Jan 31, 2026 | Men’s Haircuts, Style Guides
Trends come and go in the grooming industry for men. One year, it is all about man buns, while the next year is all about buzz cuts. However, in the midst of all the trends that come and go, there is one hairstyle that stands as a steadfast constant. The side part is the holy grail of hairstyles for men. It is a hairstyle that is always in style, always a cut above the rest, and can work on most of the guys that come to our barbershop.
Contact First & Mane if you want more personalized advice or to book your next appointment for the best grooming experience. In the meantime, let’s delve into the side part style!
A History of Sophistication
In order to grasp the power of this particular cut, we must examine its legacy. The side part was the epitome of the Golden Age of Hollywood, topping the domes of leading men such as Cary Grant and Gregory Peck. The side part conveyed an aura of effortless elegance and tidiness.
As the counter-culture movements of the 1960s and 70s saw men grow their hair long, the side part made an explosive comeback in the late 2000s as television shows set in the middle of the last century became popular. The side part is the mark of a man who is taking care of himself – prime examples of side part haircuts for men can be found throughout time.
Things to Consider Before You Cut
Though the side part is a universally flattering haircut, there are a few changes we make according to the features you have. The first thing we notice is the shape of the face. Guys with a square-shaped face will look amazing with a side part because it will accentuate the strong facial features. Guys with rounder faces will benefit if we keep the hair on the sides shorter and the hair on top fuller.
Also, the texture of the hair is a huge factor in the overall look of the haircut. If you have very thick and unmanageable hair, we texture the top to get rid of the weight, making it easier for you to comb it over in the morning. If you have thinner hair, we have certain cutting methods that help create density, and the scalp will not be as visible once you part your hair.
Lastly, the age of the person is also a consideration. A younger man can rock a disconnected undercut, while the older man would look better in a scissor-tapered haircut. For many, a classic side part haircut for men is the perfect choice to suit age and style.
Classic Styles for the Professional
But for those of you who like a more traditional look, there is nothing like the classic gentleman’s style. This type of haircut uses scissor work as opposed to clippers and features a smooth transition from sides to top. The hair on top is cut long enough so it can be styled back and away from the face using a high-shine pomade or gel.
This style is ideal for a work setting, as it requires a clean and sharp cut. We make sure to clean up around the ears and neckline. Consider trying a side part haircut for men to achieve timeless sophistication in the workplace.
Contemporary Variations for the Bold
If you are looking to incorporate the elegance of a side part with a more modern twist, we have lots of ways we can modify it to suit your style. The biggest modification we get asked to do is to incorporate the side part with a fade. Whether it be a skin fade or a high fade, the look of the short hair on the sides and the longer hair on top creates a sharp, masculine look.
The next modification we can do to incorporate a more modern look is to add texture to your hair. Instead of using hair product to keep your hair slicked back, we use matte clay to give your hair volume and keep your side part looking relaxed and effortless.
Find Your Perfect Part
A side part haircut isn’t just a haircut, it’s an investment in your image. If you’re eighteen or eighty, there’s a version of this haircut that will work for you and boost your confidence. Are you ready for a change? Come sit in one of our chairs at First & Mane and let us help you sort through your options and pick just the right cut for your lifestyle and personality. Discover the best side part haircuts for men tailored to your unique look!
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Jan 1, 2026 | Hairstyles by Hair Type, Style Guides
It’s not uncommon to see a number of guys in the salon who are in the awkward phase of letting their hair grow out. It may be a long process, especially when it comes to the ears and shoulders, but the end result may be well worth the effort. Although textured and wavy hair may be the focus of many styling tutorials, there is something about straight hair that exudes a level of health and attractiveness when it reaches a long length.
If you’ve been sporting your locks long and are wondering how to manage them, then you’re in luck. We’re going to go through some of the hairstyles for guys with long straight hair and the best ways to handle your long locks. Be sure to speak to our friendly team at First & Mane for personalized advice!
Best Hairstyle Trends
Once you know how long you want your hair to be, you then have to focus on how to style it. For people who have straight hair, it may be slippery or heavy. If you’re looking for the best long hairstyles for men with straight hair, this guide will help you make the most of your texture.
