A good example of this is when I did a modern mullet on a guy who had a side part for over ten years. He looked a bit nervous while I was cutting his hair. When I turned the chair for him to see the final product he just laughed. I think he was surprised to see something so new that he had been wanting for a while but didn’t know it. I think this hair cut perfectly emphasizes what I love most about where men’s hairstyles are at the moment. There is so much more creativity and willingness to try things out, it makes haircuts so much more interesting and fun.
When I think about the year 2026 the word I think about most is texture. For me, this applies to all crops, fades, shags, mullets, and everything else. The way a hairstyle moves is of higher importance than the style and shape of the cut. This is true for everyone and that’s why I am looking forward to showcasing some of the popular hairstyles that I know will look great when my clients get out of the chair.
#1: Textured Short Crop with Subtle Fade
The cut is tighter on the fade on the sides and has some length on the top. This is ideal for hair that is straight or slightly wavy, and works for most face shapes, just maybe not round or oblong. This cut is good because it’s easy to style. If the hair is short, a little product is needed and the hair will have a good amount of texture. If you want a clean look with some style and that is easy to maintain, this is the one for you.
#2 Soft Pompadour with a Low Taper
While some pompadours can look stiff and dated, this style is fresh and allows the hair to move freely. The front pushes up and back with added volume while the low taper on the side balances the look. I did this style on a tech guy who wears button-ups to work and it gave him just enough of an edge to start getting compliments on his hair, which he pretended to be annoyed about, but he clearly enjoyed it. The secret to softer pompadours like this is more movement on the hair so it’s less about product to keep everything in place and more about blow dry spray and fingers.
#3 Shaggy Textured Mullet with Long Layers
Every now and then, we get a new customer who is brave enough to ask for a mullet. You can tell they have saved photos for a while since a lot of thought went into this. These are some of my favorite types of appointments. This one is especially great because it has all the modern mullet elements. The choppy, textured top, and sides keep the mullet feel from being retro while the flowy back layers and subtle waves move with him. It doesn’t have to be neat and clean. It shouldn’t be. The back shaggy layers and around the ears give it that dirty look like the haircut belongs to someone instead of looking like they just got a haircut at the barbershop. All you need to do is add some texture spray, and scrunch it to enhance everything.
#4 Soft Curtain Layers with a Gentle Wave
The type and amount of movement here is really nice. It shows someone who is trying not to take themselves too seriously yet still trying to look nice. The layers look soft and frame the face by falling past the ears and the little wave adds movement, but it is just the right amount. The overall shape is relaxed enough that it works for both freshly washed and a couple days old. I have been seeing a lot of men in their 30s and 40s go for this type of medium, slightly grown-out shape and I really like it. It shows confidence and that they are not trying too hard. The styling is exactly how you want it. Let it air dry and push it out of your face.
#5 Tight Curly Top with Faded Temples
I remember a client with a similar curl pattern asking me to thin it out because “it looked like too much”. I tried to convince him for about 15 minutes to keep the volume and just do a clean up around the temples and neckline. After two weeks he said he got complimented by 3 strangers (which is crazy considering that it was the first time anyone complimented his hair). That’s what I love about working with tight, dense curls rather than against them. The fade at the temples gives a sharp line that makes the curls on top look deliberate and almost architectural and the bare skin against the coiled curls is just beautiful. When working with curls like these, you definitely don’t want to mess with them using a towel. Just do a scrunch with a microfibre towel and leave it.
#6 Textured Sweep Back with a Sharp Fade
I love the balance on this haircut. The sharp defined fade on the sides has a pushed back texture on top that is messier and more casual. I think that is why this haircut just keeps coming back year after year, it never feels dated. The top being long enough to have some movement and separation is great. The hair pushed back shows the forehead and opens up the face which is ideal for someone with more angular features. If you want to find a good middle ground, this is the haircut for you.
#7 Short Curly All-Over with a Natural Finish
At first glance, this style may seem simple, but it is actually highly technical. The curls are cut to the same short length, giving a sculpted appearance to the style. The curls can be arranged into a shape that follows the head’s natural contour. The cut does not have any fade, hard lines, or anything to detract from the curls, which is what makes this style shine. I have seen numerous clients with curly hair request this cut, and I cannot complain. The cut works really well for tighter curl patterns since the texture is lively and does not need any additional styling to look good.
