Top Men's Short On Sides Long On Top Haircuts - Style Guide

Men’s short on sides, long on top haircuts are the go-to style for guys who want something modern, versatile, and easy to wear.

They give you the best of both worlds — clean, sharp edges and bold styling on top — so you can shape your look to fit your vibe, whether that's sleek, edgy, or chill.

From textured crops to slicked-back undercuts, this guide breaks down the top trending styles, how to choose the right one for your face shape and hair type, and pro styling tips to keep it looking fresh.

Let’s jump in.

Top Men's Short On Sides Long On Top Haircuts

Now that you’ve got the vibe down, let’s get into the best short on sides, long on top haircuts for men right now.

These styles aren’t just trending — they’re built for flexibility, personality, and everyday life. Whether you want volume, texture, or a clean, bold shape, there’s something here that fits your face, hair type, and lifestyle.

Pompadour

The Pompadour is a classic with attitude. It’s all about height — the top is swept back into a voluminous wave, while the short sides keep everything clean and structured.

This style gives off polished, confident energy and works for both sharp formal looks and cool, casual settings. If you want something timeless but bold, this one’s got your name on it.

Textured Quiff

The Textured Quiff brings volume with a relaxed edge. The longer top is styled upward and slightly messy, while the sides stay short and tidy for contrast.

It’s laid-back but still sharp — perfect if you want a hairstyle that feels effortless but looks styled. The quiff works with most hair types and transitions easily from work to weekend.

High Fade with Long Fringe

Close-up of a young man with a stylish Long Fringe High Fade, a standout look in the category of men's short on sides, long on top haircuts. The haircut features a long, textured fringe that sweeps across the forehead, paired with a sharp high fade on the sides for a striking contrast and modern appeal.

If you’re into modern, standout styles, the High Fade with long fringe hits hard. The high fade creates a bold contrast, while the longer fringe adds shape and movement up top.

You can wear the fringe forward, brushed up, or to the side — it’s a solid option for guys who like switching up their look without losing that crisp fade.

Undercut with Curly Top

The undercut with curly top is all about contrast — clean sides with natural volume on top.

It keeps your curls defined and in focus, while the undercut sharpens the edges. It’s low-fuss, high-style, and a great way to work with your natural texture instead of against it.

Slicked Back Undercut

Want that smooth, boss-level energy? The slicked back undercut nails it.

The sides stay tight while the long top gets combed back for a sleek, powerful finish. Whether you’re dressed down or suited up, this cut delivers serious polish with minimal effort.

Man Bun Undercut

The man bun undercut blends bold and practical in one shot.

Long hair gets tied back into a man bun, while the short sides keep things fresh and defined. It’s a go-to for guys who want length without the mess — strong style, clean execution.

Faux Hawk Fade

Looking for edge without going full mohawk? The faux hawk fade hits that sweet spot.

The sides are faded tight, and the longer top gets styled upward into a bold, centered crest. It’s attention-grabbing, rebellious, and still totally wearable day to day.

Modern Mohawk

@barberfirmat

The modern mohawk turns heads without going over the top.

A bold strip of longer hair runs down the center, while the sides are either faded or shaved for max contrast. You can style it up, spike it, or slick it — either way, it’s built for guys who like their cut loud and confident.

Messy Top with Short Sides

The messy top with short sides is effortlessly cool.

The top stays loose, tousled, and full of texture, while the short sides add structure. This one’s perfect if you like a chill look that still feels sharp and intentional.

Side Part with High Fade

The side part with high fade is clean, sharp, and always in style.

It’s got that classic gentleman vibe, with a strong part and a crisp high fade to back it up. Great for guys who want something polished that still works in casual settings.

Spiky Top with Short Sides

The spiky top with short sides brings a playful edge to your cut.

The top is styled up for texture and energy, while the short sides keep it neat. If you want something fun, modern, and full of movement — this is it.

Long Top Crew Cut

The long top crew cut is a fresh spin on a classic.

It keeps the sides short and the top just long enough to style — think minimal effort with a modern edge.

Clean, balanced, and perfect if you want something low-maintenance that still gives you styling options.

Afro with Tapered Sides

The Afro with Tapered Sides lets your texture shine while keeping the edges sharp.

The top stays full and natural, and the tapered sides give it shape and structure. It’s bold, clean, and a proud way to rock your curls with precision.

Side Swept Fringe with Fade

The side swept fringe with fade brings together softness and edge.

The fringe adds shape and movement up top, while the fade keeps the sides crisp. It’s ideal if you want something trendy without going high-maintenance.

Wavy Textured Top with Mid Fade

The wavy textured top with mid fade is all about showing off your natural flow.

The mid fade keeps the edges neat, while the wavy top brings in casual volume and texture. It’s the kind of style that looks great without trying too hard.

Textured Crop With Faded Sides

The textured crop with faded Sides is modern, sharp, and easy to live with.

The top is styled forward and broken up with texture, while the fade keeps it looking clean around the edges. Perfect if you want a no-fuss style that still brings heat.

