture in place. You can even jazz up your style with a touch of gel for a defined finish.

SHORT STYLE #34: MESSY SPIKES

Messy spikes don't look as disheveled as you may think. The style offers a fresh, cleaned up look that you'll appreciate. An excellent option for a man with no time to spare, this short hairstyle makes the list because of the minimal styling it requires. All you need is a gel with a strong hold; then you can start spiking up your hair as you see fit. Don’t get too serious about it; just rub the gel between your hands and pull your fingers up through your strands to create messy spikes.

SHORT STYLE #35: SHORT CURLS + DROP FADES

A chic fade can take any style to the next level, and that certainly applies to the short curls and drop fade look. Perfect for men with short curly or wavy hair, this cut provides a clean-cut look with texture. This style is a true classic, so it's no surprise that this look has become popular with many professional basketball players over the years. With little to no styling products needed, this no-fuss style will become your new favorite.

SHORT STYLE #36: FRENCH CROP

A stylish balance of texture and volume, the French crop is a style you must try. Taking off the sides with a low buzz cut fade and highlighting the natural texture at the top, this look is a modern, rugged style you'll love. Whether your hair is straight or curly, this haircut will surely make a bold statement. To enhance this look, you’ll want to reach for a pomade or gel. Starting from the roots, apply a dime-sized amount and work your way to the tips of your hair to build fullness and volume.

SHORT STYLE #37: BLOWOUT BRUSH UP WITH FADE

So, you're a fan of a blowout? We're on the same page. To give your mane a look that you love, you should style your hair in a blowout brush up with a fade. To get the look, start in the shower with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. Then, let your hair air dry, or use a blow dryer if you're pressed for time—just don't forget to use a heat protectant if you go for the latter option.

Now you can start styling! Hopefully, you've already made an appointment with your barber to get a clean cut fade, then once your length fades into the buzz cut, you can concentrate on styling your hair on top. Spritz with a brushable hairspray, brush the top, and you're all set.

SHORT STYLE #38: BOWL CUT

Ready to look more dashing than ever? You might not have expected this, but a bowl cut is one way to make that happen—just be prepared to turn heads if you get this style. To style this cut, you'll need frizz-free hair. First, work a dime-sized amount of a heat protectant hair cream through damp hair. Then break out your blow dryer. Once you blow-dry, your hair will be soft, sleek, and smooth.

SHORT STYLE #39: SHORT CURLS

So you're obsessed with your curly hair? We totally understand! Give your natural texture the attention it deserves with a short curly look. To get this style, you need to start with clean and moisturized hair. This look is all about highlighting your texture, so you need a putty or pomade in your grooming arsenal. Grab a dime-sized amount, rub between your palms, and work through your hair from root to tip. Finish off the look with a misting of hairspray, and you're all done.

SHORT STYLE #40: SUPER SLICK WINGED BACK

Give your luscious locks a new look with this unique slicked-back style. When it comes to wearing a slicked-back look, it's always important to start on a clean mane. So, head into the shower and grab the L’Oréal Paris EverCreme Deep Nourish Shampoo and the L’Oréal Paris EverCreme Deep Nourish Conditioner. After you finish washing your hair, comb through your strand, and let them air dry to prep for the slicked-back style.

Once your hair is dry, you need to use a gel to give your hair a flexible hold. Grab a small amount of gel and rub between your hands. Apply the gel evenly through the hair from root to tip. Then, use a small-tooth comb to slick your hair back into sections.

SHORT STYLE #41: BARELY-THERE CUT

Keep your hair short, neat, and clean with this trendy cut. Worn by many Hollywood A-listers and everyday men, it's easy to see why the barely-there cut is popular. It's simple to style and requires little to no maintenance. To get this look, we recommend heading to your barber. This cut requires a shape-up for your natural hairline and low cut hair, hence the name barely there.

SHORT STYLE #42: FRONT LINE FADE

Looking for a way to manage your textured hair? It may be time to give the front line fade style a try. This look keeps your hair cut low while showing off a defined hairline, making it a popular style for men with thick and curly hair. Start by making an appointment with your barber, because even if you know how to cut your hair, the detail and definition throughout this look can be hard to master.

