We all probably have the typical mental image of a young man joining the military, trading his shaggy hair in for a clean, new “buzz cut.” It’s pretty much like a rite of passage because long hair on the battlefield is not the best tactical move.
Although all military hairstyles have one feature in common – very short length – they can differ in appearance, so every man can choose the cut that flatters him the most or simply feels right. So, are you ready for a buzz (maybe without the enlistment)? Then, check out these military haircuts for some inspiration.
#1: Structured Low Fade
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
This low fade is neat and well-defined. The super straight lines on the temples and across the forehead lead down toward the smooth curve of the sideburns. The fade itself disappears down the back of the neck, creating a different, but ultra-smooth look.
#2: Faded Butch Cut
The butch cut is fairly short at the top and fades to shorter lengths at the temples and above the ears. Ready for a bout in the ring or a day of fishing, this cut doesn’t even need a comb to look good!
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
#3: Classic Flat Top
This flat top classic is the haircut most closely associated with the ‘80s in America. It’s a look that is synonymous with action figures and cartoon characters, which were a part of many childhoods. It will always be memorable!
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
#4: Side-Parted Tapered Pompadour
The evolution of army-appropriate hairstyles has come a long way. Now, we tend to shave it all off, but back then, when we had fewer distractions, spending time on our hair and appearance was common. Here is a long top tapered style that is both retro and modern, so it’s sure to please!
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @zeke_the_barber[/caption]
#5: Polished Ivy League Cut
This haircut is a true classic. Being a version of the Ivy League cut, this is a commanding style often associated with leadership. Keep the top a bit longer, and keep the rest, including the beard, the same short length.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
#6: Skin Fade and Comb Over
This haircut is one of the most flattering masculine styles now. A fade that starts about midway on the side of the head works for most hair types and head shapes, while low and high fades can be harder to pull off.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
#7: Simple Short Cut
If you’re looking for some nice haircut pictures to show to your barber, this is a really great option. For a clean and simple version of the cut, go for short hair that is about a quarter inch on top and fades to the skin towards the temples and nape.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
#8: High and Tight Fade
The high and tight is a version of the haircut that gives off a potent masculine vibe. The style is very popular among soldiers and athletes. Ask your stylist for a fade that starts high on the head, and don’t forget about a line-up for the forehead and temples.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @razorralf8[/caption]
#9: Short Hair with Side Part
One of the best things about short haircuts is that they are very easy to style. If you have straight hair, all you will have to do is brush it to one side and let it dry. You can apply a light hold gel or pomade to keep the side part in place.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
#10: Side-Swept Style with Hard Part
Military haircuts don’t have to follow many rules like soldiers do. You can still show off your unique personality by making a few adjustments to the classic look. Here, the barber has cut in a diagonal side part for extra definition, which is needed for such a short length.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @carloskayroscuts[/caption]
#11: Faded Undercut
A longer cut can be a really cool style to try. To style it after a shower, use a blow dryer instead of air drying, which will give you more volume and a nice root lift. Don’t forget to use volumizing hair products. Ask your barber to help you pick those that are optimal for your hair type.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @alan_beak[/caption]
#12: Classic Medium-Length Style
This medium-length version looks great with straight or slightly wavy hair. You can experiment with a blow dryer when you have time, but most days you’ll likely just want to let your natural texture come out after air drying.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @4hairpleasure[/caption]
#13: Retro Quiff with Side Part
For a haircut with a somewhat retro vibe, try lifting your quiff up and flipping it back. The key to pulling this off is a side part with the hair on top slicked to the side. You only flip back the section of hair in the very front.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @hayden_cassidy[/caption]
#14: Low Fade Style
Low fades are essential if you like having your hair mostly one length. The clean-shaven nape and temples give a personal touch to what would otherwise be a basic cut. This is a no-fuss look for the guys who don’t want to style their hair.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @patty_cuts[/caption]
#15: Crew Cut with Temple Fade
This cool crew cut looks smooth and clean for two reasons. First off, the length is kept mostly the same all over the head, except for the temples. Secondly, the perfect lineup works as a frame for the entire cut.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @zeke_the_barber[/caption]
