In 2024, the messy hairstyle is making a big comeback. From casual days to formal events, this versatile style suits men of all ages and hair types. In this post, we’ll showcase the 15 best messy hairstyles for men and provide tips on how to achieve and maintain them. Get ready to elevate your grooming game!
1. Short and Textured
A low-maintenance style that adds volume and texture to short hair. This messy hair look works well for men with naturally thick or fine hair. The beauty of this haircut lies in its ability to enhance your hair’s natural body and movement, giving you a stylish, effortless appearance.
Ideal Hair Types
Best for straight or slightly wavy hair. If your hair naturally falls into these categories, you’ll find it easy to achieve and maintain this style. The texture and volume that this look provides can transform even the most unruly hair into a sophisticated yet relaxed statement.
Styling Tips
Use a matte pomade or texture spray to add definition without weighing your hair down. Start with a small amount of product; you can always add more if needed. Rub the product between your hands to warm it up and make it easier to distribute. Then, apply it evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the roots to build volume. Simply scrunch your hair with the product and tease it with your fingers for the desired messy effect. Avoid using a comb or brush, as they can reduce the textured look. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to lock your style in place for the day.
2. Tousled Quiff
The tousled quiff combines classic sophistication with a modern twist. It features a voluminous front that gradually tapers towards the back, creating a look that is both stylish and adaptable to various occasions. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want to make a statement without appearing overly polished. The key to the tousled quiff is its versatility and the way it effortlessly blends a neat quiff with a more relaxed, tousled finish.
Ideal Hair Types
Perfect for medium to thick hair. The density and body provided by medium to thick hair allow for the volume necessary to create a striking quiff. Those with naturally wavy hair will find it easier to achieve the tousled effect, as the waves add inherent texture and movement. However, with the right styling products and techniques, straight-haired individuals can also rock this look.
Styling Tips
To style a tousled quiff, begin with freshly washed hair and blow-dry while lifting the roots to create volume. Use a round brush to direct the hair upwards and backwards. Once your hair is dry, apply a medium-hold pomade evenly throughout your hair. Rub the pomade between your palms to warm it up, which will help with even distribution. Use your fingers to work the pomade through your hair, focusing on the front to build the desired quiff. To get the tousled finish, use your fingers to create natural, random separations, avoiding a comb or brush which might smooth out the texture. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to keep your quiff in place throughout the day, while still allowing some flexibility and movement.
3. Slicked-Back Mess
This style offers a polished yet relaxed look. It keeps the hair off the face while maintaining a messy texture, striking a balance between sophistication and a laid-back vibe. The slicked-back mess is versatile enough to transition from a day at the office to a night out, making it a go-to choice for those seeking an effortlessly chic appearance.
Ideal Hair Types
Works well for medium to thick hair. The natural volume and texture provided by medium to thick hair are perfect for creating the messier elements of this style, while still allowing for a sleek finish. Those with wavy or slightly curly hair might find this look easier to achieve due to the added body their hair provides. However, with proper styling techniques and products, individuals with straight hair can also successfully achieve this look.
Styling Tips
Begin by washing your hair and towel-drying it until it is slightly damp. Apply a lightweight gel or mousse through your hair, ensuring even coverage from roots to tips. Use a wide-tooth comb to slick your hair back, creating the sleek foundation of the style. Once your hair is combed back, use your fingers to gently tousle and break up the sleekness, adding a more casual and relaxed texture. This step is crucial in achieving the ‘mess’ part of the slicked-back mess. Allow your hair to air-dry for the most natural look, or use a blow dryer on a low setting to speed up the process. Finish with a light mist of flexible-hold hairspray to keep your style in place throughout the day, while still allowing for some movement and reworking if necessary.
4. Long Fringe
A long fringe adds a youthful, edgy touch to any haircut. This versatile style is perfect for those looking to maintain some length in their hair while still embracing a laid-back, slightly messy aesthetic. The long fringe provides ample opportunities for creativity, allowing individuals to experiment with different finishes and textures. Whether you prefer a polished look or a more tousled appearance, a long fringe can be tailored to suit your personal style, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to stand out without too much effort.
Ideal Hair Types
Best suited for straight or wavy hair, a long fringe works exceptionally well with these textures because it falls naturally and maintains its shape with minimal styling. Straight hair will showcase the sleekness of the fringe, making it look effortlessly neat and tidy. Meanwhile, wavy hair adds a bit of volume and movement, enhancing the fringe’s carefree vibe. Individuals with curly hair might find it challenging to achieve this look as curls can disrupt the intended flow of the fringe, but with careful styling and appropriate products, even they can enjoy a modified version of this trendy cut.
