Long hair on men has been a symbol of power, rebellion, and style throughout history. From ancient warriors to modern-day rock stars, long locks have always made a statement.
If you’re looking to grow out your hair or trying to find new ways to style your existing length, here are 20 timeless long hairstyles for men that will never go out of fashion.
1. The Classic Man Bun
The man bun has become a staple in men’s long hairstyles over the past decade. This versatile look involves pulling your hair back and securing it in a bun at the crown of your head or at the nape of your neck. It’s perfect for keeping hair out of your face while maintaining a stylish appearance.
To achieve this look, grow your hair to at least 6 inches in length. Gather all your hair at the desired position and twist it into a bun. Secure with a hair tie, leaving the ends loose for a more relaxed look or tucking them in for a neater appearance. This style works well for all hair types and face shapes, making it a go-to option for many men with long hair.
2. Shoulder-Length Layers
Shoulder-length layered hair is a classic style that adds movement and texture to your locks. This cut typically falls just above or at the shoulders and incorporates layers throughout to remove bulk and create a more dynamic look.
To style, apply a small amount of texturizing cream to damp hair and blow-dry using a round brush to add volume. Once dry, use your fingers to tousle the hair for a more relaxed appearance. This style is particularly flattering for men with oval or oblong face shapes and works well with straight to wavy hair types.
3. The Long Slick Back
The long slick back is a sophisticated style that works well for both formal and casual occasions. This look involves combing all of your hair straight back from your forehead to the nape of your neck, creating a smooth, polished appearance.
To achieve this style, apply a strong-hold gel or pomade to damp hair. Use a fine-toothed comb to smooth your hair back, ensuring there are no tangles or knots. For a more relaxed version, you can use your fingers instead of a comb for a slightly messier finish. This style is ideal for men with straight to slightly wavy hair and works well with most face shapes.
4. The Half-Up, Half-Down
This versatile style combines the best of both worlds – the practicality of having your hair out of your face and the aesthetic appeal of showing off your length. The half-up, half-down look involves pulling the top section of your hair into a small ponytail or bun while leaving the rest loose.
To create this look, part your hair horizontally from ear to ear, gathering the top section and securing it with a hair tie. You can leave the tie visible or wrap a small section of hair around it for a more polished appearance. This style works well for all hair types and face shapes, making it a popular choice for men with long hair.
5. Long Curls
For men blessed with natural curls, embracing and enhancing your texture is key to a great long hairstyle. Long curls can range from loose waves to tight coils, each requiring specific care and styling techniques.
To style long curls, apply a curl-defining cream to damp hair and scrunch upwards to encourage curl formation. Allow your hair to air dry or use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer to minimize frizz. Avoid brushing your curls when dry, as this can cause frizz and disrupt the curl pattern. This style is particularly striking on men with round or square face shapes.
6. The Messy Ponytail
The messy ponytail is a casual, effortless style that’s perfect for everyday wear. This look involves gathering your hair into a loose ponytail at the nape of your neck or just below the crown of your head.
To achieve this style, flip your head upside down and gather your hair into a ponytail, securing it with a hair tie. Don’t worry about making it too neat – the goal is to create a relaxed, slightly disheveled look. Gently pull a few strands loose around your face for added texture. This style works well for all hair types and is particularly flattering for men with angular face shapes.
7. Long Side Part
The long side part is a classic style that adds a touch of sophistication to long hair. This look involves creating a deep side part and sweeping the hair to one side, allowing it to fall naturally.
To create this style, use a fine-toothed comb to create a deep side part. Apply a small amount of styling cream to add hold and shine, then use your fingers to sweep your hair to the side. This style works best for men with straight to wavy hair and is particularly flattering for those with oval or heart-shaped faces.
8. The Textured Crop
The textured crop is a modern take on long hair that involves keeping the top layers slightly shorter and more textured while maintaining length at the back and sides. This creates a stylish, layered look that’s easy to maintain.
To style, apply a texturizing spray to damp hair and blow-dry using your fingers to create volume and texture. Once dry, use a small amount of matte paste to enhance the texture and hold the style in place. This look works well for men with fine to medium hair and suits most face shapes.
9. The Long Quiff
The long quiff combines classic styling with modern length. This style involves creating volume and height at the front of the hair while keeping the sides and back longer.
To achieve this look, apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair and blow-dry the front section upwards and backwards using a round brush. Use your fingers to style the rest of your hair, allowing it to fall naturally. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the quiff in place. This style works best for men with straight to wavy hair and is particularly flattering for those with longer face shapes.
10. Braided Styles
Braided styles for men with long hair have gained popularity in recent years. From simple three-strand braids to more complex French or Dutch braids, these styles offer a unique way to wear long hair.
To create a basic braid, divide your hair into three equal sections and cross the right section over the middle, then the left over the new middle section. Continue this pattern until you reach the end of your hair and secure with a hair tie. Braided styles work well for all hair types and are especially practical for keeping hair controlled during physical activities.
