I have slightly wavy, thicker hair, so I’ve always preferred short, simple men’s haircuts. At least, that’s what I prefer for myself. Sometimes, I find myself envying those guys who can pull off a long hairdo. They look so relaxed and laid-back with their flowy locks. But knowing my hair texture, I know it wouldn’t be easy for me at all.
There’s something classic and debonair about a man with a simple short haircut. Just think of every James Bond who’s ever been on screen or style icons like Cary Grant. Throughout modern style history, traditional men have always preferred shorter haircuts.
I know not everyone identifies with traditional styles, and that’s totally fine! But short hair doesn’t have to be boring. For me, the ultimate appeal is convenience. Some mornings, I take the time to style my hair just right, using various products to get the look I want. But on those crazy days, I appreciate the option to just take 30 seconds to check myself in the mirror before I head out the door.
Let’s take a look at some great, simple, short men’s haircuts. Despite their straightforwardness, these haircuts have plenty of options.
10 Simple Men’s Haircut Styles
Even with short hair, some cuts and styles require attention. However, there are also styles that require little to no maintenance at all. I’m talking about those cuts that are so short they’re almost bald. In this list, I’ve included all these variations, so you can choose based on your own priorities and lifestyle.
The Crew Cut
The crew cut is often mistaken for the buzz cut but is noticeably longer in the front. If you want an easy-care haircut that still has some texture, the crew cut is a great option. This style is the perfect balance of low maintenance and polished appearance, which is why it’s a favorite among men of all ages.
Versatility for Different Hair Types
One of the best things about the crew cut is its versatility. If you have curly hair, this style allows you to show off your texture in a way that a buzz cut can’t. The crew cut can enhance the natural curl, and you’ll look great without having to style it much.
A classic crew cut has hair that’s anywhere from half an inch to three inches long on top and tapered sides and back. The length will depend on your hair texture; if it’s so long that it falls and flattens, it’s no longer a crew cut. This length can vary from guy to guy, so it’s all about personal preference.
Styling Options
While the crew cut is low maintenance, you can still use hair products to add texture or create a part. A light pomade or styling cream can define the hair on top and give it a more structured look. For those who want a more relaxed style, a bit of mousse can enhance the natural texture without weighing it down.
For example, the Ivy League is a classic variation of the crew cut that includes a part and even a bit of a fringe. This style adds a touch of sophistication and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. The Ivy League is popular among professionals who want a clean and sharp look but still want some personality.
Maintenance and Care
The crew cut is low-maintenance. You’ll need to visit the barber every 4 to 6 weeks to keep the shape and length in check. Depending on how fast your hair grows, you may need to adjust this schedule. The tapered sides and back will require a bit of upkeep to keep them neat and tidy.
Also, using the right hair care products can make a big difference in how your crew cut looks and feels. A good shampoo and conditioner will keep your hair healthy and manageable, and a light styling product will help you get the look you want without feeling heavy or greasy.
The Classic Side Part and Side Swept
The classic side part has been around for decades and is considered a gentleman’s haircut. This timeless style is sophisticated and can be worn for professional or formal occasions.
The Classic Side Part
A classic side part means your hair is long enough to have a fringe. To get this look, you’ll start by determining your dominant side—this is the side where your hair naturally falls. You’ll comb the dominant side up and back depending on the thickness and length of your hair. The other side will be combed back as well to create a clean look.
This style is neat, clean, and stately, so it’s great for anyone who wants to project a professional or formal image. The amount of maintenance depends on your hair texture. If you have thick, coarse hair, you may need to use some product to pat down the part and keep it in place all day.
The Side Swept
If you want a less formal and more relaxed look, the side-swept hairstyle is a great alternative. This style is a looser version of the side part and requires less product and maintenance. To get the side-swept look, you can do the part as you would with the classic side part, but instead of combing it back tight, you let the hair fall naturally.
This gives a softer, more relaxed look. You can quickly hairspray the style in place to keep some hold without looking too stiff. The sides will fall a bit, adding some movement and a laid-back feel to your overall look.
I like the side-swept look for casual days or weekends. It’s easy and looks put together. I can get this look in a few minutes, and it’s perfect for busy mornings when I want to look good without spending too much time on my hair.
Maintenance and Products
The right hair care products can benefit both the classic side part and the side swept. For the classic side part, a light pomade or styling cream can keep the hair in place and add some shine. For the side swept, a light hairspray can give just enough hold without weighing the hair down.
Regular trims are also essential to maintain the shape of these styles. Visit your barber every 4 to 6 weeks to keep the sides neat, and the top at the length you want, and your style will stay fresh and sharp.
The Buzz Cut
The buzz cut is a classic style that comes in many forms, so don’t write it off just because it’s not long. At its core, a buzz cut is the same length all over the head, clean and uniform.