#8 Textured Curly Crop with a Mid Fade
Curly hair is gaining popularity, especially among men, and for good reason. In a world where people straighten their hair, it’s impressive to show off your natural texture. This hairstyle has coiled curls that are free and look great. The mid fade helps the style look neat, while retaining the curls. Even though we aren’t supposed to take off the curls too much. I’m glad the fringe hangs down a bit, it adds to the friendly appearance of the style. Curls are best air-dried, and a bit of curl defining gel should do the trick. Apply it only to wet hair. It won’t look crunchy and will hold your style.
#9 Short Crew Cut with a Textured Fringe
I did a similar cut for one of my clients who had just shaved his head after a really bad haircut, and as it started growing back we shaped it into this and he was so relieved that he almost hugged me. It’s about as short as you can go while still having something to work with. A close crop all over with enough length to create a tiny bit of texture and fringe at the front. The beard here really does the heavy lifting in terms of creating visual interest, and that’s actually a smart move. Letting the haircut be the quiet foundation while the facial hair carries the personality. If you keep your beard fuller, a shorter cut like this provides the kind of balance that just feels right.
#10 Relaxed Medium Waves Swept Off the Face
If I may say something nice, I would describe this look as the ‘European vacation’ cut. There’s a certain relaxed vibe about it that medium length hair has when it is left to do its own thing. The hair is pushed back so it does not get in the way, but some is allowed to fall however it wants on the sides. The length is perfect, as it gives enough room for movement, but not so long that it can get unruly and requires a lot of maintenance to keep it looking nice. I personally think this look is best on men with thicker hair, as the density gives that nice full and effortless look. All that’s needed to achieve this is some grooming cream on damp hair and a quick tussle with your fingers.
#11 Long Flowing Waves with a Center Part
I appreciate the look of this and the overall luxurious feel of it. The length and movement are perfect, and the warm highlights in the mid-lengths only help this. While many men with long hair and center parts can end up looking unkempt very quickly, the movement in the hair suggests some thought went into the cut. The face-framing cut layers help to avoid it being too overpowering for his features and the good internal layering lets the waves move freely. This is the style that probably requires good washing more than it does regular trims. At this length, a good solid conditioner and sulfate-free shampoo are absolute essentials (and most guys would probably prefer to avoid it), but a silk pillowcase does help a lot.
#12 Loose Curls with a Tapered Fade
Every five weeks, I see a man who, for years, blow dried his curls straight because he thought they looked messy (and, quite honestly, it made a terrible hairstyle look even worse). The day I got him to grow them out, he got the sides tapered. Later that weekend, he sent me a happy wedding photo. I think that was the first time I ever saw him happy. This is the beauty of the cut; he got to show off his natural curl pattern! With tapered sides, everything is streamlined. It keeps the look neat, and the curls pop. The curls look soft and bouncy, and the fade is nice and subtle. It doesn’t fight for attention with the curls. People with this hair type actually need to put in less effort for it to look good. They just need a lightweight curl cream that won’t make their hair crunchy, but will help the curls clump together. Wet curls scrunched will help.
#13 Undone Shoulder-Grazing Layers
To help the patience requirement grow some hair, I will relate my explanation at say 20 inches of hair. When hair gets to that length, the layers are evenly distributed enough to allow the hair to move freely instead of sitting like a heavy curtain. The slight bend in the hair creates an undone, windblown look that short haired guys say they want. The darker the color of hair, the more contrast and texture that can be seen in the hair. Each bend and flip will reveal a shadow. If you’re in this awkward stage of growing your hair out, keep it up. It’ll be worth it. While waiting in this stage, you can use a leave-in conditioner to keep your hair from looking messy.
#14 Wavy Quiff with Natural Movement
Most of my clients have embraced the uniqueness of having a quiff with wavy hair. The front of the quiff has some volume and leans off to one side a bit, and with the waves, it is way more interesting than a straight haired quiff. The sides are faded but not too much so it looks balanced without taking attention away from what’s going on up top The reflected light auburn tones are the most attractive part of the style. Using a hairdryer to create volume looks awesome for this style, and using a lightweight cream and letting your hair fall naturally also works well.
