Therefore, messy hairstyles men adore are the ultimate mix of effortless style and confidence. They convey a relaxed vibe while remaining trendy, making them perfect for daily wear, casual outings, or even semi-formal occasions. Moreover, whether your hair is short, medium, or long, there’s a messy hairstyle for you. In this guide, we’ll explore 30+ popular messy hairstyles, styling techniques, maintenance tips, and FAQs to help you master the perfect messy look.
In fact, messy hairstyles are not just about being untidy; they’re also about embracing individuality. They are about controlled chaos, a look that’s carefully crafted to appear natural. With the right product and styling methods, you can achieve this effortless aesthetic without spending hours in front of the mirror.
What Are Messy Hairstyles for Men?
To begin with, men choose messy hairstyles to highlight natural texture, motion, and self-expression. In contrast to classic, polished cuts, they focus on a natural, lived-in look that ranges from slightly tousled to boldly disheveled, allowing every man to express his personality through his hair.
As a result, these styles have gained immense popularity because they balance fashion with convenience. A properly styled messy haircut gives you a trendy look without demanding much effort. Men with different hair types, straight, wavy, or curly, can all enjoy messy looks that enhance their natural texture.
Benefits of messy hairstyles for men:
Easy to maintain with minimal grooming
Adds volume and texture to flat hair
Flexible for various occasions
Works with multiple hair lengths
Furthermore, Messy hairstyles also provide versatility. For example, you can dress them up for a formal event or leave them loose for a casual outing. Ultimately, you achieve the perfect look by using the right styling technique and selecting a haircut that suits your face shape.
Popular & Trending Messy Hairstyles for Men
In 2025, men are rocking over 30 of the trendiest messy hairstyles. Each comes with styling tips and the type of hair it suits best.
Messy Quiff
The messy quiff is all about height and volume. Style the front section upward while trimming the sides shorter. Men with oval or square faces can pull off this style, and it looks great on straight to slightly wavy hair.
Styling Tip: Use a small amount of hair wax or clay. Use your fingers to lift your hair upward and angle it slightly back, allowing a few strands to fall naturally. Apply a light-hold spray so the hairstyle keeps its shape.
Messy Crop Top
A messy crop top features short sides and back, while the top stays layered and textured for added style. This low-maintenance style is ideal for men who prefer a rugged yet neat appearance.
Styling Tip: Apply a matte finish paste to the top section, scrunch lightly, and let the hair fall unevenly for a casual look.
Messy Fringe
The messy fringe is characterized by its relaxed bangs that fall naturally over the forehead. It suits straight and wavy hair types and is perfect for men with oval or round faces.
Styling Tip: A lightweight styling cream keeps the fringe flexible without stiffness. Finger-style the hair for a casual, effortless finish.
Messy Fade Haircut
A fade with messy top hair delivers a striking contrast, keeping the sides polished while the top looks casual and textured.
Styling Tip: Massage a little clay through the top of your hair. Run your fingers through your hair to separate the strands and achieve a soft, modern look.
French Crop
The French crop offers a sharp, easy-to-maintain style with a short, cropped fringe. It creates a clean outline while still allowing a touch of texture for a casual look. This makes it a smart choice for men who want a style that works from day to night.
Styling Tip: Work a pea-sized amount of matte paste through damp hair, then push the fringe forward with your fingertips for a soft, lived-in finish.
Comb Over
Men have reworked the classic side part into a relaxed and stylish comb-over. Leaving a hint of lift at the roots gives it movement without losing its neat profile, making it ideal for both office wear and off-duty outfits.
Styling Tip: Work a light pomade into the roots, then comb your hair to the side. Break up the part slightly with your fingers to add a casual edge.
Messy Side Part
The messy side part gives men a look that is both smart and casual. It works for office settings as well as relaxed weekends, giving you versatility with zero effort.
Styling Tip: Use a matte pomade, make a side part, and run fingers through to break the line, creating a natural, tousled finish.
Messy Undercut
The messy undercut keeps the top hair long while the sides stay short. It’s bold, stylish, and perfect for men who want to make a statement.
