Messy hairstyles for men are effortlessly cool, blending rugged charm with modern edge. These styles aren’t unkempt or accidental—they’re intentionally tousled, textured, and styled to look relaxed yet refined. Whether it’s a casual fringe, a voluminous brush-up, or a layered flow, messy hairstyles add personality and structure without trying too hard. They work on all hair types—straight, wavy, or curly—and adapt seamlessly to short, medium, or long lengths.
There’s something magnetic about a well-done messy look. It speaks of confidence, style, and a carefree vibe that turns heads without screaming for attention. Think bedhead with purpose, controlled chaos with edge. This is the style of choice for fashion-forward men, trendsetters, and anyone who wants a sharp look without looking overly polished.
From boardroom-ready brush-backs to beachy waves and textured crops, messy hairstyles for men offer a wide range of options to suit every face shape and lifestyle. These styles are easy to manage, fun to wear, and endlessly customizable.
Why Messy Hairstyles Are Trending for Men
The messy hair trend is no accident. Influenced by Hollywood, fashion icons, and viral TikTok transformations, this look hits a sweet spot between polished and carefree. Messy doesn’t mean sloppy — it’s controlled chaos that shows personality.
The best messy hairstyles look natural, but are carefully styled to maintain that illusion.” — James Kent, celebrity hairstylist for
Benefits of Messy Hairstyles
- ✅ Low maintenance with big impact
- ✅ Versatile — works for short, medium, or long hair
- ✅ Adds volume and shape
- ✅ Complements fades and textured cuts
- ✅ Works well with natural curls or waves
Pro Tip: Messy styles can be both casual and professional — it all depends on how you finish them.
Best Messy Hairstyles For Short Hair
Short hair doesn’t have to be boring. These short messy hairstyles offer texture, volume, and style without demanding too much upkeep.
Messy Textured Crop with Taper Fade
This modern style blends a clean taper fade on the sides with a textured crop up top. Perfect for straight or wavy hair.
- Ideal for: Oval, round face shapes
- Styling: Use matte styling clay and your fingers for a natural tousled look
Short Choppy Fringe with Skin Fade
Fringe is back — and messier than ever. Add short choppy layers to the front and pair with a skin fade for sharp contrast.
- Works best with: Thick or coarse hair
- Best for: High fashion or creative professions
Tousled Buzz Cut with Grit Spray Finish
For guys who like it short and scruffy, this one’s for you. The buzz is no longer just military — adding texture powder or sea salt spray transforms it into a scruffy haircut.
Textured French Crop with Blunt Bangs
The classic French crop gets a 2025 update. Add blunt bangs and textured layers to make it edgy yet wearable.
Spiky Messy Fade with Beard Blend
Combine short spiky messy hair with a skin or low fade, then blend it seamlessly into a beard. It’s rugged, masculine, and easy to style.
Mini Mullet with Messy Top
Yes, the mullet is back — but now it’s textured and paired with fades. A mini mullet gives you that rebel vibe with modern flair.
Best Medium-Length Messy Hairstyles
Medium messy hairstyles are perfect for those who want balance — not too short, not too long, just right for versatility and volume.
Messy Brush-Up with Mid Fade
A brush-up hairstyle creates height, and when styled messily, adds personality. A mid fade gives it a fresh edge.
- Tip: Use a volumizing mousse or texture cream before blow-drying
Layered Bedhead with Natural Part
This is the bedhead hairstyle done right. With layered cuts, a natural side part, and finger-combed texture, you’ll look sharp yet effortless.
Casual Curly Mop Top
If you’ve got curls, let them shine. Keep the top long and loose, the sides slightly tapered, and let those curls fall naturally.
Wavy Middle Part with Texture Powder
The middle part has returned. With wavy or curly hair, this creates volume and drama. Add texture powder to hold the shape.
Messy Bro Flow (Hockey Hair Look)
Let your natural wave grow out and style it with sea salt spray. Tuck it behind your ears or let it hang free. Either way, you’ll look like a laid-back legend.
The Shag Revival with Razor Ends
Think retro, but modern. Razor-cut ends create movement and edge, while layering gives it that rugged men’s hairstyle feel.
Disheveled Side-Swept Fringe with Matte Finish
Use matte clay and sweep your fringe to the side. Works great for square or diamond-shaped faces.
Best Long Messy Hairstyles For Men
Long messy hair for men never goes out of style. From beach waves to buns, it’s a go-to look for rockers, surfers, and creatives.
