The “perfectly messy” hairstyle is undoubtedly the pinnacle of casual chic. It exudes a relaxed, effortless vibe that can be incredibly appealing, but achieving that coveted look can be surprisingly challenging.
Striking the right balance is critical. If your hair isn’t messy enough, it can appear overly polished or stiff. On the other hand, if it’s too messy, you might end up looking disheveled and unkempt. The art of perfectly messy hair lies in walking the fine line between casually tousled and outright chaotic. This makes it a more nuanced style to master than classic cuts like the men’s quiff.
You might often see this messy aesthetic flaunted by celebrities who have access to professional stylists, leading many to believe this look is exclusive to those with naturally great hair or a glam squad. However, the truth is that any hair type can achieve a perfectly messy look without needing a stylist’s help.
Creating that effortless appearance doesn’t mean you should simply mess up your hair haphazardly. Instead, it requires a bit of intentionality. The “messy” style you choose should reflect your unique hair type, base hairstyle, and personal aesthetic, ensuring it suits you perfectly.
To help you nail this trendy look, we’ve curated a list of 10 perfectly messy men’s hairstyles for various lengths and styles. Each entry will be broken down to highlight what makes it work and offer tips on how you can replicate it at home.
10 Perfectly Messy Men’s Hairstyles
1. Short & Tousled
You don’t need long hair to achieve that perfectly messy vibe. In fact, short hairstyles with a tousled finish can provide abundant texture and movement while maintaining a subtle and sophisticated look. This style is particularly ideal for men who prefer a low-maintenance yet stylish appearance.
Foundation of the Look
The foundation of this short, choppy hairstyle is a tapered cut, typically featuring about two inches of hair on top. The length on top allows for versatility in styling, giving you enough hair to play with while still keeping it manageable. Depending on your preference and desired messiness level, you can opt for neatly styled sides and backs or choose a more relaxed, loose look.
To achieve the tousled effect on top, use your fingers to style your hair with a lightweight matte-finish product. Products like matte pomades or texturizing sprays work well, as they provide hold without making your hair look greasy or overly styled. When applying the product, start with a small amount and gradually add more as needed—this approach helps prevent your hair from becoming weighed down.
The technique here is all about personal touch and experimentation. Instead of following a strict styling routine, embrace a more freeform approach. Use your fingers to lift and separate sections of hair, creating an effortlessly tousled effect. However, be cautious not to over-tousle; excessive manipulation can lead to a look that feels chaotic rather than intentionally messy. Aim for a balanced, effortlessly messy appearance that conveys a sense of laid-back confidence.
To complete the look, consider using a light hairspray or a sea salt spray for added texture and hold. These products can enhance the natural movement of your hair while keeping everything in place throughout the day. Additionally, this style can easily transition from day to night—simply freshen up with a bit of product, and you’re ready to go!
The short and tousled hairstyle is perfect for men of all hair types, whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair. It’s versatile enough to suit different face shapes and personal styles, making it an accessible option for many. Plus, this look is not only stylish but also functional; it’s easy to maintain and requires minimal upkeep, making it ideal for the modern man on the go.
For those with thick and coarse hair, achieving a perfectly messy look can be a unique advantage. While this hair type is often perceived as more challenging to style, it can actually lend itself beautifully to a carefree, tousled aesthetic. The key is to embrace the natural texture and work with it rather than against it, allowing you to create a look that feels effortless yet intentional.
To achieve the frizzy brush-up style, you’ll need about two to three inches of hair on top. This length provides enough volume and movement to create the desired messy effect without becoming unmanageable. In contrast to the flat layers seen in shorter hairstyles, this look thrives on height and dimension, which is ideal for men with thicker hair.
Begin by choosing a medium to high-hold styling product with a matte finish. Products like matte pomades or styling creams can provide the necessary grip and control without making your hair look shiny or overly slick. Apply a small amount to your fingers and work it through your hair, focusing primarily on the roots to build lift and volume.