Styling Tips
To style a long fringe, start with clean, dry hair. Apply a light wax or cream to your fringe, focusing on the ends to keep them in place without making them too stiff. Distribute the product evenly using your fingers or a fine-tooth comb, ensuring that each strand is coated for a cohesive look. Allow the strands to fall naturally over your forehead, adjusting them slightly to frame your face. For a more refined finish, use a flat iron on low heat to smooth out any unwanted kinks. If you prefer a messier, more relaxed style, tousle your fringe with your fingers after applying the product. A light mist of flexible-hold hairspray can help keep your fringe in place throughout the day, allowing for some natural movement and a touch of spontaneity in your look.
5. Messy Undercut
The messy undercut features short sides with a longer, tousled top, creating a sharp and eye-catching contrast. This hairstyle is both bold and fashionable, making it a popular choice for those who want to make a statement with their look. The key to the messy undercut is its versatility—it can be adapted to various hair lengths on top, from medium to long, and still maintain its edgy appeal. The juxtaposition of the clean, closely-cropped sides against the textured, voluminous top adds a level of depth and dimension that elevates the overall style.
Ideal Hair Types
The messy undercut is suitable for all hair types, making it a universally flattering choice. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, this haircut can be customized to match your natural texture and volume. Straight hair will provide a sleek canvas that showcases the contrast between the top and sides effectively, while wavy and curly hair will add natural movement and interest to the top section. This adaptability makes the messy undercut a versatile option that can work well with a variety of hair textures and thicknesses.
Styling Tips
To style the messy undercut, start with clean, slightly damp hair. Apply a strong-hold pomade or clay to the top section, working the product through the hair with your fingers from root to tip. This will help to define the texture and ensure that the hair looks intentionally messy yet controlled. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to shape and tousle the top section, creating a disheveled, carefree look. For added volume and lift, you can use a blow dryer on a low setting while lifting the hair at the roots. The sides should remain sharply cut and close-cropped to maintain the striking contrast with the longer top. A light misting of hairspray can provide extra hold and keep your style in place throughout the day.
6. Messy Curls
This style embraces natural curls, giving them a messy, carefree look that exudes both confidence and effortless style. The messy curls haircut is perfect for men who want to showcase their texture while maintaining a laid-back and casual vibe. By allowing the curls to take center stage, this look emphasizes the inherent beauty and uniqueness of curly hair, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to highlight their natural curl pattern. The result is a tousled, voluminous hairstyle that appears unstructured yet stylishly composed, striking the perfect balance between neat and untamed.
Ideal Hair Types
As the name suggests, the messy curls style is ideal for those with naturally curly hair. This versatile haircut can work with various types of curls, from tight coils to looser, wavier strands. The key is to tailor the cut to enhance the individual’s specific curl pattern, ensuring that the curls fall in a way that frames the face perfectly and adds flattering volume. Whether you have thick, coarse curls or finer, more delicate ones, the messy curls style can be adapted to suit your hair’s unique characteristics, making it an excellent option for curly-haired individuals seeking a low-maintenance yet striking hairstyle.
Styling Tips
To achieve the messy curls look, start by washing your hair with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for curly hair. This will help to define and soften your curls. After towel-drying your hair gently to remove excess moisture, apply a generous amount of curl-defining cream or mousse, ensuring even distribution from roots to tips. Scrunch your hair with your hands while it’s still damp to encourage the curls to take shape naturally. For added definition and hold, you can use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer, working in sections to dry and set the curls without causing frizz. Once your hair is dry, use your fingers to tousle and separate the curls, creating a messy, voluminous look. Finish with a light mist of curl-enhancing hairspray to keep your style in place throughout the day, while still allowing for natural movement and flexibility.
7. Wavy Side Part
The wavy side part adds a refined structure and an air of elegance to wavy hair while effortlessly maintaining a relaxed and carefree vibe. This classic hairstyle is perfect for those who want to showcase their natural wave pattern with a touch of sophistication. The side part not only enhances the face’s contours but also provides a balanced and polished appearance that can be dressed up for formal occasions or left slightly tousled for a more laid-back look.
