12 Go-To Haircuts for Men with Oval Faces

Finding the perfect hairstyle often begins with understanding the shape of your face. For men with an oval face shape, the options are incredibly vast and versatile. Considered the ideal face shape by many barbers and stylists, an oval face is characterized by balanced proportions, a slightly rounded jawline, and a forehead that is slightly wider than the chin. This natural symmetry means that most hairstyles will look good on you, giving you the freedom to experiment with different lengths, textures, and volumes without worrying about throwing your features off balance.

However, having so many choices can sometimes make the decision harder. The key is to select a style that not only suits your face but also fits your hair type, lifestyle, and personal aesthetic. Whether you prefer a clean, professional look for the office or something rugged and textured for the weekend, there is a cut that will elevate your appearance. This guide explores twelve go-to haircuts that are particularly well-suited for men with oval faces, offering a mix of classic staples and modern trends to help you find your next signature look.

1. The Classic Quiff

The classic quiff is a timeless hairstyle that has remained popular for decades because of its versatility and universally flattering shape. It features shorter hair on the sides and back, with longer hair on top that is brushed upward and backward away from the forehead. For men with oval faces, the volume created on top helps to maintain the natural balance of the face without making it look too long or too round. The height of the quiff adds a touch of sophistication and draws attention to the eyes and forehead, highlighting the symmetrical features that define an oval face shape. It is a style that works well for both casual and formal occasions, easily transitioning from a day at work to a night out.

Styling a classic quiff requires a bit of effort but is well worth it for the polished result. You will typically need a blow dryer and a round brush to create the initial lift and volume at the roots. Once the general shape is established, a pomade or wax can be used to hold the hair in place and add shine or texture, depending on your preference. Because oval faces can handle volume well, you don't have to be afraid to add some height. Just be careful not to make the sides too tight if you have large ears, as a bit of length on the sides can help frame the face more softly. The quiff is a confident choice that signals you care about your appearance.

2. The Undercut

The undercut is a bold and modern hairstyle that relies on high contrast to make a statement. It involves buzzing the sides and back very short, while leaving the hair on top significantly longer. This sharp distinction between the short and long sections creates a clean, edgy look that highlights strong facial features. For oval faces, the undercut works exceptionally well because it keeps the sides tight, preventing the face from looking wider than it is. The focus remains squarely on the top of the head and the face itself. When you go to the barber for this haircut, you can customize the length on top to suit your personal style, whether you want to slick it back or wear it messy.

One of the greatest advantages of the undercut is its versatility in styling the top section. You can sweep it back for a sleek, "Peaky Blinders" inspired look, or you can add texture and let it fall naturally for a more relaxed vibe. Because the sides are so short, daily maintenance is often focused solely on the top, making it relatively easy to manage once you get the hang of it. However, the sides will need regular trims to maintain that sharp contrast. This style is perfect for men who want a look that is both masculine and fashionable, and it serves as an excellent frame for the balanced proportions of an oval face.

3. The Textured Crop (French Crop)

The textured crop, often referred to as the French crop, is a low-maintenance style that has surged in popularity in recent years. It is characterized by a short length all around, with a slightly longer fringe that is styled forward onto the forehead. The top is typically cut with choppy layers to create texture and movement. This style is ideal for oval faces because the fringe can help shorten the appearance of the forehead slightly, focusing attention on the eyes and nose. It breaks up the vertical lines of the face, adding a horizontal element that complements the oval shape perfectly. It is a great option for men who want a stylish look without spending hours in front of the mirror.

Styling a textured crop is incredibly simple and requires minimal product. A small amount of matte clay or styling powder is usually enough to define the texture and keep the hair in place. The goal is a messy, effortless finish rather than something neat and structured. This makes it perfect for men with active lifestyles or those who prefer a more rugged aesthetic. The crop works well with various hair types, including thick and wavy hair, as the layering removes bulk and makes the hair more manageable. It is a modern, practical cut that looks sharp and intentional.

4. The Pompadour

The pompadour is a dramatic and voluminous hairstyle that exudes confidence and retro flair. Similar to the quiff, it involves brushing the hair upwards and backwards, but the Pompadour Hairstyle is defined by a distinct "pomp" or mound of hair at the front that creates significant height. For men with oval faces, this height is very flattering as it extends the silhouette vertically, emphasizing the balanced nature of the face. The sides are usually kept short or faded to further accentuate the volume on top. It is a statement look that draws the eye and demands attention, making it perfect for men who aren't afraid to stand out.