Achieving the frizzy brush-up look requires a combination of techniques. Start by using a comb or brush to gently detangle your hair and create neat waves. This step is essential for removing any knots and ensuring your hair lies smoothly before adding texture. Once you’ve combed through, switch to finger styling to create looser tufts and spikes. The contrast between the neat base and the messy top will enhance the overall look, giving you a perfectly tousled appearance.
Consider incorporating a sea salt spray into your styling routine for added texture. This product can help enhance the natural waves and provide a beachy, lived-in feel. After spraying, use a blow dryer on a low setting to help lock in the texture and boost volume. The heat will activate the sea salt spray, giving your hair that desirable, tousled finish.
To complete your frizzy brush-up hairstyle, you can add a light mist of hairspray for extra hold, ensuring your style stays intact throughout the day. A touch of dry shampoo can also be beneficial, absorbing excess oil and giving your hair more body and texture.
The frizzy brush-up style is particularly flattering for men with thicker hair, as it allows for greater volume and movement. This look is versatile and can be adapted to suit various occasions. Additionally, it’s a low-maintenance option, requiring minimal touch-ups throughout the day, making it perfect for those who prefer a laid-back approach to their grooming routine.
3. Effortlessly Textured Waves
If you’re looking for a relaxed take on the classic quiff, effortlessly textured waves offer a fantastic option. This style is perfect for guys who desire an understated look that conveys a sense of messiness without appearing overly chaotic. It strikes a balance between casual and polished, making it suitable for various settings.
At its core, the textured waves hairstyle resembles a traditional quiff. The top is typically styled to about four inches in length, allowing for enough volume and movement, while the sides feature a zero fade haircut, creating a clean, sharp contrast. This tapering on the sides enhances the textured appearance on top, drawing attention to the waves.
The key to achieving the windswept effect of textured waves lies in your styling technique. Start by choosing a lightweight matte styling product, such as a matte cream or paste. It’s crucial to use the smallest possible amount—begin with a pea-sized scoop to avoid weighing your hair down.
To create those large, soft waves, loosely finger-comb your hair, focusing on lifting the roots without flattening them. The goal is to maintain volume while adding texture, so avoid excessive combing that could lead to a slicked-back look.
Blow drying is a critical step in this styling process. The heat not only helps set your hair but also enhances the natural movement and texture. As you blow dry, continue to finger comb your hair to encourage those voluminous waves. You can flip your head upside down for added lift, which will help create a more dynamic shape.
If you find that the texture isn’t quite what you’re aiming for, incorporating a sea salt spray can be a game-changer. After applying the spray, use the blow dryer again to help define those waves and add a bit of grit to your hair.
Finishing Touches for the Perfect Look
To finish off your effortlessly textured waves, you may want to mist your hair with a flexible hold hairspray lightly. This will ensure your waves stay in place throughout the day without becoming stiff or crunchy. A little dry shampoo can also be beneficial for adding extra volume and absorbing any excess oil, giving your hair that fresh, tousled look.
Why This Style Works
The effortlessly textured waves hairstyle is incredibly versatile and works well with various hair types, particularly those with some natural wave or curl. It offers a sophisticated yet casual appearance, making it ideal for everything from work settings to social gatherings. This style combines ease of maintenance with a polished look, allowing you to transition from day to night effortlessly.
When it comes to spiky hairstyles, it’s essential to know that not all spikes have to channel the NSYNC era. In fact, spiking is a versatile technique that can be adapted to create a variety of looks, especially when aiming for that perfectly messy aesthetic. This style is particularly effective for men with straight hair, making it one of the best options for Asian hairstyles.
Emphasizing Texture and Volume
The loose spikes hairstyle is all about achieving a relaxed, airy feel. The key to this look is the texture created by spiked strands, which are styled to point backward. This technique produces a beautifully messy brushed-back appearance that feels effortlessly cool and modern.