Traditional Middle Part
One style that has made its way back to popularity because of the 90s revival is the middle part, and it is probably the easiest style for men with straight hair. It is literally the job of gravity to do all the heavy lifting for you. This style is symmetrical and has a laid-back quality that is easy to achieve. To prevent this style from looking too flat, we would advise that you use sea salt spray on your damp hair.
Smooth Low Ponytail
For a more refined or professional occasion, there is nothing to match the low ponytail. This style keeps hair out of your face and emphasizes your features. It is particularly good on straight hair because straight hair doesn’t have enough body to create a clean finish, and the lack of curl makes it easy to achieve a neat and clean finish. The trick is to hold the hair back at the base of the neck and not higher up on the head to keep it masculine-looking.
Man Bun Styles
The man bun has come a long way from being a quirky trend and is now a true mainstay of men’s grooming. For straight hair, we recommend that you place your bun a little lower on your head or even a little undone so that you’re not stretching your hairline. You can go for a full bun or a half-up and half-down look if you want to show some hair while controlling volume. This is ideal for when you’re hitting the gym or when it’s summer, and you want your hair out of your neck.
Braided Hair
Although braids can work well with textured hair, braids can also work wonders with straight hair by adding texture to your style. Viking braids or French braids can help you manage flyaways and give you a rugged look that works well with your straight hair. Since straight hair tends to be quite slippery, you may require a little styling clay or pomade to help the hair hold the braid pattern well.
Although braids may require a little expertise to master, they work wonders on days when you want to change your texture dramatically. For inspiration, check out the latest hairstyles for men with long, straight hair.
Taking Care of Your Length
Taking care of long, straight hair can be a challenge, but the versatility it provides can’t be beat. Whether it’s the elegance of a middle part or the ease of a bun, the trick is keeping the ends healthy. Split ends are much easier to see on straight hair than on curly hair. Come on down to First & Mane, and we can work together to come up with a plan for keeping your long locks looking their best. Ask us about the best haircut in Scottsdale to keep your style sharp!
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Nov 3, 2025 | Men’s Haircuts, Style Guides
We have seen an increasing trend of short haircuts in our older clients in Scottsdale, and it is easy to see why. In fact, if you’re looking for a haircut in Scottsdale, you’ll notice how these cuts present a subtle yet impeccable fusion of elegance and functionality that is suitable for a modern man’s busy schedule. Whether you want a new look or an easy-to-maintain one, short haircuts present you with a wonderful opportunity.
We have also seen that a lot of guys feel hesitant about a shorter cut after 50, thinking that this might take away their distinguished look. But short haircut styles for older men are actually likely to accentuate your best features while making you look polished and confident.
Why Short Haircuts Are So Effective for Older Men
There are several attractive reasons why haircut styles for older men are highly suitable when they’re kept short. First and foremost is easy styling, in that you will spend less time in front of the mirror in the morning, as well as less time in salons for hair cuts. This is one factor that some clients greatly appreciate.
In addition to being convenient, short styles also have a youthful effect because they accentuate your facial features as opposed to any thinning or balding hair. We have seen numerous clients leave our shop at First & Mane looking several years younger after we have done a well-cut short haircut on them.
Classic Designs that Remain in Vogue through the Years
The Crew Cut
This military-inspired cut is one of our most sought-after options when it comes to men’s haircut styles for older men, and it’s easy to see why. We usually keep about an inch of hair on top while simultaneously shortening the sides and back. This crew cut is also a great option for men with a receding hairline because it offers a clean-cut look that appears as though it’s meant to be that way.
Side Part
Perceived as a highly sophisticated businesslike look, a side part is an excellent combination of longer hair at the top and cropped sides. Typically, we section out a clear part with a comb and set it in place with a light pomade. This particular cut is generally considered universal as it will work well regardless of face or hair type.
