Men’s shaggy hairstyles are back, and not in a sloppy, grown-out way. In 2026, the shag is about texture, smart layering, and letting your hair move without losing control. It is relaxed, rugged, and confident when done properly.
This guide cuts through the noise. You will see which shaggy haircuts actually work, who they suit, and how to keep them looking sharp instead of fuzzy. If you are thinking about going shaggy, this is where you make the call with confidence.
What Is A Shaggy Hairstyle? (And Who Should Sport One)
Let’s get one thing straight. Shaggy hair is not “I gave up” hair. It is intentional chaos. Done right, it looks relaxed, rugged, and confident. Done wrong, you just look overdue for a haircut.
A shaggy hairstyle is a layered cut built with uneven lengths to create texture and movement. The layers do the heavy lifting. They add grit, let your hair fall naturally, and give your mane some bite without looking stiff.
This is not a sharp fade haircut. It is for men who want their hair to move when they walk.
Before you commit, run through this checklist:
- Best face shapes: Oval, heart, square.
Round faces need caution. Too much side bulk softens everything you want sharp. - Best hair types: Wavy, curly, thick.
Straight hair works only with a texturizing product. Skip it and things fall flat fast. - The vibe: Low maintenance, high texture, effortless cool.
You still need a mirror and a bit of product. You just do not chase perfection.
If you like structure and tight lines, this is not your cut. If you want hair with flow, fuzz, and attitude, you are in the right place.
22 Stylish Men’s Shaggy Hairstyles
Shaggy hair is not one haircut. It is a category. The difference between a great shag and a weak one comes down to layers, weight, and where the mess is allowed to live.
These men’s shaggy hairstyles cover everything from classic and restrained to rough around the edges. Some are easy wins. Some take confidence. All of them rely on texture doing the talking.
Classic Shaggy Cut
The classic shaggy cut is built on medium-length layers with a loose, natural finish. The shape is soft but intentional, with uneven ends that add movement instead of bulk. It looks casual, but every layer is placed with purpose.
This style works best on oval and square face shapes where balance is already on your side. Heart-shaped faces also do well, especially if the layers start lower to avoid extra volume at the crown. Wavy and thick hair are ideal, though straight hair can work with the right product.
Maintenance is simple but not lazy. Use a light matte cream or sea salt spray to add grit and separation. Trim every 6 to 8 weeks to stop the shape from collapsing into fuzz.
Layered Shaggy Hairstyle
The layered shaggy hairstyle pushes depth and dimension further than the classic version. Shorter layers sit higher on the head while longer pieces fall around the sides and back. This creates a fuller look without making the hair feel heavy.
It suits oval, heart, and square faces, especially if you want to add structure without sharp lines. Thick hair benefits most, as layers remove weight while keeping volume. Wavy hair also shines here, as the layers enhance natural movement.
To maintain it, focus on moisture at the ends and texture at the roots. A lightweight styling paste works well to define layers without stiffness. Keep trims regular to stop layers from blending into one flat shape.
Shaggy Hair with Fringe
Shaggy hair with a fringe adds attitude straight away. The fringe sits loose and slightly uneven, blending into the rest of the layers instead of sitting like a hard line. It frames the face while keeping the overall look relaxed.
This style works best for oval and heart-shaped faces, as the fringe helps balance wider foreheads. Square faces can wear it too, as long as the fringe stays soft and not too blunt. Wavy or straight hair works well, while thick hair benefits from light thinning.
Styling is minimal. Blow-dry forward with your fingers, then finish with a matte product for texture. Trim the fringe more often than the rest of the cut to avoid it dropping into your eyes.
Textured Shaggy Haircut
The textured shaggy haircut is all about separation and movement. The layers are cut to create visible breaks in the hair, giving it a rugged, broken-up finish. It looks effortless, but it is highly intentional.
It suits square and oval face shapes that can handle added texture without looking messy. Thicker hair types benefit most, as texture removes bulk and adds shape. Straight hair can pull it off, but only with the right styling product.
Maintenance revolves around product choice. A dry hair clay or sea salt spray adds grit without shine. Get it reshaped every couple of months to keep the texture sharp instead of fuzzy.
Messy Shaggy Style
The messy shaggy style leans fully into controlled disorder. Layers are uneven, ends are rough, and the finish is deliberately imperfect. It looks like you rolled out of bed, but with better instincts.
