Tired of the same old shortcut or struggling with hair that’s too long to manage? Mid-length haircuts for men offer the perfect balance.
They give you style options without the daily hassle of extremely long hair.
In this blog, you will see the best medium-length hairstyles for men that work for different face shapes.
You’ll learn how to pick the right cut and maintain it easily for all hair types, with expert tips on how to achieve that look. These styles look good at work and on weekends.
What Counts as a Mid-Length Haircut for Men
Medium-length haircuts range from 2 to 6 inches.
It sits right in that sweet spot longer than a typical short cut but shorter than shoulder-length hair. The top usually measures 3 to 4 inches, while the sides can be shorter or match the top length.
You have enough hair to style it in different ways. You can slick it back, part it to the side, or let it fall naturally.
But it won’t get in your face or require constant maintenance like longer styles do
Ideas for Mid-Length Haircuts for Men
Here are some fantastic options that work for different preferences and lifestyles.
1. Textured Crop
Credit: Forte Series
This cut features choppy layers on top with shorter sides. The texture creates movement and volume. Ask your barber to point-cut the ends for that piecy look.
Style Principle: Apply a small amount of matte clay to damp hair and work it through with your fingers for natural texture.
2. Side Part Classic
Credit: Nexovian
A style in which hair is deeply parted on one side. The length allows for a clean, professional appearance. Works great for formal settings and business environments.
Styling Method: Use a comb and medium-hold pomade to create a sharp part line and sweep hair to the side.
3. Messy Fringe
Credit: Johnny M. Francis
Hair falls forward across the forehead in an intentionally tousled way. This relaxed style suits casual settings perfectly. The fringe should hit just above or at eyebrow level.
Quick Technique: Blow-dry forward while scrunching with your hands, then add a light styling cream for hold.
4. Slicked Back
Credit: Zach
All hair is combed backward away from the face. This sleek look requires enough length to stay in place. It’s refined and works for any occasion.
Pro Method: Apply gel or pomade to wet hair, then comb it straight back and let it air-dry for a natural finish.
5. Wavy Flow
Credit: Nikita D
Perfect for guys with natural waves or curls. Let your hair grow out and assume the texture. The waves add character and require the tiniest styling effort.
Care Routine: Use a curl-improving cream on damp hair and scrunch gently to define the wave pattern.
6. French Crop
Credit: Jessica Jones
A short fringe with slightly longer top and very short sides. The horizontal fringe line sits across the forehead. This European-inspired cut looks sharp and modern.
Cutting Instruction: Ask for a blunt fringe cut and textured top with a skin fade on the sides.
7. Shaggy Layers
Credit: Bella
Multiple layers throughout create a carefree, rock-and-roll vibe. The uneven lengths add dimension and movement. This style works especially well with straight to wavy hair.
Maintenance Approach: Get regular trims every 6-8 weeks to maintain the layered structure and prevent split ends.
8. Brushed Up Quiff
Credit: Andrew
Hair is styled upward and slightly back at the front. Creates height and volume on top. The sides are typically kept shorter for contrast.
Building Volume: Blow-dry upward with a round brush, then secure with a strong-hold product like wax.
9. Center Part
Credit: Bespared
Hair is parted down the middle and falls evenly to both sides. This 90s-inspired look has made a comeback. Works best with straight or slightly wavy hair.
Achieving Balance: Part hair while wet and blow-dry each side outward to create natural movement and prevent flatness.
10. Curtain Bangs
Credit: Giandra
Similar to a center part but with a longer fringe that frames the face. The hair swoops to each side like curtains. Popular among younger men and very adaptable.
Framing Tip: Keep the front pieces at nose length and use a light styling spray for hold.
11. Ivy League
Credit: Mar Bud
A longer version of the crew cut with enough length to comb. Professional and clean-cut appearance. The top measures about 2-3 inches long.
Classic Approach: Apply a small amount of styling cream and comb to the side with a part.
12. Faux Hawk
Credit: Modern Gentleman Magazine
Hair is styled up in the center, creating a Mohawk effect without completely shaving the sides. Less extreme than a real Mohawk but still edgy.
Creating Height: Use a strong-hold gel on the center section, then push upward with your fingers or a comb.
13. Surfer Hair
Credit: Kimmyann
Relaxed, sun-kissed look with natural movement and slight waves. Appears effortless and laid-back. Often has lighter highlights from sun exposure or coloring.
Beach Effect: Spray sea salt onto damp hair and let it air-dry for a windswept appearance.
14. Pompadour
Credit: All Hair Styles
Volume at the front that’s swept upward and back. A classic men’s style that remains popular. Requires daily styling but makes a strong impression.
Volume Secret: Blow-dry hair up and back while it’s damp, then set with pomade for lasting hold.
15. Undercut with Length on Top
Credit: Jiyana
Sides and back are buzzed very short, while the top stays long. Creates dramatic contrast. You can style the top in multiple ways.
Styling Flexibility: Experiment with slicking it back, pushing it forward, or leaving it messy, depending on your mood.
