Best Long Hairstyles for Men to Try in 2026
- The Finest List Maker
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Long hairstyles for men are no longer niche. In 2026, they are fully mainstream, worn across creative fields, fashion, tech, and even corporate environments when styled correctly. The modern long hairstyle is intentional, structured, and well-groomed, not neglected or shapeless.
The key to pulling off long hair is control and proportion. Length alone is not the style. Shape, texture, and maintenance define whether long hair looks elevated or sloppy.
This guide breaks down the 15 best long hairstyles for men, ranked by wearability, style impact, and relevance in 2026.
Also make sure to check out Best Hairstyles for Men and Best Hairstyles for Older Men.
Table of Contents
Top 15 Long Hairstyles for Men in 2026 (Ranked)
Why Long Hairstyles Are Back in Style
FAQ About Long Hairstyles for Men
Top 15 Long Hairstyles for Men in 2026 (Ranked)
1. Shoulder-Length Layered Hair
This is the gold standard of modern long hair. Layers add movement, reduce heaviness, and keep the style flexible across casual and professional settings.
Style Icon:Â Keanu Reeves, known for relaxed yet intentional shoulder-length styles.
2. Long Textured Waves
Natural waves add volume and character. Texture keeps long hair from falling flat and gives it a lived-in, masculine edge.
Style Icon:Â Jason Momoa, whose waves define rugged long-hair styling.
3. Long Slick Back
A long slick back is polished and controlled. It works best when paired with healthy hair and subtle layering to avoid a flat look.
Style Icon:Â Brad Pitt, often wearing long slicked-back styles in film and public appearances.
4. Man Bun
The man bun remains relevant when done cleanly. Lower buns and loose texture look more modern than tight, high knots.
Style Icon:Â Chris Hemsworth, frequently styling long hair into relaxed buns.
5. Half-Up Half-Down
This style balances structure and freedom. It keeps hair out of the face while preserving length and movement.
Style Icon:Â Jared Leto, known for experimental long-hair styling.
6. Long Curtains
Center-parted long hair has made a strong return. When appropriately layered, curtains frame the face rather than overpower it.
Style Icon: Timothée Chalamet, often blending length with softness.
7. Long Layered Shag
The modern shag uses layers and texture to create shape. It works best for men with natural wave or curl.
Style Icon:Â Joe Keery, whose shag styles feel current and expressive.
8. Long Hair with Beard
Pairing long hair with a well-groomed beard creates balance. Clean lines in the beard keep the look intentional.
Style Icon:Â Jake Gyllenhaal, often pairing length with controlled facial hair.
9. Long Tapered Cut
This style keeps length on top and back while tapering the sides and nape. It offers the best of both worlds.
Style Icon:Â Kit Harington, known for controlled long silhouettes.
10. Bro Flow
The bro flow is casual but not careless. It works best when the hair naturally falls back with minimal styling.
Style Icon:Â Matthew McConaughey, the blueprint for effortless flow.
11. Long Curly Hair
Long curls need shape. Layering prevents the hair from becoming bottom-heavy or triangular.
Style Icon:Â Dev Patel, known for embracing natural curl patterns.
12. Long Ponytail
A low ponytail keeps things clean and practical. It works best when the hairline and beard are well-maintained.
Style Icon:Â Orlando Bloom, often opting for relaxed ponytail styles.
13. Viking-Inspired Long Hair
This look emphasizes strength and texture. Braids or partial ties add interest without overwhelming the style.
Style Icon:Â Travis Fimmel, known for rugged long-hair looks.
14. Straight Long Hair with Middle Part
Straight hair benefits from subtle layering and a clean part. Without shape, it can look flat.
Style Icon:Â Johnny Depp, often wearing long hair with controlled structure.
15. Long Hair with Undercut
This high-contrast style works best for confident wearers. Keeping the undercut subtle prevents it from feeling dated.
Style Icon:Â Brad Pitt, when experimenting with longer, high-contrast cuts.
Why Long Hairstyles Are Back in Style
Long hair reflects confidence, patience, and individuality. In 2026, men are embracing:
Natural texture instead of rigid styling
Grooming as part of identity
Hairstyles that evolve over time
Modern long hairstyles succeed because they are shaped, maintained, and styled with intention.
FAQ About Long Hairstyles for Men
What is the best long hairstyle for men? Shoulder-length layered hair is the most versatile and widely flattering option.
Do long hairstyles require more maintenance? Yes. Regular trims, conditioning, and styling are essential to keep long hair healthy.
Are long hairstyles professional? They can be, when clean, layered, and well-groomed.
How often should long hair be trimmed? Every 8 to 12 weeks to maintain shape and remove split ends.
What products work best for long hair? Light creams, leave-in conditioners, and texture sprays work better than heavy gels.
Does long hair work with all face shapes? Yes, when layered and styled correctly to balance proportions.
Is long hair better with or without a beard? Both work. The key is grooming and balance.
How long does it take to grow long hair? Typically 12 to 18 months, depending on growth rate and maintenance.
Can men with curly hair grow it long? Yes. Curly hair often looks better long when shaped properly.
What should men avoid with long hair? Neglect, uneven growth, and skipping trims. Long hair only works when maintained.