Flat Top Haircut: A Short History and 10 Ways to Wear This Military-Inspired Style
Take it back to the '50s when the flat top haircut made its first appearance.
The flat top haircut is one of those trends that came into the men’s hairstyle scene with a bang and has consistently stuck around since. This style first made an appearance in the 1950s in a military-inspired form, wherein the sides were shaved and the top stood straight up in a short, clean and uniform style. It’s no surprise that this eye-catching look quickly gained popularity and has remained a hairstyle staple since its inception.
While there are a few variations and slightly different ways to wear the flat top haircut, the key characteristics include those shaved sides and the straight-up styled flat top. Keep reading for some flat top haircut inspiration and some ways to wear this look:
The Flat Top Haircut
1. A Modern Take
Skip the hair products and use your fingers to comb your flat top off to the side and away from your face. This modern variation on the classic flat top haircut allows you to rock the trend without going overboard on hair products.
2. Spiked
If you’re feeling up to experimenting with a little bit of hair product but don’t want to go overboard, try AXE Messy Look: Matte Gel. This product will help guide your hair into that classic flat top gravity-defying style without looking too greasy. The matte finish will give you a clean look that doesn’t look too over-the-top.
3. Slicked Back
Run your comb under the faucet and slick your hair back by combing it straight back. This is a great alternative style for those days when you’re looking for something sleeker.
4. Mini Flat Top
Opt for a mini flat top and keep your style centered on your head.
5. Natural Hair
Show off your natural curls with a classic flat top haircut.
6. Volume Up
Amp up the volume on your natural curls by brushing through them for maximum volume and drama.
7. Understated
Alternatively, leave your curls closely cropped and coiled for a slightly more understated look.
8. The Elongated Flat Top
Grow your curls out and keep them hydrated with Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion Styling Oil and wear them out for an on-trend and modern elongated flat top.
9. All Gelled Up
Spike up your flat top with a generous dollop of Dove Men+Care Control Gel combed through your strands.
10. Flat Top + Beard
Let your beard grow in a little for the ideal on-trend balance to your brand new flat top haircut.
