Long top short sides haircuts are a modern men’s haircut. The hair on top is kept longer. The sides and back are cut short or faded. This creates a clean and sharp contrast. It also gives you many styling options. You can keep it neat or style it messy.
This haircut is trending in 2026 for a clear reason. It blends the old money clean look with a modern edge. Perfect for work, events, and casual days, it fits almost every lifestyle. Most face shapes and hair types suit this style well. As a result, men all over the world prefer it.
In this guide, you will discover 40 of the best long top short sides haircuts. Each style is chosen based on current trends and versatility. You will also learn simple tips to maintain and style your haircut.
The Master Style Gallery (40 Trending Cuts)
Category 1: The Fade Authority
This section is designed for men who want a high-contrast look that highlights facial features. These styles keep the sides skin-tight to make the volume on top stand out with maximum sharpness.
1. Pompadour Fade
A timeless style that combines vintage volume on top with a modern skin fade on the sides.
- Best for adding height to rounder face shapes.
- Requires a high-shine pomade for the classic look.
2. High Skin Fade with Textured Top
A rugged, edgy style where the top is kept messy to create a natural, effortless vibe.
- Perfect for gym-goers and active lifestyles.
- Use texture powder to keep the hair standing all day.
3.Hard Part with High Tapered Fade
This style features a surgically precise “razor line” that clearly separates the long top from the faded sides.
- Creates a very clean and organized appearance.
- Needs regular touch-ups to keep the part line sharp.
4. Sleek High and Tight Fade
A military-inspired cut that is extremely short on the sides and just long enough on top to style.
- The ultimate low-maintenance choice for busy men.
- Works best with a small amount of matte wax or gel.
5. Burst Fade Side Part
A creative twist where the fade curves around the ear, leaving more hair at the back of the neck.
- Unique visual appeal that stands out from standard fades.
- Great for men with thick hair who want to reduce bulk.
Category 2: The Modern Side Part
These styles are the gold standard for professional and formal environments. They blend classic grooming with modern tapering to achieve the popular “Old Money” aesthetic.
6. Classic Side Part
The most reliable haircut for any man, featuring a simple partition and neatly tapered sides.
- Suits almost every face shape and hair type.
- Can be styled in under 5 minutes with a comb and cream.
7. Side Part Old Money Haircut
A sophisticated version of the side part that uses soft tapers instead of harsh skin fades.
- Radiates a high-end, disciplined, and wealthy look.
- Requires medium-length hair on top for the perfect flow.
8. Slicked Side Part with High Fade
A bold professional look that uses a high fade to add a modern “edge” to a corporate style.
- Best for men who want to look sharp but fashionable.
- Requires a strong-hold product to keep the hair flat and neat.
9. Ivy League Side Part
A shorter, athletic version of the side part that is very popular in prestigious universities.
- Extremely easy to style with just a little bit of fiber or clay.
- Keeps you looking polished even during physical activities.
10. Korean Side Part (Two-Block)
Inspired by K-Pop trends, this style features a “disconnected” top that hangs slightly over the faded sides.
- Ideal for younger men with straight or soft hair.
- Gives a youthful and trendy appearance.
Category 3: Textured & Messy
If you prefer a “woke up like this” look that still looks intentional, this category is for you. These styles focus on movement and volume rather than neatness.
11. Textured Crop Top Fade
A very popular modern cut where the top is cut into layers to create a “choppy” feel.
- Excellent for hiding a receding hairline or thinning hair.
- Style it forward toward the forehead for the best look.
12. Messy Textured Crop with Skin Fade
A high-contrast version of the crop that uses a skin fade to make the messy top pop.
- Requires a matte clay to avoid a greasy look.
- Works best for men with naturally thick or wavy hair.
13. Perfectly Disheveled Top
A style that looks chaotic but is actually carefully layered to fall into place naturally.
- Zero-effort styling—just rub some product and go.
- Great for weekend hangouts and casual dates.
14. Layered Choppy Top with Drop Fade
Uses a “drop fade” (which sinks behind the ear) to follow the natural shape of the head.
- Adds a lot of dimension and depth to the hair.
- Best styled with a sea salt spray for extra “grit.”
15. Short Hair with Long Front Strands
Keep the back and crown short while leaving the fringe long enough to hang over the eyes.
- Highly customizable—can be swept to the side or left messy.
- Great for framing the face and highlighting the jawline.
Category 4: The Undercut Collection
This category focuses on high-contrast designs where the sides are disconnected from the top. These long top short sides haircuts are perfect for men who want a sharp, aggressive look that makes a strong style statement.
16. Quiff with Undercut
A bold combination where the hair is swept upward and backward, while the sides are shaved down uniformly.
- Adds significant height to the wearer’s profile.
- Needs a blow-dryer and strong-hold wax for maximum volume.
17. Disconnected Undercut
The top hair is kept long and hangs over the shaved sides without any blending or fading.
- Creates a dramatic and sharp visual contrast.
- Ideal for men who want to switch between a man-bun and loose hair.
