Looking for a versatile haircut that’s both modern and timeless? Short sides long top hairstyles continue to dominate men’s fashion in 2023, striking the perfect balance between professional polish and edgy style. This classic cut features closely cropped sides with length preserved on top, creating a striking contrast that flatters virtually every face shape.
We’ve compiled the ultimate guide to the most popular variations of this trend, from the classic pompadour to the textured crop. Whether you’re heading to your barber for the first time or looking to refresh your current style, we’ll show you exactly what to ask for and how to style your new look at home. With the right products and techniques, you’ll master these head-turning styles in no time.
Why Short Sides Long Top Hairstyles Continue to Dominate Men’s Fashion
Short sides long top hairstyles have maintained their reign in men’s fashion for several compelling reasons. Their enduring popularity stems from a perfect balance of classic appeal and contemporary edge that transcends seasonal trends. Men consistently choose this versatile style because it offers a polished yet effortless look suitable for both professional environments and casual settings.
The distinct contrast between closely cropped sides and voluminous tops creates a striking visual impact that enhances facial features. This ever-changing combination draws attention upward, highlighting the eyes while creating the illusion of a more defined jawline and facial structure. Fashion-forward celebrities and influencers continue to showcase various interpretations of this style, cementing its status as a modern classic rather than a passing fad.
Barbers and stylists favor these cuts because they provide an excellent foundation for personalization. The versatility allows for many styling options without requiring a complete haircut change. Many men appreciate how these styles can adapt to different hair textures, working equally well for straight, wavy, or curly hair types.
Maintenance represents another important advantage, striking the perfect balance between looking well-groomed and avoiding daily styling struggles. The shortened sides typically require less frequent trimming than traditional cuts, while the longer top offers styling flexibility. This practical aspect particularly appeals to busy professionals seeking stylish yet manageable hair answers.
Most importantly, short sides long top styles have evolved to accommodate diverse personal expressions rather than forcing conformity. From subtle executive styles with minimal contrast to bold undercuts with dramatic length differences, there’s a variation to suit every man’s comfort level and aesthetic preference. This adaptability ensures these hairstyles remain relevant across different age groups, professions, and style preferences.
10 Most Popular Short Sides Long Top Hairstyles for Men
The Classic Pompadour
The Classic Pompadour features short sides and back with hair on top styled upwards and away from the face. Styling products are essential for maintaining the signature height and defined shape that makes this timeless look so distinctive. This versatile style works particularly well for men wanting to add visual height while creating a polished, sophisticated appearance.
Textured Crop With Fade
Textured Crop With Fade combines a casually textured cut on top with cleanly faded sides for perfect balance. The deliberate texture adds important volume and creates an effortlessly undone appearance that requires minimal styling effort. Faded sides keep this popular style looking neat and well-maintained even as the textured top grows out.
Modern Quiff With Undercut
Modern Quiff With Undercut styles involve brushing top hair upwards or to one side paired with dramatically short undercut sides. This contemporary interpretation offers an ideal blend of polish and edge that transitions seamlessly between professional and social settings. Styling products with medium to strong hold help maintain the quiff’s distinctive shape throughout the day.
Slicked Back Undercut
Slicked Back Undercut creates a sleek, sophisticated appearance by combing longer top hair straight back over very short sides. Styling products with high shine finish enhance the refined, classic appeal of this versatile look. This style projects confidence and attention to detail, making it perfect for formal occasions or professional environments.
Messy Fringe With Tapered Sides
Messy Fringe With Tapered Sides features deliberately tousled longer hair on top with a focus on forward-sweeping bangs. Tapered sides maintain a clean contrast while allowing for a slightly softer transition than hard fades. This youthful, textured style works exceptionally well for men wanting a low-maintenance yet fashion-forward appearance.
Faux Hawk With Skin Fade
Faux Hawk With Skin Fade mimics the dramatic mohawk silhouette without fully committing to shaved sides. Skin fades create seamless blending into the scalp while the centered strip of longer hair provides bold visual impact. This edgy style offers the perfect balance between statement-making design and practical wearability for everyday life.