The Buzz Cut
For those that prefer a low-maintenance cut, a buzz cut is a powerful statement with less effort. We usually buzz a #3 or #4 guard for a well-proportioned cut that is neither too harsh nor too long. This cut is most flattering to a man that has robust facial features or one that is undergoing substantial thinning of his hair.
Modern Fashion Trends for a Modern Gentleman
The Textured Crop
This is a more contemporary take that uses subtle layers to add texture and motion. We cut it shorter around the sides while longer at the top and use texturizing techniques by point-cutting. Then we use a matte paste to give it a natural, undone look.
The Fade
Among our older demographic, fades have become incredibly popular as they provide a clean, fresh look. We start by seamlessly blending the hair from longer around the top to shorter around the sides and back. This is accomplished by ensuring that we get the right height of the fade, usually a mid-fade for an age-appropriate look.
The Modern Quiff
A more refined version of a pompadour is a quiff. This hairstyle has shorter sides with longer hair brushed back. It also needs less styling. You only have to run your hand through your damp hair with a small amount of styling cream in it.
Finding Your Perfect Short Hairstyle
Short haircuts are a great chance for older guys to give their look a new twist, while also making it simpler to maintain. It’s all about choosing a style that suits you; after all, the best short haircuts for older men are those that complement your face type, hair type, and preferences as well. We always recommend trying out different cuts until you feel satisfied with your look.
Keep in mind that nothing beats a haircut that makes you feel confident and at ease in your own skin. So go ahead and bring up your worries and preferences with your barber at First & Mane – your stylist is waiting to assist you in creating a look that complements your natural beauty and integrates smoothly with your lifestyle!
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Sep 2, 2025 | Men’s Haircuts, Style Guides
Freckles are an iconic trait that can add to your general look when accompanied by a proper haircut. Instead of covering this inherent trait up, it’s all about picking a style which goes in unison with your freckled skin as well as face shape. Proper styles can accentuate your best points while developing a balanced look that is full of confidence – think of haircuts that enhance freckles rather than hide them.
Your haircut should not only flatter your freckles but also the shape of your face. Although freckles are typically indicative of a young-looking, smiling face, there are haircuts which can make this more so or introduce a level of elegance and maturity. What haircut best suits a person with freckles? The answer depends on balancing your face structure and embracing your natural features, so join First and Mane for this detailed guide.
Understanding Your Face Shape
Before selecting a haircut, identify your face shape by measuring the width of your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline, then comparing these to your face length.
- Oval faces are perfectly proportioned, with a forehead width that is only a tad greater than chin width. Versatile in shape, it is easy to try out a variety of haircuts.
- Round faces have similar width and length values, with softer corners. We are looking for height along with an illusion of length, while minimizing width at either side.
- Square faces feature strong jawlines and commensurable width values for cheekbones, forehead, and jaw. These faces are treated best with haircuts that soften sharp features.
- Heart faces are broader at the temples and at the forehead, which taper to a sharp-pointed chin. To achieve an ideal cut, you should balance the wider upper side with a thinner bottom.
Best Haircut Suggestions Based on Face Shape
For Oval Faces
Men with oval faces and freckles are the most versatile. A standard side part is incredibly effective, framing around the eyes while accentuating freckles in the cheeks. A textured quiff also suits this face type, generating bulk without engulfing your inherent features. These styles are often recommended by top-rated barbers for men’s haircuts.
For Round Faces
Choose flattering hairstyles for freckles that contribute a vertical height. A haircut with an undercut with longer hair on top makes the face appear longer while maintaining tidy sides. Another wonderful option is a pompadour haircut because the swept-back style makes you appear longer in the face while drawing attention upwards towards the freckled cheek areas.
For Square Faces
Soften strong jawlines with cuts that add movement and texture. A messy, tousled style works well, as the casual texture contrasts nicely with sharp facial angles. Avoid overly structured cuts that might emphasize the squareness of your face.
For Heart-Shaped Faces
Balance wider foreheads with cuts that add volume at the jawline. A side-swept fringe can minimize forehead width while drawing attention to freckles across the nose and cheeks. Medium-length styles that curl slightly at the ends also work well for this face shape.