Convenience and Low Maintenance
The buzz cut is the most convenient and low-maintenance of all simple men’s haircuts. That’s probably why it’s also a popular choice in the military, where practicality is key. If you wear a short buzz cut, you probably don’t even own a comb—or if you do, it’s probably collecting dust in a drawer somewhere.
Many men choose this style because it is low maintenance. With minimal styling required, you can save time in your daily grooming routine. A quick wash and towel dry are all you need to keep your buzz cut looking sharp.
Versatility and Masculinity
I think the buzz cut is a traditional masculine style that looks good on many face shapes. Clean lines and simplicity will enhance your features and draw attention to your eyes and jawline. The buzz cut can also give you a strong, confident look, so it’s a popular choice for men who want to look no-nonsense.
Plus, the buzz cut is versatile enough to fit many personal styles. Whether you like a very short military-style buzz cut or a slightly longer one with some texture, there’s a buzz cut for everyone. You can even try different lengths to find the one that suits your face shape and personal style.
Styling Options
While the buzz cut is low maintenance, you can still add some personality. Some men choose to fade the sides or taper the top to give the cut a modern twist. This will add dimension and style without compromising the overall simplicity of the buzz cut.
Also, if you have some length on top, you can use a light styling product to create texture or a messy look. This is great for those with wavy or curly hair. You can show off your natural texture while keeping the overall style neat.
Buzz Cut Variation: The Induction
Of all the buzz-cut variations, the induction is the shortest. This style is almost bald, but you can still see your hairline. For those with light, thin hair, the induction may look completely bald in certain lighting. When most people think of a buzz cut, the induction comes to mind. It’s also known as a “mighty fine” cut.
How to get the Induction
To get an induction buzz cut, you or your barber should use a zero-guard buzzer. This tool allows for an ultra-close shave, so the length is uniform throughout the scalp. If you have extra fine or light-colored hair, you may use a 0.5 or even one-guard to have some texture while still keeping it very short.
The induction cut gives the appearance of uniform, clean, minimalist stubble on your head. This style is great for those who want a low-maintenance grooming routine, as it requires minimal upkeep.
Maintenance and Care
To put it simply, it doesn’t get any easier to take care of than this. But just because the induction is low maintenance doesn’t mean you should neglect your scalp. You should make sure your scalp is moisturized, as the lack of hair can expose your skin to the elements. A good moisturizer can prevent dryness and irritation.
Also, when you’re outdoors, you should apply SPF to your scalp. The skin on your head is just as prone to sunburn as any other part of your body, and protecting it from UV rays is important for long-term skin health. Look for a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that won’t leave a residue.
Who It Suits?
The induction buzz cut is suitable for many face shapes and hair types. It’s great for those with strong jawlines or prominent features, as short hair draws attention to the face. This style is also popular among those in professions that require a clean-cut look, such as military or law enforcement.
Buzz Cut Variation: The Burr
The burr is another buzz-cut variation that sparks debate among enthusiasts. Some say if you go one guard, you’re no longer an induction but a burr. I personally think it’s hair-type dependent. For example, if you have super thick, dark hair, a one-guard might look like a two or even a three.
Burr Characteristics
In a nutshell, a burr is longer than an induction buzz cut. It’s usually one, two, or three guards long, so it’s a bit more versatile and less extreme than induction. The extra length gives a bit more texture and dimension, which is great for those who want a clean look without going full bald.
One of the best things about the burr cut is that, since it’s not as short as an induction, you don’t have to touch it up as often. Most men find they only need to maintain their burr cut once a week, so it’s an excellent option for those with busy schedules.
Maintenance and Touch-Ups
The maintenance for a burr cut is easy. With the extra length, you can let it grow out a bit before needing a touch-up. This is great for those who don’t have the time or don’t want to visit the barber every week. If you have an induction and miss a touch-up, you can just let it grow out, and it will naturally become a burr.
The Quiff
Just because you want a short and simple cut doesn’t mean you can’t have some volume. The quiff haircut is a great option that combines style with manageability. This haircut has longer hair on top than the sides, so you get volume at the crown of your head, especially at the fringe.
Styling the Quiff
To get the classic quiff look, you’ll comb the hair up. That’s the signature move. Many men find that using a hairdryer while styling helps add even more volume and airiness to the quiff. After drying, a light application of hairspray will help keep the style in place throughout the day.
Once you have the volume, you can comb the hair back or to the side, depending on your preference. The result is a loose and breezy look that’s laid-back yet stylish. The quiff is one of those classic looks that never goes out of style.
Compared to the Pompadour
While the quiff shares similarities with the pompadour, it’s generally more relaxed and less structured. The pompadour has more height and a sleeker finish, while the quiff is more casual and effortless. This makes the quiff a versatile option that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
You can get a loose look with the quiff and still use hairspray to keep it in place, or you can let it move a bit, which adds to the overall relaxed feel of the haircut.