Comb Over With Hard Part
Comb Over With Hard Part involves precisely parting hair and sweeping the longer top section to one side above short sides. The hard part creates a defined line that adds structure and intentionality to this classic yet contemporary style. Clean, sharp transitions between the longer top and shorter sides make this a particularly favored option for professional settings.
Brushed Up Texture With Drop Fade
Brushed Up Texture With Drop Fade combines vertically styled top hair with uniquely contoured side fading. The drop fade distinctively curves lower toward the back, creating an architectural element to this stylish cut. Textured brushing techniques add volume and dimension to the longer top section, creating visual interest from every angle.
Curly Top With Taper Fade
Curly Top With Taper Fade celebrates natural texture while keeping the overall shape controlled with strategic tapering. This style maintains the distinctive character of curls on top while creating clean contrast through gradually shortened sides. Men with natural curls particularly appreciate how this cut works with rather than against their hair’s natural movement and volume.
The Side Swept Undercut
The Side Swept Undercut directs longer top hair horizontally across the head above dramatically shortened sides. This versatile style adapts well to different hair textures and face shapes through customized length and sweep direction. Styling options range from casual disheveled looks to more polished finishes, making this a particularly adaptable short sides long top variation.
How to Choose the Right Short Sides Long Top Haircut for Your Face Shape
Selecting the perfect short sides long top haircut requires understanding how different styles complement your unique facial structure. We’ll guide you through the best options for each face shape to ensure your next haircut enhances your natural features.
Round Face Considerations
Round faces benefit from hairstyles that create the illusion of length and definition. Adding height to your hair without excessive width is key for balancing facial proportions. The Pompadour Fade works exceptionally well as it elongates the face by adding vertical volume while keeping the sides tight. Quiffs with Undercuts also provide an excellent option by drawing attention upward and creating a more structured appearance. For round-faced individuals, it’s best to avoid styles with too much side volume that might emphasize facial roundness. High fades are particularly effective as they help slim down the cheeks and create a more defined jawline, providing the angular definition that round faces often need.
Square Face Options
Square faces feature strong, angular jawlines that can be softened with the right hairstyle choice. Textured Crop Top Fades add softness through layered textures on top while maintaining clean sides, helping to balance out sharp facial angles. Creating movement in your hair through textured styles disrupts the geometric symmetry of square faces. Side parts prove especially flattering as they break up the symmetry of square faces, making them appear less angular and more balanced. Square-faced men can also experiment with styles that incorporate softer lines and subtle transitions rather than harsh contrasts between the short sides and long top.
Oval Face Choices
Oval faces enjoy the most versatility when selecting short sides long top hairstyles. This balanced face shape can successfully wear virtually any variation of these popular cuts. The Pompadour Fade, Quiff with Undercut, and Textured Crop Top Fade all complement oval faces beautifully, as they enhance the natural balance without creating disproportions. Men with oval faces can freely choose between high or low fades depending on their personal style preferences and desired maintenance level. This face shape allows for greater experimentation with varying lengths on top and different fade heights on the sides, making it easy to find a signature look that reflects individual style while maintaining flattering proportions.
Long Face Recommendations
Long faces require hairstyles that create width rather than additional height to achieve balanced proportions. Adding volume on the sides of the top section helps counterbalance facial length—styles like the Pompadour Fade work well when styled with more horizontal volume rather than vertical height. A Quiff with Undercut can be adapted for long faces by keeping the quiff lower and fuller rather than tall and pointed. Side parts combined with textured top styles effectively break up the length of the face, creating a more balanced appearance. Long-faced individuals should avoid extremely high top styles without adequate width, as these can further elongate the face rather than create harmony with facial features.
Essential Products for Styling Short Sides Long Top Haircuts
To achieve and maintain your short sides long top hairstyle, you’ll need the right products in your styling arsenal. These essential items will help you create volume, texture, and hold for your chosen look.