#15 Choppy Short Textured Top with Tapered Sides
This is a phenomenal haircut. The top is very short and choppy giving off a nice edgy vibe. The sides are short enough to taper, and the entire thing styles itself! I recommend this style to sporty guys who towel off their hair and want it to look purposeful rather than like a basic haircut. A bit of texturizing paste is all it takes to separate the pieces and you are good to go!
#16 Tousled Honey Waves with a Middle Part
Men’s middle-part hairstyles are coming back into fashion, and the best examples seem to engage with this style almost nonchalantly, making for an interesting case study. The waves here naturally fall to the side and offer a surfer-golden hue. The hair has a ‘looseness’ with structural forgetfulness throughout. The sides are trimmed enough for this to not get puffy around the ears, and the layers through the top are cut to encourage the separation of those waves, rather than clumping together. Last spring, I did something quite similar on a groom and his wife actually cried when she saw him, so I’m going to take a bit of credit for that. For hairstyles like this, sea salt spray is practically a must.
#17 Polished Side-Swept Taper
These types of cuts always look good in photos as they show the right amount of detail and effort while keeping the overall look neat and tidy. The hair is perfectly combed to the side with the right amount of product to show the lines and keep the hair in place, the sides are neatly tapered without going for a full skin fade, and the entire overall look is clean and polished. Many of my clients in the finance and law industry tend to pick this, as it communicates they put thought into their appearance without being a distraction. This look can be achieved with a medium hold pomade, which allows for some natural movement to the hairstyle in case the wind catches it.
#18 Swept Back Volume with Subtle Highlights
I love the hair on a personal level. It is simple and the effort is not noticeable. The hair has a very large volume at the top and the hair is pulled to the back and given a wave to have that \”Just ran my fingers through it\” style. The blonde highlights most definitely give it a sun-kissed look. Everything here is styled in a way that it doesn’t feel overly done The sides that are shorter make it feel more organic. The style is meant for second day hair when the oil gives it memory. The hair has a volume spray, blow dry , and then you let it go.
#19 Brushed Back Skin Fade with Stubble
The aggression of the skin fade on this is amazing, taken right down into nothing and making the whole cut work because of how the contrast balances a bare skin along with a distracted top. The top being brushed back works more modern than a classic pompadour would. The stubble softens the transition around the ears where the fade meets skin. This one does need upkeep every two to three weeks if you want the fade to stay this crisp, but with a little styling powder for grip and volume, the styling itself is pretty quick.
#20 Salt and Pepper Textured Crop
This is one of my favorite styles to do grey hair. With the unique mix of colors and the different textures in the hair, less work is needed in a style. Because of the way it reflects the light, even a simple style can look really full and healthy. The sides are tapered for a more relaxed look that takes away a lot of tension, and the natural waves on top help draw attention. A recent client was coloring his grey hairs, but after seeing this style he changed his mind. A matte clay is perfect for this look as it defines the style without adding shine and keeps the texture nice.
#21 Clean Low Fade with a Short Side Part
You can tell a guy is about to get this haircut as soon as he looks at the barber and says he wants to look sharp. The low fade is example of a tight and clean fade. The top is just long enough to fall into a side part without having to be pushed. It gives off the impression that this person has their life together. Routine is simple and that’s the point. It compliments straight and slightly wavy hair. It looks good the day of and even three weeks after. It matches a suit or a t-shirt with no modifications.
#22: Textured High Fade with Volume on Top
I appreciate your confidence in my craft. Last month, I completed something similar for a client that was saying “clean but not boring” all the time, and quite frankly, this fits the description perfectly. The fade is taken really high, which gives a great contrast between the sides and all the fullness on top. The texture avoids it looking too corporate which means theres [sic] a lot more versatility in how the style is worn. You can push it back, mess it up, and even wear it differently every day. It won’t look unintentional. With a little bit of damp texturizing paste, you’re basically done.
#23: Trendy Wavy Modern Mullet
I really love seeing people with the right hair sit down and get this over with. The shorter sides create some structure, but the longer curls at the back have a lot of personality and real movement. It’s a hairstyle that looks better slightly messy, which is honestly part of the appeal. If you have thick wavy hair, and you’ve been trying to keep it under control, stop. It will be so much better to let it live. You will get there to your desired hairstyle with some curl enhancing cream and a diffuser.
