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What’s This About
These 15 manly hairstyles cover short, medium and long cuts with a strong, defined look, each with notes on face shape, hair type and upkeep.
This guide covers the choices that shape the result.
Short cuts such as the Buzz Cut, Crew Cut and High and Tight
Medium cuts such as the Side Part, Pompadour and Quiff
Long styles such as the Man Bun and the Half-Up, Half-Down
How often each length usually needs a trim
and many more!
We also cover products and tools for different hair types.
Key Points
01Your hair type, upkeep and the effect you want matter more than any face or body label.
02Height on top makes a face look longer; keep the top flatter if you do not want that.
03Body-shape pairings are optional notes about the overall look, not haircut rules.
04Regular trims keep the shape and remove split ends; they do not make hair grow faster.
The right haircut changes what people notice first about your face, and it is the part of your look you can change soonest.
However, the right haircut for you isn’t just about following trends; it also depends on your hair type, the upkeep you are happy with and the effect you want around your face, and your body shape can feature in the overall look without deciding the haircut.
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 would like a starting point for your face shape or body type, you can try one of our quizzes.
In this guide, we present 15 haircuts often described as “manly”, with notes on face shape, hair texture and upkeep, plus optional body-shape pairings.
The cuts run from short to long, five at each length, so start with the length you are prepared to grow or keep.
Short Manly Hairstyles
Short hairstyles have long been a classic, low-maintenance choice.
They provide a neat, controlled look while highlighting the facial features, making them a practical choice if you want a neat, low-fuss look.
From traditional cuts to contemporary fades, these short hairstyles are perfect for various hair textures and face shapes.
Below are five short manly hairstyles, each with suggested face and body shape pairings to treat as starting ideas rather than rules.
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.”
The guard number sets the whole cut. On Wahl’s chart, a #1 leaves 1/8 inch (3 mm) and a #4 leaves 1/2 inch (13 mm), and there is no styling to do afterwards.
Face shapes to consider. Square, Oval, Rectangle
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). 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.
Stubble or a short beard is a common pairing; a defined beard outline adds shape along the jaw if you want that.
2. The Crew Cut
Named after the short haircuts of university rowing crews at Harvard, Yale and other colleges, and later given to men inducted into the military in the Second World War, the Crew Cut balances practicality with a neat finish.
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.
Face shapes to consider. Square, Round, Oval
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Trapezoid, Inverted Triangle
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 retains the 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 you might choose for a disciplined, confident impression; the cut itself does not give anyone authority.
Face shapes to consider. Oval, Square, Rectangle
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). 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 a good option if you want to move away from the standard close-cut look while keeping the outline short and neat.
Face shapes to consider. Square, Oval, Heart
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Rectangle, 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 haircut, 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.
Face shapes to consider. Oval, Triangle
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). 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 medium manly hairstyles, 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.
Face shapes to consider. Oval, Square, Rectangle
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Trapezoid, 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.
Face shapes to consider. Square, Oval, Diamond
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). 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 backwards, creating an elevated shape that makes the face look longer; this can suit oval or square faces if you like that effect, though on an already long rectangular face it only works well if more length is the look you want; otherwise keep the height modest.
This style works particularly well for men with thicker hair and can be adapted to suit both formal and casual occasions.
Face shapes to consider. Oval, Square, or Rectangle if you want extra length; on a long face, keep the front height modest and the sides fuller if you do not
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Trapezoid, Hourglass
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 lifts the front hair up and back, usually with shorter sides; it is often worn with an undercut but does not need one.
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.
Face shapes to consider. Oval, Square, Heart
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). 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.
Face shapes to consider. Square, Oval, Heart
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Hourglass, 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 long manly hairstyles, 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 and a practical choice for men with long hair.
This style involves gathering the hair into a bun, positioned low at the back of the head for a relaxed look or higher up for a more noticeable one.
The Man Bun offers a clean, sophisticated appearance while maintaining a strong and masculine edge.
Face shapes to consider. Square, Oval, Rectangle
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Trapezoid, Inverted Triangle
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, beach-inspired look.
The soft waves add volume and dimension, making the hair appear fuller and thicker.
Face shapes to consider. Oval, Square, Diamond
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Hourglass, 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.
Combing the hair straight back shows the whole forehead and, if the top is lifted, adds height, so the Long Slick Back can make the face look longer; that suits you if extra length is the look you want, and thicker hair holds the shape more easily.
Face shapes to consider. Square, Oval, or Rectangle if you want extra length; on a long face, keep the top flat and let the length sit fuller at the sides if you do not
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). 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 needs less frequent cuts than short styles, though long layers take regular washing, conditioning and detangling, and it works with casual and formal attire.
Face shapes to consider. Oval, Square, Heart
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Rectangle, Hourglass
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 showing their length.
The Half-Up, Half-Down style offers a unique blend of casual and formal appeal, making it suitable for various occasions.
Face shapes to consider. Oval, Triangle
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). 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
If a strong, masculine look is the style you want, a good place to start is a cut that suits your hair type, your upkeep and the effect you prefer around your face; your face or body shape does not decide it for you.
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 needs different care. If you have fine hair, avoid heavy products that can weigh it down.
If you have thicker hair, opt for stronger-hold products, while men with curly or wavy hair should use hydrating products like leave-in conditioners or curl creams to enhance natural texture and prevent frizz.
Tip. Your barber or hairdresser can tell you your hair type and suggest products; an image consultant or personal fashion stylist can help with how the haircut fits your wider look.
Regular Trims and Maintenance
Regular trims are essential, no matter the length or style of your chosen hairstyle.
Regular trimming keeps the shape of the cut and removes split ends, though it does not make hair grow faster.
As a rough guide, short hairstyles such as the Buzz Cut or Crew Cut usually need a trim about every 3 to 4 weeks, while medium styles such as the Side Part or Pompadour often need a touch-up about every 4 to 6 weeks.
Long hairstyles such as the Man Bun or Flowing Long Layers can go about 8 to 10 weeks between trims; ask your barber what your hair and cut need.
Tip. Agree the frequency and type of trim with your barber so the cut keeps its shape.
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. Heavy oils and very strong-hold products can weigh fine hair down and build up on the scalp, so wash them out regularly.
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, a good blow dryer and round brushes help with volume and control, and a diffuser attachment helps if your hair is curly or wavy.
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 keep a look that reflects your personality and style.
Remember, a hairstyle is a statement of your individuality as much as a haircut.
Take your time to explore different styles, consult with professionals, and tailor your routine to suit your hair’s unique needs.
If you’re ready to take the next step, consider booking an appointment with a trusted stylist to bring your desired look to life.
Take the First Step With The VOU’s Styling Quizzes
Start your style journey with our resources. First, take our Face Shape Quiz for a starting point on your face shape and initial styling guidance.
Then, check your colours with our Seasonal Colour Analysis Quiz.
Check your body shape with our Body Shape Quiz, and your personal style with our Fashion Style Quiz.
Styling Consultations
If you would like personal help, you can book a paid consultation.
Our Professional Face Shape Analysis package is a paid consultation; its product page lists what it includes.
If you would like help with more than your face shape, our Complete Image Transformation Package is also a paid consultation.
The Complete Image Transformation Package combines the face shape, seasonal colour, body shape and fashion style analyses.
Take our quizzes first, then book a paid consultation if you would like personal help.