Pomades and Waxes
Pomades serve as crucial styling products for iconic styles like the Pompadour Fade and Quiff with Undercut. They provide the necessary control and hold without weighing down your hair, allowing for natural movement throughout the day. When styling a pompadour, we recommend blow-drying your hair upwards with a round brush before applying a light-hold pomade to maintain that impressive volume. Waxes offer similar benefits with slightly more texture, making them perfect for more defined styles that require a matte finish rather than the classic shine of traditional pomades.
Texture Sprays and Sea Salt Sprays
Texture sprays transform ordinary short sides long top haircuts into effortlessly stylish looks with dimension and character. They’re particularly effective for styles like the Textured Crop Top Fade, where natural-looking texture is the key feature. Sea salt sprays mimic that coveted “beach hair” effect, creating separation and a lived-in appearance that looks intentional yet not overly styled. Apply these products to damp or dry hair, focusing on the longer top section to enhance natural wave patterns and create visual interest that contrasts beautifully with the clean short sides.
Pre-Styling Products
Pre-styling products lay the foundation for successful styling of short sides long top haircuts. Hair serums and styling creams applied to damp hair help manage frizz and provide moisture before heat styling begins. These products improve manageability and protect your hair from potential heat damage caused by blow dryers and other styling tools. The right pre-styling product can also add subtle volume at the roots—especially important for fine hair types that need extra lift when creating height in styles like the quiff or pompadour.
Finishing Hairsprays
Finishing hairsprays lock your short sides long top hairstyle in place, ensuring your look lasts throughout your busy day. For styles requiring substantial volume or precise positioning, a medium-hold hairspray provides lasting structure without creating a stiff, unnatural appearance. Light-hold options work well for more relaxed styles where movement remains important. Apply hairspray from approximately 10-12 inches away from your head in short bursts rather than a continuous stream to prevent overloading your style with product. This technique maintains the natural look while providing the stability needed for short sides long top hairstyles to maintain their distinctive shape.
Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Short Sides Long Top Hairstyle Looking Fresh
1. Schedule Regular Barber Appointments
Maintaining the signature contrast between your short sides and longer top requires consistent upkeep. We recommend visiting your barber every 2-4 weeks to ensure your fade stays crisp and the proportions remain balanced. These regular appointments prevent your style from growing out and losing its distinctive shape that makes this haircut so appealing.
2. Choose Hair Products Suited for Your Hair Type
Selecting the appropriate shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for your hair texture is essential for optimal maintenance. The right products will keep your longer top sections healthy, manageable, and responsive to styling. Quality hair care fundamentals directly impact how well your style holds throughout the day and maintains its intended appearance.
3. Carry Touch-Up Products
Smart styling requires preparation for mid-day adjustments. Keep a small amount of your preferred styling product in your bag or at your desk for quick touch-ups when needed. Waxes and clays may require reshaping after several hours, especially if you’re sporting a precisely textured or sleek style that tends to fall flat as the day progresses.
4. Master Proper Blow Drying Techniques
Achieving maximum volume on top demands proper blow drying techniques after applying styling products. Using a blow dryer helps set your style in place and adds important height to the longer sections. For sleeker looks, apply a heat protectant spray first, then direct the airflow downward to smooth strands and minimize unwanted frizz.
5. Invest in Quality Styling Products
The right styling products make a substantial difference in how your short sides long top hairstyle appears. Pomades provide sleek, controlled finishes while waxes create more textured, defined looks with stronger hold. These products allow you to switch between polished professional styles and more casual, tousled appearances using the same haircut.
6. Protect Your Hair During Styling
Heat protection isn’t optional when regularly styling your short sides long top haircut. We always recommend applying a heat protectant spray before using blow dryers or other hot tools to maintain hair health. This simple step simultaneously shields your hair from damage and enhances shine, keeping your style looking fresh even with daily styling.
Celebrity-Inspired Short Sides Long Top Hairstyles to Show Your Barber
The Pompadour Fade
The pompadour fade combines vintage charm with modern precision, making it a favorite among style icons. This classic style features neatly trimmed sides and back that contrast beautifully with a voluminous top section. To maintain this look’s signature height and structure, we recommend using a blow dryer with a round brush before applying a light-hold pomade. Many celebrities have embraced this timeless style for red carpet events and casual outings alike, appreciating its versatility and sophisticated appeal.
