The right hairstyle can enhance your features, showcase your unique personality, and boost your confidence.
However, choosing the ideal haircut isn’t just about following trends—it involves selecting a style that complements your face and body shape.
A hairstyle that works perfectly on one person may not have the same effect on another due to variations in facial structure, hair texture, and overall build.
If you’re unsure of your face shape or body type, we recommend taking our free quizzes to understand your features better and find the best style for you.
In this guide, we’ll present 20 “manly hairstyles” for 2024, curated for their strong, masculine appeal and suitability for various face shapes, body types, and hair textures.
Whether you’re looking for a classic, rugged look or a modern, bold style, this comprehensive hairstyle guide is for you.
Short Manly Hairstyles
Short hairstyles have always been synonymous with masculinity and strength.
They provide a neat, controlled look while highlighting the facial features, making them an excellent choice for men who want a style that projects power and confidence.
From traditional cuts to contemporary fades, these short hairstyles are perfect for various hair textures and face shapes.
Below are five short manly hairstyles for 2024, each carefully selected to match different face and body shapes.
1. The Buzz Cut
The Buzz Cut is often considered the ultimate in no-fuss grooming because of its simplicity and low maintenance.
This style features a uniform short length all over the head, which can range from an ultra-short “induction cut” to a slightly longer “butch cut.”
It’s perfect for men who want a rugged, masculine look without worrying about styling.
Ideal Face Shape:Square, Oval, Rectangle
Ideal Body Shape: Rectangle, Inverted Triangle
Styling Tip: For a more contemporary edge, consider a skin fade on the sides or a subtle line-up at the hairline.
This style pairs exceptionally well with stubble or a short beard, enhancing the jawline and creating a more defined appearance.
2. The Crew Cut
Originating from military hairstyles, the Crew Cut is known for balancing practicality with masculine aesthetics.
This hairstyle has slightly longer hair on top with shorter sides and back, creating a polished yet masculine appearance.
The Crew Cut’s versatility allows it to suit various face shapes while offering several styling and texture options.
Ideal Face Shape: Square, Round, Oval
Ideal Body Shape: Trapezoid, Rhomboid
Styling Tip: Use a matte-finish styling cream to add a touch of texture to the top, giving the cut a modern, slightly tousled effect that still retains its clean-cut essence.
3. The High and Tight
The High and Tight is a variation of the Crew Cut that features very short sides and back with a longer top.
This high-contrast style originated from the military and accentuates strong bone structure and sharp jawlines.
It’s a no-nonsense haircut that projects confidence and authority.
Ideal Face Shape: Oval, Square, Rectangle
Ideal Body Shape: Rectangle, Inverted Triangle
Styling Tip: Use a pea-sized amount of pomade on the longer top section for a neat, structured look. To create a softer appearance, opt for a light texturising paste instead.
4. The Textured Crop
The Textured Crop offers a modern twist on traditional short haircuts, combining short sides and back with a layered, slightly longer top.
This style adds dimension and movement, making it ideal for men who break away from the standard close-cut look without sacrificing masculinity.
Ideal Face Shape: Square, Oval, Heart
Ideal Body Shape: Rhomboid, Trapezoid
Styling Tip: Apply a lightweight texturising cream to damp hair, then use your fingers to tousle and arrange it into place. The Textured Crop can be left slightly messy for a casual look or neatly combed for a more refined appearance.
5. The Ivy League
The Ivy League, also known as the Harvard Clip, is a sophisticated take on the classic crew cut.
The hair is left longer on top and can be styled with a side part for a clean, polished look.
This haircut exudes a refined charm while maintaining a strong, masculine vibe, making it suitable for formal and casual settings.
Ideal Face Shape: Oval, Square, Diamond
Ideal Body Shape: Trapezoid, Inverted Triangle
Styling Tip: Use a water-based pomade for a light hold and a glossy finish.
For a more casual appearance, style the top with your fingers and choose a matte-finish product instead.
Medium Manly Hairstyles
Medium-length hairstyles balance versatility and structure, providing enough length to experiment with different styles while maintaining a strong, masculine appearance.
These hairstyles work well for men who want a polished, professional look or a more casual style that projects confidence.
Below are five of the best medium manly hairstyles for 2024, each chosen to suit a range of face shapes, hair textures, and personal styles.
1. The Classic Taper
The Classic Taper is a timeless option for men who want a clean and refined look.
The hair is gradually tapered from longer lengths on top to shorter sides and back, creating a subtle but sophisticated shape.
The Classic Taper is highly versatile and can be styled neatly with a side part for a formal appearance or left slightly messy for a more relaxed vibe.