Styling Tip: Scrunch the top with a small amount of wax, and use a comb for subtle definition. This style works best with medium-length hair.
Bedhead Hairstyle Men
The bedhead hairstyle is a naturally tousled look that gives a casual, effortless vibe. Medium-length hair works best.
Styling Tip: Mist damp hair with sea salt spray, then use your fingers to scrunch it lightly. Allow it to air dry for a relaxed, lived-in appearance.
Messy Slick Back
Unlike traditional slick backs, this version maintains a loose, textured feel. Hair is pushed backward, but not flat against the scalp.
Styling Tip: Use light pomade or cream. Gently comb the hair back slightly, leaving some strands loose for a natural look.
Messy Curtains Hairstyle
Throwback to the ’90s, the messy curtains hairstyle is making a comeback. It’s easy to maintain and gives you a youthful, stylish, messy vibe.
Styling Tip: Part hair in the middle, apply styling cream, and let strands fall naturally for a casual finish.
Tousled Top Men
Tousled top hairstyles feature uneven layers and volume at the crown. They are ideal for men who want a casual, carefree look without losing style.
Styling Tip: Apply mousse to damp hair and finger-style into shape. Avoid over-combing to retain texture.
Textured Crop
This cut uses short lengths and layered ends to build natural definition. A textured crop gives fine hair more body and makes thicker hair easier to manage, offering a stylish option with almost no daily effort.
Styling Tip: Spray sea salt on damp hair, scrunch it with your hands, and let it air-dry for a rugged, textured look.
Messy Short Hair
Short hair doesn’t have to look stiff. Leave the top slightly longer and use your fingers to style, adding movement and volume while keeping it low-maintenance.
Styling Tip: Rub a little clay between your palms, then run it through the top layers, lightly twisting sections to create a controlled yet relaxed look.
Messy Crew Cut
The messy crew cut modernizes the classic short style by keeping the top slightly longer and textured while leaving the sides neat. It’s perfect for men who want low-maintenance hair but still desire a stylish, contemporary look.
Styling Tip: Use a matte clay or paste and lightly work it into the top. Finger-style the strands to create uneven layers that enhance the natural, messy effect.
Wavy Messy Hair Men
Wavy, messy hair highlights the natural flow and bounce of wavy locks. This style works best on medium to long hair, adding a relaxed, beach-inspired vibe.
Styling Tip: Mist damp hair with sea salt spray, then use your hands to scrunch it lightly. Let your hair air-dry so it keeps its natural, effortless texture.
Messy Layered Shag Cut
The messy layered shag cut is ideal for men with medium-length hair who want texture and volume. This style adds movement and creates a stylish, undone look.
Styling Tip: Spray sea-salt mist on damp hair and scrunch lightly for naturally wavy hair.
Messy Textured Brush Up
The messy textured brush-up is perfect for guys who want volume with a playful edge. It’s neat but not stiff, giving a modern and stylish look.
Styling Tip: Blow-dry damp hair while lifting the roots, then tousle it upward with mousse for added texture.
Messy Flow
Messy flow hairstyles suit medium-length hair with a natural wave or sweep. The style frames the face softly and shifts easily from a casual daytime vibe to a more polished evening appearance.
Styling Tip: Smooth a dab of lightweight cream through damp strands, let the hair settle on its own, and tousle the ends for extra bounce and flow.
Curly Messy Hair Men
This style highlights natural curls, making the hair look fresh and full of life. At the same time, it keeps the curls soft, neat, and easy to manage.
Styling Tip: Use a curl-enhancing cream and avoid heavy gels that can weigh hair down. Finger-style curls for a relaxed, natural finish.
Messy Textured Hair
Textured, messy hair emphasizes definition and separation between strands. Ideal for men who want bold style with visible depth and movement.
Styling Tip: Apply a medium-hold clay, then use your fingers to separate sections. Finish by applying a light spray to secure the look without stiffness.
Messy Pompadour
Style the messy pompadour to add height and volume on top while keeping the sides neat. This style gives a confident and stylish look that stands out easily. It works best for men with medium-length hair, adding balance and charm.