#24: Stylish Mini Pompadour with Tapered Sides
A pompadour of this size is made for the everyday. It has drama and some nice lift at the front but isn’t a twenty minute commitment. The taper on the sides keeps it looking sharp and not harsh. If you have a bit of a wave, a nice pomade will bring it out.
#25: Textured Crop Haircut with Defined Curls
I love when clients come in with curls and want to do something with them. This crop is all about letting the curls shine and the short sides keep everything balanced and manageable. It’s one of those styles that the less you do to it in the morning, the better it looks. This style works best for medium to thick hair. You can add a fade with it if you want some more edge, but even without that it’s such a nice shape.
#26: Textured Crop with Fringe for Men
For thinner hair, this style is worth trying to avoid a flat look. With the choppy fringe, it appears as if there is more hair up front, while the messy top adds depth without requiring a lot of extra length. It should be low maintenance as the style is meant to look as if it is done without much effort. The shape of the hair holds pretty well without any product, although a light mousse or texturizing spray is often useful to provide some hold.
#27 Sleek Textured Side-Parted Cut with Defined Back
This hairstyle may give others the impression that everything is in order. The side part is nice and adds sophistication. The styling product is flexible and keeps the hairstyle from looking stiff. My favorite part is how the back is tapered. This adds to the neatness of the entire hairstyle. The tapered neck also adds a polished touch to the hairstyle. For most people, the effort is most likely a hassle, but for some people, the outcome is worth the effort. Lightweight pomade is the best product to achieve a polished look without it looking greasy.
#28: Textured Curly Mullet with Fade
Every time I create one of these styles, I remember the fun side of having curly hair, especially when it gets to do something a little wild. The fade on the sides makes the curls on top stand out in a way that is bold but not over the top, and the length of the hair in the back gives it a mullet vibe without going full mullet. It best suits guys with more angular features, as the combination of volume on top and clean sides directs the attention in an appealing way. Your curl routine is going to play an important role in this, so ensure that your coils are well defined.
#29: Textured Short Mullet with Fade
This style is for you if you’re curious about mullets but want to wait to fully commit. Theres a clean fade that contains the whole look and keeps it short. The texture up top adds a lot of life to the style and works well with finer hair. I’ll be honest, this style reads differently in a lot of different contexts so consider where you spend the most time. However, if your life allows for it, this is a fun hairstyle to have.
#30: Modern Textured Quiff with Tapered Sides
I enjoy cutting quiffs because I like how the proportions can be adjusted differently. In this example, the top is kept at a medium length which means you have some to style with, as it won’t end up flopping over by noon. The tapered sides frame everything quite nicely. If your hair is fine to medium, you’ll actually have an easier time getting that lift than someone with really thick heavy hair. You’ll want something with a bit of hold to keep the front where you put it, but it doesn’t need to be stiff.
#31: Casual Curly Textured Crop
The wash-and-go cut that I do for all the curly-haired guys is not just a promise, it’s a guarantee. The short length keeps the curls close enough to the head to maintain shape, and the layering adds just enough definition to avoid that helmet-y look. It really is that easy; the type of haircut that just gets better the less you touch it. If you live in a humid climate, a holding curl cream is going to be your best friend because the humidity is going to do whatever it wants.
#32: Textured Short Crop with Fade
The fade and textured top mixture is more modern and versatile and keeps a clean look and avoids being too standard and barbershoppy. I have had this done on many different guys with many different hair types and face shapes and it works surprisingly well. In terms of what to expect, top texture will require a re-style most mornings. This is not a ‘roll out of bed’ style. However, if you’ve got a minute, or two with some product, it definitely pays off.
#33: Modern Textured Side-Parted Cut with Tapered Sides
Some people associate side parts with a classic dad hairstyle. Others may see it as a clean cut option. However, for the modern take on the side part, we have this hairstyle. Firstly, we have a side taper that provides a gradient, and leaves enough volume on top for versatility. You can wear it polished and professional, or leave it to be more casual. This hair style works best with straight to wavy hair, and medium to thick density is preferred as it styles itself with the right texture.