To create this hairstyle, you’ll want to ensure the longer sections of hair on top blend seamlessly into the sides. Start by allowing ample length on top to facilitate the spiking process, while the sides should be combed back to maintain a cohesive look. The drop fade technique adds an extra layer of dimension, with the fade line following the natural contours of your head. This curvature enhances the overall aesthetic and makes the hairstyle feel well-structured.
To achieve this look, apply a lightweight styling product, such as matte wax or clay, to your hair. This will provide the hold necessary for the spikes while keeping your hair looking natural and not overly styled. Use your fingers to create spikes by lifting sections of hair and twisting them slightly for added definition.
Once you’ve achieved the desired spiked look, consider using a light hairspray to help lock everything in place without weighing down your hair. This will maintain the shape and texture throughout the day while preserving the carefree, messy vibe.
The playful, loose spikes hairstyle is stylish and incredibly adaptable. It works well with various hair types and lengths, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to experiment with their appearance. This style balances edgy and approachable, allowing you to express your personality while maintaining an effortless charm.
For those with naturally curly hair, achieving a perfectly messy hairstyle can be incredibly rewarding. With moderately to severely curly locks, you have a fantastic canvas to work with, allowing you to embrace the natural texture while adding your own flair. The key is to guide your curls to achieve a controlled yet relaxed look.
Emphasizing Volume and Texture
The lively, thick curls hairstyle is designed to create abundant body and texture. To achieve this look, let your curls do most of the talking, but don’t be afraid to give them a little direction. You can maximize the volume by intentionally styling your hair to be thick and slightly matted, resulting in a dynamic, eye-catching appearance.
Creating Movement with Direction
For this style, combing the hair forward is essential. Directing your curls toward the fringe allows for movement and a soft framing of your face. This approach enhances the natural bounce of your curls, adding an effortless flow that looks great from any angle. The interplay between the thickness of the curls and the directional styling creates a lively, casual, and stylish effect.
While messy hairstyles are often associated with a carefree attitude, maintaining a certain level of neatness is crucial, especially for curly styles. Ensure that the back and sides are kept tidy, as this contrast will make the textured top stand out even more. A clean fade on the sides and back not only highlights the curls but also prevents your overall look from appearing too unkempt. This clean finish provides a polished touch, balancing the messiness with sophistication.
To keep your thick curls looking their best, consider using a lightweight curl cream or mousse that enhances your natural texture without weighing it down. Apply the product while your hair is still damp, scrunching it gently to encourage the curls. For added definition and hold, you can use a diffuser when blow-drying your hair.
The lively, thick, curly hairstyle is perfect for those looking to embrace their natural hair while still achieving a perfectly messy look. This style allows you to express your personality through your hair, showcasing your unique texture in an effortless and fun way.
The wavy undercut is a modern classic that perfectly encapsulates versatility and style, making it a go-to choice for many men. Its enduring popularity lies in its flexibility, allowing for a myriad of looks while maintaining a timeless appeal. With neatly faded sides, the undercut is less likely to go out of fashion, making it a worthwhile investment for your hairstyle.
This hairstyle utilizes the undercut as a solid foundation for a loose, wavy quiff. The combination of a clean undercut and medium-length wavy hair on top creates a unique aesthetic that falls somewhere between a traditional quiff and a brushed-back style. The result is a casual, effortless look that radiates coolness without appearing overly polished.
What sets the wavy undercut apart is the strategic messiness integrated into the style. The top section of hair is styled to have a relaxed, carefree vibe, with strands deliberately allowed to stray from the tidy quiff. This adds an element of playfulness, enhancing the overall aesthetic without sacrificing sophistication. It’s the perfect blend of structure and spontaneity.
For optimal styling, using a matte finish product with a medium to high hold is essential. This type of product will help maintain the shape of the quiff while allowing for a natural texture that prevents your hair from looking too stiff or shiny. If you have fine hair, it’s advisable to opt for a lighter hold to avoid weighing your hair down and losing that airy, tousled effect.
To achieve this look, start by applying a small amount of product to dry or slightly damp hair. Use your fingers to lift the hair at the roots, creating volume before styling the waves into place. Gently tousle the hair on top to emphasize the loose, wavy texture. Blow-drying can help enhance the volume and movement, but be sure to use a low-heat setting to protect your hair.
