13 Easy Hairstyles Perfect for Beginners

Choosing a new hairstyle can be an overwhelming experience, especially if you are not used to spending a lot of time on grooming. With countless trends popping up on social media and complex terminology being used in salons, it is easy to feel lost. However, looking good does not have to be complicated. The best hairstyles for beginners are those that require minimal styling effort, grow out gracefully, and suit a wide variety of face shapes and hair types. These cuts rely on good structure rather than heavy product usage, allowing you to wake up, do a quick check in the mirror, and get on with your day.

This guide focuses on thirteen easy-to-manage hairstyles that are perfect for anyone starting their journey into better grooming. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, there is a simple option here that will elevate your look without adding stress to your morning routine. These styles are timeless, versatile, and low-maintenance, making them the ideal entry point for men who want to look sharp with zero fuss. By understanding the basics of these cuts, you can communicate confidently with your stylist and walk away with a look that makes you feel great.

1. The Buzz Cut

The buzz cut is the ultimate low-maintenance hairstyle and a perfect starting point for beginners who want a clean slate. This style involves clipping the hair very short all over the head, usually with a uniform length. It highlights the natural shape of the head and brings attention to facial features like the jawline and eyes. Because the hair is so short, there is absolutely no need for styling products like gels, waxes, or sprays. You can literally roll out of bed and be ready to go in seconds. It is also an excellent choice for men with thinning hair, as it minimizes the contrast between thin spots and fuller areas.

Despite its simplicity, the buzz cut can be customized to look more modern and intentional. You can ask for a slight fade on the sides to add some dimension, or keep the top just a tiny bit longer than the sides for a more structured appearance. This cut is incredibly practical for active lifestyles, as sweat won't mess up your hair, and it keeps you cool during hot weather. It eliminates bad hair days entirely. While it requires frequent trims to keep the length consistent, the daily time saved on washing, drying, and styling is unmatched by any other haircut.

2. The Crew Cut

The crew cut is a classic style that has stood the test of time because it is practical, masculine, and easy to maintain. It is slightly longer than a buzz cut, featuring short hair on the sides and back that tapers up to a slightly longer length on top. The hair at the front hairline is usually left the longest, allowing for a very subtle style, such as a short quiff or a side sweep. This cut is often associated with military or athletic backgrounds, but it works perfectly in any professional or casual setting. A skilled barber will know exactly how to blend the lengths to suit your head shape.

Styling a crew cut takes minimal effort, which is why it is ideal for beginners. Most men find that a pea-sized amount of matte paste or clay is enough to give the top a bit of texture and hold. You simply rub the product between your hands and run it through the top of your hair. Alternatively, you can leave it product-free for a softer, more natural look. The crew cut grows out evenly, meaning you won't look unkempt if you miss a haircut appointment by a week or two. It is a reliable, no-nonsense option that always looks tidy.

3. The French Crop

The French Crop is a modern, stylish haircut that has become incredibly popular because it is both trendy and easy to manage. This cut features short sides, often with a fade, and a short top that is textured and styled forward towards the forehead. It usually ends with a straight or slightly choppy fringe. The main advantage of the French Crop is that it is designed to be messy. You don't need to worry about getting every hair perfectly in place; the texture is part of the appeal. It works exceptionally well for men with receding hairlines, as the forward fringe provides natural coverage.

To style this look, all you really need is a texturizing powder or a light clay. Apply the product to dry hair and use your fingers to mess it up and push it forward. The whole process takes less than a minute. This hairstyle is perfect for beginners because it looks high-fashion and deliberate without requiring advanced styling skills. It suits most face shapes and hair types, from straight to wavy. The contrast between the short sides and the textured top creates a sharp, defined silhouette that looks great with casual streetwear or smart-casual outfits.

4. The Ivy League

The Ivy League haircut, also known as the Princeton or Harvard clip, is essentially a polished version of the crew cut. It leaves enough length on the top—usually an inch or two—to be parted to the side. This simple addition of a side part elevates the look significantly, moving it into the realm of Sophisticated Hairstyles that are perfect for the office or formal events. It offers the best of both worlds: the low maintenance of a short cut with the styling versatility of a longer one. It is a smart, preppy look that has been a staple of American men's style for decades.