Ideal Face Shape: Oval, Square, Rectangle
Ideal Body Shape: Rhomboid, Inverted Triangle
Styling Tip: Use a water-based pomade for a shiny finish or a matte-finish styling cream to keep the look more natural.
Comb the top hair back or to the side, depending on the occasion.
2. The Side Part
The Side Part is a classic hairstyle that exudes elegance and confidence.
The hair is deep parted on one side, with the longer top swept across to the other.
The Side Part is perfect for men looking for a neat, polished look that complements professional and social settings.
Ideal Face Shape: Square, Oval, Diamond
Ideal Body Shape: Trapezoid, Oval
Styling Tip: Apply a lightweight styling cream to damp hair and use a comb to create a defined part.
For extra volume, use a blow dryer on low heat while brushing the hair into place.
3. The Pompadour
The Pompadour is a statement hairstyle that combines volume and height to create a striking look.
The hair is styled upwards and backward, creating an elevated shape that elongates the face.
This style works particularly well for men with thicker hair and can be adapted to suit both formal and casual occasions.
Ideal Face Shape: Oval, Square, Rectangle
Ideal Body Shape: Trapezoid, Rhomboid
Styling Tip: Apply a volumising mousse to damp hair and blow dry upwards with a round brush.
Then, apply a strong-hold pomade or wax for lasting volume and definition.
4. The Quiff
The Quiff is a modern hairstyle that blends the pompadour and undercut elements, making it bold and stylish.
The hair is lifted and styled upwards at the front, creating volume and texture that draws attention.
The Quiff is ideal for men who want a standout look without compromising sophistication.
Ideal Face Shape: Oval, Square, Heart
Ideal Body Shape: Inverted Triangle, Rectangle
Styling Tip: Apply a small amount of styling cream to damp hair and blow-dry upwards.
Finish with a medium-hold styling product to maintain volume and texture without weighing the hair down.
5. The Messy Medium Cut
The Messy Medium Cut is a relaxed, effortless style that gives off a laid-back, masculine vibe.
The hair is left at medium length all over, with layers and texture added to create natural movement and body.
This style is great for men looking for a casual, easy-to-maintain haircut that still projects a strong, manly appearance.
Ideal Face Shape: Square, Oval, Heart
Ideal Body Shape: Rhomboid, Rectangle
Styling Tip: Use a sea salt spray or texturising cream to enhance the natural waves and texture of the hair.
Tousle the hair with your fingers for a messy, lived-in look.
Long Manly Hairstyles
Long hairstyles have a unique appeal that combines strength, sophistication, and a sense of individuality.
These styles allow men to express themselves in ways that shorter hairstyles may not, offering many styling possibilities.
From the classic man bun to the flowing long layers, these hairstyles are perfect for those who want to stand out while maintaining a powerful, masculine look.
Below are five of the top long manly hairstyles for 2024, each chosen for their distinctiveness and suitability for different face shapes and hair textures.
1. The Man Bun
The Man Bun is a contemporary classic that continues to be a popular choice for men with long hair.
This style involves gathering the hair into a bun, usually positioned at the back of the head or higher up, for a more relaxed look.
The Man Bun offers a clean, sophisticated appearance while maintaining a strong and masculine edge.
Ideal Face Shape: Square, Oval, Rectangle
Ideal Body Shape: Trapezoid, Rhomboid
Styling Tip: Use a lightweight styling cream or mousse to smooth out frizz and keep the bun in place.
For a more casual look, pull a few strands loose around the face to soften the appearance.
2. Shoulder-Length Waves
Shoulder-Length Waves are ideal for men looking to add natural texture and movement to their hair.
This hairstyle works particularly well for those with wavy or curly hair, creating a relaxed stylish, beach-inspired, masculine look.
The soft waves add volume and dimension, making the hair appear fuller and thicker.
Ideal Face Shape: Oval, Square, Diamond
Ideal Body Shape: Rhomboid, Rectangle
Styling Tip: Use a sea salt spray or leave-in conditioner to define the waves and prevent the hair from becoming dry or frizzy.
Scrunch the hair with your hands to create more pronounced waves.
3. The Long Slick Back
The Long Slick Back is a sleek, powerful look that involves combing the hair back away from the face, often with the help of a pomade or gel.
This hairstyle exudes confidence and works well for formal occasions or professional settings.
The Long Slick Back elongates the face and is best suited for men with thicker hair that can hold the shape.
Ideal Face Shape: Square, Rectangle, Oval
Ideal Body Shape: Trapezoid, Inverted Triangle
Styling Tip: Apply a high-shine pomade or gel to damp hair and comb it back in sections for a smooth finish.