This cut works best on oval and square face shapes that can carry volume without looking soft. Wavy and thick hair are ideal because they naturally create separation. Fine hair can struggle here unless you add texture with product.
Maintenance is about restraint. Use a light matte cream or salt spray and stop touching it once it looks right. Trim every 6 to 8 weeks to keep the mess intentional, not sloppy.
Shaggy Mullet
The shaggy mullet keeps length through the back while layering the top and sides for movement. It is softer and more wearable than the old-school mullet, but it still has bite. This is confidence-first hair.
Best suited for oval and heart-shaped faces, especially if you want to add edge without going full retro. Wavy and curly hair work best, as they soften the transition between lengths. Straight hair needs texture to avoid looking flat and awkward.
Maintenance depends on balance. Keep the back tidy and the layers refreshed so the shape holds. A matte paste helps define separation without making it shiny or greasy.
Curly Shaggy Hairstyle
The curly shaggy hairstyle lets curls do what they want while giving them structure. Layers remove weight and stop curls from stacking into a triangle. The result is loose, rugged, and full of movement.
This style suits oval, square, and heart face shapes equally well. Curly hair types benefit the most, especially medium to thick density. Straight hair need not apply here.
Maintenance is about moisture and control. Use a curl cream to reduce frizz and define shape without crunch. Trims every 6 to 8 weeks keep curls springy instead of bulky.
Wavy Shaggy Hairstyle
The wavy shaggy hairstyle is one of the easiest men’s shaggy hairstyles to pull off. Natural waves add texture without trying, while layers keep the shape relaxed and wearable. It is casual, but never lazy.
This cut works well on oval and square faces, especially if you want movement without height. Thick and wavy hair are ideal, as they hold shape naturally. Straight hair can fake it with salt spray and a diffuser.
Maintenance is low effort. Let it air-dry whenever possible and add a touch of matte product to enhance separation. Keep trims consistent so waves do not lose their shape.
Shaggy Hair with Undercut
Shaggy hair with an undercut mixes loose texture up top with tight control underneath. The contrast is the point. Long, layered hair sits above short or shaved sides, giving the style edge without losing movement.
This look works best on oval and square face shapes that can handle strong contrast. Thick and wavy hair shine here because the top keeps volume without collapsing. Straight hair can work, but only if you add texture to avoid a limp finish.
Maintenance is split in two. The undercut needs regular cleanups every 3 to 4 weeks, while the shaggy top can go longer. Use a hair paste to keep the layers separated without killing movement.
Short Shaggy Cut
The short shaggy cut keeps things tight while still delivering texture. Layers are shorter and closer to the head, giving a rugged look without extra length. It is shaggy without looking wild.
This style suits oval, square, and heart-shaped faces, especially if you want something easy but not boring. Straight, wavy, and thick hair all work well here. Fine hair benefits from the added texture, as long as layers are not overdone.
Maintenance is straightforward. A small amount of clay or cream adds grit and control. Trim every 4 to 6 weeks to keep the shape sharp and stop fuzz from creeping in.
Long Shaggy Hairstyle
The long shaggy hairstyle leans into flow and movement. Layers are spread through the length to avoid that heavy, dragged-down look. It feels relaxed, but it still has structure underneath.
Best for oval and heart-shaped faces, where length helps balance proportions. Wavy and thick hair are ideal, as they prevent the style from looking flat. Straight hair can work, but it shows every mistake if layering is poor.
Maintenance takes patience. Condition the ends to prevent dryness and snagging. Regular trims every 8 weeks keep the shape alive without sacrificing length.
Shaggy Quiff
The shaggy quiff blends lift at the front with loose texture throughout the rest of the cut. It has presence without looking stiff or overworked. Think height with movement, not a solid wall of hair.
This style works well on square and oval face shapes, especially if you want to add height. Thick and wavy hair handle the volume best. Straight hair needs a blow dryer and product to hold shape.
Maintenance is about balance. Use a lightweight paste and lift the front without locking it in place. Keep trims regular so the quiff stays intentional instead of floppy.
Rocker Shaggy Hairstyle
The rocker shaggy hairstyle is rough, layered, and unapologetic. Length is uneven, ends are jagged, and the overall shape feels worn-in rather than styled. It looks better the less perfect it is.