18. Side Part Undercut
A hybrid style that brings the neatness of a side part to the edgy feel of an undercut.
- Provides a clean-cut look with a modern, rebellious twist.
- Best styled with a medium-shine pomade for definition.
19. Undercut with Spiky Textured Top
The top is cut into sharp, vertical layers while the sides remain disconnected and short.
- Perfect for a youthful, energetic appearance.
- Use a styling “mud” or heavy-duty clay to keep spikes in place.
20. Modern Bowl Cut
A 2026 trend where the hair is cut at a uniform length around the head with a sharp undercut underneath.
- A high-fashion look that suits men with straight hair.
- Requires precise trimming to maintain the circular shape.
Category 5: Natural Waves & Curls
Managing natural texture becomes much easier with the right long top short sides haircuts. These styles celebrate your natural curls on top while keeping the sides neat to prevent a frizzy or unkempt look.
21. Wavy Textured Top with Mid Fade
Uses a mid-level fade to bridge the gap between curly volume on top and skin on the bottom.
- Enhances the natural “S” shape of wavy hair.
- Best styled with a curl-enhancing cream on damp hair.
22. Curly High Top Fade
A tall, structured look where curls are allowed to grow upward while the sides are faded high.
- Great for adding verticality to shorter face shapes.
- Requires regular hydration to keep curls looking healthy.
23. Curly Side Part
A rare and sophisticated look that forces a clean partition into naturally curly or wavy hair.
- Offers a unique, “tamed” version of natural curls.
- Use a wide-tooth comb to avoid breaking the curl pattern.
24. Draped Waves
The hair is left long enough to fall naturally over the sides, supported by a hidden taper underneath.
- Perfect for a relaxed, “surfer-chic” aesthetic.
- Works best with sea salt spray for a matte, beachy finish.
25. Curly Shag with Short Sides
A more layered and “rockstar” approach where curls fall in different directions around the crown.
- Provides a lot of movement and personality.
- Very low maintenance, the messier it gets, the better it looks.
Category 6: Afro & Braided Textures
For men with coily or afro-textured hair, long top short sides haircuts provide the perfect balance of heritage and modern grooming. These cuts keep the edges crisp while allowing the natural crown to shine.
26. Short Afro Fade
A classic look that keeps the afro rounded on top with a clean, circular fade on the sides.
- One of the most popular and professional ways to wear an afro.
- Keep it fresh with a daily leave-in conditioner.
27. Short Sides with Locs
Features traditional locs on top with a sharp fade or undercut to keep the look modern.
- Reduces the weight of the hair while keeping the length.
- Allows for easy styling into ponytails or top-knots.
28. Side Part Braids
The hair is braided into neat rows on top, with a distinct side partition and faded sides.
- An extremely protective style that lasts for weeks.
- Perfect for highlighting intricate braiding patterns.
29. Cascading Locs with Shaved Sides
Longer locs that fall to the shoulders, paired with a high skin fade for a dramatic contrast.
- A bold, artistic choice for a creative lifestyle.
- Requires scalp oil to keep the shaved areas healthy.
30. Afro Hair with Tapered Sides
A softer transition where the hair gradually shortens toward the ears rather than a sharp fade.
- Ideal for a more conservative or traditional look.
- Best for men who prefer a fuller look on the sides.
Category 7: Slick & Retro Styles
These styles draw inspiration from vintage grooming but are updated with modern fading techniques. These long top short sides haircuts are the best choice for men who prefer a polished, “gentleman” aesthetic that never goes out of fashion.
31. Slicked Back with Side Part
A classic fusion where the hair is combed back at an angle to combine a sleek profile with a sharp partition.
- Ideal for formal events and high-level business meetings.
- Requires a high-hold pomade to keep the hair in place all day.
32. 1950’s Greaser Style
A high-volume look that uses significant length on top to create a “ducktail” or “slick-back” effect.
- Perfect for fans of vintage Americana and rockabilly culture.
- Works best with oil-based pomades for that authentic retro shine.
33. Brushed Back Taper
A softer, more natural version of the slick back that uses a taper instead of a skin fade for a conservative finish.
- Great for older men or those in strictly professional environments.
- Can be styled with a light cream for a touchable, soft texture.
34. Side Part Slick Back
A hybrid style that features a hard side part while the rest of the hair is pulled straight back.
- Provides a very structured and “organized” masculine look.
- Best for men with straight hair that lies flat easily.
35. Brushed-Forward Caesar
A retro cut where the top is brushed toward the face, ending in a short fringe, paired with sharp sides.
- Excellent for framing the face and hiding a high forehead.
- Use a matte paste to keep the forward-fringe looking modern.
Category 8: Unique & Creative Cuts
If you want to move away from traditional trends, this section explores experimental long top short sides haircuts. These styles use unconventional shapes and lengths to ensure you stand out in any crowd.
36. Man Bun with Fade
Features a long top tied into a knot at the crown, with the sides and back faded down to the skin.
- The perfect solution for long-haired men who want to stay cool in summer.
- Keep the bun at the “vertex” of the head for the best silhouette.
