Christopher Meloni's buzz cut hair - Photo: Jaguar PS/ShutterstockPrevious page
MEN:
For men, the classic looks are supremely simple and basic: Short on the back and sides, longer on top; or uniform lengths all over the head. These, obviously, require that the hair be cut in some fashion and
therefore don't include the long hair styles that have existed throughout history.
Most of the long hairstyles for men have counterparts in women's styles and therefore don't need to be covered here, and don't classify as classic men's styles anyway.
Josh Henderson's classic hairstyle - Photo: Ga Fullner/Shutterstock
The classic hairstyles for men, like those for women, have had their variations throughout the decades (and in some cases, centuries).Leaving added length in the front sections of a standard men's cut leads to a
"Collegiate Cut" (see photo of Josh Henderson); while the "longer on top" requirement can often be a very minimal increase in length. (See the photo of Blair Underwood.)
The overall range of lengths varies from decade to decade, sometimes growing to nearly two inches at the shortest length, or decreasing until the hair barely extends beyond the scalp.
Blair Underwood's hair - Photo: s_bukley/Shutterstock
The uniform length styles for men have their origins in military tradition, as soldiers and warriors in many ancient societies would shave or shear their hair to prevent giving an enemy an extra handhold.
The invention of mechanical clippers allowed barbers to cut or shear the hair to uniform lengths or to the scalp with speed and precision.
Many men today favor short "buzz cuts" for their simplicity and ease of care. It also tends to be a flattering look for many men who suffer from male pattern baldness. (See photo of Christopher Meloni.)
It is unlikely, given the longevity of these styles, that the looks will ever fade from prominence.