Shoulder-Length Beach Waves with Salt Spray Finish
Use sea salt spray to create a wavy messy look. Scrunch and air-dry for that “just got back from the beach” style.
Messy Man Bun with Loose Strands
Gather your hair into a messy man bun, leaving a few strands loose. Adds a boho vibe with zero effort.
Layered Long Shag with Textured Ends
Great for guys with thick hair. This cut reduces bulk while emphasizing natural volume.
Unkempt Surfer Hair (Think Chris Hemsworth)
This casual men’s hairstyle is all about sun-kissed texture. Works great with light pomade or mousse.
Wavy Curtain Cut with Volume Boost
Part down the middle and let the natural wave fall. Use volume-enhancing foam for a fuller look.
Natural Afro Mess with Soft Hold Cream
Embrace curls with a moisturizing curl cream that gives hold without crunch.
Trendy Messy Hairstyles With Fade
Messy up top, clean on the sides — it’s a classic contrast that modern barbers have perfected.
Messy Faux Hawk with High Fade
Dramatic yet wearable. Keep the top tousled and sides tight for impact.
Disconnected Undercut with Tousled Volume
Let the top grow wild while keeping the sides shaved. Great for a bold statement.
High Skin Fade with Curly Top
Pair your curls with a skin fade to highlight your natural texture.
Low Taper Fade with Messy Fringe
A taper fade messy hair combo is ideal for guys who want something subtle but modern.
Mid Fade with Windswept Brush Back
Brush your hair backward and upward, then lock it in place with texturing cream.
Burst Fade with Curly Mohawk
This style screams confidence. The burst fade curves around the ears while the curly messy hairstyle adds flair.
Temple Fade with Choppy Texture
Clean around the temples with a short choppy hair look on top. Great for square faces.
Messy Hairstyles by Hair Type
| Hair Type | Recommended Messy Styles | Styling Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Straight | Brush-back, Ivy League, Faux Hawk | Use sea salt spray + matte wax |
| Wavy | Bro Flow, Curtain Cut, Side Part | Add mousse + blow dry for volume |
| Curly | Mop Top, Curly Mohawk, Afro Mess | Use curl cream + diffuser |
| Coarse | Textured Crop, Shag, Mullet | Matte clay + regular trims |
How to Style Messy Hair for Men
Follow these steps for the perfect messy men’s hairstyle every time:
- Wash with a volumizing shampoo to avoid heavy buildup
- Towel dry until hair is damp
- Apply sea salt spray or texture powder
- Use matte styling clay or pomade — avoid high shine
- Scrunch, twist, or rake with fingers (not a brush)
- Optional: Blow-dry for volume with a diffuser attachment
- Lock in with textured hairspray
Best Products for Messy Hairstyles for Men
| Product Type | Best Use | Recommended Brands |
| Sea Salt Spray | Volume, grit, texture | Bumble and Bumble, OGX, Byrd |
| Texture Powder | Adds lift, matte finish | American Crew, Slick Gorilla |
| Styling Clay | Medium hold, matte finish | Hanz de Fuko, Blind Barber |
| Mousse | Volume for waves/curls | SheaMoisture, Moroccan Oil |
| Curl Cream | Defines curls, reduces frizz | Cantu, Aveda, Ouidad |
| Volumizing Shampoo | Base prep | Jack Black, Redken Brews |
Tip: Always match your product to your hair type for best results.
Expert Tips for Messy Hairstyles
- Less is more — avoid using too much product
- Finger combing > brush for better texture
- Don’t overwash — natural oils help with styling
- Dry shampoo is your secret weapon on off-days
- Trim regularly to maintain the shape
Final Thoughts
Messy hairstyles for men are a perfect mix of style and comfort. They work well with all hair types and lengths. Whether your hair is short, medium, or long, you can find a messy look that fits your vibe. With the right cut and styling product, these hairstyles are easy to manage and always look fresh. They give off a relaxed and confident look that never feels forced.
From everyday wear to special events, messy hairstyles for men can match any mood or outfit. You don’t need to spend hours in front of the mirror to get them right. Just a little effort goes a long way. Choose a style you like, use the right tools, and let your natural texture shine. It’s that simple. Messy hair isn’t just a trend—it’s a timeless look with attitude.
Alex King is the admin of StyleBloomed.com, making sure everything runs smoothly. He helps manage the website, keeps the content fresh, and ensures visitors have a great experience. With a passion for fashion and digital trends, Alex works behind the scenes to keep StyleBloomed.com stylish, user-friendly, and up to date.
