Celebrity culture has influenced countless beauty trends, but no lane has been quite as adaptive as hairstyles. From bang trends (hello Bardot bangs and Birkin fringe) to bobs, celebrities have had a major effect on the looks that become popular. The 2025 men’s haircut trends are no exception. Rooted in timeless style, they borrow elements from the stars of today and classic icons alike. Take the classic fade. As a simple cut that has transcended decades, it’s never been more modern or popular than it is right now. Of course, its versatility and adaptability have prolonged its staying power, but being the signature cut of Taylor Swift’s football boyfriend doesn’t hurt either. Ahead, we chatted with three hairstylists to learn which haircuts are trending for 2025 and their advice for achieving the look.
Featured experts
- Jayne Matthews is a hairstylist and educator
- Gregory Patterson is a celebrity hairstylist and expert for Sally Beauty
- Eric Michael Coyle is a celebrity hairstylist and owner of Aria Hair salon
Trending men’s haircuts for 2025
According to the experts, 2025’s trends are embracing variations of two classic haircut styles: the shag and the fade. Both of these cuts have held icon status in Hollywood and salons across the country, but this year, they’re adopting a modern twist. “Shaggy cuts with bangs have a rock and roll edge that’s fresh for 2025,” says hairstylist Jayne Matthews. Instead of opting for a shoulder-grazing length, she notes that a shorter version with complementing bangs can have a retro feel that’s timeless.
The fade is a classic haircut in its own right. However, the buzzy look today is all about a short crop. Travis Kelce’s viral style is a prime example, but celebrity hairstylist Gregory Patterson explains that he’s not the only star to take a liking to the ultra-short cut. The stylist says that textured crop cuts with a skin fade were popular on the streets of men’s fashion week in Paris and Milan. According to celebrity hairstylist Eric Michael Coyle, the sharp cut and short length are ideal for creating a bold, structured look and can even make fine hair appear fuller.
If you’re opting for bangs, Coyle says that a choppy fringe is best for adding texture to the cut and works for both short and longer-length haircuts, such as a tapered cut or one with lots of layers. Essential to an array of hairstyles, layers play a starring role in this year’s top trending cuts. “Medium-length styles are particularly popular for a lived-in look that has a ‘90s feel to it—think Johnny Depp or Ethan Hawke during that era,” says Matthews.
What to ask for at the salon
The beauty of these haircuts is that they are extremely versatile. Fades and tapered cuts, for example, work on almost any hair type and texture, while shags and layers can be ideal for thick and thin hair. For a cropped style, Patterson says it’s important to be firm about how short you want the sides of the cut to be. “Ask your barber or stylist for a cut with texture on top and a low fade on the sides and back. Specify the desired length on top and how high you want the fade to start to make sure the fade lines complement your head shape,” he says.
Shags and modern mullets have a bit more flexibility. “The idea is to end up with a cut that has natural movement,” says Coyle. In that vein, the pro recommends opting for invisible or ghost layers that will create definition without adding bulk. These kinds of cuts are great for natural curls and waves, which allow the layers to appear subtle and blend seamlessly. To emphasize the shape, Patterson mentions it’s best to ask for shorter sides and bangs that will bleed into the longer layers at the back of the head.
How to get the look at home
Despite their carefree look, maintaining these cuts at home requires some effort. “If you have a cropped fade, you’ll want to invest in a matte styling product like a texturizing clay paste and a good diffuser to create a desirable texture,” says Patterson. Volumizing products and styling creams will also help your cut look its best daily. The pros suggest looking for lightweight mousses or leave-in products that will add natural volume and thickness to your style.