#16: Tapered Quiff with Skin Fade
For a cut that allows you to leave a little hair on top, opt for an inch length in the quiff that is gradually tapered and faded towards the temples and nape. Ask your barber for a smooth fade that melts gradually to the skin.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @andyauthentic[/caption]
#17: High and Tight with Long Top
This style brings back bygone eras but also features a modern twist – the drastic difference in lengths. For this classy look, make sure to ask for a high and tight with long hair on top. Everyone has a different idea of “long,” so you’ll have the best success if you bring in some pictures to your barber.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @kens_family_barbershop[/caption]
#18: Low-Maintenance High Fade
Men who like simple cuts that require no styling in the morning will appreciate this high fade that is actually a great low-maintenance option. If you want to keep the hair on top standing up, you can add a little bit of gel.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @adriansbarbershop1[/caption]
#19: Burr Cut with Fade
This super short haircut stays true to the style, featuring a minimal length with smoothly faded sides. If you want very short hair with a clean, disciplined edge, this cut is for you.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @610legends[/caption]
#20: High and Tight
Not all modern men’s cuts include a fade. Shaved sides and back are comfortable for summer. Besides, it’s an unpretentious haircut you can handle yourself or ask a friend for help.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @whittani_kutz[/caption]
#21: Taper Fade with Side Part
Some military hairstyles have a very charming, historical feel. Soldiers love cuts that look like they could have been from the mid-twentieth century because they simply don’t go out of style. Ask your stylist for a side part with medium-length hair on top and a chiseled taper fade.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @miles.ac[/caption]
#22: Extra Short Line-Up Style
To pull off a burr haircut, you need to be comfortable with an extra short length. It’s a great option for men with thinning hair or those dealing with a receding hairline. Opt for a line-up and skin fade, and you’ll walk out of the barber shop with a clean haircut you won’t be shy of.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @joelmasterbarber[/caption]
#23: Short Mid Fade Cut
For an easy-to-style masculine look, try a short haircut with clean-shaven sides. This smooth haircut is suitable for straight and coarse hair. If this is your hair type, you will have to visit your barber for regular trims to keep it perfect. A grown-out crew cut isn’t a good idea!
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
#24: Swept-Back Style
If you don’t want to have your hair cut very short but still want to try an army-inspired look, then consider this option. With medium-length hair swept back and a low fade, this haircut is clean and classic while still letting you show off your nice, thick hair.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @beboprbarber[/caption]
#25: Defined Cut with Side Part
The cleanest cuts have a very important element – a line-up. Ask your barber for a straight forehead line and angled temples. You may also want to blend your cut with a facial hairstyle that is also lined up flawlessly.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
#26: Barely-There Buzz Cut
Nearly bald haircuts for men are pretty simple, and you can do them yourself. With no hair up top, you would have the focus on the beard. In this case, the beard is shaped evenly, with the sideburns tapered into a point.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @pskillz_337[/caption]
#27: Classic Burr Cut
This is one of the classics that will continue into the future. Known as a burr cut, this one-length all-over style is achieved with a low guard and clippers. A thin chin stripe is left over as an accent.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @instahair_by_tristarae[/caption]
#28: Buzz Cut with Graphic Elements
This short cut has a slight fade at the base of the neck and a very strong arched line that traces the ear. A one-inch, angled jaw stripe connects to the sideburns, creating a 90-degree angle. A smooth and straight line across the front completes it.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
#29: Gelled Crew Cut
Many men who prefer very short haircuts every time they head to a salon want nothing more than a crew cut style. For the hairstyle pictured here, a dab of gel was combed through to get the straight and stiff lines that hold everything in place.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
#30: High Flat Top
A military haircut with a flat top is a perfect example of a structured, masculine haircut that is also currently in high demand. It certainly needs coarse hair to hold that line, or you may go with a rather short length up top. You will probably want to bring this image to your barber to be sure you get what you want.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @raelbronx[/caption]
#31: Curly Crew Cut
This crew cut creates a strong contrast. Ask your barber to create a smooth oval at the top of the crown, and shear off everything else. When finished it off with a straight razor, it gets the cleanest look possible.