16. Tousled Bedhead
Credit: Red Reyne
Intentionally messy look that makes you look like you just woke up. Casual and youthful vibe. Takes less effort than structured styles but still looks put-together.
Morning Routine: Work a texturizing product through dry hair, then mess it up with your hands.
17. Angular Fringe
Credit: US- Jennifer Nguyen
The fringe is cut at an angle rather than straight across. Adds an edgy, fashion-forward element. The diagonal line draws attention and creates interest.
Precision Cut: Have your stylist cut the fringe longer on one side, gradually getting shorter toward the other.
18. Disconnected Undercut
Credit: Outfit ideas
Similar to a regular undercut but with no gradual fade between lengths. The contrast is sharp and deliberate. Very modern and fashion-conscious.
Bold Statement: Ask for clippers on the sides with scissors on top and no blending between the sections.
19. Brushed Forward
Credit: Freya
All hair is combed toward the face rather than back. Creates a youthful, casual appearance. The fringe typically sits on the forehead.
Simple Styling: Use your fingers to push hair forward while blow-drying, then add a light product for texture.
20. Side Swept
Credit: Hairstyle King
Hair flows to one side in a diagonal direction. Flattering for most face shapes and easy to maintain. Not as formal as a side part.
Natural Movement: Blow-dry in the direction you want hair to fall and use a light-hold product.
21. Textured Quiff
Credit: The Style Ledger
A quiff with a choppy, piecy texture rather than a smooth finish. Combines volume with a modern, casual edge. Less rigid than traditional quiffs.
Texture Building: Apply clay or paste to damp hair, blow-dry upward, then separate pieces with your fingers.
22. Long Fringe Short Back
Credit: BadJeremy
Keeps effective length in front while the back and sides stay short. Creates focus on the face. The contrast is practical and stylish.
Length Management: Trim the back every 3-4 weeks while letting the front grow longer gradually.
23. Pushed Back Casual
Credit: Daniel Lundborg
Hair is casually pushed away from the face without using heavy products. More relaxed than a formal, slicked-back style. Shows off your facial features.
Easy Daily Look: Run your fingers through your hair after showering and push back naturally without combing.
24. Choppy Bangs
Credit: Stéphane Mainguy
Short, uneven fringe with lots of texture and separation. Creates a punk-inspired or alternative look. The jagged edges add personality and edge.
Texture Creation: Ask for razor cutting or point cutting on the fringe for that choppy, separated effect.
25. Side Fade with Length
Credit: Mahfuz Rana
Gradual fade on the sides and back while keeping length on top. Clean and modern style. The fade can be low, mid, or high, depending on preference.
Fade Specification: Tell your barber exactly where you want the fade to start, based on the look you prefer.
26. Comb Over
Credit: Boldsir
Hair is combed from one side to the other, covering more area. Different from a side part as it involves more hair movement. Classic and refined.
Smooth Finish: Use a fine-tooth comb and medium-hold pomade for a polished, controlled appearance.
27. Low Maintenance Shag
Credit: Mah
Longer layers that require the tiniest daily styling. Perfect for busy guys who don’t want a complicated routine. Just wash and go most days.
Time-Saving Tip: Get a great cut that works with your natural hair texture so styling is optional.
28. Textured Side Part
Credit: Joy
Traditional side part with added texture and dimension throughout. Modern twist on a classic style. Less formal and more modern than the smooth version.
Current Update: Use a texturizing powder at the roots, and work a matte product through the lengths for separation.
29. Forward Swept Bangs
Credit: Sofia
Longer fringe that sweeps forward and slightly to one side. Softens the face and creates a friendly, approachable look. Falls naturally without much effort.
Directional Styling: Blow-dry the fringe forward at an angle, letting it fall naturally where it wants to go.
30. Tapered Sides with Volume
Credit: Gents Osprey
Sides gradually get shorter as you move down, while the top maintains full volume. Balanced and flattering for most head shapes. Professional yet modern.
Shape improvement: Ask your barber to taper the sides rather than fade for a softer transition between lengths.
How to Style Medium Length Men’s Hair
- Start with damp hair, not soaking wet or completely dry.
- Blow-dry in the direction you want your hair to fall.
- Apply product when hair is about 80% dry for better hold.
- Less is more with styling products. Start small and add if needed.
- Work product from back to front to avoid overloading the fringe.
- Use your fingers instead of a comb for a more natural look.
- Scrunch wavy or curly hair instead of brushing it.
- Use a round brush while blow-drying to add volume at the roots.
- Use cold air at the end of blow-drying to set your style.
Wrapping it up
Mid-length haircuts give you the best of both worlds. You get enough length to experiment with different styles, but you won’t spend hours maintaining it every day.
You have seen your options, which work for various hair types and lifestyles.
The key is finding what suits your face shape and daily routine. Don’t forget those styling tips shared. They’ll help you get the most out of your haircut between salon visits.
Book an appointment with your barber and show them the style you like.