When it comes to achieving a perfectly messy hairstyle, few options can rival the classic messy scissor cut. This style stands out for its medium-length appeal and the way it retains volume and body, thanks to the absence of clippers. The use of scissors allows for longer strands that create a more relaxed, textured finish.
A scissor cut allows for flexibility in styling and gives the hair a natural flow that enhances the overall messy look. The length of the hair contributes to its carefree vibe, making it an excellent choice for those looking to embrace a more casual aesthetic. The longer strands create movement and texture that is often difficult to achieve with shorter, clipper-cut styles.
Styling for a Perfectly Messy Finish
In this particular style, the front section is crafted into a loose quiff, providing a playful touch that draws attention upward. Meanwhile, the hair on the top and back is heavily tousled, resulting in a frizzier texture that contributes to the overall messiness of the look. This styling method emphasizes the hair’s natural texture, creating an effortlessly stylish appearance.
Casual Vibes with an Unkempt Edge
This hairstyle is considerably messier than many others, making it ideal for those who want an extremely casual, laid-back look. The “rolled out of bed” aesthetic is charming and approachable, offering a perfect blend of style and ease. It’s the kind of hairstyle that conveys confidence and a carefree attitude without appearing overly styled.
To achieve the messy scissor cut, start by applying a lightweight styling cream or sea salt spray to damp hair. This will help enhance texture while allowing for easier manipulation of the strands. Use your fingers to tousle the hair, focusing on creating a disheveled effect throughout the top and back. Don’t be afraid to embrace imperfections; the goal is to achieve that relaxed, effortlessly cool appearance.
8. Effortless Bedraggled Beckham
David Beckham is renowned not just for his soccer skills but also for his ever-evolving hairstyles. One of his standout looks is the Bedraggled Beckham, a medium-length hairstyle that perfectly captures the essence of messiness with an effortless charm. This style is surprisingly easy to achieve, making it accessible for anyone looking to emulate Beckham’s laid-back yet stylish aesthetic.
To pull off the Bedraggled Beckham look, you’ll want to start with about four to five inches of hair on top. This length allows enough movement and volume to create that desirable messy effect. The sides should be cut using scissors rather than clippers, maintaining a longer length that complements the overall style while offering a softer, more textured appearance.
The key to this hairstyle is the relaxed approach to styling. Begin by brushing the hair loosely to the side, creating a natural parting. However, if you prefer a messy effect, skip the brush entirely. Instead, use your fingers to roughly tousle the hair into place. This method gives the hairstyle an effortlessly disheveled look, reflecting a sense of casual confidence.
As you style, let the hair fall naturally, and don’t be afraid to embrace some imperfections. Tousle the strands where necessary to enhance the messy vibe. The beauty of this hairstyle lies in its ability to look stylish while being low-maintenance. If you want additional volume or texture, feel free to incorporate a sea salt spray or light hair powder. These products can add that extra lift and help define the messy look without weighing the hair down.
Ultimately, the key to rocking the Bedraggled Beckham look is confidence. Embrace the messiness, and allow your personality to shine through this laid-back hairstyle. Whether you’re hitting the soccer field or heading out for a night with friends, this effortlessly stylish cut is sure to make a statement!
The curly shag is a classic hairstyle that’s been making a stylish resurgence in recent years. Unlike the unkempt, matted shags of the 70s, today’s shags embrace a modern, focused messiness that balances laid-back charm with intentional styling. This trend has gained popularity, particularly among those looking to showcase their natural curls while keeping a fashionable edge.
At the core of the trendy curly shag is the idea of long, unbrushed hair that naturally frames the face. This modern interpretation celebrates the beauty of texture and movement, allowing the hair’s natural curls to do the heavy lifting. The result is a look that feels effortlessly chic and refreshingly untamed.