Styling Tips for Success
Take hair texture into consideration when applying these haircuts. Thin hair does best with shorter hairstyles that are more voluminous, while full hair is able to sustain longer haircuts without appearing too much.
Maintenance is based on style complexity. Simple styles like buzz cuts or crew cuts require minimal daily styling but require trimming frequently. Complex styles like pompadours involve daily styling but longer intervals between visits to salons.
Color considerations are also involved. If you have large freckles, hair colors drawing attention are best avoided. Natural colors or soft highlights are usually more effective than dramatic color variations.
Finding Your Personal Style
The best haircut for people with freckles is truly a question of individual features, lifestyle, and preferences. Do not think twice about visiting a qualified barber at First and Mane, who can study your face structure and acquaint you with styles which suit your inherent features.
Play around with techniques until you settle on a cut that makes you feel most comfortable. Your freckles are a treasure that, when combined with a suitable haircut, can produce a recognizable and unforgettable look!
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Feb 24, 2025 | Hairstyles by Face Shape, Style Guides
Amazing Hair Transformation: Your Road to Enhanced Confidence
Have you ever thought about how a new haircut can elevate your self-esteem? The potential it carries is truly enchanting, extending beyond just personal appearance to impact your self-image and others’ impression of you. For those men blessed with a large forehead, the right haircut can work miracles. It can balance facial features and amplify your general appearance. Nervous about controlling your hair growth? Worry not. Schedule your appointment today for essential advice that will guide you to a haircut that accentuates your individual characteristics.
Addressing the Unique Hairstyling Needs of Broad Foreheads
Men with larger foreheads might face some difficulties while selecting a haircut. This is because the forehead, due to its size, may unintentionally draw focus. The ultimate goal is to dauntlessly pick a hairstyle for big-forehead men that reduces its conspicuousness or elegantly integrates it into your distinctive style. A well-chosen haircut that diverts focus from the forehead can restore balance. In contrast, an ill-chosen style might disrupt this balance, intensifying the forehead’s visibility.
Selection of Hairstyles for Large Foreheads
Short, Textured Haircuts: The Distracting Technique
Short, textured haircuts can be the perfect solution for men with large foreheads. The unruly texture shifts attention away from the forehead, pointing visual interest towards the crown of the head. Textured crop cuts with generous volume at the top are particularly effective, striking an artful balance between neatness and a relaxed charm. Add a touch of styling product to emphasize texture, and there you have it — a foolproof relaxed look. This is a top contender when considering big forehead hairstyles for guys.
Fringes and Bangs: Lessening and Softening
To decrease the impact of your forehead? Fringes are the best. Whether it’s a neatly trimmed fringe or a more casual layered style, partially covering the forehead can control its visual dominance. Fringes frame the face, mellowing its lines and giving a more harmonious look. It’s crucial to discuss the type of fringe that best suits your face shape and hair texture with your hairstylist. Fringes are a go-to option in hairstyles for males with a big forehead, as they add balance to your overall appearance.
Side-Swept Styles: Adding Angles and Movement
Side-swept hairstyles are incredibly adaptable and attractive for men with large foreheads. This hairstyle uses the hair’s angles to inject depth and motion, organically diverting focus from the face’s center. Moreover, side-swept designs emit a suave, professional charm, making them suitable for both casual and formal occasions. They are one of the most flexible men’s big forehead hairstyles, blending sophistication with ease.
Approaches for Thin or Balding Hair
For those struggling with thin or balding hair, don’t lose heart — a spectrum of options exists to keep your look sharp. Buzz cuts or totally bald styles can be compelling and direct choices, shifting emphasis to facial traits rather than a dwindling hairline.
Alternatively, coupling short sides with a slightly extended top can create the illusion of a lower hairline. These styles also fall under big forehead men’s haircut options, as they focus on confidence and simplicity. The key is to wear your chosen style with confidence, even when exploring hairstyles for guys with a big forehead.
