Medium-length haircuts were once considered the uncharted territory of hair fashion, mainly reserved for men attempting to transition from a daring buzz cut to a shaggy seventies style, like the infamous mullet. However, with the popularity of pompadour and other trendy hairstyles, medium-length cuts have become a bona fide grooming move.
This year, there is a plethora of classic and fashionable haircuts for men to choose from, whether they are growing out their hair, seeking a less dramatic change, or simply looking to switch things up. Depending on your overall style, face shape, and hair type - straight, curly, or afro - the medium-length hairstyle you opt for will vary.
Regardless of the style you choose, feeling trapped in a middle ground with medium-length haircuts is no longer necessary. Additionally, to avoid being caught off guard, here are some of the finest haircuts available to provide you with further inspiration.
SURFER
The windswept, sun-bleached, and tousled appearance of the surfer's hair genuinely represents the essence of a free-spirited individual. However, you don't have to be a surfer to accomplish one of the most naturally chic medium-length hairstyles. By using matte pomade or a sea salt mist, you can attain the untidy and rugged texture required to rock this style with ease.
LAYERED
Medium-length haircuts with layers are perfect for men with thin hair as they create volume, giving the appearance of thicker and fuller locks. However, the placement of the layers is crucial. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with your barber to determine the best options that suit your face shape. To ensure that the layers stay in place throughout the day, use a matte product for a 24-hour hold.
CURLY
For men with curly hair, deciding whether to control or embrace their natural texture can be a difficult decision. However, embracing and highlighting unique features has become increasingly popular in recent times. Rather than using flat irons and combs, opt for medium-length haircuts that allow you to manage your curls while also allowing them to take center stage.
STRAIGHT
If you want to exude a professional and polished appearance in both the boardroom and on the streets, pairing a clean-shaven face with a straight hairstyle is an excellent choice. With numerous medium-length haircuts for men to choose from, such as the pushed-back, combed-over, or quiff styles, straight hair remains a timeless and popular option.
DREADLOCKS
Dreadlocks often conjure up images of waist-length locks; however, this iconic style can also be adapted into a fashion-forward medium-length hairstyle. Tie back your dreadlocks and combine them with an undercut for a trendy and contemporary take on this powerful look. Wiz Khalifa, Jaden Smith, and J Cole are excellent sources of inspiration for achieving this style.
HALF MAN BUN
Just because you don't have long hair, it doesn't mean that you cannot sport medium-length hairstyles as a guy. One trendy hairstyle that you can try is the half-man bun, which involves gathering the top half of your hair into a bun while leaving the rest of your hair loose. This style is versatile and can be worn in a masculine or androgynous way, making it a defining feature in any look, from the catwalk to the sidewalk.
MULLET
Gone are the days when medium-length hairstyles were seen as safe and unadventurous for men. If you're feeling daring and confident, a modern-day mullet can be a low-maintenance and edgy look that suits most face shapes, hair types, and textures. By keeping the top and sides short and the back medium-long, you can create an eye-catching contrast. As the saying goes, a mullet is all business in the front and a party in the back.