Hair Type Considerations
If you have finer hair, you need to make sure the fringe stays in place, as it may fall flat. Using a volumizing mousse or a lightweight styling cream will help give you the hold you need without weighing the hair down. If you have thicker hair, you can style the quiff more freely and let it tousle and move.
Pompadour
You can’t mention the pompadour without mentioning the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. This classic haircut is like the voluminous quiff but is stiffer and sleeker. The pompadour gives the impression of wet hair, which adds to its sleekness. I always say Elvis would start his concerts with a pompadour, and after a few energetic performances, it would turn into a quiff. The pompadour is not just a haircut; it’s a statement of confidence and charisma.
Historical Context
Both the pompadour and quiff were huge in the 1950s. They were the rock ‘n’ roll equivalent of the close-to-the-scalp good boy haircuts of the time. The pompadour was a symbol of rebellion and individuality, a way for men to express themselves through their hair. It was a time when music and fashion were intertwined, and the pompadour was at the forefront of that cultural shift.
Styling the Pompadour
You can style a pompadour with long or short hair, but I think the easiest way to do it is with short sides and a medium-length top. The contrast between the longer top and shorter sides gives the pompadour volume and shape, making it more noticeable.
To create a classic pompadour, apply a styling product like pomade or gel to damp hair. Use a comb to lift the hair at the front and push it back to create height and volume. A hairdryer can be used to add an extra lift. Once you have the shape you like, finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep it in place.
Variations and Modern Takes
The pompadour has evolved over the years, and there are many modern variations. Some men go for a textured pompadour and let it be a bit tousled while still having the height. Others may opt for fades or undercuts on the sides to give it a modern twist.
The French Crop
The French crop is a stylish haircut with a short back and sides and a longer top. Its very short fringe can be left as is or combed back for a more polished look. The French crop is a specific style that may not suit everyone, but it’s a unique blend of sophistication and ease.
French Crop Characteristics
The top of the French crop is long enough to have a fringe but short enough to be clean and tidy. This combination of lengths gives dimension and texture. It’s a bit more interesting than a buzz cut but almost as low-maintenance. The short sides and back help to accentuate the longer top and create a balanced silhouette that works for most face shapes.
One of the best things about the French crop is its versatility. You can style the fringe in many ways, whether you like a relaxed tousled look or a sleek combed-back look. This versatility makes it a great haircut for men who want a haircut that can easily transition from casual to formal.
With Facial Hair
I also think the French crop looks good with facial hair. The contrast between short hair and facial hair creates a well-groomed look that focuses on the face. Unlike a bald head, the French crop allows for a more subtle play between hair and facial hair, so the latter gets more attention.
Whether you go for a full beard, a goatee, or even just some stubble, the French crop looks good with all types of facial hair. This combination can add to your overall look and character to your face.
The Caesar
The Caesar cut is a shorter version of the French crop, a clean and stylish look that’s modern and timeless. This haircut has less length on top and has horizontally cut bangs that sit just above the forehead. Although it’s designed for straight hair, those with small tight curls may find it has a bit of wave and adds texture to the overall look.
Caesar Cut Characteristics
The Caesar cut is all about simplicity and low maintenance. The shorter length on top makes it a practical haircut for men who don’t want to fuss with their hair. However, you will need to touch it up more often to maintain the shape and keep the bangs sharp.
One of the best things about the Caesar cut is that it balances out facial structures, especially for men with larger foreheads. The straight-cut bangs help visually shorten the forehead and create a more symmetrical look. This makes Caesar cut a great option for those who want to enhance their facial proportions.
Styling the Caesar Cut
Styling the Caesar cut is easy. A light styling product like pomade or wax can help define the bangs and keep them in place all day. For straight hair, a quick comb-through is all you need to get the look. If you have wavy or curly hair, you may want to use a curl-enhancing cream to keep the natural texture and define the bangs.
Undercut
The undercut is a versatile and essential haircut that’s been popular among men for the past few years. It works for all hair types: short, long, fine, and thick hair. This style is loved by those with straight hair but can be adapted to different textures and lengths.
Undercut Characteristics
At its core, the undercut is longer on top than on the sides and back. This contrast creates a bold and modern look that can be styled in many ways. You can wear it with bangs, comb it back for a sleek look, or even style a faux hawk like the trends back in the early 2000s when emo and pop culture collided.
The undercut is versatile, so you can achieve a polished look or a relaxed tousled look, whatever your style.
Connect or Disconnect
One key aspect of the undercut is how you connect the top to the bottom. You can taper the top to the sides and back, which is less dramatic, more traditional, and suitable for work.
Or you can disconnect the top from the bottom with no taper. This creates more contrast and adds a cool factor to your overall appearance. The disconnected undercut is loved by those who want to make a statement and express themselves.