This cut works best on oval and square face shapes that can handle attitude without tipping into chaos. Wavy and thick hair are ideal, as they naturally add grit and movement. Straight hair can work, but only if it has enough density to avoid looking stringy.
Maintenance is minimal but intentional. Use a matte cream or light paste to separate layers and add texture. Trim every 6 to 8 weeks to keep the shape rebellious, not reckless.
Shaggy Hair with Middle Part
Shaggy hair with a middle part brings balance and symmetry to an otherwise loose cut. Layers frame the face while the part keeps everything grounded. It feels relaxed but controlled.
Best suited to oval and heart-shaped faces, especially if you want to soften sharp features. Wavy and straight hair both work well here, as they allow the part to sit naturally. Thick hair benefits from layering to avoid excess bulk on the sides.
Maintenance is about keeping the part intentional. Blow-dry lightly to set the split, then finish with a touch of matte product. Regular trims keep the layers from collapsing into a flat curtain.
Shaggy Pompadour
The shaggy pompadour mixes volume at the front with texture throughout the rest of the cut. Unlike a classic pompadour, the height is softer and less rigid. It has presence without looking overly done.
This style works best on square and oval face shapes that can handle added height. Thick and wavy hair provide the best foundation for lift and movement. Fine hair may struggle unless supported with product and careful styling.
Maintenance requires a bit more effort. Blow-dry the front for lift, then use a lightweight paste to keep things flexible. Trim regularly to maintain shape and stop the top from losing structure.
Shaggy Hair with Beard
Shaggy hair with a beard is about balance from top to bottom. The loose layers up top contrast with the weight and structure of facial hair. When done right, the whole look feels grounded and rugged.
This pairing works on most face shapes, as the beard helps correct proportions. Thick, wavy, or curly hair pairs best with medium to full beards. Straight hair can work, but the beard needs to carry more visual weight.
Maintenance is a two-part job. Keep the hair textured and light while the beard stays trimmed and intentional. Regular shaping on both keeps the look sharp instead of overgrown.
Shaggy Faux Hawk
The shaggy faux hawk adds attitude without committing to shaved sides. Length stays focused through the center, while the sides are layered rather than tight. It gives height, movement, and a controlled edge.
This style suits oval and square face shapes that can handle vertical emphasis. Thick and wavy hair work best because they hold volume without stiffness. Straight hair can pull it off, but only with product to keep the center from collapsing.
Maintenance takes intention. Use a matte paste to push the center upward while keeping the sides loose. Trim every 5 to 7 weeks so the shape stays sharp instead of drifting sideways.
Surfer Shaggy Hairstyle
The surfer shaggy hairstyle is loose, sun-worn, and full of natural flow. Layers are long and relaxed, giving the hair that salt-soaked movement everyone tries to fake. It looks best when it feels effortless.
This cut works best on oval and heart-shaped faces, where length softens angles. Wavy hair is the clear winner here, though thick straight hair can work with the right texture. Fine hair struggles unless it has natural bend.
Maintenance is low pressure. Use sea salt spray to add grit and let it air-dry whenever possible. Trim lightly every 8 weeks to keep the shape without losing length.
Shaggy Wolf Cut for Straight Hair
The shaggy wolf cut for straight hair blends short layers up top with longer length through the back. It creates contrast and structure where straight hair usually falls flat. The result is sharp, modern, and aggressive.
This style suits oval and square face shapes that can handle bold layering. Straight and thick hair are ideal, as the cut relies on structure rather than curl. Fine hair can work, but only if density is decent.
Maintenance is about definition. Use a dry clay or texturizing cream to separate layers and add grit. Regular trims every 6 weeks are essential to keep the shape from losing its bite.
Shaggy Caesar Cut
The shaggy Caesar cut is short, textured, and slightly forward-facing. Unlike the classic Caesar, this version uses uneven layers to add movement and softness. It keeps things tight without looking rigid.
This cut works well on square and oval face shapes, especially if you want something controlled but not boring. Straight and wavy hair handle it best, as they keep the fringe sitting naturally. Thicker hair benefits from light thinning.
Maintenance is easy. A small amount of matte product adds texture without shine. Trim every 4 to 6 weeks to keep the fringe sharp and stop fuzz from creeping in.
Short 70s Shaggy Hairstyle
The short 70s shaggy hairstyle is tight, layered, and unapologetically retro. Length stays controlled, but the layers are choppy and uneven, giving it that vintage grit without going costume. It feels broken-in, not styled.