Unfolding Your Unique Style
Consider a larger forehead not as an obstacle, but as an opportunity to delve into your haircut possibilities. With a variety of options such as textured crops, side-swept hairdos, and trendy fringes at your disposal, identifying a style that enhances your facial characteristics is now easier. Spend time collaborating with a professional hairstylist or barber to identify the perfect cut, and you’ll soon find a haircut for men with a big forehead. Enjoy the ensuing surge in confidence. After all, the ideal haircut is not just about modifying your looks but reshaping your self-image.
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Feb 17, 2025 | Men’s Haircuts, Style Guides
The undercut isn’t just a hairstyle—it’s a statement. Versatile, bold, and dripping with style, it’s the Swiss Army knife of men’s haircuts. Whether you’re out to turn heads or channel some timeless cool, the undercut always delivers.
Getting to Grips with the Undercut
Undercut is contrast throughout. Party in the front, business in the back. Short or shaved sides and a longer top, it’s a haircut that can bring some excitement. That extreme contrast of hair lengths is what provides the undercut its edgy, stylish look.
The undercut hairstyle for men is not a “one-size-fits-all” haircut—it’s a versatile type of hair. Whether you’re in the market for a slick-back CEO look or layering to achieve the stunning tousled, just-rolled-out-of-bed look, the versatility of the undercut has got you covered. It’s the chameleon for any hair type or style.
The undercut for men hairstyle is adaptable to fit a variety of lifestyles. The buzz-style undercut, which requires hardly any maintenance at all, might be just the thing for the working professional on the go who hasn’t the time for fuss, while a longer, styled undercut might be just the thing for an individual who likes to tinker with his look.
Is the Undercut the One for You?
Prior to booking that barber appointment, take a moment and ask yourself—does the undercut suit your hair type, face shape, and fabulous lifestyle?
Your hair type bears a big share of the blame for how good your classic undercut hairstyle will look and survive the day. Straight hair is bound to yield a sleek, neat undercut, while curly hair introduces a twisted twist. Thicker hair presents more styling options at the cost of more work and upkeep.
The shape of your face also comes into consideration in how well an undercut will function to enhance your overall look. While oval and rectangle have traditionally been considered more universal shapes, rounder faces can also be enhanced with the angular contrast that is provided by an undercut, as it functions to create a longer illusion for the face. Your skilled Scottsdale, Arizona, barber can suggest modifications in the cut that will function in coordination with your own personalized features.
Also, think about how much time you are willing to dedicate to styling your hair each morning. A long top can be a high-maintenance style that needs constant grooming and styling products like pomade or wax, while shorter tops are low maintenance. Being truthful with yourself about your grooming habits can guide you to perfecting your new style.
Working with a Barber for the Perfect Style
Achieving the best undercut hairstyle is extremely dependent on good communication with your barber. Displaying reference photos to your barber is an excellent way of making sure you and your barber see eye to eye. Photos can help establish detail such as how high the fade is, how much length on top, and whether you want a defined separation or more rounded cut between the sides and top.
Be precise about the length you would want on the top and the sides. Talking in numbers like “2 on the sides” or “cut 2 inches off the top” is easier for your barber to comprehend so that they can cut exactly the way you want them to.
If you’re new to the undercut, don’t hesitate to sit down with your barber. Barber stylists are professionally trained to suggest changes that will be in harmony with your hair’s natural texture, the shape of your face, and your styling capabilities. They can even incorporate undercut designs for a male look that match your personality. Let their expert opinion mold your idea into something that’s in harmony with your look and lifestyle.
Don’t forget, it takes half the battle to achieve the ideal undercut—retaining it is just as vital. Maintain your undercut shape by dropping by the barber every 3 to 4 weeks—because nobody likes a faded fade. For daily maintenance, pamper yourself with some of the highest quality styling pomade or texturizing spray. Because great hair doesn’t happen by accident—it’s a way of life.
A Perennial Style that Never Fades
Undercut is not a haircut—it’s a mic drop for your head. The hairstyles with an undercut let you serve style, swag, and personality on a silver platter. For those bold enough, consider adding undercut designs for men to really stand out. This timeless style continues to evolve, making it a perennial favorite for men everywhere.
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