To achieve this style, you’ll want to start with hair with some length—typically around shoulder length or longer. The key is to let your curls thrive by allowing them to fall where they may. While the hair’s natural texture is the star of the show, you can enhance it by applying a small amount of product. Opt for a lightweight curl cream or mousse to define the curls without weighing them down. Work the product through your hair, scrunching it as you go to encourage bounce and volume.
One of the best aspects of the curly shag is that messiness is not just acceptable; it’s celebrated. The more tousled and carefree, the better. To achieve the perfect “just-right messiness” level, consider skipping the brush altogether. Instead, use your fingers to tousle the hair gently, allowing the curls to form and fall naturally. This technique helps maintain the carefree vibe that defines the modern shag.
Styling Tips for Maximum Impact
For added definition and a touch of shine, you can use a finishing spray or lightweight gel to keep the curls looking fresh throughout the day. Remember, the goal is to maintain that effortlessly messy appearance while ensuring the curls remain bouncy and lively.
The effortlessly messy long-wave hairstyle pays homage to the relaxed, carefree looks of the ’90s while bringing a modern twist that remains relevant today. This style proves that long hair can effortlessly create a perfectly messy appearance that feels both laid-back and effortlessly stylish.
In this look, the beauty of the hairstyle lies in its length—typically ranging from six to seven inches. Longer hair naturally adds a sense of movement and flow, allowing those charmingly messy strands to frame the face perfectly. It’s all about embracing your hair’s natural shape with a few intentional details to keep things looking polished yet casual.
Creating Direction with a Side Part
To start, form a loose side part that gives your hair some direction without making it too structured. This simple step adds a level of sophistication while allowing your hair to fall naturally, contributing to that perfectly messy vibe. Instead of laboring over perfection, the goal is to keep the look relaxed and easygoing, as if you just rolled out of bed looking effortlessly cool.
Minimal Styling for Maximum Impact
One of the best things about long waves is that you don’t need to do much to achieve this style. Depending on your hair type, you might find that you can forgo heavy styling products altogether. However, if your hair tends to be flat or lacks a defined wave pattern, consider using a light texturizing spray or sea salt spray. This will enhance the natural waves and add that coveted beachy texture without weighing the hair down.
Tips for Enhancing Natural Waves
For those with straighter hair, you might want to use a curling wand or flat iron to create loose waves before styling. Once you’ve added some waves, scrunching the hair lightly with your fingers can help create the messy effect you’re aiming for. A small amount of product can help hold the waves in place while keeping the overall look soft and touchable.
Which Messy Hairstyle Will You Choose?
When it comes to achieving that effortlessly cool aesthetic, perfectly messy hairstyles stand out as a top choice for men seeking a laid-back yet stylish look. These hairstyles embody a carefree attitude while still showcasing your personality, making them suitable for various casual settings.
While perfectly messy hairstyles may not be suitable for every occasion—such as formal events or professional environments—they shine in relaxed settings like weekend outings, casual hangouts, or outdoor activities. Their versatility allows you to adapt them to different situations. Many of these styles can easily transition from a day at the beach to a night out with friends, giving you the flexibility to look good in any context.
One of the best aspects of messy hairstyles is their ability to clean up nicely. With a little effort, you can transform your relaxed look into something more polished. For instance, a messy quiff can easily be styled into a more structured appearance with the right product and technique. This means that a single haircut can serve multiple purposes, allowing you to switch between neat and messy looks as needed.
If you’re sporting facial hair, many of these messy hairstyles can complement your beard perfectly. Styles that are short on the sides and slightly longer on top can create a balanced appearance, allowing both your hair and beard to stand out. A tousled top can add an edgy vibe that pairs well with the ruggedness of a beard, making it an ideal choice for men looking to make a style statement.
Remember, achieving that perfect messy look is all about the cut and the styling. It’s essential to approach your hairstyle intentionally; don’t just mess up your hair and hope for the best. Choose the right products and techniques to enhance your natural texture while maintaining control over the overall appearance. Experiment with different styling methods to find what works best for your hair type and personal style.