[caption id="attachment_25402" align="aligncenter" width="500"] @pskillz_337[/caption]
#32: Disconnected Slick-Back
This one got influenced by the current trends. An undercut hairstyle means that the top is much longer, and everything around the base of the skull is one extra short length. Slick the top back with a serum or smoothing cream.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
#33: Pomp with Drop Fade
This pompadour-inspired hairstyle has a series of angled strands along the top with extra-short surrounding sections. Styling with gel, you can get the lift and wave you want using different kinds of combs.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @sbbarbers[/caption]
#34: Vintage Tapered Comb-Over
And this one is a throwback to WWI, featuring the combed-over top and tapered lower half. A strong-hold gel helps to create a slight wave in front with stiff lines of strands across the top of the head.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @onlytopbarbers[/caption]
#35: Tapered Cut with Textured Top
This tapered style with the point-cut top is perfect for a more rebellious soul. The top is combed straight up to show off the edgy ends. The back and sides are smooth, with clean lines above the ears.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
#36: Slick-Back with Undercut
This cool version of the undercut is a throwback to the gangster era of the 1920s. Having your hair slicked straight back gives you a polished look, and gel creates a tougher-looking shell, which hardens your appearance. Keep the top long, and get the extra short tapered sides for this one.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @sweeneydodge[/caption]
#37: Spiky Top and Neat Sides
One of the best ways to rebel is to add spikes – especially on top! It gives you an extroverted appearance, with the potential to do something spontaneous at any moment. Even if you are shy, the length up top will give you more confidence. Keep the base smooth and neat.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @fade_master[/caption]
#38: Mid-Length Undercut
This haircut has enough length for versatile styling, but doesn’t skimp on structure and tidiness. Proper strong-hold styling products will help you to sleek back even the thickest hair.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @doublecrownbarber[/caption]
#39: Textured Brush Cut
This brush cut has a faded look down and a choppier texture up top. The top is a bit longer, and it can be messy or groomed. This is a very low-maintenance cut that will not bother you – just get it trimmed up on a regular basis.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
#40: Forward-Combed Hairstyle
Though the standards have changed over the years, the military haircut will always be a part of our society. This look features a forward-combed top with shaven sides and back sections.
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @straightfades[/caption]
Ready to skip PT and choose your next military haircut? There are plenty of convenient cuts out there that can be worn both on and off duty, depending on your desired level of maintenance. There are endless options awaiting you, and if your hair grows pretty fast, just start short, let it grow on top, and experiment with longer top sections over time.
#2: Faded Butch Cut
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
The butch cut is fairly short at the top and fades to shorter lengths at the temples and above the ears. Ready for a bout in the ring or a day of fishing, this cut doesn’t even need a comb to look good!
#3: Classic Flat Top
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
This flat top classic is the haircut most closely associated with the ‘80s in America. It’s a look that is synonymous with action figures and cartoon characters, which were a part of many childhoods. It will always be memorable!
#4: Side-Parted Tapered Pompadour
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @zeke_the_barber[/caption]
The evolution of army-appropriate hairstyles has come a long way. Now, we tend to shave it all off, but back then, when we had fewer distractions, spending time on our hair and appearance was common. Here is a long top tapered style that is both retro and modern, so it’s sure to please!
#5: Polished Ivy League Cut
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
This haircut is a true classic. Being a version of the Ivy League cut, this is a commanding style often associated with leadership. Keep the top a bit longer, and keep the rest, including the beard, the same short length.
#6: Skin Fade and Comb Over
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
This haircut is one of the most flattering masculine styles now. A fade that starts about midway on the side of the head works for most hair types and head shapes, while low and high fades can be harder to pull off.
#7: Simple Short Cut
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
If you’re looking for some nice haircut pictures to show to your barber, this is a really great option. For a clean and simple version of the cut, go for short hair that is about a quarter inch on top and fades to the skin towards the temples and nape.
#8: High and Tight Fade
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @razorralf8[/caption]
The high and tight is a version of the haircut that gives off a potent masculine vibe. The style is very popular among soldiers and athletes. Ask your stylist for a fade that starts high on the head, and don’t forget about a line-up for the forehead and temples.
#9: Short Hair with Side Part
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
One of the best things about short haircuts is that they are very easy to style. If you have straight hair, all you will have to do is brush it to one side and let it dry. You can apply a light hold gel or pomade to keep the side part in place.