SHORT STYLE #43: THE MARCEL FADE

Paying homage to the popular Marcel curls of the 1920s and 1930s, the Marcel fade is perfect for those with curly locks. It's stylish, fashionable, and will undeniably make a bold statement. This style features a unique block-shaped fade around the face and a curl pattern that is shaped upward. It's best to get the help of your barber to get this look just right.

SHORT STYLE #44: SLICK PART HAIRSTYLE

Ready to switch up your look with a sleek hairstyle? This well-groomed look falls right in line. This fashionable style not only gives your hair a fresh and neat look; you also have various options for styling it. When it comes to pulling a sleek style together, starting on clean hair is the way to go. Once you finish washing your hair, you can start styling.

Now, it's time to define your hair with a gel or pomade. Grab a dime-sized amount and rub between your palms. Apply to your hair and use your fingers to shape. Follow up with a side part to finish the look.

SHORT STYLE #45: SHORT SPIKY HAWK

Fades have become a staple in many short styles for men, including the short spiky hawk. This style is perfect for those who want to experiment with different lengths while adding an edge to their look. Whether you prefer a low fade or a high fade or like to keep things in the middle, this hairstyle leaves plenty of room for options. You'll also love that you can wear your spikes at different lengths and shapes to customize your look. To hold your hair in place, use the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle LOCK IT Extreme Style Gel to sculpt your mane.

SHORT STYLE #46: FRINGE CREW CUT

If you're a flexible guy, wearing a style that mixes various lengths may be the right pick for you. This look requires little to no work and is perfect for those who love a no-fuss style. Start by getting a traditional tapered cut that fades out the sides. Then, you can get a feathered cut to bring this fringe crew cut to life. To get the fringe look when styling, use a gel or pomade like the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Mega Gel to add a bit of texture.

SHORT STYLE #47: SHORT SHAGGY

In need of a messy yet stylish hairstyle? The short shaggy look is just what you need. Give your hair a razor cut to mix and match your length. As for styling, start by turning up the volume with the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Volume Shampoo and the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Volume Conditioner. Once you finish washing your hair, follow up with a textured styler. This style is particularly great for guys with round faces and prominent foreheads.

SHORT STYLE #48: SIDE PART POMPADOUR

It's already hard not to love this charming hairstyle. This classic style showcases elegance and leaves room for modern details. This side part pompadour will provide the look you love while adding angles and height into the mix. If you're looking to switch up your pompadour look, this style is a great place to start.

SHORT STYLE #49: THE CAESAR CUT

For men who want to keep their hair short, neat, and stylish, a caesar cut is a prime pick. You've probably seen this style on the runways and on a few of your favorite celebs, and it’s easy to see why. This cut helps to enhance your strong features and bring attention to your jawline. A clean-cut that checks all the boxes, you can't go wrong with giving this look a shot.

SHORT STYLE #50: THE CLASSIC CREW CUT

The classic crew cut serves up vintage style that men of today can't get enough of. Providing simplicity and style, this cut looks great on men with straight, wavy, or curly hair. The hair on the sides is short with a tapered effect, while the hair at the top sits in an upright position to highlight your texture. This crew cut is both practical and stylish, making this style an easy choice for those who love a no-fuss option.

SHORT STYLE #51: ROUND CUT FADE

When it comes to curly hair, all you need is a product or two to sell this look. The round buzz cut fade is a great choice for men with short curly hair. Unlike a traditional fade, this style is longer on the top and the sides. The fade comes in closer to the ends and down to the skin. Use a bit of cream to shape your curls, working the product through your spirals to define your curly locks.

SHORT STYLE #52: FADED HIGH AND TIGHT

The faded high and tight haircut offers a shorter high top style that plays with texture. Its round shape at the front gives a softer appearance that isn't too intimidating, plus it's easy to style. Simply smooth and shape your texture with a little bit of hair pomade.

Want more men's hair advice? Check out our article, 7 Hair Care Tips for Men.