Messy hairstyles for men are all about effortless style, natural texture, and a laid-back vibe. Whether you prefer short, medium, or long hair, a messy hairstyle can add volume, character, and a rugged edge to your look.
Here are 10 trendy messy hairstyles for men to try!
1. Messy Textured Crop – Modern & Stylish
– Best for: Short to medium hair
Why It Works:
- Adds texture and movement to short hair
- Looks stylish without requiring too much maintenance
- Works well for straight and wavy hair
How to Style:
– Apply matte pomade or clay to damp hair.
– Use your fingers to tousle the top section for a natural look.
– Let the sides stay clean and tapered for contrast.
– Bonus: Try a faded or undercut side for a sharper look!
2. Messy Quiff – Voluminous & Bold
– Best for: Medium-length hair
Why It Works:
- Creates a voluminous, effortlessly cool style
- Works well for thicker hair types
- Can be worn with a fade or natural sides
How to Style:
– Blow-dry hair while brushing it upwards for volume.
– Use a lightweight wax or texturizing spray for hold.
– Finger-style the quiff for a slightly undone effect.
– Bonus: Looks great paired with light stubble or a beard!
3. Messy Bedhead Hair – Casual & Relaxed
– Best for: Medium to long hair
Why It Works:
- Creates a carefree, effortlessly cool look
- Works best for wavy or slightly curly hair
- Low-maintenance and easy to style daily
How to Style:
– Apply sea salt spray or dry shampoo for texture.
– Run your fingers through the hair for a natural messy effect.
– Let it air-dry or scrunch it for added waves.
– Bonus: Ideal for guys who prefer a natural, unstyled look!
4. Messy Side-Swept Fringe – Soft & Stylish
– Best for: Medium hair, straight or wavy
Why It Works:
- Frames the face with a soft, undone fringe
- Works well for guys with naturally textured hair
- Looks effortlessly cool without too much styling
How to Style:
– Use a texturizing cream or matte wax.
– Push the fringe to one side with your fingers.
– Add a slight lift at the roots for volume.
– Bonus: Perfect for a laid-back, yet polished style!
5. Messy Spiky Hair – Edgy & Playful
– Best for: Short to medium hair
Why It Works:
- Creates a youthful, fun, and modern look
- Works great for thicker hair that needs volume
- Can be styled messy or more defined
How to Style:
– Apply a small amount of matte clay or wax.
– Use your fingers to spike up sections randomly.
– Keep the sides short for contrast.
– Bonus: Try a subtle fade or undercut for a cleaner edge!
6. Messy Wavy Hairstyle – Natural & Effortless
– Best for: Medium to long wavy hair
Why It Works:
- Enhances natural waves for a surfer-inspired vibe
- Looks stylish without looking overly groomed
- Works best with a slight stubble or beard
How to Style:
– Use a sea salt spray for enhanced texture.
– Scrunch hair with your fingers while damp.
– Let it air dry or use a diffuser for extra volume.
– Bonus: Great for guys with naturally wavy hair!
7. Messy Long Hair – Rocker & Free-Spirited
– Best for: Long hair, thick or wavy textures
Why It Works:
- Looks rugged and effortlessly stylish
- Requires minimal styling effort
- Works great with layered cuts for added movement
How to Style:
– Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner for smoothness.
– Run fingers through hair instead of brushing.
– Use a bit of styling cream or oil to control frizz.
– Bonus: Works great with a bandana or tied-back in a low bun!
8. Messy Faux Hawk – Bold & Edgy
– Best for: Short to medium hair
Why It Works:
- Adds height and volume while keeping a messy feel
- Looks modern and youthful
- Can be styled with or without a fade
How to Style:
– Apply a medium-hold styling cream.
– Push the middle section upward and slightly forward.
– Keep the sides naturally blended or faded.
– Bonus: Works great for both casual and dressy occasions!
9. Messy Slicked-Back Hairstyle – Polished Yet Relaxed
– Best for: Medium-length hair, professional looks
Why It Works:
- A mix of classy and messy for a balanced style
- Works well for thick, straight, or wavy hair
- Perfect for casual and formal occasions
How to Style:
– Use a lightweight pomade or wax.
– Run fingers through the hair instead of combing.
– Keep the sides neat for contrast.
– Bonus: Looks best with a bit of facial stubble!
10. Messy Curly Hair – Natural & Playful
– Best for: Naturally curly or coily hair
Why It Works:
- Enhances curls while keeping them structured
- Requires minimal styling for an organic feel
- Works best with short to medium curls
How to Style:
– Use a curl-defining cream or mousse.
– Scrunch hair to enhance natural curls.
– Avoid brushing – just let curls form naturally.
– Bonus: Try a fade on the sides for a modern curly look!
Final Tips for Achieving the Best Messy Hairstyles
– Use the right products – Texturizing spray, clay, or matte wax adds the perfect messy touch.
– Work with your natural texture – Messy styles look best when you embrace your hair’s natural flow.
– Avoid over-styling – Use your fingers instead of a comb to maintain the casual look.
–Keep the sides clean – A subtle fade or undercut can enhance messy hairstyles.
– Experiment with different partings – Side parts, middle parts, and no part can change the vibe completely.
With these messy hairstyles for men, you can achieve an effortlessly stylish look that’s both modern and low-maintenance! Which one will you try first? Let me know!