The Quiff with Undercut
For a contemporary edge that still maintains professional polish, the quiff with undercut delivers impressive results. This ever-changing haircut showcases short, textured hair on top that gradually transitions into closely cropped sides. The key to mastering this look lies in the styling—use a matte product to enhance natural texture and create that effortlessly cool finish. This style works particularly well for men seeking a fashion-forward appearance that doesn’t require constant maintenance.
Textured Crop Top Fade
The textured crop top fade offers a laid-back yet refined aesthetic that’s perfect for both casual and formal settings. This modern interpretation features short, textured hair on top with a clean fade on the sides, creating a fresh silhouette. Men with various hair types can rock this versatile style, which can be easily customized to suit different face shapes. Enhance the natural texture with a quality matte styling product for that perfect balance of definition and movement.
Hard Part with High Tapered Fade
Sharp lines and precision define the hard part with high tapered fade, creating a bold statement for those who want to stand out. This distinctive style incorporates a precisely shaved part that creates striking contrast between hair and scalp. Paired with a high tapered fade, this cut offers a fresh, edgy appearance suitable for all hair types and textures. Barbers appreciate the technical skill involved in creating this look, while clients love its head-turning impact.
Undercut With Fade
The undercut with fade delivers a clean, contemporary aesthetic that’s both versatile and easy to maintain. This popular style combines the edgy appeal of an undercut with the smooth transition of a fade, creating a polished look that works in any setting. Men can customize the length of the fade to suit their personal style preferences, making this a highly adaptable option. Show your barber references for exactly how dramatic you want the contrast between top and sides to be.
Long Quiff
Volume and movement characterize the long quiff, offering a dramatic yet sophisticated option for men who prefer more length on top. This eye-catching style features hair that’s styled upward and slightly to the side, often incorporating subtle texture for dimension. When combined with short sides, the long quiff creates a striking silhouette that frames the face beautifully. This look requires slightly more styling time but rewards with stunning visual impact.
The Curtain Cut
The curtain cut brings a touch of retro charm to the short sides long top formula, creating a youthful and trendy appearance. This distinctive style features longer hair that falls naturally across the forehead, typically with a center part that resembles curtains framing the face. When paired with short sides, this combination offers a modern twist on a classic look. Straight or wavy hair works best for this style, which can be adapted to various lengths and textures.
How to Communicate Effectively With Your Barber to Get the Perfect Cut
Describe the Style Clearly
Getting the perfect short sides, long top haircut starts with crystal clear communication. Tell your barber exactly what you want by specifically mentioning you’re looking for a “short sides, long top” hairstyle. Adding details about whether you prefer a fade, undercut, or taper will help narrow down the exact look you’re aiming for.
Specify the Length and Style on Top
The top portion of your hair needs special attention when discussing your desired look. Indicate precisely how long you want the hair on top to be maintained. Reference popular styles that match your vision such as a quiff, pompadour, or textured crop top to give your barber a better understanding of your expectations.
Detail the Sides and Back
Your sides and back create the foundation of the short sides, long top contrast. Explain exactly how short you want these areas and what style you prefer. You might request a high-tapered fade for a more dramatic contrast, a low skin fade for a subtle transition, or a clean undercut for a bold separation between the top and sides.
Mention Any Exact Features
Hard parts and other distinctive elements can elevate your hairstyle to the next level. Let your barber know if you want a hard part, which creates a precise line between sections of your hair. These definitive features require special attention during the cutting process and should be discussed beforehand.
Show Reference Images
Visual aids dramatically improve communication with your barber. Bringing pictures of the hairstyle you want ensures both you and your stylist have the same vision in mind. Photos eliminate confusion and provide a clear target for your barber to aim for when creating your perfect cut.