Beginners love the Ivy League because it is foolproof. It naturally wants to sit in a neat shape, so you don't have to fight your hair to make it look good. For a formal look, you can use a comb and a little pomade to define the part. For a relaxed weekend vibe, you can use your fingers to create a looser, textured style. It is a cut that commands respect and implies that you have your life together. It works well with straight and wavy hair and is flattering on almost every face shape, making it a very safe bet for a new look.

5. The Messy Top with Short Sides

This hairstyle is exactly what it sounds like: the sides are kept short and neat, while the top is left longer and cut to encourage texture and movement. It is the perfect "I woke up like this" look that actually looks good. The contrast between the tidy sides and the chaotic top creates a balanced aesthetic that is fun and youthful. This style is particularly forgiving for beginners because imperfections in styling are hard to spot. If a piece of hair is out of place, it just looks like part of the style.

Styling this cut is incredibly simple. After washing your hair, you can let it air dry or give it a quick blast with a blow dryer. Then, take a small amount of styling cream or wax, rub it into your hands, and scrunch it into the top of your hair. You can push it up, to the side, or forward—there are no strict rules. This freedom makes it a great choice for experimenting with different looks without committing to a rigid style. It works well for thick hair, as the messy texture helps to break up the bulk and make the hair more manageable.

6. The Classic Taper

The Classic Taper is a timeless haircut that features hair that gets gradually shorter as it goes down the back and sides. Unlike a fade, which often blends down to the skin, a taper leaves some length around the ears and neckline, creating a softer and more traditional outline. The top is left long enough to be combed back or to the side. This is one of the best Summer Haircuts because it removes bulk from the sides and back, keeping you cool, while still retaining enough length on top to style and protect your scalp from the sun.

This cut is ideal for beginners who want a professional look that doesn't feel too severe or trendy. It grows out very naturally, avoiding the awkward phases that come with sharper cuts. Maintenance involves a simple trim every few weeks to keep the edges clean. Styling can be as simple as combing it into place while damp and letting it dry naturally. If you want a bit more hold, a light grooming cream will keep flyaways in check without making the hair look stiff or greasy. It is a gentleman's cut that fits perfectly in any environment.

7. The Side Part

The side part is arguably the most versatile and universally recognized men's hairstyle. It consists of a visible parting line on one side of the head, with the hair combed away from the part on both sides. While it can look very strict and formal, it can also be worn in a more relaxed way for everyday life. For beginners, the side part provides a clear template for styling: find the part, comb the hair, and you are done. There is no guesswork involved in where the hair should go.

To make this style even easier, you can ask your stylist to locate your natural part, which is where your hair naturally separates. Following this natural line ensures that the hair will stay in place with minimal effort. You can use a comb for a sharp, defined look or your fingers for a softer, modern finish. It works on almost all hair lengths, from short to medium. A medium-hold pomade is usually sufficient to keep the style in place throughout the day. The side part frames the face beautifully and adds a touch of classic elegance to any outfit.

8. The Butch Cut

The Butch Cut is a step up in length from the buzz cut but follows the same principle of uniform length. The hair is clipped to the same length all over the head, usually between a quarter inch and three-quarters of an inch. It is longer than a buzz cut but shorter than a crew cut. This extra length allows for a tiny bit of texture but requires zero styling. It is a rugged, masculine look that is incredibly easy to maintain. If you are searching for a "barber near me" to get this cut, you will find that almost any professional can execute it perfectly in a matter of minutes.

This style is perfect for men who want to minimize their grooming routine as much as possible. You don't need a comb, a blow dryer, or any products. The only maintenance required is regular visits to the shop to keep the length consistent, as it can start to look untidy as it grows out. It is a great option for men with strong facial features or a well-shaped head. It is also a very practical choice for athletes or men who work manual labor jobs, as it keeps hair out of the eyes and stays cool and clean all day long.

9. The Caesar Cut

Named after Julius Caesar, this haircut is defined by short, horizontally straight cut bangs. The hair on the top, back, and sides is typically cut to the same short length, often around one to two inches. It is similar to a French Crop but usually shorter and neater. The Caesar cut is excellent for beginners because it is low-profile and requires very little styling. The forward-swept bangs help to conceal a receding hairline, making it a popular choice for men of all ages. It is a compact, neat style that looks intentional and groomed.