#10: Side-Swept Style with Hard Part
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @carloskayroscuts[/caption]
Military haircuts don’t have to follow many rules like soldiers do. You can still show off your unique personality by making a few adjustments to the classic look. Here, the barber has cut in a diagonal side part for extra definition, which is needed for such a short length.
#11: Faded Undercut
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @alan_beak[/caption]
A longer cut can be a really cool style to try. To style it after a shower, use a blow dryer instead of air drying, which will give you more volume and a nice root lift. Don’t forget to use volumizing hair products. Ask your barber to help you pick those that are optimal for your hair type.
#12: Classic Medium-Length Style
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @4hairpleasure[/caption]
This medium-length version looks great with straight or slightly wavy hair. You can experiment with a blow dryer when you have time, but most days you’ll likely just want to let your natural texture come out after air drying.
#13: Retro Quiff with Side Part
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @hayden_cassidy[/caption]
For a haircut with a somewhat retro vibe, try lifting your quiff up and flipping it back. The key to pulling this off is a side part with the hair on top slicked to the side. You only flip back the section of hair in the very front.
#14: Low Fade Style
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @patty_cuts[/caption]
Low fades are essential if you like having your hair mostly one length. The clean-shaven nape and temples give a personal touch to what would otherwise be a basic cut. This is a no-fuss look for the guys who don’t want to style their hair.
#15: Crew Cut with Temple Fade
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @zeke_the_barber[/caption]
This cool crew cut looks smooth and clean for two reasons. First off, the length is kept mostly the same all over the head, except for the temples. Secondly, the perfect lineup works as a frame for the entire cut.
#16: Tapered Quiff with Skin Fade
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @andyauthentic[/caption]
For a cut that allows you to leave a little hair on top, opt for an inch length in the quiff that is gradually tapered and faded towards the temples and nape. Ask your barber for a smooth fade that melts gradually to the skin.
#17: High and Tight with Long Top
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @kens_family_barbershop[/caption]
This style brings back bygone eras but also features a modern twist – the drastic difference in lengths. For this classy look, make sure to ask for a high and tight with long hair on top. Everyone has a different idea of “long,” so you’ll have the best success if you bring in some pictures to your barber.
#18: Low-Maintenance High Fade
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @adriansbarbershop1[/caption]
Men who like simple cuts that require no styling in the morning will appreciate this high fade that is actually a great low-maintenance option. If you want to keep the hair on top standing up, you can add a little bit of gel.
#19: Burr Cut with Fade
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @610legends[/caption]
This super short haircut stays true to the style, featuring a minimal length with smoothly faded sides. If you want very short hair with a clean, disciplined edge, this cut is for you.
#20: High and Tight
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @whittani_kutz[/caption]
Not all modern men’s cuts include a fade. Shaved sides and back are comfortable for summer. Besides, it’s an unpretentious haircut you can handle yourself or ask a friend for help.
#21: Taper Fade with Side Part
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @miles.ac[/caption]
Some military hairstyles have a very charming, historical feel. Soldiers love cuts that look like they could have been from the mid-twentieth century because they simply don’t go out of style. Ask your stylist for a side part with medium-length hair on top and a chiseled taper fade.
#22: Extra Short Line-Up Style
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @joelmasterbarber[/caption]
To pull off a burr haircut, you need to be comfortable with an extra short length. It’s a great option for men with thinning hair or those dealing with a receding hairline. Opt for a line-up and skin fade, and you’ll walk out of the barber shop with a clean haircut you won’t be shy of.
#23: Short Mid Fade Cut
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
For an easy-to-style masculine look, try a short haircut with clean-shaven sides. This smooth haircut is suitable for straight and coarse hair. If this is your hair type, you will have to visit your barber for regular trims to keep it perfect. A grown-out crew cut isn’t a good idea!
#24: Swept-Back Style
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @beboprbarber[/caption]
If you don’t want to have your hair cut very short but still want to try an army-inspired look, then consider this option. With medium-length hair swept back and a low fade, this haircut is clean and classic while still letting you show off your nice, thick hair.
#25: Defined Cut with Side Part
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
The cleanest cuts have a very important element – a line-up. Ask your barber for a straight forehead line and angled temples. You may also want to blend your cut with a facial hairstyle that is also lined up flawlessly.
