In the ever-evolving landscape of men’s fashion, what’s old inevitably becomes new again. The cyclical nature of style finds us welcoming back an array of hairstyles, from the nostalgic center partings to the controversial mullets, sparking both delight and a sense of déjà vu.
To delve deeper into this phenomenon, we engaged in a fascinating conversation with Curl Centric founder Kira Byrd. Her insight into current and emerging trends offers a unique perspective on the direction of popular men’s hairstyles today.
Buzz Cut
The buzz cut is a classic, clean-cut hairstyle emphasizing a minimalist aesthetic. Renowned for its simplicity and low maintenance, this hairstyle involves trimming the hair evenly across the scalp using clippers, resulting in a uniformly short length.
This cut is particularly flattering for those with distinct facial features or a well-defined head shape, allowing these attributes to take center stage. Although it requires frequent trips to the barber to maintain its neat look, the buzz cut eliminates the need for daily styling, making it an efficient choice for those with busy lifestyles.
Comb Over
Originally designed as a clever trick for balding men to camouflage irregular hair growth patterns, the comb-over has evolved into a stylish, versatile hairstyle favored by men with thick, straight hair. It involves sweeping the hair from one side of the head to the other, creating a neat, polished look.
To achieve the modern comb-over, styling gel can be used to add volume and ensure the hair maintains its position. When done right, the comb-over exudes elegance and sophistication, providing its wearer is fashion-forward.
The Modern Mullet
The mullet, an iconic style dating back to the 80s, has made a comeback with a modern twist. Known for its distinctive “business in the front, party in the back” philosophy, the mullet is characterized by short hair at the front and sides and a long mane at the back.
In the contemporary iteration, a tousled, shaggy texture is added on the top, making it less rigid and more casual. The modern mullet offers a balanced blend of audacity and subtlety, proving that vintage styles can be refreshed and redefined.
Quiff
Inspired by style icons like Elvis Presley, the quiff is a timeless hairstyle that has evolved to stay current with trends. It combines elements of the pompadour, flat top, and sometimes even the mohawk. However, today, the exaggerated, voluminous quiffs of the past have given way to more textured, wavy, and shorter versions.
Achieving the modern quiff involves a delicate balance of using styling mousse for volume and a curling brush for desired waves or curls. The contemporary quiff is about balancing the classic pompadour vibe and a more relaxed, casual look.
The Middle Part
A middle part, although simple, can dramatically change the overall appearance of your hairstyle. This style can either deliver a basic, pared-down look or create an elegant, symmetrical balance that enhances one’s facial features, depending on the individual’s face shape and hair texture.
Celebrities like Sebastian Stan and Bradley Cooper have embraced this style, further popularizing it. The center parting is more than just a practical way to manage long hair; it’s also a fashion statement that allows one to flaunt their hair’s natural texture. Experimenting with different parting styles can help uncover a new aesthetic that suits you best.
Short Hair & Cropped Bangs / French Crop
The French crop, also known as the cropped bangs hairstyle, is popular in indie fashion. It’s characterized by closely buzzed sides and back, while the top is kept longer, providing an opportunity for styling and texturing.
The defining element of this cut is short, bluntly cut bangs that shift the attention to the styled top. To complete the look, many men complement this haircut with a well-groomed beard, adding an extra layer of sophistication and masculinity.
A Clean Grow
The clean grow celebrates natural curls and afro-textured hair, embodying a free-spirited and unregulated aesthetic. It gained momentum during the lockdowns, as many men embraced their natural hair growth due to limited access to barbershops.
The hairstyle involves letting your hair grow out but maintaining it in a controlled manner for a more polished look. It’s about balancing embracing your hair’s bushy, wild nature and ensuring it looks purposefully styled.
Slick Back
The slick back hairstyle perfectly fuses the comb-over and the quiff. It features short sides, and a long top combed backward, creating a sleek, streamlined look. The length of the top hair varies based on personal preference and can extend to the back of the scalp for a dramatic effect.
This hairstyle requires patience as it may take a while for your hair to grow long enough to achieve the desired look, but even a modest slick back offers a distinguished, timeless appeal.
The Leonardo DiCaprio
Named after the acclaimed actor who popularized it in the ’90s, the Leonardo DiCaprio haircut is all about effortless charm and versatility. It features longer bangs that offer flexibility in styling—they can be swept back, tossed to one side, or allowed to fall naturally, allowing you to switch up your look as you please.
This hairstyle has resurfaced in popularity thanks to platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Ideal for those with straight hair, the Leonardo DiCaprio cut is perfect for those who appreciate a classic, laid-back style.
Dyed Hair
Bold, brightly dyed hair has become a powerful statement in men’s hairstyling, exemplified by Frank Ocean’s lime green buzz cut at the Met Gala. This trend involves dyeing hair in vibrant, unexpected colors to make a unique, personal statement.
Whether a full head of color or just a few strategically placed highlights, dyed hair allows endless creativity and self-expression. While it requires more upkeep to maintain the color and hair health, this eye-catching style can help you stand out and express your individuality.
Final Thoughts
In a conversation with Kira Byrd, the founder of Curl Centric, we delved into the cyclical nature of fashion and the reasons behind the resurgence of vintage hairstyles. Byrd shared her insights, saying, “The realm of fashion is eternally revolving. In certain instances, a past icon or image might regain popularity, prompting the masses to emulate their style. Conversely, sometimes the newer generation might inadvertently recycle trends, blissfully unaware that they’re revisiting history.”
She also elaborated on the intriguing resurgence of the mullet, particularly during the recent pandemic. “The lockdowns that kept us indoors led to an unexpected resurgence of the mullet. With barbershops and hair salons closed, men found themselves having to adapt, often letting their hair grow out and experimenting with different styles.”
The rise of the mullet during this period demonstrated a shift in societal norms and attitudes. Byrd continued, “This trend represented a significant change in public perception. Rather than being overly concerned about other’s opinions, individuals started to embrace their uniqueness. It reflected a newfound personal confidence and a willingness to break free from conventional norms.”
The world of hairstyles and fashion is a rotating carousel, with old trends often resurfacing in the new age, albeit with a fresh perspective or a modern twist.
