Ready for a new look in 2024? Layered haircuts have made a strong impact on men’s fashion, adding a fresh and modern touch to classic cuts.
Finding the perfect haircut that combines style and practicality can be challenging. Many men end up with haircuts that lack volume, texture, or versatility; as a result, their looks may not feel appealing to them.
This guide will compile our top 7 layered haircuts to give your style a facelift and restore your confidence. From classic cuts to the latest trends, these options will help you find the perfect layered look that best matches your personal taste and hair type. Wondering how to easily reinvent your hairstyle and make a bold statement this year? Read on.
What Are Layered Haircuts?
Layered haircuts involve cutting the hair in such a way that different lengths are achieved to provide texture and dimension. This adds volume to thinner hair while reducing the weight of thicker hair. The best part about getting a layered haircut is that it can be tailored to suit various face shapes, hair types, and personal styles. If you want a hairstyle that’s easy to maintain but still looks effortlessly stylish, layers might be your best option.
Why Layered Haircuts Are Trending in 2024
2024 is all about men opting for hair with more texture and dynamism. Boosted by social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, layered cuts are in demand as many men experiment with fashion-forward hairstyles. Celebrities have also driven this trend by bringing layered haircuts back into the limelight. From the red carpet to casual events, you’ll see stars rocking this modern cut with textured styles.
1. The Classic Tapered Layered Cut
The classic tapered layered cut remains in demand for its versatility and timeless appeal. This style tapers the sides and back while leaving longer, textured layers on top. The cut is clean and professional, with the gradual shortening of the hair toward the nape, while the textured layers on top keep it casual.
This cut works especially well for square, oval, or oblong face shapes, as the taper balances facial features and adds definition to the jawline. It’s a go-to hairstyle for men seeking refinement without losing that casual touch. Whether for a business meeting or a weekend outing, the classic tapered cut is a great fit.
Styling is simple: apply a little pomade, wax, or styling cream for a sleek look, or let the textured layers fall naturally for a tousled effect. Another reason this cut is so popular is its low maintenance; trims every 3-4 weeks keep the taper sharp without much daily effort.
2. The Messy Layered Shag
The messy layered shag embodies laid-back cool. Inspired by the ’70s and ’80s rock stars, the layers fall naturally to create a tousled, piecey effect that emphasizes natural texture. This style works particularly well on men with wavy or curly hair, though straight-haired men can also achieve the look with the right product.
Layers of varying lengths create movement and volume, producing a look that seems effortlessly messy yet carefully composed. The messy shag pairs well with a more casual, bohemian style, but it can be dressed up for formal occasions with the right styling.
For a messy shag, use sea salt spray or light mousse to enhance waves or curls. Scrunch the product into damp hair and let it air-dry for a cool, tousled finish. Men with straight hair can lightly curl sections with a flat iron before applying texture. This cut is ideal for those who prefer a relaxed look without the need for frequent maintenance.
3. Layered Pompadour
The pompadour has been a staple of men’s hairstyles since the 1950s, and the modern layered version adds a fresh twist. With layers, the pompadour gains more volume and depth, giving a contemporary spin to the classic style.
The front is left longer to pop up and back, while shorter layers in the crown and back round out the look. This style is great for men with thick hair, as the layers reduce weight and add structure. Men with finer hair can still achieve volume with the right products.
To style a layered pompadour, start with damp hair and apply a volumizing mousse or root-lifting spray. Use a blow dryer and round brush to lift the hair at the roots. A high-shine pomade or wax provides sleekness, while a matte product creates a more natural look. This cut is perfect for men who want to make a bold statement with their hairstyle.
4. The Textured Layered Undercut
The textured layered undercut combines the edginess of the classic undercut with the energy of textured layers from top to back. This cut has been a popular choice in recent years due to its versatility and bold look. With the sides and back shaved or clipped short, all attention goes to the longer, layered hair on top.
The contrast between the tight sides and the voluminous top creates a striking appearance. Layers add movement and depth, ensuring the top isn’t flat or dull. This undercut can be sleek and smooth for formal occasions or left tousled for a more casual look.
To style, use matte clay or wax for texture without shine. If you have thicker hair, apply a texturizing spray to keep it light and voluminous. Finer hair can benefit from a blow dryer and light mousse to add volume. This style works well for square, oval, and heart-shaped faces, as the volume on top balances facial proportions.
5. The Long Layered Waves
Long layered waves are perfect for men who love longer hair and want a relaxed, beachy feel in 2024. This style involves cutting the hair into long layers that enhance its natural wave and movement, creating a look that is laid-back yet stylish.
Long layered waves are low-maintenance for daily styling. Apply a hydrating leave-in conditioner or light mousse to damp hair to reduce frizz and bring out the waves. Men with straight hair can use a curling iron or styling wand for a similar effect.
Long hair requires more care in terms of trimming and conditioning. Regular trims help maintain the layers and prevent split ends, while moisturizing products keep the hair healthy and shiny. This style works best for men with thick, naturally wavy, or curly hair, but even straight hair can achieve this look with the right tools and products.
6. The Layered Fade with Fringe
The layered fade with fringe is a bold, modern style that balances sharp edges with soft layers. The fade transitions smoothly from short to shorter, while the top is left longer with a layered fringe that can be styled as desired. The result is a dynamic look that is fresh yet practical.
This cut is popular for its versatility. The fringe can sit down for a relaxed, almost casual look, or be styled up for something sleeker. The layers add texture and prevent the fringe from appearing flat. This cut suits men with oval, square, and diamond face shapes, as the longer top helps elongate and balance facial features.
Regular trims are needed to keep the fade looking sharp. For styling, use light pomade or wax to define the layers and set the fringe. Sea salt spray can add a casual, textured finish.
7. The Short Layered Crop
The short layered crop is perfect for men seeking style with minimal maintenance. This cut keeps the back and sides short while leaving the top slightly longer, with layers for texture and depth. The layers add subtle movement, preventing the top from looking flat or uniform.
This cut is universally appealing and works well for all hair types. It’s especially helpful for men with fine hair, as the layers create the appearance of thicker, fuller hair. It’s also great for men with active lifestyles who want a polished look without spending too much time styling.
To style, apply a small amount of matte pomade or clay to dry hair for a natural, textured look. For a sleeker finish, use a styling cream to add shine and definition. Regular trims keep the edges crisp and the layers in place.
How to Choose the Right Layered Haircut for You
Your face shape, hair texture, and personal style are key factors in determining the perfect Layered Haircuts. If you have a round face, opt for a cut with more height and volume to elongate your features. Men with square faces may want to soften their look with layers that balance strong jawlines. Consulting a barber or stylist who understands hair types and your preferences can make a big difference.
Layered Cuts Get Celebrity Inspiration
Celebrities like Timothée Chalamet, Harry Styles, and Zayn Malik are synonymous with layered hairstyles. Whether it’s Chalamet’s tousled waves or Styles’ longer, textured locks, both showcase how versatile and stylish layered cuts can be. Taking inspiration from celebrity styles is a great way to envision how these cuts might work for you.
Layered haircuts for men in 2024 are all about texture, movement, and personal touches. Whether it’s a bold undercut or a laid-back shag, this year there’s something for everyone. By choosing a cut that suits your face shape, hair type, and style, you’ll not only update your look but also stay ahead of the trends.