#26: Barely-There Buzz Cut
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @pskillz_337[/caption]
Nearly bald haircuts for men are pretty simple, and you can do them yourself. With no hair up top, you would have the focus on the beard. In this case, the beard is shaped evenly, with the sideburns tapered into a point.
#27: Classic Burr Cut
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @instahair_by_tristarae[/caption]
This is one of the classics that will continue into the future. Known as a burr cut, this one-length all-over style is achieved with a low guard and clippers. A thin chin stripe is left over as an accent.
#28: Buzz Cut with Graphic Elements
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
This short cut has a slight fade at the base of the neck and a very strong arched line that traces the ear. A one-inch, angled jaw stripe connects to the sideburns, creating a 90-degree angle. A smooth and straight line across the front completes it.
#29: Gelled Crew Cut
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
Many men who prefer very short haircuts every time they head to a salon want nothing more than a crew cut style. For the hairstyle pictured here, a dab of gel was combed through to get the straight and stiff lines that hold everything in place.
#30: High Flat Top
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @raelbronx[/caption]
A military haircut with a flat top is a perfect example of a structured, masculine haircut that is also currently in high demand. It certainly needs coarse hair to hold that line, or you may go with a rather short length up top. You will probably want to bring this image to your barber to be sure you get what you want.
#31: Curly Crew Cut
[caption id="attachment_25402" align="aligncenter" width="500"] @pskillz_337[/caption]
This crew cut creates a strong contrast. Ask your barber to create a smooth oval at the top of the crown, and shear off everything else. When finished it off with a straight razor, it gets the cleanest look possible.
#32: Disconnected Slick-Back
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
This one got influenced by the current trends. An undercut hairstyle means that the top is much longer, and everything around the base of the skull is one extra short length. Slick the top back with a serum or smoothing cream.
#33: Pomp with Drop Fade
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @sbbarbers[/caption]
This pompadour-inspired hairstyle has a series of angled strands along the top with extra-short surrounding sections. Styling with gel, you can get the lift and wave you want using different kinds of combs.
#34: Vintage Tapered Comb-Over
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @onlytopbarbers[/caption]
And this one is a throwback to WWI, featuring the combed-over top and tapered lower half. A strong-hold gel helps to create a slight wave in front with stiff lines of strands across the top of the head.
#35: Tapered Cut with Textured Top
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
This tapered style with the point-cut top is perfect for a more rebellious soul. The top is combed straight up to show off the edgy ends. The back and sides are smooth, with clean lines above the ears.
#36: Slick-Back with Undercut
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @sweeneydodge[/caption]
This cool version of the undercut is a throwback to the gangster era of the 1920s. Having your hair slicked straight back gives you a polished look, and gel creates a tougher-looking shell, which hardens your appearance. Keep the top long, and get the extra short tapered sides for this one.
#37: Spiky Top and Neat Sides
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @fade_master[/caption]
One of the best ways to rebel is to add spikes – especially on top! It gives you an extroverted appearance, with the potential to do something spontaneous at any moment. Even if you are shy, the length up top will give you more confidence. Keep the base smooth and neat.
#38: Mid-Length Undercut
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @doublecrownbarber[/caption]
This haircut has enough length for versatile styling, but doesn’t skimp on structure and tidiness. Proper strong-hold styling products will help you to sleek back even the thickest hair.
#39: Textured Brush Cut
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @nastybarbers[/caption]
This brush cut has a faded look down and a choppier texture up top. The top is a bit longer, and it can be messy or groomed. This is a very low-maintenance cut that will not bother you – just get it trimmed up on a regular basis.
#40: Forward-Combed Hairstyle
[caption align="aligncenter" width="500"] @straightfades[/caption]
Though the standards have changed over the years, the military haircut will always be a part of our society. This look features a forward-combed top with shaven sides and back sections.
Ready to skip PT and choose your next military haircut? There are plenty of convenient cuts out there that can be worn both on and off duty, depending on your desired level of maintenance. There are endless options awaiting you, and if your hair grows pretty fast, just start short, let it grow on top, and experiment with longer top sections over time.
by Nataly Green
August 15, 2025
