Top 10 Hairstyles For Men Trending in NYC in 2026

As a Local barbershop in East Village, NYC, we see trends evolve right from our chair. One season it’s all about sharp, defined lines; the next, it’s about relaxed, natural texture. Just like video games or sneakers, hairstyles for men change all the time. One year, everyone wants super sharp cuts, and the next, it's all about looking relaxed and natural.

We’ve been listening to what our clients are asking for and watching the biggest trends to figure out what’s next. So, we put together this guide to the top 10 hairstyles for men that you’re going to see everywhere in 2026. Let's get you ready for your next fresh cut!

Why Men’s Hairstyle Trends Matter in 2026

In 2026, the best hairstyles are all about fitting your life. Some guys want a classic haircut that’s super easy to take care of (a low-maintenance look). Others want a style that makes people say, “Wow, cool hair!” (a statement look).

We see new styles all over TikTok and on our favorite actors and athletes. A good haircut just makes you feel good. It gives you the confidence to walk into school or hang out with your friends and feel like your best self.

Top 10 Men’s Hairstyles Trending in 2026

These are the hairstyles for men 2026 that are going to be huge. We’ll explain each one and give you a special tip from a barber!

1. The Modern Fade

Fades are still super popular, but the style is changing. Instead of a hard line, low, mid, and high fades in 2026 are soft and blended, like a blurry photo. It’s a clean look that’s not too harsh.

Barber Tip: Ask your barber for a “shadow fade” or a “drop fade.” It looks best when it’s fresh, so you’ll want to come in for a touch-up every 2 or 3 weeks.

2. The Messy Middle Part

The middle part is back, but it's not the flat, straight style you might have seen in old pictures. The new way to wear it is a little messy, with some waves and texture. It looks cool and like you didn't try too hard.

This style is especially popular in modern Asian haircuts, where straight hair and natural volume create a clean but effortless look. 

Barber Tip: The secret is in the haircut, not just the part. We cut in some light layers so it doesn’t lie flat. To style it, just use a little bit of sea salt spray.

3. The Wavy Quiff

The quiff is that cool hairstyle where the hair is pushed up and back off the forehead. The modern quiff is soft and wavy, not stiff or shiny. It’s one of the best hairstyles for men in 2026 if you want to look stylish.

Barber Tip: You’ll need a blow-dryer to get the hair to lift up. Use your fingers and a little bit of hair clay to give it that piecey, textured look.

4. The Cool Mullet

We know what you’re thinking, but this isn't the old, funny-looking mullet! The cool mullet is shorter and way more stylish. It has a clean fade on the sides, which makes the whole look feel modern and cool.

Barber Tip: We need to make sure the short sides blend nicely with the longer back. It’s all about getting the right shape for your head, so we’ll figure that out together.

5. Curls on Top

If you have curly hair, now is the time to show it off! This style keeps the curls looking great on top but keeps the sides and back short and neat with a taper. This gives you shape and stops your hair from getting too wild.

Barber Tip: Curls need moisture to look good. Use a curl cream in your hair when it’s damp. Try not to wash your hair every single day, as it can dry out your curls.

6. The Sharp Buzz Cut

This is the easiest haircut ever, but in 2026, it’s getting a cool upgrade. The buzz cut is super short all over, but we add a super sharp line-up along your forehead and temples to make it look clean and purposeful.

Barber Tip: To keep that line looking extra sharp, you’ll need to visit your barber often. Most guys with this cut come in every 1 or 2 weeks.

7. The Flow

If you’re growing your hair out, this is the style for you. It’s a medium-length cut that’s pushed back away from the face. It looks awesome on guys who have thicker hair with a bit of a wave. It’s relaxed and very cool.

Barber Tip: Growing your hair can have an awkward middle stage. The best way to get through it is to get small trims every 6 to 8 weeks to keep it shaped and healthy.

8. The Short Fringe

This is a popular haircut because it looks great and is easy to handle. It has a short, straight bang (called a fringe) and lots of choppy texture on top. The sides are usually faded short.

Barber Tip: This is one of the best men haircuts 2026 for guys who worry about thin hair. The texture makes hair look thicker! Ask your barber to add texture on top.

9. Long on Top, Shaved on Sides

This haircut is for someone who wants a bold look. The hair on top is left much longer and can be slicked back or worn loose, while the sides are shaved very short. The difference between the long top and short sides is what makes it look so cool.

Barber Tip: You need to be patient to grow the top long enough. And you'll have to come in every 2 or 3 weeks to get the sides re-shaved to keep it looking sharp.

10. The Side Part

This isn't the super neat, shiny side part your grandpa might have had. The new version is much more relaxed. The part isn't a perfect line, and the hair has more volume and a natural, matte look.

Barber Tip: We’ll help you find where your hair naturally parts. To style it, use a blow-dryer to give it some lift, then use a tiny bit of hair cream with your fingers.

How to Choose the Right Hairstyle for You

The best men’s hairstyles 2026 are the ones that look good on you. Think about these three things:

• Your Face Shape: If you have a round face, a style with some height on top is great. If you have a square face, a style with some waves can soften it up.

• Your Hair Type: Work with the hair you have! Straight hair is great for a Short Fringe. Curly hair is perfect for the Curls on Top style.

• Your Routine: How much time do you have in the morning? If you like to get up and go, pick an easy style like a Buzz Cut. If you like styling your hair, try the Wavy Quiff.

How Often Should You Maintain These Hairstyles?

• Short Cuts (like Fades and Buzz Cuts): These look best when they are super fresh. You should plan to visit the barbershop every 2-3 weeks.

• Medium Cuts (like the Quiff or Middle Part): You can go a little longer with these. A trim every 4-6 weeks will keep them looking good.

• Longer Cuts (like The Flow): You can wait a bit longer, but don’t forget to get trims! A cleanup every 6-10 weeks will keep your hair healthy.

Ready to try one of these cool new looks? At Ron The Barber NYC we’ll get you set up with the perfect haircut for 2026. Visit us today or call us at (646) 570-4408 to book an appointment. 

FAQs 

What hairstyle is trending for men in 2026?

The biggest trending men’s hairstyles are the ones that look natural and a little bit messy. Styles that have a lot of texture, like the Wavy Quiff and the Messy Middle Part, are very popular.

Are fades still popular in 2026?

Yes! Fades are definitely still in style, but they are becoming softer and more blended. This is one of the biggest men's haircut trends 2026, moving from sharp lines to a smoother look.

What is the easiest men’s haircut to maintain?

The Buzz Cut is the easiest to style day-to-day (you just wake up and go!). The Short Fringe is also very easy. Just remember, the easier it is to style, the more often you might need to see your barber to keep it looking fresh.