Now that we have settled into the new year, there’s no better time to give your hairstyle a makeover and try on a new look. Like the previous year, hair trends for 2021 are all about bold cuts and styles that suit various hair textures and lengths. Some are classic and polished, and others are edgy and statement-making, so you can get creative and experiment with different styles and lengths. So if you’re looking to up your hair game this year, here are five of the biggest men’s hair trends to ask your barber for in 2021.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
The buzz cut
Starting with a classic look, the buzz cut is a short haircut that has traditionally been associated with anti-establishment movements. It’s one of the best choices when it comes to at-home DIY haircuts and keeping yourself busy during the pandemic. That said, a pro barber can be of great help when it comes to putting finishing touches and cleaning up the edges.
The trend includes a couple of short haircuts. Some of the cuts that can be sorted under the “buzz cut” category include flat tops, high and tights, and crew cuts. Since buzz cut is all about accentuating your features, be sure to check for any lumps or bumps beforehand.
The undercut quiff
Moving on to another timeless hairstyle, this year’s popular quiff isn’t so dramatic and over-the-top. The 2021 quiff hybrid, the undercut quiff, is perfect for men who want an on-trend look while still retaining an alternative edge. This hair trend involves shaving down the sides to create a sharply contrasting undercut while keeping the top looking like the modern quiff. This results in a look that feels more serious and mature.
To maintain the look, you’ll also need to get your hands on a couple of hair styling products. These include a sea salt spray for pre-styling, a round brush and a blow-dryer for creating volume, as well as some hair clay for texture and a booster powder for creating a fuller look and helping with hold.
A cool fade haircut
A “fade” is the way the hair is blended from longer to shorter lengths. The best thing about fades is that they can be tailored to suit your taste and preferences. There are a couple of fade styles, the most popular ones being low, mid, and high fades.
How well the fade is executed will determine the quality and look of your hairstyle, and walking out of your local barbershop with a five star haircut is a matter of knowing how to communicate what you want. This is why it pays to learn some basic haircut terminology and be as specific and detailed as possible when talking to your barber. The clearer the instructions, the better your final look will be.
A 90s-inspired grunge look
Trends come and go, and some of them come back around after a couple of decades. This is especially true when it comes to the grungy, 90s-inspired look that is currently making a comeback. Think tousled blond locks rocked by the grunge god himself, Kurt Cobain.
Brad Pitt’s current ‘do could also serve as a great reference for emulating the grunge-soaked image of a cool guy and the ultimate grunge dad. If you were thinking about growing out your hair in 2021, lockdown is the perfect time to do it. Bleach your hair, aiming for the slightly shabby, crusty aesthetic, but make sure to keep your grunge-inspired ‘do clean and tidy.
Acid pop
Speaking of bleach (hello Nirvana reference), another trend we’ll be seeing in 2021 is the acid pop head look. Bleach jobs are getting bolder and edgier, moving away from subtle pastel hues and getting brighter, ranging from mighty magenta and cool cobalt to vibrant lime green.
Aside from making a loud statement, such hues are much easier to maintain compared to pastel ones. On the plus side, they pair perfectly with neutral outfit combinations since they give it a splash of colour without requiring extra effort. Once bleached and coloured, make sure to step up your hair care game, ensuring it’s hip and healthy rather than dull and damaged.
Trying out a new hair trend is like hitting a refresh button on your look, and there are so many options to choose from. Instead of heading to your local barber and going for “the usual”, consider experimenting a bit and trying something a little more creative.
Fortunately, 2021 is offering stylish options that work well for various hair lengths, types, and textures. It’s up to you to choose which one of these popular looks you want to embrace so you can start the new year in style.
markmunroe
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