Achieving the perfect pompadour requires good hair density and a bit of patience with styling. You will need to use a high-hold product like a strong pomade and likely finish with hairspray to keep the pomp in place throughout the day. While it is a high-maintenance style compared to a buzz cut, the payoff is a look that is undeniably cool and classic. It pairs exceptionally well with a clean-shaven face or a well-groomed beard. For an oval face, the pompadour adds a touch of architectural structure that enhances the natural symmetry, creating a profile that is both elegant and masculine.

5. The Side Part

The side part is the epitome of the gentleman's haircut. It is neat, professional, and timelessly stylish. The cut involves tapering the hair on the sides and back while leaving the top long enough to be combed over to one side. A distinct parting line is created, either naturally or with a razor for a "hard part." For oval faces, the asymmetry of the side part adds a nice contrast to the symmetrical face shape. It frames the face beautifully without hiding any features. It is the go-to style for business environments and formal events, projecting an image of reliability and sophistication.

Versatility is a key benefit of the side part. It can be styled to look slick and vintage with a high-shine gel, or soft and modern with a matte paste. You can adjust the height and volume of the sweep to suit your mood. Because oval faces are well-balanced, you can experiment with how deep the part is or which side you part it on. It is a safe bet that never looks boring. Regular trims are needed to keep the neckline and ears clean, but the daily styling routine is straightforward and quick, making it a practical choice for the everyday man.

6. The Buzz Cut

The buzz cut is the ultimate minimalist hairstyle. It involves clipping the hair very short all over the head, often using a single guard length, or incorporating a slight fade on the sides. While it might seem severe to some, it is actually incredibly flattering for men with oval faces. The uniform short length exposes the entire face and head shape. Since oval faces have naturally balanced proportions, there is no need to use hair to hide or balance out certain features. Buzz Cut Styles highlight the bone structure, jawline, and eyes, creating a look that is rugged, masculine, and very confident.

The biggest advantage of a buzz cut is the zero-maintenance lifestyle it offers. There is no styling, no product, and no bad hair days. You can roll out of bed and go. It is also a great option for men with thinning hair or receding hairlines, as the short length minimizes the contrast between hair and scalp. While you won't need to style it, you will need to visit the barber frequently—or invest in your own clippers—to keep the length consistent and the edges sharp. It is a liberating style that strips away the superficial and focuses entirely on the face.

7. The Faux Hawk

The faux hawk is a less extreme version of the traditional mohawk, offering a rebellious edge without being inappropriate for daily life. In this style, the hair on the sides is cut short (but not shaved to the skin), and the hair on top is kept longer and styled inward and upward to create a ridge or peak in the center. For an oval face, the faux hawk adds vertical interest and texture. The height in the center draws the eye upward, which can make the face appear slightly longer and more defined. It is a fun, youthful style that allows for self-expression.

Styling a faux hawk is flexible. You can make the peak sharp and defined for a night out, or keep it subtle and messy for a day at the office. A medium to strong hold product like wax or clay is best for achieving the desired shape. The texture involved in a faux hawk works well to disguise thinning hair or add volume to fine hair. It is a great compromise for men who want something edgier than a crew cut but more conservative than a full mohawk. The balance of the oval face shape ensures that the added height doesn't make the head look disproportionate.

8. The Slicked Back Look

The slicked-back hairstyle is a powerful, high-impact look that means business. It involves growing the hair on top to a medium length and using product to comb it straight back, flat against the head. The sides can be undercut or tapered. This style completely opens up the face, keeping all hair away from the forehead and eyes. For men with oval faces, this is a fantastic way to show off their symmetrical features. It puts the jawline and cheekbones on full display. When you are looking for a "haircut near me" that will transform your look into something sleek and dominant, this is a strong contender.

This style works best with straight or wavy hair types that are easier to control. Curly hair can be slicked back, but it requires stronger products and more effort to keep smooth. A high-quality pomade or gel is essential to maintain the sleekness and prevent flyaways. The slicked-back look can be worn tight and wet for a vintage vibe, or dry and looser for a more contemporary feel. It is a style often associated with confidence and authority, making it a popular choice for professionals and those who want to make a memorable impression.

