We’re well into summer now, and if you’re doing it right, chances are you’re getting out a lot more than in the winter. Which presents you with the perfect time for a refresh and a great opportunity to debut a new look.
What better way to do that than by trying out a new hairstyle? The warm weather and laid-back vibes of the summer season typically call for hairstyles that are both practical and stylish.
Whether you’re hitting the beach, attending a summer wedding, or just looking to stay cool (and look good), don’t sweat it – we’ve got something for you.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best summer hairstyles for men in 2024, complete with tips on how to achieve and maintain them.
1. The Buzz Cut
Having made somewhat of a comeback in recent years, the buzz cut is arguably a timeless and classic look that’s perfect for the hot summer months.
Less hair more or less equates to less heat, and in some circumstances, it offers just a little bit of edge to an otherwise clean-cut appearance, and can be interpreted as both professional and grungy – depending on what you’re going for.
It’s low-maintenance, easy to do at home, and helps keep you cool. Not to mention, the buzz cut can be tailored to suit your personal style, whether you prefer a super short length or something a bit longer.
How to Achieve It:
- Use clippers with the desired guard length.
- Start at the top and work your way down, covering the full scalp area.
- Ensure even coverage by going over each section multiple times.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular trims every two to three weeks.
- Make sure to frequently moisturize your scalp to prevent dryness – try incorporating it into your skincare routine.
2. The Crew Cut
The crew cut is another short style that’s perfect for a warm weather. It’s slightly longer on top than a buzz cut, giving you more styling options. The sides and back are usually tapered, creating a clean, professional look. When people think of classic and clean-cut, the crew cut is arguably the gold standard.
How to Achieve It:
- Clippers for the sides and back, scissors for the top.
- Blend the top into the sides for a smooth transition.
- Keep the top short enough to maintain the style but long enough to allow for some texture.
Maintenance Tips:
- Trim every three to four weeks.
- Use a light pomade or styling cream for added texture.
- Regularly wash and condition to keep your hair healthy.
3. The Undercut
The undercut is a sharp, versatile style that works well in any season, but it’s particularly great for the summer months.
The sides and back are shaved or cut very short, which helps keep you cool, while the top is left significantly longer, offering some extra styling material. This contrast creates a striking look that can be styled in various ways – both casually and more professionally.
How to Achieve It:
- Shave or clip the sides and back to the desired length.
- Leave the top long and style as desired.
- Use a comb to create a clean part line.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular trims for the sides and back every two to three weeks.
- Style the top with a lightweight gel or mousse.
- Regularly wash and condition to keep your hair healthy.
4. The Middle Part
Also commonly referred to as “curtains,” the classic middle part is reminiscent of 90s heartthrobs and a polished, ivy-inspired look. With a short-to-medium length and a flattering framing of one’s face, there’s a reason this style has made a massive comeback in recent years.
How to Achieve It:
- Grow out the fringe and keep the side/back tidy.
- Wet hair, brush back, then create the part in the middle.
- Brush upwards and away from the middle part.
- Use a blow dryer to create volume at the front.
- Apply a strong hold pomade to maintain the shape, or alternatively use a lightweight clay/cream along with holding spray.
Maintenance Tips:
- Trim every three to four weeks.
- Regularly wash and condition to maintain healthy hair.
5. The Textured Crop
The textured crop is a trendier look with a fairly wide range of appeal. As a summer hairstyle, it excels for its practicality. It’s short, easy to style, and works well with the natural texture of most guys’ hair. The messy, tousled look is perfect for a laid-back summer vibe.
How to Achieve It:
- Keep the sides and back short.
- Leave the top slightly longer and add texture with scissors.
- Use your fingers to style with a texturizing product, such as a texturizing clay or putty..
Maintenance Tips:
- Trim every four to six weeks.
- Use a sea salt spray for added texture.
- Regularly wash and condition to keep your hair healthy.
