The one trend that doesn’t go away when it comes to hair trends, one stands out above the rest and endures all season long: the messy hairstyles. Once stereotyped as a lazy no-effort style, the new snub is a fashion-forward option, and one that suggests you have got confidence and attitude to boot. It’s relaxed but purposeful styled to look undone in one precise way.
From messy texture to the combover fade to thick spikes, here are some of the best messy hairstyles for men. And no matter if you have short, medium or long hair the good news is: there’s a messy hairstyle that can work for you.
Here, we’ll break down the versatility of messy hair, classic cuts such as the messy crew cut and styling tips for those wanting to achieve that effortless even I didn’t think about doing my hair a tousled look.
Why Messy Hairstyles Are So Popular?
The appeal of the messy hairstyle lies in its balance between structure and carefree feel. Unlike sharp fades or ultra-slick styles a messy look suggests you have a relaxed personality while still caring about your appearance. These hairstyles are a type of military haircut well known as crew cut in most places. You can also haircut with this style to increase your personality.
Here’s why messy hairstyles are trending:
- Low-maintenance: They don’t need to be perfect, so daily styling is quick and forgiving.
- Trendy and youthful: They add volume and movement, which can make your look more vibrant and full of energy.
- Great for all hair types: Whether your hair is thin, thick, straight, or curly there is a messy style that suits it.
- Versatile: You can dress it up with a little product or let it stay wild and natural.
Messy Hairstyles Men Can Try
There’s no one-size fits all when it comes to love for messy hairstyles men. Below are few go-to styles that are both modern and masculine giving you a laid-back but attractive look.
1. Messy Textured Crop
This style features short hair on the sides and slightly longer layers on top. The texture gives it a choppy, rugged finish. Perfect for men who want a neat cut with a carefree twist.
Best for: Straight or slightly wavy hair
Styling tip: Use a matte clay or sea salt spray to enhance natural movement.
2. Messy Crew Cut
The messy crew cut is a creative take on the traditional military-style haircut. It keeps the hair short but adds a bit of length and texture on top for that perfectly imperfect finish.
Best for: Men who want something short but not too polished
Styling tip: Work a small amount of matte paste through the top and tousle with fingers—no comb needed.
3. Messy Medium-Length Hair
Medium-length messy styles are ideal for men who want to show off more volume and character. Layers help reduce weight while boosting movement and flow.
Best for: Thick or wavy hair
Styling tip: Blow dry your hair while scrunching it with your hands, then finish with a lightweight styling cream.
4. Messy Curly Hair
Curly hair naturally suits the messy look. Instead of taming it, let it shine with controlled chaos. A well-shaped cut with defined curls can be incredibly stylish and bold.
Best for: Naturally curly or coily hair
Styling tip: Use a curl-enhancing mousse or cream, and avoid heavy gels that can make curls stiff.
5. Bedhead Style
This is the ultimate in “I woke up like this” energy. It works best when your hair is medium length and layered, giving it that windblown, lived-in look.
Best for: Guys who want a carefree vibe
Styling tip: Apply dry shampoo or texture powder at the roots for a natural boost without shine.
How To Get The Perfect Messy Look?
A great messy hairstyle does not mean you ignore your hair—it means you style it to look natural and relaxed. Here are a few key steps:
1. Start With The Right Cut
The best messy hairstyles begin with a textured cut. Ask your barber for layers and uneven lengths that allow natural movement.
2. Don’t Overwash
Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of the natural oils that help create texture. Try to wash 2–3 times per week, using a lightweight shampoo and conditioner.
3. Choose The Right Products
Look for matte-finish products like:
- Clay: Adds strong hold and definition without shine.
- Texturizing Spray: Boosts volume and enhances natural waves.
- Paste or Pomade: Gives shape while keeping flexibility.
4. Use Your Hands
The key to a good messy haircut men go for is to avoid perfect lines. Style with your fingers rather than a comb for a more natural finish.
5. Blow Dry Strategically
For added volume and a controlled messy effect, use a blow dryer on low to medium heat while scrunching or tousling your hair.
Who Should Go For A Messy Hairstyle?
Messy hairstyles men choose often depend on their lifestyle, face shape, and personality. However, this look is ideal if:
- You have medium to thick hair with some natural volume.
- You prefer a relaxed and casual aesthetic.
- You want a style that transitions easily from day to night.
- You don’t want to spend more than a few minutes styling each morning.
If you work in a formal environment, you can still go messy—as long as the cut is clean on the sides and the top is styled neatly with texture.
Maintenance Tips For Messy Hair
Even though the style looks casual, it still requires some upkeep. Here’s how to keep your messy hairstyles admire looking fresh:
- Trim regularly: Every 4–6 weeks to avoid it looking too overgrown or shapeless.
- Refresh texture: On non-wash days, use dry shampoo or sea salt spray to revive flat or oily hair.
- Avoid heavy products: Greasy or sticky gels weigh hair down and kill volume.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What Is A Messy Hairstyle?
A: A messy hairstyle is a casual, relaxed hair look that appears natural and a little undone—but in a stylish way. It’s not about being sloppy; it’s about looking cool without trying too hard.
Q2: Are Messy Hairstyles Good For Men?
A: Yes, messy hairstyles are great for men! They work well with different hair types and lengths, and they’re easy to style. Plus, they give off a confident, laid-back vibe.
Q3: Can I Get A Messy Look With Short Hair?
A: Absolutely. A messy crew cut is a perfect example of a short hairstyle with a messy, textured top. Just use a bit of styling product to add texture and use your fingers to shape it.
Q4: What Products Should I Use For Messy Hairstyles?
A: Use matte styling products like clay, paste, or sea salt spray. These help add volume and texture without making your hair look too shiny or stiff.
Q5: Do Messy Hairstyles Work For Curly Or Wavy Hair?
A: Yes! Curly and wavy hair is naturally great for messy styles. You just need the right cut and a light styling product to control frizz and keep the curls looking defined but relaxed.
Q: What Is A Messy Crew Cut And Who Is It Best For?
A messy crew cut is a short haircut where the sides are trimmed neatly, and the top is left slightly longer with added texture for a relaxed, tousled look. It’s perfect for men who want a low-maintenance style that still looks modern and stylish. It works well for straight or slightly wavy hair.
Final Thoughts
The messy haircut is a modern go-to because of the cool yet relaxed look and with a little hair product too can have a cool style. It is cool, easy and infinite in its variability. Whether you choose a messy hairstyles or a lengthier layered look there is a variation to this style that can make you look well-kept, minus any fuss factor.
From lazy mornings to night outings messy hairstyles for men get you through your calendar with that effortlessly cool style that makes others resent you with barely any effort required. You just need the right cut, the right product and some attitude.
So the next time you sit down in the barber’s chair, think about going a little unkempt—because sometimes looking your best isn’t about looking perfect.