9. The Fringe (Bangs)

Wearing hair forward in a fringe, or bangs, can be a stylish way to change up your look. A fringe can be cut straight across, textured and choppy, or swept to the side. For oval faces, a fringe works well because it essentially shortens the face length slightly, which can focus attention on the eyes. Unlike round faces, where bangs might make the face look wider, oval faces maintain their balance even with hair covering the forehead. It is a particularly good choice for men with larger foreheads who want to create a more compact facial appearance.

Styling a fringe depends on the specific cut. A textured, messy fringe requires just a bit of clay to separate the strands, while a blunt fringe might need blow-drying to sit perfectly straight. It is a versatile element that can be added to many other haircuts, like the crop or a longer shag style. Fringes add a youthful and sometimes artistic vibe to a man's appearance. They can soften angular features or add structure to softer features. As long as the fringe isn't too heavy or too long, it remains a flattering and interesting option for the oval face shape.

10. Long Wavy Hair (The Bro Flow)

For men who prefer length, long wavy hair—often called the "bro flow"—is a fantastic option. This style features medium-to-long hair that is pushed back and allowed to fall naturally. It relies on the hair's natural texture and movement. Oval faces are perfectly suited for longer hair because the length doesn't drag the face down or make it look too narrow, thanks to the balanced proportions. The hair frames the face softly, creating a relaxed and approachable look that is still very stylish. It exudes a laid-back confidence that is very attractive.

Maintenance for this style is more about hair health than precise styling. You will need to use good conditioners and perhaps a leave-in treatment to prevent frizz and keep the hair looking healthy. Regular trims are still necessary to remove split ends, even if you are growing it out. Styling usually involves just tucking the hair behind the ears or using a light cream to control the flow. It is a great alternative to the highly structured barber cuts, offering a sense of freedom and ruggedness. It works best with hair that has some natural wave or curl.

11. The Crew Cut

The crew cut is a classic military-inspired hairstyle that is practical, masculine, and universally accepted. It is similar to a buzz cut but leaves a little more length on top, usually fading into shorter sides. The hair on top is often short enough to stand up on its own or can be styled slightly to the side. For oval faces, the crew cut highlights the shape of the head and the facial features without any distractions. It is a clean, sharp look that never goes out of style. It defines the jawline and cheekbones, giving the face a strong, chiseled appearance.

Because it is so short, the crew cut is incredibly easy to maintain. It requires very little product—maybe a tiny dab of paste if you want to add texture to the top. It is the perfect haircut for men who want a no-fuss routine but still want to look well-groomed. It fits into any environment, from a corporate boardroom to a gym. The crew cut is a safe, reliable choice that emphasizes the natural harmony of an oval face. It projects discipline and tidiness, which are always good qualities in a man's grooming routine.

12. The Taper Fade

The taper fade is less of a specific hairstyle on top and more of a technique used on the sides and back, but it is a crucial element for modern men's grooming. A taper fade involves gradually shortening the hair as it goes down the neck and around the ears, often ending in a skin fade. This creates a very clean, sharp outline that looks professionally done. For oval faces, a taper fade removes bulk from the sides, ensuring the face doesn't look round or wide. It creates a sleek silhouette that directs the eye upward to whatever style is chosen for the top.

You can combine a taper fade with almost any style on top—a pompadour, a crop, a side part, or messy curls. The fade adds a modern touch to even the most classic cuts. It requires regular maintenance to keep the gradient smooth and the edges sharp, usually meaning a trip to the barber every two to three weeks. However, the result is a crisp, clean look that enhances the overall shape of the haircut. For men with oval faces, the taper fade is the perfect finishing touch to ensure their hairstyle looks intentional, sharp, and perfectly balanced.

Conclusion

Having an oval face shape is a stylistic advantage that opens the door to nearly every hairstyle imaginable. From the low-maintenance ruggedness of a buzz cut to the high-volume drama of a pompadour, the balanced proportions of your face allow you to pull off a wide variety of looks with ease. The most important factor in choosing the right cut is not just your face shape, but your personal style, hair texture, and daily routine. By experimenting with these twelve go-to haircuts, you can discover a style that not only flatters your features but also boosts your confidence, ensuring you always present the best version of yourself to the world.