Discuss Your Hair Type
Your natural hair characteristics play a crucial role in how styles will look on you. Inform your barber about your hair type—whether it’s curly, straight, thick, or thin—so they can make appropriate adjustments to the haircut and provide realistic expectations about how the style will look on you specifically.
Ask for Styling Tips
Professional advice on maintaining your new look at home is invaluable. Request tips on how to style your new haircut, including product recommendations and exact techniques. This knowledge ensures you can recreate the salon-fresh look on your own between appointments.
Conclusion: Why Short Sides Long Top Hairstyles Will Continue to Trend
Short sides long top hairstyles remain at the forefront of men’s grooming for good reason. They’re incredibly versatile offering endless possibilities for personalization regardless of age profession or personal style.
We’ve seen how these cuts flatter different face shapes provide low-maintenance options and deliver that perfect balance between classic and contemporary. With the right products styling techniques and regular maintenance you’ll keep your look sharp and distinctive.
As trends evolve these hairstyles adapt while maintaining their fundamental appeal. Whether you opt for a bold pompadour a textured crop or a sleek undercut the short sides long top combination gives you the freedom to express your unique style while looking effortlessly put-together. It’s a timeless approach to men’s hair that we’re confident will continue dominating barbershops worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are short sides long top hairstyles?
Short sides long top hairstyles feature closely cropped or faded sides with longer, more voluminous hair on top. This contrast creates a striking visual effect that enhances facial features while offering styling versatility. The style balances classic appeal with contemporary edge, making it suitable for both professional and casual settings.
Why are short sides long top haircuts so popular in 2023?
These haircuts remain popular because they combine timeless appeal with modern versatility. They create a flattering contrast that enhances facial features and jawlines. The style is endorsed by celebrities, offers personalization options without complete haircut changes, and requires relatively low maintenance while providing styling flexibility for busy professionals.
How often should I get my short sides long top haircut trimmed?
Schedule barber appointments every 2-4 weeks to maintain the sharp contrast between short sides and longer top. The exact timing depends on how quickly your hair grows and how defined you want the fade to remain. More precise fades typically require more frequent maintenance than softer tapers.
Which short sides long top style works best for round faces?
For round faces, choose styles that add height and create angular lines. The Pompadour Fade, Modern Quiff, or Textured Crop with a high fade work particularly well as they elongate the face shape. Avoid cuts with too much fullness at the sides, which can emphasize roundness.
What products do I need to style a short sides long top haircut?
Essential products include: 1) Pomade or wax for control and hold, 2) Texture spray for dimension, 3) Pre-styling products like mousse or heat protectant, and 4) Finishing hairspray to lock the style. Your specific needs will vary based on hair type and the particular style you’re trying to achieve.
How do I communicate what I want to my barber?
Bring reference images of your desired style, specify the exact length you want on top, and clearly describe the type of fade or taper for the sides. Mention any specific features like hard parts or textured tops. Discuss your hair type and lifestyle to ensure the cut suits your needs and maintenance preferences.
Can short sides long top styles work with curly hair?
Absolutely! Curly hair creates natural volume and texture that enhances these styles. Options like the Curly Top Fade or Textured Crop work exceptionally well. Your barber can adjust the cut to work with your curl pattern while maintaining the signature short sides, longer top contrast.
What’s the difference between a fade and an undercut?
A fade gradually transitions from shorter to longer hair, with no clear distinction between lengths. An undercut features a dramatic contrast between very short sides and longer top with little to no graduation between sections. Fades appear more subtle, while undercuts create a more dramatic, disconnected look.
How do I style a textured crop with fade?
Apply a pea-sized amount of texture paste to towel-dried hair. Work the product throughout, focusing on the longer top section. Use your fingers to push the hair forward slightly, creating natural-looking texture. No need for blow-drying – this style works best with a natural, effortless finish.
Which short sides long top style requires the least maintenance?
The Buzz Cut with Fade or the Crew Cut with Tapered Sides require minimal styling. These shorter top variations maintain the signature contrast but need less daily styling – often just a quick application of light-hold product. They also grow out more uniformly, extending time between barber visits.