11. The Long Shag
The long shag is a rock-inspired style that incorporates lots of layers and texture. This cut typically features shorter layers around the crown and face, gradually getting longer towards the back.
To style a long shag, apply a texturizing spray to damp hair and either air dry or blow-dry using a diffuser to enhance natural texture. Once dry, use your fingers to tousle and separate the layers for a more lived-in look. This style works well for men with wavy to curly hair and suits most face shapes.
12. The Sleek Ponytail
In contrast to the messy ponytail, the sleek ponytail offers a more polished and refined look. This style is perfect for formal occasions or when you need to look more put-together.
To achieve this look, apply a smoothing serum to damp hair and blow-dry straight using a paddle brush. Once dry, use a fine-toothed comb to gather your hair into a ponytail at your desired height. Secure with a hair tie and use a small amount of gel or pomade to smooth down any flyaways. This style works best for men with straight to slightly wavy hair and suits most face shapes.
13. Long Curtains
The long curtains hairstyle, popularized in the 90s, has made a strong comeback. This style involves parting your hair down the middle and allowing it to fall to either side of your face, much like curtains framing a window.
To style, apply a small amount of lightweight styling cream to damp hair and blow-dry using a round brush to add volume at the roots. Once dry, use your fingers to create a center part and arrange your hair to fall naturally on either side of your face. This style works best for men with straight to wavy hair and is particularly flattering for those with oval or heart-shaped faces.
14. The Faux Hawk
The faux hawk is a bold style that works well with longer hair. This look involves creating height and volume along the center of the head while keeping the sides slightly flatter.
To create this style, apply a strong-hold gel or mousse to damp hair. Use a blow-dryer and your fingers to style the hair upwards and towards the center of your head, creating a mohawk-like shape. Use your hands to flatten the sides slightly. This style works best for men with straight to wavy hair and is particularly striking on those with oval or diamond-shaped faces.
15. The Long Undercut
The long undercut combines short sides with long hair on top, creating a dramatic contrast. This style typically involves shaving or closely cropping the sides and back while leaving the top section long.
To style, apply a texturizing product to the long section and either allow it to air dry for a natural look or use a blow-dryer for more volume. You can wear the top section loose, slicked back, or tied up in a bun or ponytail. This versatile style works well for all hair types and face shapes.
16. The Viking-Inspired Look
Inspired by ancient Norse warriors, the Viking look combines long, rugged hair with braids and sometimes shaved sections. This style often incorporates a full beard for a truly masculine appearance.
To achieve this look, grow your hair long and incorporate braids or twists into sections of your hair. You might choose to shave designs into the sides or back for added interest. This style works well for men with thick, wavy, or curly hair and suits most face shapes.
17. The Long Bob (Lob)
The long bob, or “lob,” is a stylish option for men who want to keep their hair long but not too long. This cut typically falls between the chin and shoulders and can be worn straight or with texture.
To style a lob, apply a small amount of styling cream to damp hair and either air dry for a natural look or blow-dry using a round brush for more volume. You can wear it parted to the side or down the middle. This versatile style works well for all hair types and face shapes.
18. The Dreadlocks
Dreadlocks are a timeless hairstyle that involves sectioning the hair and allowing it to form rope-like strands. This style requires commitment and regular maintenance but offers a unique and eye-catching look.
To start dreadlocks, your hair needs to be at least 6 inches long. The process involves sectioning your hair and either backcombing or twisting each section to encourage it to form into a dread. This style works best for those with naturally textured hair but can be achieved with most hair types.
19. The Long Fringe
A long fringe can add interest and style to any long hairstyle. This look involves keeping the front section of your hair longer, allowing it to fall across your forehead or to the side.
To style a long fringe, apply a small amount of styling cream to damp hair and blow-dry using a round brush to create the desired shape. You can wear your fringe straight across your forehead, swept to the side, or even tucked behind your ear for variety. This style works well for men with straight to wavy hair and can help balance out longer face shapes.
20. The Natural Flow
For those who prefer a low-maintenance style, the natural flow involves embracing your hair’s natural texture and allowing it to grow long without much cutting or shaping.
To style, simply wash and condition your hair regularly, using products suited to your hair type. Allow your hair to air dry whenever possible to maintain its natural texture. You may want to use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to keep your locks hydrated and healthy. This style works well for all hair types and face shapes, celebrating your natural hair in all its glory.
In conclusion, long hairstyles for men offer a world of possibilities. Whether you prefer a polished, professional look or a more relaxed, bohemian style, there’s a long hairstyle to suit every taste and hair type. Remember, the key to great long hair is maintaining its health through regular trims, proper washing and conditioning, and using products suited to your hair type. With the right care and styling, your long locks can be your most striking feature.