Styling Tip: Blow-dry the top after applying lightweight wax, lifting hair at the roots. Tousle lightly with fingers for a messy yet polished finish.
Textured Waves Men
Textured waves create a soft, flowing look with movement. Suitable for wavy or slightly curly hair, it adds casual sophistication to any outfit.
Styling Tip: Work mousse or sea salt spray into damp hair. Scrunch and allow hair to dry naturally to enhance wave definition.
Loose Spikes
Loose spikes create a playful, youthful look that feels messy without looking overdone. These styles suit short to medium hair lengths.
Styling Tip: Use a light styling paste and lift sections of hair upwards, keeping some strands relaxed. Avoid using too much product to maintain natural texture.
Messy Scissor Cut
Scissor cuts create natural, uneven layers, giving a soft and casual appearance. Ideal for men who want texture without harsh lines.
Styling Tip: Finger-style hair after applying a small amount of matte clay to emphasize layers. Keep the sides cropped for a clean, tidy look.
Curly Shag Men
The curly shag is bold, voluminous, and layered. Perfect for men with thick curls, it emphasizes texture and natural movement.
Styling Tip: Apply curl cream or light gel. Finger-style curls and avoid combing to maintain the shag’s natural shape.
Messy Afro Top
The messy Afro top celebrates natural curls while keeping the style modern and playful. It’s a perfect option among messy hairstyles that men with curly hair enthusiasts admire.
Styling Tip: Use curl cream, lift gently at the roots, and let curls dry naturally to enhance volume and texture.
Modern Mullet Textured
The modern mullet keeps the sides short while the back stays messy and textured. This style is trendy and adds a retro-inspired edge to your look.
Styling Tip: Use light wax to separate strands at the back. Finger-style the top for volume and maintain the messy aesthetic.
Long Curly Hair Fade
This style pairs neat faded sides with long, curly hair on top. It’s perfect for men who want contrast and texture simultaneously.
Styling Tip: Maintain curls with lightweight cream. Regular trims on faded sides keep the style sharp while the top stays voluminous and messy.
Messy Mohawk
The messy Mohawk is one of the boldest messy haircut styles for men. With short sides and a textured strip on top, it offers edge without being too high-maintenance.
Styling Tip: Apply strong-hold wax, spike the center strip upward, and tousle with fingers for a rugged look.
Messy Faux Hawk
The messy faux hawk mixes sharp edges with a tousled finish, giving a modern, youthful vibe that suits both casual outings and parties.
Styling Tip: Apply a small amount of light wax to your hair and push it upward with your fingers. Leave the tips slightly messy to create a natural texture.
Messy Man Bun
For men with longer hair, the messy man bun is the ultimate low-effort, stylish choice. It gives off a cool vibe and fits well with casual fashion trends.
Styling Tip: Tie hair loosely into a bun and let a few strands fall around your face for an effortless, messy look.
Messy Samurai Bun
The messy samurai bun adds a modern twist to the traditional top knot. It’s both practical and stylish, perfect for men who prefer low-maintenance, messy men’s haircut styles.
Styling Tip: Gather hair into a high bun and pull out a few strands at the front for that rugged appeal.
How to Style Messy Hairstyles for Men at Home
Messy hairstyles for men can be achieved at home with the right techniques and products. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Prep and Wash
Start with freshly washed, damp hair. Use a volumizing shampoo and lightweight conditioner. Avoid heavy conditioners that can weigh hair down, especially if you have fine hair.
Apply the Right Product
Choose a product based on your hair type and desired texture:
Wax or clay: Best for short to medium hair, adds texture and separation.
Sea salt spray: This style enhances natural movement and works best for wavy or curly hair.
Light cream: For a softer, flexible hold without stiffness.
Spread a little product through your hair, focusing on the top and spots where you want the most texture.
Style with Fingers or Comb
Style your hair with your fingers to create a relaxed, messy look. Avoid combing too much, as it can flatten texture. A wide-tooth comb is useful for subtle shaping while maintaining volume.