Ideal Hair Types
This style is best suited for individuals with naturally wavy hair. It works well with various wave patterns, from soft, loose waves to more pronounced and defined ones. The inherent texture of wavy hair allows the side part to hold its shape and volume, making it an easy and stylish option.
Styling Tips
To achieve the perfect wavy side part, start by prepping your hair with a lightweight leave-in conditioner to ensure your waves are smooth and manageable. Use a medium-hold gel or pomade to add definition and control to your waves without weighing them down. Part your hair to one side and work the product through your waves with your fingers, tousling gently to create a natural, effortless finish. For extra hold and dimension, you can use a curling wand to touch up any sections that need more definition. Finish with a light spritz of flexible-hold hairspray to keep your waves in place while still allowing for natural movement and flexibility throughout the day.
8. Bedhead Look
The bedhead look mimics the effortlessly messy appearance of just-rolled-out-of-bed hair, exuding a relaxed and nonchalant vibe. This style is ideal for those who appreciate low-maintenance yet fashionable hairdos that don’t require extensive time or effort in front of the mirror. By embracing the natural texture and movement of your hair, the bedhead look creates an aesthetically pleasing disarray that feels both casual and chic.
Ideal Hair Types
This versatile style is suitable for all hair types, making it a universally appealing option. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly, or coiled, the bedhead look can be adapted to enhance your natural texture. It works particularly well for those with medium to long hair, but can also be tailored for shorter lengths.
Styling Tips
To achieve the perfect bedhead look, start by applying a texture spray to add volume and definition to your hair. This product helps to build the tousled, effortless effect characteristic of the style. Once applied, simply scrunch your hair with your hands, focusing on sections that need more lift or separation. For those with naturally straight hair, consider using a light texturizer or a dry shampoo to create more body and hold. Avoid over-brushing or using too much product, as the goal is to maintain a natural, carefree appearance. A quick shake or flip of the hair can help to achieve the desired look, leaving you ready to go with minimal fuss.
9. Spiky Mess
This style features spiked hair that appears messy and edgy, offering a bold and youthful look. The deliberately tousled spikes create an effortlessly cool aesthetic, making it a popular choice for those looking to make a statement with their hairstyle.
Ideal Hair Types
The spiky mess style is best suited for short to medium hair lengths. The manageable hair length allows for easy manipulation and styling to achieve the desired spiked effect. It works well for most hair textures, providing a modern twist to the classic spiky look.
Styling Tips
To create the spiky mess style, start by applying a strong-hold gel or wax to your hair. Using your fingers, lift sections of hair to form spikes, targeting areas that need extra definition. Once the spikes are in place, gently mess them up slightly with your hands to achieve a more relaxed, carefree appearance. Avoid using too much product to retain a natural look, and consider finishing with a light, flexible hairspray for added hold without stiffness. It may be difficult for you first time so its better to take help from any barber in New York.
10. Messy Bun
The messy bun is a versatile style that can be worn casually or dressed up for formal occasions. Whether you’re heading to the office, hitting the gym, or attending a wedding, the messy bun adapts to any setting, making it a favorite among those seeking a stylish yet effortless look. This hairstyle exudes a relaxed elegance by combining the sophistication of an updo with a carefree, undone finish.
Ideal Hair Types
The messy bun works best for those with medium to long hair. The additional length and volume provide ample material to create the perfectly imperfect bun. While it’s particularly flattering for those with naturally wavy or textured hair, individuals with straight hair can also achieve this look with a bit of added texturizing spray or dry shampoo for grip and volume.
Styling Tips
To create the messy bun, follow these simple steps:
- Preparation: Begin by brushing your hair to remove any knots or tangles. If your hair is too clean or soft, consider adding dry shampoo or a light texturizing spray to provide some grip and volume.
- Gathering: Collect your hair into a loose ponytail at the back or top of your head, depending on your preference. Don’t worry about perfection; the goal is a relaxed appearance.
- Forming the Bun: Twist the ponytail around the base to form a bun. Secure the bun with a hair tie, leaving the ends loose for a messier look.
- Finishing Touches: Gently pull out small strands around your face and the nape of your neck to soften the look. You can also lightly tug on sections of the bun to loosen it and add to the messy effect.
- Setting the Style: Finish with a light, flexible hairspray to keep everything in place without making the bun stiff or crunchy.
By following these steps, you can easily achieve the perfect messy bun that looks stylish and effortless, no matter the occasion.
