The Hottest Men’s Hair Trends For Winter 2021
Get The How-Tos & Inspo Behind This Year’s Men’s Hair Trends
Mullets are back, buzzcuts are bleached and bangs are flowing—post-quarantine has our men’s hair ready to play. After months of bathroom DIY-jobs, this year’s trends are packed with edgy statements and retro comebacks. Be ready for bold requests and custom styles, Winter 2021 is going to be a hot one!
Dive into our curated list to keep up on what’s trending or hand this to your indecisive client as inspo to scroll through. Keep reading for how-tos and tips to create modern upgrades on classic styles we’re stoked to see making way to men’s trends.
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1. Modern Mullets
Business in the front, party—well, wherever you want it. This year’s mullet craze gained popularity after grown out quarantine-locks became the perfect base for the ’80s style to make a comeback.
Modern mullets are customizable and easy to tailor to client’s hair type. The different textures and lengths give the cut an intricate vibe with lots of personality. Although we can’t believe we’re saying this, mullets are back baby. (And we love it).
Photo credit: Instagram via @juliuscaesar
Photo credit: Instagram via @_nicolerenae
Photo credit: Instagram via @thebarbercole
Photo credit: Instagram via @coiffeurstory
Pro Tip: Cut like the pros and recreate this modern mullet by @coiffeurstory using ARC™ Scissors—drop your info here to win your own FREE pair!
2. Texturized Fringe
We’ll call this the “TikTok boy’s hair” hot older cousin. If you have clients looking for a change without a drastic cut, textured fringe may be your new go-to. The versatility to soften up a rugged look or add dimension with piecey texture gives stylists mega creative freedom.
Pro Tip: Teach your guys how to style their hair at home. A quick demo on texture maintenance using products like Victory Barber and Brand™ pomades can make sure your haircuts look great in and out of your chair.
Photo credit: Instagram via @mari.demonte
Photo credit: Instagram via @tyler_kelbert
Photo credit: Instagram via @by.taylorleven
How you handle texture can make or break your haircut. Watch these must-know tips from Kevin Luchmun!
3. E-Boy Buzz Cuts
The classic buzz cut took an alternative twist this year. Neon colors and hand-painted patterns have transformed the once formal cut into a punk-rock work of art.
Frank Ocean has been sporting a neon buzz by colorist @rachel_bodt that sparked major creative inspo this season. Before trying this colorful trend, make sure you know these three pro tips before applying lightener to the scalp.
Photo credit: Instagram via @rachel_bodt
Photo credit: Instagram via @sarahoneeleven
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Photo credit: Instagram via @janine_ker_hair
4. ’90s Boy Band Curtain Cut
Looks like our teen heart throbs followed us into adulthood. This season turned shaggy hair into a chic trend with curtain bangs hitting men’s styling.
We’ve spotted celebs like Lil Huddy and Jaden Smith rocking the effortless cut that frames the eyes for a sultry look. The relaxed style works with any texture and is a great option for clients looking to grow their hair out. Not to mention—styling is a breeze.
Photo credit: Instagram via @nomadbarber
Photo credit: Instagram via @jamie_grooming
Photo credit: Instagram via @torigill_barber
Photo credit: Instagram via @lilhuddy | Stylist: @stuntzbeauty
Photo credit: Instagram via @c.syresmith
Finish off any trendy look with barber-made & approved styling products
5. Unique Side Parts
Reminiscent of the hard-part era a few years back, men’s side partings have gotten a modern upgrade. Eye-catching and slightly contouring, the angular lines can add a personalized finish to any trendy cut.
When your client is looking for a twist on their signature look, try a new clipper technique to create side parts that complement their cut with a statement.
Photo credit: Instagram via @patty_cuts
Photo credit: Instagram via @domcutit
Photo credit: Instagram via @howtofadehair
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Watch @vicblends side part technique on this seamless cut
6. Classic French Crop
We may have British drama Peaky Blinders to thank for this one. The slightly disconnected, European-esque style has been spotted all over social media this season. The French Crop’s classic nature has been seen combined with fades for a wearable, trendy look.
Pro Tip: This cut is a great transitional style for clients growing out their hair for longer fringe.
Photo credit: Instagram Via @peakyblindersofficial | Stylist: @lozschiavomakeup
Photo credit: Instagram via @mohmad_yeganebarber
Photo credit: Instagram via @by.taylorleven
Photo credit: Instagram via @mattyconrad
7. Fades
Is it really a men’s trend report without it? Fades are a constant comeback that any barber or stylist should look to master. We see them nearly every season for their versatile charm that can’t be beat.
This year, fades are taking a technical turn with ultra airbrushed-looking blends. We have the pro tips to amp up your skillset for IG-worthy fades that may just go viral.
Need to freshen up your fade techniques? Check out these pro tips:
- Step-By-Step: Easy Fades With Matty Conrad
- 3 Need-To-Know Tips For Clean Skin Fades
- How To: Skin Fades On Textured Hair
- Complete Barbering Guide: All Things Fades
Photo credit: Instagram via @andyauthentic
Photo credit: Instagram via @staygold31
Photo credit: Instagram via @vincethebarber
Photo credit; Instagram via @patty_cuts
8. Shorter, Structured Beards
Shorter, more structured beards have made a handsome appearance to this season’s styling trends. We’ve spotted several variations of the tailored look with strong angles and sharp silhouettes. Haven’t styled a beard in a while? No problem. Freshen up your techniques and make sure you avoid these 8 common mistakes barbers (and clients) make when it comes to beards.
Pro Tip: Beard shaping can be tricky, try using a blowdryer with an attachment and round brush for a polished style.
Watch how @jjay_beardedbarber adds shape to a short beard while removing bulk
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Photo credit: Instagram via @hatzianestis
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Photo credit: Instagram via @mr.clipperovercomb
Beard maintenance is great, but what about beard hygiene?! Find out how dirty your client’s beard might really be.
