Best Long Hair Cuts for Men in 2026
Long haircuts have made a strong post-pandemic comeback and are here to stay, as more men embrace individuality, low-maintenance grooming, and a relaxed, natural style. Even more so as longer manes become widely accepted in workplaces and society in general than ever before.
So if you’ve long been thinking about ditching the short back and sides for something with a little more flow, then now’s the best time to do it.
So, what are the top long hair trends right now? How do you style them, and how do you pick the right one for your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle? All of these questions—and more—will be answered in our ultimate guide for the best men's long haircuts in 2026. Let’s dive in.
Best Long Haircuts for Men
Long hair isn’t going anywhere in 2026—but the way it’s being worn has evolved. This year’s best cuts focus on working with your natural texture, creating movement, and keeping things easy to style. The result? Hair that looks intentional without feeling overdone. The best haircuts for men with long hair in 2026 are:
Man Bun
Celebrities like Jason Mamoa, Chris Hemsworth, and Zayn Malik have long sported the man bun, showing us just how versatile and effortlessly stylish the look can be. Frequently paired with a stylish undercut but also rocked alongside straight-up long luscious locks, the man bun isn’t necessarily a haircut per se, but a common way of showcasing length without sacrificing style or practicality.
Mullet
The mullet has evolved from the classic silhouette seen on vintage rock posters (cough cough David Bowie) into one of the most versatile long-hair cuts for men. Today’s version, popularised by celebs like Jacob Elordi and Paul Mescal, is far from the 80s cliché, often featuring tapered or faded temples to bridge the gap between "rebel" and "refined." By blending shorter sides with length at the back and a messy, textured fringe at the front, the "office mullet" has become a top-requested long haircut for men who want to stand out while keeping their look functional and contemporary.
Shag
Channelling 70s rock-and-roll energy, the shag is all about heavy texture and choppy layers. This is the go-to for guys with wavy or curly hair, as the strategic layering enhances your natural hair pattern, adding volume and definition where it matters. Its choppy layers create a deliberately undone, carefree look that feels effortlessly cool, striking the perfect balance between style and attitude. We’re talking Mick Jagger in the 70s meets Thomas Raggi of Maneskin.
Long Mod Cut
Inspired by the British indie scene, the long mod cut features a heavy fringe and length that skims the ears and neck. Softly textured with subtle layers to add movement and dimension, the long mod cut frames the face while maintaining a clean, deliberate shape. It’s a sleek, intentional look that works beautifully for men with straighter hair textures who want a structured aesthetic. Think Liam and Noel Gallagher in the mid-2000s.
Long Layers
For the man with hair past his shoulders (we’re looking at you, Jared Leto), haircuts for long-haired men often focus on internal layering. By cutting "invisible" layers throughout the mid-lengths, your barber can reduce weight without sacrificing length, ensuring your hair has movement and doesn't just hang flat. This technique allows each wave to fall naturally, giving the hair a soft, airy finish that feels light and effortless.
How to Style Your Long Hair
If you forgot to ask your barber how to style your long hair. Don’t fret, we have all the answers for you below:
Straight: Blow-dry with a round brush to add volume at the roots, or let air-dry and finger-comb for a natural look.
Wavy: Enhance your natural waves with a texturising spray. Scrunch hair gently once applied, then let it air dry. Avoid over-brushing, which can cause unnecessary frizz.
Curly: Apply a curl cream or leave-in conditioner when damp, then let it air-dry or diffuse on low heat. Finger-comb curls instead of brushing.
Thick: Layered cuts work well to remove bulk, and lightweight styling creams or pomades control volume without weighing it down. Blow-dry in sections with a diffuser or brush.
Fine/Thinning: Keep layers long and use a volumising mousse or texturising spray at the roots. Avoid heavy products as they weigh the hair down.
How to Choose the Right Long Haircut for You
Long hair for men isn’t just about growing it out; it’s about finding a style that works with your hair’s natural texture, complements your face shape, and fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Man Bun
Texture: Any and all, from straight to curly.
Face Shape: Square, oval and heart-shaped.
Lifestyle: Active and busy men seeking a low-maintenance, practical look.
Mullet
Texture: Straight and wavy.
Face Shape: Round, square, and heart-shaped faces.
Lifestyle: The trendsetter. Those looking for a bit more of a bold statement.
Shag
Texture: Wavy and curly.
Face Shape: Angular, diamond, oblong, and oval.
Lifestyle: Those looking for a carefree, rock-and-roll vibe. Minimal effort styling with maximum effect.
Long Mod
Texture: Straight to soft waves.
Face Shape: Oval, heart, and angular.
Lifestyle: Those seeking a structured rockstar alternative to a shag with minimal styling.
Long Layers
Texture: Thick, wavy, straight.
Face Shape: Any, but specifically suits square and wide face shapes.
Lifestyle: Active individuals seeking unmatched versatility and style
A Final Note:
Growing out your hair is a marathon, not a sprint, but the payoff is a look that is uniquely yours. Whether you’re channelling the Britpop swagger of a shag or the rugged practicality of a man bun, the key to pulling off any of these long haircuts for men is confidence—and a damn good barber.
At Grand Royal Barbers Darlinghurst, we understand that long hair requires a different technical approach than your standard fade. We focus on the architecture of the cut, ensuring that as your hair grows, it maintains its shape, health, and style.
Ready to ditch the short back and sides? Book your appointment today and let’s find the perfect long-term look for your 2026 aesthetic. Your "luscious locks" era starts now.