Dry and Finish
Let your hair dry naturally or use a diffuser on a blow dryer for best results. While blow-drying, lift sections of your hair with your fingers to boost volume and create a fuller look. Spray a light-hold hairspray if you need to keep the style in place all day.
Best Hair Types and Face Shapes for Men’s Messy Hairstyles
Messy hairstyles look good on almost every hair type, but certain styles suit specific hair textures and face shapes:
Straight Hair: Messy quiff, messy fringe, messy slick back
Wavy Hair: Tousled top, textured waves, loose spikes
Fade Haircut with Long Curly Hair: Long curly hair styled with a neat fade on the sides.
Thin Hair: Shorter messy styles like messy crop top or messy crew cut add volume
Thick Hair: Layered messy styles help manage bulk and add texture. Face Shape Suitability
Oval Faces: Can pull off almost any messy hairstyle
Round Faces: Styles with height, like messy quiff or messy pompadour
Square Faces: Messy fringe or textured waves soften strong jawlines
Heart Faces: Styles with volume at the bottom, like messy undercut or curly shag
Maintenance & Care for Messy Hairstyles
Keeping messy hairstyles for men looking fresh requires simple maintenance:
Cleanse your hair two to three times a week using a shampoo designed for your hair type.
- Celebrity inspiration for messy hairstyles for men
- Condition lightly to prevent dryness
- Avoid heavy products that weigh hair down
- Get regular trims every 4–6 weeks to maintain shape
- Use minimal product during the day for touch-ups if needed
Messy hairstyles for men are popular among celebrities:
Hollywood Actors: Chris Hemsworth’s tousled look, Zayn Malik’s textured waves
Athletes: David Beckham’s messy quiff, Cristiano Ronaldo’s textured crop
Influencers: TikTok stars and YouTubers sporting modern mullet and curly shag styles
Taking cues from celebrities can help you choose a style that fits your personality while remaining trendy.
Effortless Messy Hairstyles for Men
Overall, men embrace messy hairstyles not just as a trend but as a lifestyle. As a result, they give a relaxed, natural vibe while still looking stylish. In particular, these styles are ideal for men who want a fashionable appearance without spending hours on grooming. Moreover, messy hairstyles enhance your hair’s natural movement and volume while keeping a stylish, effortless look.
You can wear messy hair for any occasion, whether it’s a casual outing, the office, or a night out. With proper layering and styling products, even simple, messy hairstyles like a messy quiff or tousled top, men can make a bold statement.
Messy Quiff for Volume
The messy quiff adds height and volume, making it an ideal style for men with straight or wavy hair. Using a small amount of wax, lift hair at the roots and let strands fall naturally.
Tousled Top Men for Casual Style
Tousled top men create effortless movement. Scrunch with sea salt spray for texture, and use fingers to separate strands for a relaxed finish.
Layering Techniques for Messy Styles
Layering creates the natural, messy look you want. It gives the hair more depth and texture, making it look thicker and full of life. Layered styles help men with thick hair avoid a flat or heavy look.
Layered cuts also help define curls or waves, enhancing messy hairstyles for men with different hair textures. With the right product, layers can make even a short, messy crop top look voluminous and intentional.
Messy Undercut
Layer the top while keeping the sides short. This creates contrast, making the top look fuller and more textured.
Curly Shag Men
Layering emphasizes natural curls and adds playful movement. Apply a light cream to shape your curls and boost the messy look.
Choosing the Right Messy Hairstyle for Your Hair Type
Different hair types suit different messy hairstyles. Straight hair benefits from height-adding styles like a messy quiff or a messy pompadour. Wavy hair looks best with tousled top men or textured waves, highlighting natural movement. Curly hair thrives in messy curly hairstyles, shag men, or long curly hair fade, which showcase volume and definition.
Understanding your hair type ensures the messy style is manageable and stylish, enhancing natural texture rather than hiding it.
Thick Hair Styles
Layered messy undercut or modern mullet textured works best for thick hair, controlling volume while keeping a messy appearance.
Thin Hair Styles
Messy fringe or messy pompadour creates the illusion of thicker hair, adding volume and height for a fuller look.