11. Faux Hawk
The faux hawk offers a rebellious, edgy look without the commitment of a full mohawk. This hairstyle features a raised center strip of hair flanked by shorter sides. The contrast between the lengths creates a bold appearance, yet it remains versatile enough for various settings, from casual outings to more formal occasions.
Ideal Hair Types
Suitable for all hair types, the faux hawk’s adaptability makes it a go-to choice regardless of whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly, or coiled. The key to mastering this style lies in the proper use of styling products and techniques, rather than the hair’s natural texture.
Styling Tips
To achieve the faux hawk, begin by applying a strong-hold product to your hair, focusing on the center strip. Use your fingers or a comb to lift the center section upwards. For added flair, style it slightly messy by tousling the hair with your fingers, creating a dynamic and textured look. The clean, shorter sides accentuate the raised center, making it the focal point of the hairstyle. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to set the style in place without making it stiff.
12. Top Knot
The top knot combines a bun with an undercut or fade, creating a clean yet messy look. This stylish and practical hairstyle blends elements of sophistication and casualness, ensuring you stand out in a crowd.
Ideal Hair Types
Best suited for medium to long hair, the top knot works well with various textures, including straight, wavy, and curly hair. The length provides the volume needed to create a visually appealing bun, while the undercut or fade adds a modern twist.
Styling Tips
To achieve this look, begin by gathering your hair into a high ponytail. Twist the ponytail around itself to form a bun and secure it with an elastic band. For a more relaxed and effortless appearance, allow a few strands to fall loose around your face or the nape of your neck. This slight imperfection adds to the casual, easy-going charm of the top knot.
13. Surfer Hair
Surfer hair is characterized by its tousled, sun-kissed waves. This hairstyle is perfect for achieving a carefree, beachy vibe that exudes a relaxed and unpolished charm. The aim is to mimic the natural effect of the sun and sea on the hair, creating an effortless look that is both stylish and laid-back.
Ideal Hair Types
This hairstyle is best suited for those with wavy or curly hair. The natural texture helps in achieving the desired volume and movement, essential for the surfer look. However, with the right products and techniques, even those with straight hair can adapt this style.
Styling Tips
To achieve surfer hair, begin by using a sea salt spray to enhance your natural waves and add texture. Apply the spray to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Scrunch your hair with your hands to help form waves, and allow it to air dry for a natural finish. For added definition, you can also twist sections of your hair while it’s drying to create more pronounced waves. Avoid using a hairdryer or heat styling tools, as the goal is to maintain a natural, beachy appearance.
14. Messy Crop
The messy crop is a versatile hairstyle characterized by short, textured hair that exudes a carefree and effortlessly stylish vibe. It’s designed to be easy to style and maintain, making it a go-to choice for individuals seeking a low-maintenance yet trendy look.
Ideal Hair Types
This hairstyle works particularly well with straight or wavy hair. The natural texture of these hair types helps in creating the essential volume and movement needed for that messy, unkempt appearance.
Styling Tips
To style a messy crop, start by applying a matte pomade or texture paste to add definition and hold. Take a small amount of the product and rub it between your palms before distributing it evenly through your hair. Use your fingers to tousle and style your hair, focusing on creating a deliberately disheveled finish. Embrace the imperfect look, as it’s the key to achieving the laid-back essence of the messy crop.
15. Messy French Crop
The messy French crop is a modern twist on a classic haircut, similar to the messy crop but with a distinctive fringe that is styled forward. This forward-styled fringe adds an element of chic sophistication, making the messy French crop a popular choice for those who desire a natural, stylish appearance without excessive grooming. The textured, slightly disheveled look gives it an effortlessly fashionable vibe, perfect for contemporary urban style.
Ideal Hair Types
The messy French crop works best with straight or wavy hair. These hair types naturally hold the texture and volume required to achieve the desired messy, yet controlled finish. The natural waviness or straightness of the hair enhances the styled fringe, making it easier to maintain that chic look.
Styling Tips
To style a messy French crop, start by applying a light wax or cream to provide hold and add texture. Take a small amount of product and rub it between your palms before working it through the hair, focusing particularly on the fringe. Use your fingers to style the fringe forward, subtly adding texture for a natural and effortlessly messy appearance. Embrace the slightly tousled look as it encapsulates the modern charm of the messy French crop.
Messy hairstyles offer a versatile and low-maintenance option for modern men. With so many styles to choose from, there’s a messy look for everyone. Ready to switch up your hair game? Visit any Barbershop in New York to get started!