#34: Modern Textured Shag with Subtle Layers
I tend to have a minor soft spot for a fantastic shag cut since it is one of the most forgiving styles out there. This example is on the more modern end with softer layering around the crown and a touch more length in the back so it flows as opposed to sitting heavy in one spot. If you have fine to medium hair, those layers will give you volume that you probably thought wasn’t possible. Honestly, styling is as easy as a quick blow dry and some texturing spray, tho it looks perfectly great air dried too. Just plan on some maintenance trims cause once a shag loses its shape it just loses everything.
#35: Modern Textured Pompadour with Tapered Sides
The pompadour style can be used in a lot of different ways, but most will probably want to keep it simple and not overly extravagant. For this version of the style, there is still quite a lot of height at the front and presence, but the texture helps it avoid looking like you spent way too long on it. The sides being tapered also helps with the overall structure. For this version, I think less product is used on top than ease expected since it feels lighter, but is still quite warm. Unfortunately, this does mean it will require maintenance.
#36: Modern Textured Crop with Tapered Sides
This haircut is best for you if you have a strong jawline and prefer a style that is out of the way. There is a layered look on top for movement, but is more controlled if there is extra bulk. At a distance, this haircut looks very clean, but has more to offer when you get up close. Because of all the heaviness that is associated with having thicker hair, this style works the best if you have fine hair. For this look to be good, it is necessary for you to put in the time.
#37: Sleek Textured Long Top with Tapered Back
The longer top and tapered back also create a nice silhouette. Ideal for guys looking for a little more length without looking shaggy. The layers give the top some movement and the back tapering gives a clean look without being too harsh. This is the type of cut that looks like it could be styled for something nice, but could also be left messy over the weekend, and either way, you’d look like yourself. It’s a great cut for straight and slightly wavy hair as it suits this shape best.
#38: Trendy Textured Bowl Cut with Side Bangs
Trendy styles may not appeal to everyone, but I believe this bowl cut deserves a chance. I’ve noticed that the side bangs offer a softer approach as well as the top texture which breaks up the shape from uniform and unflattering. Styling is a breeze and for those with straight hair, it will only take a few moments. However, it will need to be shaped every so often to maintain that intentional look as opposed to appearing grown out. Hairstyles complement certain face shapes more than others, which is typically the case for rounder face shapes. If that’s you, I would encourage you to consider it further.
#39: Modern Textured High Fade with Pompadour
I usually direct my clients to here when I get asked for a bit of presence. There is a high level of contrast thanks to the high fade, and all that length on top provides you the space to style it with good volume and shape. It’s certainly a bolder choice, the type of cut that will get you noticed. This is easiest to pull off with medium to thick hair because you need that natural body to support the height. It will require consistent maintenance in terms of the fade growing out and daily restyling of the top, but if you’re keen, the result is definitely worth it.
#40: Textured Curly High Top with Faded Sides
High tops are one of those haircuts where I think the coolness factor really depends on the execution, and the curly texture here gives it that natural vibe as opposed to a more artificial feel. The fade on the sides keeps everything mellow and subtle taper at the nape is a detail I always appreciate because it finishes off smoothing without having a hard line. If your hair is curly by nature, this cut is a full-on embrace. You will be required to use some products on top in order to maintain moisture and definition in your curls, but on the whole, maintenance is more about product than frequent trims.
#41: Sleek Backed Textured Hairstyle with Subtle Layers
This cut is practical and classy and perfect if you don’t want to look too costume-y. The swept-back look adds a layer of formality while the layers prevent the look from being too flat or boring. It’s great for straight or wavy hair. I must say though, it requires a lot of upkeep and daily styling. For some it won’t be a problem, but if you prefer a more low-maintenance style, then this is definitely not the cut for you.
#42: Chic Curly Textured Mullet with Tapered Sides
The mullet has made a comeback in fashion many times over the years. With each comeback, the style gets more refined and distinguished. In my opinion, the curly mullet is the best. Hair on the sides that is cut short adds class and sophistication, then in the back and on top, the curls just do their own thing. Top makers of this hairstyle put the curls on the back loose so the hair gets to look fun and rebellious. Plus the best part? It takes nearly no effort to style this hair every day! If your hair is naturally wavy, or curly this will probably be your favorite style. Of course, some humidity or frizz can ruin the style, so if you get bad weather often, prepare yourself. Overall, the shape and look is very satisfying, and that is all that really matter
#43: Chic Textured Fringe with Tapered Sides
I believe this style is especially good for the right person since the right amount of effort along with the fringe adds so much personality to the style. With the tousled top, there is also a quality as if the person really ‘lived’ in the style. It gives that look of just waking up and looking good, but of course, a lot of effort is put into it. Keeping the tapered sides sharp requires extra upkeep, but the top is forgiving enough that you can go a fair while without a cut. With fine to medium hair, you’ll actually have an advantage because it gives the fringe a softer look. All you really need is some textured product.