Styling Techniques for Effortless Messy Hair
Achieving messy hairstyles for men requires the right technique. Finger styling is crucial to allow strands to move naturally while avoiding a flat, stiff look. Add texture to curls and waves by scrunching, and lift the roots with tousling for extra volume. Blow-drying with a diffuser helps maintain natural curls or waves.
Choosing the right product is equally important. Clay or wax works best for short to medium hair, sea salt spray for wavy styles, and light creams for soft, flexible hold.
Finger Styling
Separates strands, adds texture, and keeps hair looking natural. Wash your hair two or three times weekly with a shampoo that matches your hair’s needs.
Tousling & Scrunching
Tousle hair for uneven layers, scrunch curls for bounce. Perfect for curly, messy hair, or textured waves.
Blow-Drying for Volume
Lift hair at the roots with a diffuser or hand during drying to enhance height and movement, maintaining the messy effect.
Seasonal Care for Messy Hairstyles Men
Weather impacts how messy hairstyles hold. Humidity can create frizz, which light anti-frizz cream or wax can control. Dry climates need a light leave-in conditioner to prevent hair from looking rough. Windy weather requires light hold products like clay or soft hairspray to keep hair in place without flattening texture. Cold weather calls for flexible, soft-hold styling products instead of heavy gels.
Adapting your hair care routine to the season keeps messy hairstyles looking fresh year-round, while maintaining natural movement and volume.
Humid Climate Tips
Use anti-frizz cream or lightweight wax. Avoid using thick gels that weigh hair down and make it look flat.
Dry Climate Tips
Apply leave-in conditioner or light cream to retain softness and natural texture.
Windy & Cold Weather Tips
Use light clay or hairspray for wind, flexible cream for cold; maintain messy volume without stiffness.
Messy Hairstyles Men for Active Lifestyles
For men with busy or active lifestyles, messy hairstyles are perfect because they look stylish without requiring constant maintenance. This style suits men who go to the gym, travel frequently, or have dynamic daily routines. Minimal product use and finger-styling allow messy hair to stay in place while retaining natural movement and volume.
Gym-Ready Tousled Hair
A short, messy crop top keeps hair manageable during workouts while maintaining a stylish edge.
Running or Jogging Styles
Light sea salt spray holds strands without stiffness, perfect for outdoor runs.
Commuter-Friendly Hair
Messy fringes or crew cuts adapt easily to windy or crowded environments.
Quick Morning Styles
Using fingers and minimal wax, messy hair can be styled in under 5 minutes.
Travel-Resistant Looks
Tousled top men maintain natural texture even after long flights or road trips.
Sports Event Hairstyles
Short, messy undercuts are ideal for sports enthusiasts who want a casual look.
Summer Outdoor Styles
Messy quiffs with light cream protect hair from sun damage while keeping volume.
Winter Wind-Proof Hair
Flexible hold products prevent hair from stiffening in cold, windy conditions.
Hiking and Adventure Hair
Messy layered cuts keep hair out of the face while preserving natural style.
Everyday Casual Comfort
Messy slick back provides a relaxed, effortless look for daily activities.
Office-Ready Messy Hairstyles for Men
Messy hairstyles aren’t just casual; they can look professional and approachable for office settings. Apply light products, control the volume, and finger-style your hair to achieve a polished, messy look for work. Styles like messy quiff or messy crop top convey confidence without looking overdone.
Boardroom-Friendly Quiff
Structured messy quiff adds height while keeping hair neat.
Creative Office Tousled Top
Ideal for designers or artists who want a stylish but casual look.
Formal Meeting Crew Cut
A short, messy crew cut stays professional yet trendy.
Business Casual Fringe
Wear a lightly tousled fringe to soften your facial features and create an approachable look.
Client-Facing Slick Back
Messy slick back can be subtle yet confident for presentations.
Workday-Friendly Undercut
This style keeps the sides tidy while showing natural texture on top.
Minimalist Pompadour
Messy pompadour adds style without overwhelming formal attire.