Disconnected Undercut

The disconnected undercut makes a statement, no question.

There’s a bold separation between the long top and the short or shaved sides — no blending here. Whether you wear it slick, messy, or spiked, it’s a cut that says you came to stand out.

Shaved Sides Cornrows

The shaved sides cornrows are bold, clean, and full of character.

The cornrows sit tight and detailed on top, while the sides are shaved down for a dramatic contrast. It’s a style that blends tradition, precision, and standout modern edge.

No matter which men’s short on sides, long on top haircut you go with, the key is finding a style that fits you — not just your hair, but your energy.

These looks are bold, clean, and easy to maintain with the right products and a little know-how. Whether you lean classic, edgy, or somewhere in between, you’ve got options that work.

Ready to find your perfect match? Let’s talk face shape, hair texture, and how to make your style work in real life.

How to Choose the Right Short on Sides, Long on Top Haircut

The right short on sides, long on top haircut for men comes down to two main things: face shape and hair type.

Face Shape Guide

Your face shape plays a huge role in how balanced your haircut looks. Here’s what works best:

Oval Face: You’ve got options — almost anything works. Try a pompadour or textured crop to show off symmetry and style.
Square Face: Play to those strong angles with a side part and high fade. It keeps things clean while softening the jawline.
Round Face: Go for height. A faux hawk fade or modern mohawk adds sharpness and elongates your features.
Heart-Shaped Face: Balance out a wider forehead with a messy top or a side swept fringe with fade — soft, but still structured.
Diamond Face: Let those cheekbones lead. Try a man bun undercut or wavy top with mid fade to highlight shape without crowding the sides.

Hair Type Breakdown

Different textures = different strengths. Here's what works best for your strands:

Curly Hair: Let it shine with an undercut and curly top — short sides keep the focus where it matters.
Straight Hair: Keep it sleek with a slicked back undercut or add attitude with a bold disconnected undercut.
Wavy Hair: Boost texture with a wavy top and mid fade, or keep it loose and cool with a messy top and short sides.
Thick Hair: Control the volume with a structured pompadour or a sculpted modern mohawk.
Fine Hair: Go for lift and contrast. A textured crop with faded sides or a side part fade adds instant depth.

With these pointers, you’re set to choose a long on top, short on sides men's haircut that actually works with what you’ve got — not against it.

Styling Tips for Long-Top-Short-Sides Haircuts

You’ve got the cut — now let’s keep it looking sharp.

From slicked-back styles to messy texture, here’s how to style your short sides, long top haircut like a pro.

Best Hair Products

The right product = all the difference in hold, finish, and vibe.

Pomade

Great for slick styles like the classic Pompadour.
Try Suavecito Pomade for firm hold with shine.
Prefer matte texture? Go with a clay pomade like Baxter of California.

Gel:

Need all-day hold for spikes or faux hawks?
American Crew Firm Hold Gel locks it in.
For lighter hold, TIGI Bed Head Power Play Gel gives control without stiffness.

Spray:

Want volume without the crunch?
Paul Mitchell Super Clean Spray adds hold with flexibility.
TRESemmé Micro Mist locks in waves without weighing them down.

Texturizer:

Going for that lived-in, messy look?
Beard Beasts Sea Salt Spray adds grit, texture, and natural volume without the crunch.

Daily Styling Tips

Once you’ve got the right products, it’s all about using them the right way:

Morning Routine: Start with damp hair, apply product evenly, and style with a comb or fingers. Use a blow dryer for extra lift or shape.
Touch-Ups: Keep a bit of product on hand — a quick finger restyle during the day can bring everything back to life.
Night Care: Skip the heavy oils. A light conditioner or leave-in spray helps keep hair soft and healthy overnight.
Keep It Tight: Visit your barber every 2–4 weeks to clean up the sides and keep the fade or undercut fresh.

A great cut is only as good as how you wear it. Keep it styled, keep it maintained — and let the confidence follow.

Conclusion: Your Perfect Long-Top-Short-Sides Look Awaits

Congrats, you’re now a guru of men's short on sides long on top haircuts!

Whether you're leaning towards a sleek slicked back undercut or a textured crop with faded sides, you're all set to nail that look.

Quick Recap:

Face Shape Matters: From pompadours for oval faces to faux hawks for round faces, you’ve got the perfect match.
Hair Type Magic: You now know which styles suit your curls, waves, or straight hair best.
Styling Secrets: With top-notch products and a simple routine, your hair will stay on point.

Why You’ll Love These Haircuts:

Versatility: Switch from sharp to relaxed with ease.
Low Maintenance: A bit of product and regular trims keep things fresh.
Total Customization: There’s a style here for every vibe—edgy, classic, or chill.

The beauty of men's short on the sides, long on top haircuts is their adaptability—they can be as bold or as subtle as you want.

Remember, the key to rocking any hairstyle is confidence.

So, pick your style, grab your products, and strut your stuff.

Ready for more grooming inspiration? Check out our latest hairstyle guides here.