Use a hairdryer on low heat to set the style and add extra hold.
4. The Flowing Long Layers
The Flowing Long Layers hairstyle features long, layered hair that falls naturally past the shoulders.
This style enhances the hair’s natural texture, creating a soft, flowing look that projects confidence and sophistication.
It’s ideal for men who want a low-maintenance yet striking hairstyle that complements casual and formal attire.
Ideal Face Shape: Oval, Square, Heart
Ideal Body Shape: Rectangle, Rhomboid
Styling Tip: Use a leave-in conditioner or lightweight styling cream to keep the hair smooth and prevent tangles.
For added volume, use a round brush while blow-drying the hair.
5. The Half-Up, Half-Down
The Half-Up, Half-Down hairstyle combines the best of both worlds by pulling the top half of the hair into a bun or ponytail while leaving the bottom half loose.
This style is perfect for men who want to keep their hair out of their face while still showcasing their length.
The Half-Up, Half-Down style offers a unique blend of casual and formal appeal, making it suitable for various occasions.
Ideal Face Shape: Oval, Heart, Diamond
Ideal Body Shape: Inverted Triangle, Trapezoid
Styling Tip: Apply a small amount of styling cream to the roots for added lift and hold.
Secure the top section with a hair tie or clip, and use a lightweight finishing spray to keep everything in place without stiffening the hair.
Styling and Maintenance Tips
Choosing the right hairstyle for your face and body shape is the first step in achieving a strong, masculine look.
The key to maintaining that style lies in regular care, using the right products, and understanding your hair’s unique needs.
Whether you’ve opted for a short, medium, or long manly hairstyle, these tips and strategies will help you keep your hair healthy and styled to perfection.
Understanding Hair Texture and Type
Each hair type and texture requires different care.
If you have fine hair, you might want to avoid heavy products that can weigh it down.
Those with thicker hair can opt for stronger-hold products to maintain their style.
Curly or wavy hair benefits from hydrating products like leave-in conditioners or curl creams to enhance natural texture and prevent frizz.
Tip: Consult with your barber or stylist to identify your hair type and choose the appropriate products and routines to enhance your chosen hairstyle.
Regular Trims and Maintenance
Regular trims are essential, no matter the length or style of your chosen hairstyle.
Frequent trimming helps maintain the shape of the cut, prevents split ends, and encourages healthy hair growth.
Short hairstyles, such as the Buzz Cut or Crew Cut, should be trimmed every 3-4 weeks, while medium styles, such as the Side Part or Pompadour, benefit from a touch-up every 4-6 weeks.
Long hairstyles, such as the Man Bun or Flowing Long Layers, can be trimmed every 8-10 weeks to keep the hair healthy and prevent unwanted frizz or breakage.
Tip: Discuss the frequency and type of trim needed for your hairstyle with your barber or stylist to ensure you maintain the desired look without compromising hair health.
Use the Right Hair Products
The choice of hair products can significantly impact your hairstyle’s final look and feel.
For short manly hairstyles, such as the High and Tight or Textured Crop, opt for lightweight styling creams or gels to maintain a structured yet natural appearance.
Medium hairstyles like the Quiff or Messy Medium Cut benefit from matte-finish products or sea salt sprays to add texture and volume.
Use leave-in conditioners or styling creams to keep the hair hydrated and smooth for long hairstyles like long, slick back or shoulder-length waves.
Tip: Avoid using products with harsh chemicals or heavy oils, as they can weigh the hair down and lead to scalp issues.
Always choose products that are suited to your hair type, whether fine, thick, curly, or straight.
Styling Tools and Techniques
Using the right styling tools can make a significant difference in the outcome of your hairstyle.
For short styles like the Crew Cut or Buzz Cut, a good-quality hair clipper is essential.
For medium and long styles, invest in a high-quality blow dryer with a diffuser attachment, along with round brushes for added volume and control.
Knowing how to use these tools properly can help you achieve a salon-quality finish at home.
Tip: Always use heat-protectant sprays when using heat tools to prevent damage.
Experiment with different brush types and drying techniques to find the best for your hair and style.
Conclusion
With the right haircut, hair products, and maintenance strategies, you can achieve and sustain a powerful, masculine look that reflects your personality and style.
Remember, a manly hairstyle is more than just a haircut but a statement of confidence, strength, and individuality.
Take your time to explore different styles, consult with professionals, and tailor your routine to suit your hair’s unique needs.
We hope this guide has given you valuable insights and inspiration to find your perfect manly hairstyle for 2024.
If you’re ready to take the next step, consider booking an appointment with a trusted stylist to bring your desired look to life.