Layered Office Shag
Add volume and texture to thin hair while keeping a polished finish.
Textured Side Part
Messy side parts balance formality and relaxed style.
Low-Maintenance Wavy Hair
Perfect for professionals with naturally wavy hair who prefer effortless styling.
Messy Hairstyles Men for Special Events
Special events like parties, weddings, or dates require a bit more styling to enhance the messy look while maintaining charm. With careful layering, subtle product use, and finger-styling, messy hair can look elegant and trendy.
Date Night Tousled Top
Adds casual charm while keeping hair soft and approachable.
Wedding Guest Quiff
Messy quiff with volume adds sophistication to formal attire.
Party-Ready Pompadour
Lightly wax your hair to separate strands and achieve a playful, stylish finish.
Festival-Friendly Fringe
Sea salt spray helps a short, messy fringe hold well outdoors.
Birthday Celebration Crew Cut
Rock the messy crew cut for a fun, relaxed vibe at casual celebrations.
Gala or Red Carpet Look
Textured waves add movement and modern appeal.
Cocktail Event Hair
Messy slick back with subtle shine balances elegance with relaxed style.
Prom or Formal Dance Styles
Curly, messy hair in men creates a unique and youthful look.
Anniversary or Romantic Dinner
Layered messy undercut keeps hair neat but stylish.
Night Out with Friends
Modern mullet textured adds edge and movement for fun events.
Why Messy Hairstyles Are Perfect for Modern Men
Messy hairstyles express confidence and a laid-back attitude rather than simply following fashion. These styles suit casual outings, office wear, and even semi-formal events. These styles are easy to maintain and don’t require hours in front of the mirror. Most importantly, they give a natural yet stylish look that draws attention effortlessly.
Effortless Style for Everyday Life
Messy hair allows men to look stylish without spending too much time styling. It’s perfect for busy mornings or casual meetups.
Enhances Natural Hair Texture
These hairstyles complement wavy, curly, or straight hair while enhancing natural texture and volume.
Boosts Confidence and Personality
A well-styled messy look reflects self-assurance and complements a man’s personality, making a strong impression.
How to Maintain the Perfect Messy Hairstyle
Maintaining messy hair is easier than it looks if you know the basics. With the right cut, minimal products, and proper care, you can keep it fresh daily. A little routine can make messy hairstyles look natural yet stylish without extra effort.
Start with the Right Haircut
A suitable haircut with layers or texture makes styling messy hair much easier.
Use Lightweight Styling Products
Creams, wax, or sprays help maintain a natural look while keeping it smooth.
Don’t Over-Style Your Hair
Keeping it slightly undone adds charm and prevents the style from looking forced.
Conclusion
Messy hairstyles men choose today offer versatility, style, and personality. From short, edgy looks like messy crop top to bold styles with long curly hair fade, there’s something for every hair type and face shape. With the right products, styling techniques, and regular maintenance, you can master a natural, effortless, messy hairstyle that stands out.
Experiment with different looks, embrace your hair’s natural texture, and don’t be afraid to try new messy styles. Confidence and attitude truly make messy hairstyles look amazing on men.
Faq’s
How do men get messy hair?
Men can get messy hair by using their fingers instead of a comb while styling and applying a small amount of wax or texturizing cream.
The goal is to create a natural, tousled look without over-styling.
Which hairstyle attracts girls?
Wear neat but effortless hairstyles, such as a textured messy look, a classic quiff, or a sharp undercut, to draw attention from girls.
Confidence and how you carry the hairstyle matter more than the style itself.
What is a choppy haircut for men?
A choppy haircut for men has layered, uneven cuts that create texture and movement, giving a casual yet stylish appearance.
Does messy hair look good on men?
Messy hair looks good on men when it’s textured and intentionally styled, giving a relaxed and confident vibe.
Do girls notice your hair?
Girls often notice hair because it reflects their grooming, style, and personality, making it an important part of their first impression.
H. Awais is an experienced SEO expert specializing in boosting online visibility, improving search rankings, and driving targeted traffic. With a data-driven approach, he helps businesses grow their digital presence and achieve measurable results.