#44: Trendy Textured Undercut with Artistic Design
Creating the design for this haircut was the best part for me. Definitely a fun way to express creativity. The front is going to be more casual and wearable because it has that textured top, but there is a nice surprise at the back that only shows when you turn around. A design like this manages on straight or slightly wavy hair, but I like to manage my expectations a little. I do think it will require upkeep as hair grows fast and the lines will blur. If you like to keep it a little interesting though, this is a good choice.
#45: Modern Textured Backward Flow with Subtle Layers
This haircut exudes relaxed confidence. Your hair will flow back naturally, and the layers add enough volume so that it looks as though it was pushed aside. The hair length is medium, which gives you options, but the goal is to create that soft, effortless, tousled finish, although the cut is doing a lot of work. Hair that is of medium density will hold this shape best. If your hair is on the finer side, you may find that you need to get it shaped more often to maintain that silhouette. The right layers will make the style easy to maintain.
#46: Choppy Layered Mid-Length Cut with Textured Ends
Most guys aren’t used to having hair this long. I love it though! The chopped layers look more interesting than your standard simple grow-out. The rough ends look intentional, and that little bit of roughness at the bottom keeps the hairstyle from looking polished or feminine, which is a common concern I get from clients. This works best for thick straight hair since that’s where the layers will be the most mobile. To enhance the texture without weighing it down, you’ll want a thickening spray or mousse, and then you can scrunch it through the ends.
#47: Textured Tapered Cut with Defined Waves
The feeling of having thick curly hair can be overwhelming at times. This style is a perfect match for you because it features a taper on the sides which allows for your fuller waves. The mid-length gives even more versatility as your waves are free to form however they want. The best part about this is it can be well kept if needed and will have that polished look but it isn’t uptight so it’s a fair trade for the maintenance required. The waves can be highlighted and maintained styled, which is the perfect justification for the maintenance required to define the waves and keep them polished.
#48: Modern Textured Short Curly Cut with Subtle Fade
One haircut style I like is natural curls that are kept short and well-structured. I get instant satisfaction from combing and cutting natural curls. The small fade here is just enough to keep most of the attention on the curls and not overshadow them. In this hairstyle, the curl density is perfect. The curls will need some maintenance to keep them bouncy, and all that is needed is a light curl cream for moisture and hold. To keep the shape of the curls neat, hair trims are recommended. Besides that, styling is kept as simple as possible.
#49: Classic Textured Tapered Cut with Defined Top
The client’s goal is to make customers happy. To achieve your objective, The cut has to be specific. The taper on the sides gives it a nice finish and the texture on top offers a nice contrast. Wavy is the most favourable hair colour because it creates a feeling of flow and looks good in a way that it seems to be doing something great all by itself. The style took a small amount of product to achieve the correct texture and to give it the sophistication needed to elevate it from merely good to exceptionally good.
#50: Modern Textured Long Back with Defined Volume
The increased length in the back gives the haircut some boldness, and the length on top brings a good balance to the cut so it doesn’t look bottom heavy. These layers all help with the cohesion with the whole cut instead of just being long and short in some areas. This shape with straight to wavy hair, it really has a presence. The type of cut where people will definitely see you got your hair done. I know some people prefer it subtle, but a lot of people want it attention grabbing. Just be prepared to come in for regular maintenance to keep this shape as it grows out.
#51: Modern Textured Fringe with Tapered Sides
I love how much personality the fringe brings to the cut, and the design on the sides helps it look pretty clean too. The mid length on top also gives some styling options for the fringe. You can go for a textured look one day or a more side swept look the next. This style works best with straight to slightly wavy hair and for the thickness medium is best to avoid too much weight. Keeping the shape is really what makes this look so getting regular trims is better than using too much product. Some textured product is always a good thing.
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