6 Classic Men’s Hairstyles & Haircuts That Are Timeless

Hair is not just an insignificant part of our appearance; it holds immense power. It has the ability to transform a man’s entire look and make a statement without him even uttering a word. Trends come and go, but classic men’s hairstyles will never go out of fashion. These timeless looks have stood the test of time and continue to be style staples. Whether it’s the sophisticated, slick back or the rugged crew cut, our roundup of the top classic haircuts for men offers something for everyone. So, if you’re looking to elevate your style game, take inspiration from these timeless hairstyles.

Classic Haircuts for Men

1. French Crop

The French Crop is a classic haircut for men renowned for its simplicity. Its minimalistic nature, with shorter sides and evenly trimmed locks on top, has made it a beloved haircut for many generations. The French Crop offers versatility, as it maintains a balanced look without much distinction between the hair on top and the sides of the head. When opting for a French Crop, consider your hair texture. Those with fuller, thicker hair can ask their barber to strategically cut the ends for added dimension. As for suitable face shapes, the French Crop works favorably for rectangle faces, helping to minimize the appearance of length. Additionally, oval and diamond face shapes can also handle the shorter proportions of the French Crop.

How to Style The French Crop

• First things first, ensure your French Crop is cut in a way that complements your hair type – this will ensure easier styling. Inform your barber about your hair type and your desired length, then work together to ensure the length complements your face.
• Determine how you want your hair to sit. A traditional take on the French Crop involves styling your hair towards the front of your face.
• Blow-dry your hair when it is wet, working the hair dryer and a comb or round bristle brush in the direction you want your hair to sit. Keep your dryer at a distance when you are doing this.
• You will want a sleek, medium hold finish, so work pomade or a dependable hair clay in the direction that you previously blow-dried your hair in.

2. Slick Back

Slicked back hair exudes sleekness and makes a statement while still embracing a timeless appeal. It works effectively both when hair has grown out and when paired with an undercut. A great style inspiration for this look is Johnny Depp’s hairstyle in Cry Baby, where his strands were combed back with a polished finish. However, it’s important to note that some hair types may not hold the slicked back style as well as others. Those with thick hair may find it more challenging to achieve, whereas individuals with fine hair should ensure they have enough volume to handle glossier products. While the slicked back hairstyle complements those with rectangle and oval faces, it also suits gentlemen with round face shapes as it can add height.

How to Style The Slick Back

• Backcomb your hair so that when you slick it back, it won’t read too severely. This will also make your take on this classic hairstyle a lot more versatile.
• Utilizing a decent pomade that has great hold and some shine (oil-based ones will do the trick), work the product into your locks.
• Proceed to comb the hair toward the back of your head. Everyone’s hair has a different texture, so experiment with what you think looks right with your face shape and your hair type.
• If you want an extra amount of hold, use a strong hairspray to keep your locks in place all day.

3. Side Part

The side part has been one of the most classic haircuts for men throughout the years, from the Twenties, Forties, Sixties, to contemporary versions. It can be adapted in ultra-refined or texturized styles, showcasing its beauty and the ability to make you look mature or youthful. Your approach to the cut is crucial. For a modern look, longer proportions on top and shorter sides work well. If you prefer a more structured style, a side part can be achieved with shorter hair. Glossy finishes provide a touch of nostalgia, while matte finishes offer a modern twist. Regardless of your face shape  the side part is a fantastic hairstyle choice for modern men.

How to Style The Side Part

• Determine which way your hair naturally grows. This will help you decide which way you should part your hair. Run the corner of a comb along the natural line that your hair falls across – this will allow you to be consistent with your part and styling.
• Utilize a firm hold mousse or pomade and accordingly work the product into your locks, using your part as an indicator for how portions of hair should fall. Use your fingertips as a makeshift comb, keeping your hair neatly brushed with the pomade.
• Run a comb through your locks for added precision and hold. If your hair is on the thinner side, you should try maintaining more volume, so stick to using your fingers.
• Complete with a scant spray of hairspray for added longevity to your side part.

4. Pompadour

The pompadour has been around since periods as early as the 18^th century in France, where the style earned popularity among both men and women. Denoted by the heavy top portions of hair that are combed up and away from the face (contrasting with distinctively shorter sides), the pompadour has enjoyed a contemporary revival. Be it Elvis Presley in his fifties projects or Justin Timberlake practically anywhere today, this style reads trendy no matter the era. Gents with oval, triangle, and round face shapes are encouraged to try out the pompadour, as the style is complementary to the facial proportions they possess.

How to Style The Pompadour

• Towel dry your hair so it is not overly wet.
• Blow-dry your hair while combing it up and away from your face.
• Utilizing strong pomade, work in your product starting from the sides, and finishing with volumizing the top portions of hair.
• Use a comb if necessary, but focus on running your fingers through your hair to achieve a textured finish.
• Finish with strong-hold hairspray to set your pompadour.

5. Quiff

The quiff is a popular classic hairstyle for men, with its influence extending to various domains like sports, politics, and pop culture. It shares similarities with the pompadour, although the quiff typically showcases a more distinct contrast between the sides and the top of the hair. To achieve this style, apply product both before and after blow-drying the hair. Icons such as Don Draper in Mad Men or Bruno Mars on the Grammy red carpet serve as notable references. Another renowned figure who embraced textured and dimensional quiffs is the vintage movie star James Dean. Oval, square, heart, and triangle face shapes can confidently embrace the proportions of a quiff to complement their facial features.

How to Style The Quiff

• Work in a gel or mousse to clean, towel-dried hair
• Blow-dry your locks up and away from your face, slanting your hair to one side. Use a round bristle brush and comb through your hair to mimic the direction of your hair dryer. This will allow you to achieve a smoother finish.
• Spray a good amount of hairspray, ensuring your hair is combined all together.

6. Buzz Cut

The Buzz Cut, even more minimal than the French Crop, has remained fashionable for decades as it is a low maintenance haircut for men. It is widely recognized as a men’s haircut with extremely short length, achieved by buzzing the hair very close to the head using clippers. Originally known as the ‘Induction Cut,’ this military haircut was traditionally worn by new army recruits as a symbol of initiation. In a contemporary context, those opting for a fully shaved head should consider the shape of their face. Buzz cuts typically suit gentlemen with square or oval face shapes, as these facial dimensions can accommodate minimal to no hair length.

Roger Grindstead

Fashion Designer / Writer

Roger Grinstead is a senior apparel designer for X2U with over 25 years of expertise in the fashion industry. He has expertise in menswear and womenswear trends and product development. When Roger is not designing the latest fashion garments, he enjoys writing about men's fashion, hairstyles, and grooming.