6. The Quiff
The quiff is a somewhat more dynamic take on the textured crop, and gives your hair the chance to demonstrate its volume while still keeping things fairly conservative.
It’s a stylish option that combines elements of the iconic, classic pompadour along with the flat top. It features volume at the front that gradually decreases towards the back.
The quiff is perfect for guys who want a polished yet casual look – one that’s easy to style up for the office, or to style down for lazy summer sundays.
How to Achieve It:
- Get short sides and back, but leave the hair on top longer..
- Use a blow dryer and a rounded brush to create volume.
- Finish with a strong hold gel or pomade.
Maintenance Tips:
- Trim every four to six weeks.
- Regularly wash and condition to keep your hair healthy.
7. The Messy Fringe
The messy fringe is a relaxed, relatively youthful style that’s perfect for warm days. It involves longer hair on top with a fringe that falls naturally over the forehead.
This style works especially well with wavy or curly hair, and gives off quite a laid-back look. While not the most professional, if you’re not working an office job – you’ve got a green light from us.
How to Achieve It:
- Keep both the sides and back short.
- Leave the top relatively long with a natural fringe that covers most of your forehead..
- Use a texturizing product to enhance the natural wave or curl.
Maintenance Tips:
- Trim every four to six weeks.
- Use a leave-in conditioner to maintain healthy hair.
- Frequently wash as needed to keep your hair clean and your scalp balanced.
8. The Slick Back
The slick back is rather, well, slick, but also an incredibly classic style that can be adapted for summer by keeping both the sides and back of your hair on the shorter side.
It’s a sophisticated look that works especially well for formal occasions, or even just in your day-to-day professional life. Think Michael Corleone in The Godfather. Al Pacino pulls it off – and so can you!
How to Achieve It:
- Cut your sides short, as well as the back of your hair, while keeping the hair on top longer.
- Use a comb and a strong hold gel or pomade to slick the hair back.
- Ensure the hair lies flat against the head.
- (Optional) Apply a finishing holding hairspray – this helps with summer humidity to combat frizziness, which stands out especially amongst slicked-back hairs.
Maintenance Tips:
- Trim every four to six weeks.
- Regularly wash and condition to prevent product buildup and maintain healthy hair and scalp.
9. The Gen Z “Mullet”
This one’s controversial, but depending where you live or what circles you frequent, it might just be the coolest one on this list. The much maligned mullet hairstyle of the 80s has made its way back in a somewhat fresher, more tamed form with a younger crowd.
One trip to a trendy neighborhood in almost any city will confirm it – the mullet has returned. The newest take on it is cool, artsy, and gives off a casual vibe.
How to Achieve It:
- The sides and back should be trimmed rather short. This can range from a fade or taper to a more uniform short length.
- The top and front should be longer and layered. The front should fall around the eyebrows, and the back can be left longer, creating a noticeable contrast.
- Add texture with a razor or thinning shears to prevent the mullet from looking too bulky. A well-blended cut will look more modern.
Maintenance Tips:
- Visit your barber every 4-6 weeks to maintain the shape and length. Regular trims keep the sides and back short and the top layered properly.
- As the top and back grow out, they might need slight adjustments to keep the shape sharp.
- Frequently wash as needed to keep your hair clean and your scalp balanced.
Barber Talk
Before embarking on this journey, however, make sure to do some research. As you would with the task of seeking out a skilled tailor, try to find a barber that works for you.
Ask friends for recommendations and visit online reviews. Some men prefer to frequent high-end salons for more complex styles, while others can get away with something simpler, and far more economical.
Your Ideal Summer Hairstyle
Choosing the right summer hairstyle is all about finding a balance between style and practicality. No matter if you prefer a short, low-maintenance cut that keeps you cool or a longer, more free-spirited, and laid-back style, there’s likely something here you can utilize.
Consider your hair type, face shape, and personal preferences when selecting a new hairstyle. With the right cut and proper maintenance, it will help you to keep you cool and look great all summer long.