Styling a Caesar cut is effortless. You simply push the hair forward from the crown of your head towards your forehead. A tiny dab of matte paste can help keep the fringe in place and add a little texture, but it is not strictly necessary. Because the hair is short, it dries very quickly after a shower. This cut is perfect for men with straight or slightly wavy hair. It has a distinctive look that sets it apart from a standard crew cut, giving you a bit of character without the hassle of a high-maintenance style.

10. The Slicked Back Undercut

For beginners who want a bolder look, the slicked-back undercut is a fantastic option. This style features shaved or very short sides with significantly longer hair on top. The long hair is brushed straight back, creating a high-contrast, streamlined look. While it looks dramatic, the styling concept is actually very simple: everything on top goes backward. There is no complicated parting or texturing to worry about. The short sides mean you only have to manage the hair on top of your head, reducing the overall styling time.

To achieve this look, you will need a product with decent hold, like a pomade or gel. Apply the product to damp hair and use a comb to smooth it all back. Once it is set, you usually don't have to touch it for the rest of the day. This style keeps hair out of your face and looks very sharp and modern. It works best for men with straight hair. Although it requires a bit more product than the other cuts on this list, the technique is straightforward enough for a complete beginner to master after just one or two tries.

11. The Textured Quiff (Short)

A short, textured quiff is a great way to introduce some volume to your hair without going overboard. This style features short sides and a top that is slightly longer at the front. The hair at the forehead is brushed up and back to create a small "quiff" or wave. Unlike a large, retro quiff that requires blow-drying and round brushing, a short textured quiff can be styled with just your hands. It adds height to the face, which can be very flattering, especially for men with rounder face shapes.

This hairstyle is forgiving and flexible. You can make the quiff neat for work or messy for a night out. To style it, take a small amount of clay or wax, rub it through your hands, and push your bangs up and back. You can pinch sections of hair to create texture and definition. It doesn't need to be perfect; a little bit of messiness adds to the charm. It is a fun, energetic style that feels modern and youthful. It allows beginners to experiment with volume and height in a manageable, low-stakes way.

12. The Induction Cut

The induction cut is the shortest possible haircut you can get without using a razor on the scalp. It is named after the haircut given to new military recruits upon induction. It is essentially a buzz cut done with no guard on the clippers, leaving only stubble. This is the definition of zero maintenance. You never have to wash, dry, or brush your hair. It is a bold, stark look that completely exposes the face and head shape. For beginners who are tired of dealing with hair altogether, this is the most liberating option available.

While it is an extreme look, it has a certain confident, minimalist appeal. It works well with facial hair, as a beard can balance out the shortness of the hair on top. The only "styling" involved is keeping your scalp healthy and protected from the sun. If you choose this cut, you will need to visit the barber frequently to maintain the stubble length, or you can easily learn to do it yourself at home with a pair of clippers. It is the ultimate fresh start for your hair journey, removing all complications instantly.

13. The Shaggy Mop (Medium Length)

If you prefer having longer hair but don't want to deal with complex styling, the shaggy mop is a great choice. This style is cut to a medium length all over, often covering the ears and reaching the collar. It is heavily layered to remove weight and encourage natural movement. The vibe is relaxed, casual, and effortless. It works particularly well for men with wavy or curly hair, as the layers help the curls sit nicely without poofing out. It is a classic "surfer" or "indie rocker" look that is always in style.

The beauty of the shaggy mop is that it is supposed to look a bit messy. You don't need to blow-dry it or use heavy hold products. In fact, it often looks best when air-dried. A sea salt spray or a light leave-in conditioner is all you need to enhance the texture and keep frizz at bay. Just spray it in damp hair, scrunch it with your hands, and let it go. It is a low-pressure hairstyle that embraces your natural texture rather than fighting against it. For beginners who are afraid of going too short, this is a comfortable and stylish alternative.

Conclusion

Starting a grooming routine doesn't mean you have to become an expert stylist overnight. By choosing one of these thirteen easy hairstyles, you can look polished and put-together with minimal effort. The key is to find a cut that works with your natural hair texture and fits your lifestyle. Whether you prefer the military precision of a buzz cut, the classic charm of a side part, or the relaxed vibe of a shaggy mop, there is a beginner-friendly option for you.

Remember, the best hairstyle is one that makes you feel confident. Don't be afraid to try a few different looks until you find the one that feels right. Communicate with your barber, ask for advice on maintenance, and enjoy the simplicity of a great haircut. With the right foundation, you'll find that managing your hair becomes a quick and easy part of your day rather than a chore.