37. Faux Hawk Fade
The hair is styled into a central ridge that mimics a mohawk, but with a more wearable fade on the sides.
- Provides an athletic and youthful vibe without being too extreme.
- Needs a strong-hold gel or wax to keep the “hawk” upright.
38. Side Part Mullet
A 2026 transformation of the classic mullet, featuring a neat side part on top and short sides, but keeping the back long.
- A trending “party in the back, business in the front” style.
- Ideal for those with wavy or curly hair at the nape of the neck.
39. Shattered Bangs
Features an uneven, jagged fringe that hangs over the forehead with disconnected short sides.
- A very artistic look that suits high-fashion or creative industries.
- Requires texturizing shears to get that “shattered” or choppy effect.
40. Side Part Two Block
A staple in modern Asian fashion where the top and bottom are kept in two distinct “blocks” of length.
- Provides a very clean, youthful, and almost futuristic appearance.
- Best styled with a lightweight mousse to maintain natural movement.
The Selection Blueprint: Which Style Suits You?
Choosing the right long top short sides haircut starts with your face shape. Round faces look better with more height on top and tighter sides. Square faces suit sharp fades and structured tops. Oval faces are flexible and can carry almost any style. Heart-shaped faces look balanced with medium volume and soft side fades. The table below shows the best matches clearly.
| Face Shape | Best Long Top Short Sides Pick |
| Round | High volume top with tight fade |
| Square | Clean fade with textured top |
| Oval | Any long top short sides style |
| Heart | Medium top with soft sides |
Hair texture is just as important as face shape. Straight hair works best with sleek and clean styles. Wavy hair looks great with textured and layered tops. Curly hair needs short sides with controlled length on top. Coily or Afro hair suits high fades with shaped or twisted tops. When face shape and hair texture match, your long top short sides haircut looks sharp and natural.
The Barber Brief: How to Get the Look
Before you sit in the barber chair, know the right terms. A taper keeps hair gradually shorter near the neckline and temples. A fade blends the sides into the skin more clearly. A skin fade goes fully down to the skin for a bold look. Use these words so your barber understands your long top short sides haircut clearly. It saves time and avoids confusion.
- Bring a clear reference image with front and side views
- Tell the barber what you like about the photo, not just the photo
- Ask if the style suits your hairline and head shape
- Confirm how short the sides will be and how long the top stays
- Ask about daily styling and maintenance
These small steps help you get the exact look you want.
Styling Lab: Master Your Look at Home
Styling a long top short sides haircut at home is simple if you follow the right steps. Start by deciding if your hair should be wet or dry. Wet hair is better for smooth and sleek styles. Dry or slightly damp hair works well for textured looks. Always prep your hair before using heat.
- Pre-Styling: Use sea salt spray for texture or a heat protectant before blow-drying
- Blow-Dry: Dry the sides first, then lift the top upward for volume
- Direction: Use your fingers or a round brush to shape the top
- Finish: Apply product in small amounts and spread it evenly
For curly hair, use a light cream to define curls without stiffness. Afro or coily hair looks best with moisturizers and shaping creams. This keeps the style neat and healthy.
Product Arsenal: What to Buy in 2026
Using the right products makes your long top short sides haircut look better and last longer. Clays and pastes are best for matte and textured styles. Pomades work well for slick and shiny looks. Texture powder adds instant volume without weight. Argan oil keeps hair soft and healthy.
| Product Type | Best Use | Finish |
| Clay / Paste | Messy and textured styles | Matte |
| Pomade | Slick back and classic looks | Shiny |
| Texture Powder | Thin hair and extra volume | Natural |
| Argan Oil | Dry or frizzy hair | Smooth |
| Clarifying Shampoo | Removes product buildup | Clean |
| Hydrating Conditioner | Restores moisture | Healthy |
Maintenance products are just as important as styling products. Use clarifying shampoo once a week to clean buildup. Apply hydrating conditioner to avoid dryness. This routine keeps your haircut fresh in 2026.
Conclusion
A long top short side haircut is a smart choice for modern men. It looks clean, stylish, and easy to manage. This style works with different face shapes and hair types. With the right cut, you can upgrade your overall look. Small changes can make a big difference.
The key is choosing the right style and maintaining it well. Talk clearly with your barber and use the right products. Follow a simple styling routine at home. This will keep your haircut fresh and confident. A good haircut always boosts your personality.
FAQs
1. What is a long top short side haircut?
It’s a hairstyle where the top is left long and the sides are cut short or faded for a clean, stylish look.
2. Does this haircut suit all face shapes?
Yes, but the exact style can be adjusted for round, square, oval, or heart-shaped faces.
3. How do I style it at home?
Use a blow-dryer for volume, apply clay or pomade, and follow a simple step-by-step routine based on your hair type.
4. What products work best for this style?
Clays and pastes for matte looks, pomades for slick styles, and argan oil for smoothness and hair health.
5. How often should I get a haircut?
Every 3, 5 weeks to maintain the sharp contrast and keep the style looking fresh.