This cut works best on oval and square face shapes that can carry texture without bulk. Straight and wavy hair are ideal because they show off the layering clearly. Thick hair benefits too, as long as weight is removed properly.
Maintenance is easy but consistent. Use a light matte cream to add separation and keep the shape loose. Trim every 5 to 7 weeks to stop it drifting into a generic short cut.
Skater Shaggy Hairstyle
The skater shaggy hairstyle is loose, layered, and slightly reckless by design. Length falls naturally around the face, with soft ends and minimal structure. It looks best when it moves and never sits perfectly still.
This style suits oval and heart-shaped faces, especially if you want something relaxed but confident. Straight and wavy hair work best, as they keep the flow natural. Fine hair can work if it has enough length to avoid looking thin.
Maintenance is minimal but not careless. Sea salt spray adds grit and movement without weight. Trim lightly every 8 weeks to keep the shape without losing that skater edge.
Shaggy hair is not about copying a photo. It is about choosing a cut that works with your hair type, not against it. Get that right and the style takes care of the rest.
How To Maintain Men’s Shaggy Hairstyles Like A Pro
A shaggy haircut only looks good if you treat it properly. Ignore it completely and it turns limp or fuzzy. Overwork it and you kill the movement that made you want the cut in the first place.
This is about control without overcontrol. Get these fundamentals right and every shag works better.
The “No-Shampoo” Rule
Shaggy hair thrives on second-day grit. Daily shampoo strips the natural oils that give your layers weight, separation, and hold. That is why fresh-washed shags often look flat and weak.
Instead, shampoo once or twice a week at most. On off days, rinse with water or use a light conditioner to keep the ends from drying out. The result is hair with grip, texture, and far more personality.
Mastering the “Scrunch” Technique
Scrunching is not random squeezing. Done right, it adds movement and separation without turning your hair into a crunch-fest.
Apply sea salt spray to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends, not the roots. Then scrunch upward with your hands, lifting the hair instead of smashing it. Let it air-dry or hit it lightly with a diffuser for extra texture.
Handling the “Awkward Stage”
Every shag goes through a phase where the layers stop behaving. Length grows unevenly, volume shifts, and things feel slightly off. This is normal.
Do not panic and buzz it off. Use a small amount of matte cream to tame rogue sections and keep shape through the sides. A light trim around the edges is usually enough to reset the cut without losing progress.
Get these basics right and every shaggy haircut works harder for you. Ignore them and even the best cut turns soft, fuzzy, and forgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Men’s shaggy hairstyles gets talked about a lot. Mostly by guys who like the look but are not sure they can pull it off. Let’s clear up the noise and deal with the real questions.
Is shaggy hair attractive on men?
Yes, when it suits the man wearing it. Shaggy hair looks confident because it moves and feels natural, not frozen in place. On the wrong face shape or hair type, though, it just reads as messy.
The attraction comes from intent. When the cut fits your structure and your hair has grit instead of grease, it works.
Are shaggy hairstyles low-maintenance?
They are low effort, not zero effort. You do not need daily blow-dries or perfect lines, but you do need texture and basic upkeep. Ignore it completely and it turns fuzzy fast.
If you can handle light product and the occasional trim, shaggy hair is easy to live with.
Can I have a shaggy haircut if I have fine or thinning hair?
Yes, but you need the right version of a shag. Shorter layers and controlled length add movement without exposing thin areas. Long, heavy shags will only make thinning more obvious.
This is one case where less is more. Texture helps. Overgrowth does not.
How do I keep shaggy hair from looking messy instead of styled?
Messy and shapeless are not the same thing. Use a small amount of matte product to add separation and guide the hair where it should fall. Then stop touching it.
If your hair looks wild by midday, it is usually a cut or product problem, not the style itself.
Shaggy hair works when you understand what it needs and what it does not. Get that right, and the look feels natural instead of forced.
The Beard Beasts Verdict
Men’s shaggy hairstyles are not a trend you copy. They are a decision you commit to. When the cut matches your face shape, your hair type, and your tolerance for texture, men’s shaggy hairstyles look confident without trying too hard.
Get it wrong and it looks careless. Get it right and the best men’s shaggy hairstyles do exactly what good grooming should do: they sharpen your presence without announcing themselves. Pick your shag wisely. Then let it work.
