Medium-length hairstyles are the sweet spot for men—offering versatility, personality, and just enough length to experiment with different looks. Whether you’re aiming for a sharp, professional style or a relaxed, carefree vibe, medium hair can adapt to your lifestyle and personal taste.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the top 15 medium-length hairstyles trending this year, along with detailed styling tips, product recommendations, and expert tricks. Ready to find your signature look? Let’s get started!
Why Medium-Length Hairstyles Are So Popular
Medium-length hair has exploded in popularity because it’s flexible—you can easily switch between polished and messy looks, depending on your mood or occasion. It’s the perfect length for layering, texturing, and creating hairstyles that suit your face shape. Plus, the options are endless, from textured quiffs and classic pompadours to shaggy crops and sleek comb-overs.
No matter your hair type—straight, wavy, curly, or fine—there’s a medium hairstyle here for you. Below, we break down each style in detail and provide some pro tips for nailing the look.
1. Textured Quiff: A Timeless Classic
The textured quiff combines volume and definition for a sharp, bold look. The longer hair on top is styled upwards and slightly back, while the sides are tapered or faded to create contrast. Think David Beckham or Zayn Malik—this style is a fan favorite for a reason.
- Ideal For: Straight, wavy, and slightly curly hair.
- How to Style: Use a strong-hold pomade or wax to lift the hair and lock the style in place. A texturizing spray can also add volume.
- Maintenance: Visit the barber every 3–4 weeks to keep the sides clean.
- Pro Tip: Blow-dry your hair in the direction you want it to sit before applying product for extra hold.
2. Undercut with Medium-Length Top
The undercut is all about contrast. With short, buzzed sides and a longer top, this hairstyle creates a sharp, edgy look that’s perfect for men who want to stand out. Style it sleek, messy, or spiked—it’s incredibly versatile.
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Face Shapes | Oval, square, or rectangular. |
| Hair Types | Straight, wavy, or slightly curly. |
| Styling Options | Slick back, pompadour, or textured. |
- Products Needed: Strong pomade for slick styles or matte wax for texture.
- Barber Tip: Keep the top longer than 4 inches for maximum styling flexibility.
3. Messy Waves: Embrace Your Natural Texture
Messy waves are effortless and relaxed, making this the go-to look for guys with wavy or slightly curly hair. It’s all about enhancing what you already have.
- Ideal For: Naturally wavy hair.
- How to Style: Apply a sea salt spray to damp hair, then scrunch your hair with your hands while it air-dries.
- Pro Tip: Don’t overuse heavy styling products—they can weigh your waves down.
4. Modern Pompadour: A Bold Statement
The pompadour has made a major comeback in recent years, and the modern version is sleeker and more polished than ever. This style features voluminous hair swept upward from the forehead and worn high.
| What You’ll Need | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Hairdryer | Creates volume at the roots. |
| Strong-Hold Pomade | Keeps the shape intact all day. |
| Round Brush | Adds lift while blow-drying. |
- Perfect For: Thick hair with some natural volume.
- Pro Tip: Use a hairdryer with a nozzle attachment to direct the airflow and shape your pomp.
5. Shaggy Crop: Relaxed and Effortless
The shaggy crop is perfect for guys who want a more relaxed, low-maintenance look. This style is all about texture and layers.
- Great For: Straight or wavy hair.
- Styling Tip: Use a matte paste or texturizing cream to create a tousled, just-out-of-bed finish.
- Maintenance: Trim the layers every 6–8 weeks to maintain shape.
6. Blunt Cut: Simple and Sharp
The blunt cut is for you if you like a clean, uniform look. The hair is cut evenly across, giving it a sharp, precise appearance.
| Key Benefits | Details |
|---|---|
| Low Maintenance | No complex styling needed. |
| Works With Straight Hair | Best for guys with naturally sleek locks. |
- Styling: Keep it natural with minimal product, or use a light serum for shine.
7. Side-Swept Fringe: Sophisticated and Stylish
The side-swept fringe is an excellent choice for medium-length hair. This style features longer hair on top that’s brushed to the side, creating a casual yet polished look.
- Best For: Most hair types, including fine hair.
- Styling Tip: Use a lightweight product like mousse or gel to keep the fringe in place.
8. Curly Medium Hair: Let Those Curls Shine
Why hide your curls when you can show them off? This style is designed to embrace and enhance your natural texture.
- Perfect For: Naturally curly hair.
- How to Style: Use a curl-defining cream to reduce frizz and enhance your curls’ bounce.
- Pro Tip: Avoid using heat tools—they can damage your curls over time.
9. Tapered Medium Cut: Sleek and Structured
The tapered cut is a sophisticated style that transitions gradually from longer hair on top to shorter hair on the sides and back.
- Ideal For: Straight, wavy, and curly hair.
- Styling: Blow-dry the top for volume or use a pomade for a sleek look.
10. The Classic Slick Back
A timeless favorite, the slick back is sleek, professional, and ridiculously easy to style. Comb your hair straight back for that polished finish.
- Works Best For: Straight or wavy hair.
- Styling Tips: Use a strong-hold gel or pomade and a fine-toothed comb for precision.
11. The Bro Flow: Casual and Cool
The bro flow exudes effortless charm. It’s a longer, relaxed style with a center or slightly off-center part.
- Great For: Straight and wavy hair.
- Styling Advice: Keep it simple with a light-hold cream to add shine.
12. Mid-Length Layers: Add Volume and Movement
Mid-length layers create texture and movement in your hair, making it look fuller and more dynamic.
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Adds Volume | Great for fine or flat hair. |
| Styling Tip | Blow-dry with a round brush for extra body. |
13. Comb-Over with Side Part
This is one of the most versatile styles on the list. It works for both formal and casual occasions, thanks to its polished finish.
- Ideal For: Straight or wavy hair.
- How to Style: Use a comb and a medium-hold product to define the part and slick the hair to one side.
14. Textured Crop with Faded Sides
For a fresh, modern look, go for a textured crop. This style pairs longer, textured hair on top with faded sides for a trendy contrast.
- Great For: Straight and wavy hair.
- Styling Tip: Texturizing spray or cream will help you achieve a natural, tousled look.
15. Undercut with Slicked-Back Top
If you want something bold and sharp, this style combines the high contrast of an undercut with a sleek, slicked-back top.
| Ideal For | Details |
|---|---|
| Hair Type | Straight or wavy hair. |
| Styling Products | Strong pomade or gel for hold. |
Final Thoughts: Pick the Style That Fits You Best
Choosing the right hairstyle can boost your confidence and complement your personal style. Whether you’re drawn to the polished look of a pompadour or the laid-back vibe of a bro flow, there’s something here for every guy.
Don’t forget to use quality styling products and tools to bring out the best in your hairstyle. And if you’re not sure what works for you, consult your barber—they’ll know how to match a cut to your face shape and hair type.
Bookmark this guide for your next visit to the barber, and be sure to experiment until you find the perfect look. Medium-length hair is all about versatility, so don’t be afraid to try something new.
Happy styling!
