Ever caught yourself staring at a vintage photo of The Beatles or a James Dean movie and thought, “I wish I could pull that hair off”? If you’re browsing for inspiration, this guide to 1960s mens hairstyles will help you translate iconic retro haircuts into wearable, contemporary looks. Whether you want a modern mop-top, a slicked-back mod cut, or a textured pompadour, these classic styles are surprisingly versatile for today’s wardrobe.
Why 1960s Mens Hairstyles Are Making a Comeback
The 1960s gifted men some of the most influential haircuts in style history — think mop-tops, Beatnik styles, and sharp mod cuts. These looks work well now because they focus on texture, natural movement, and individuality rather than rigidity. They pair perfectly with the modern interest in vintage clothing, tailored tailoring, and casual streetwear. Recreating retro men’s hair looks gives you a distinctive edge without feeling costume-y.
Top 7 1960s Mens Hairstyles (and How to Wear Them Today)
Mop-Top / Beatles Cut
Description: A medium-length, layered cut with bangs that sweep across the forehead. Think youthful and slightly undone.
- Best for: Oval and long faces, straight to slightly wavy hair.
- Products: Light-weight matte clay or sea salt spray for texture.
- Styling tip: Blow-dry with fingers for lift at the crown; don’t over-slick — the charm is in the movement.
- Outfit combo: Slim-fit jeans, a crisp t-shirt, and a tailored mod jacket for a modern retro vibe.
Pompadour (60s Revival)
Description: High volume at the front with shorter sides — a sleeker cousin of the 1950s pompadour.
- Best for: Round or square faces; works on straight and thick hair.
- Products: Strong hold pomade or clay for shape and longevity.
- Styling tip: Use a medium round brush to lift the front while blow-drying, then lock in with pomade.
- Outfit combo: Leather jacket, boots, and a fitted button-down for a rockabilly-meets-modern look.
Slicked-Back Mod Cut
Description: Longer top combed back with neat, tapered sides — the mod scene’s cleaner silhouette.
- Best for: Most face shapes; ideal for medium hair density.
- Products: Water-based pomade for shine or a matte paste for less gloss.
- Styling tip: Apply product to damp hair and comb back; finish with a light hairspray if needed.
- Outfit combo: Slim suit or smart-casual blazer, loafers, and patterned socks for retro sophistication.
Mop with Curtain Bangs
Description: A relaxed, parted version of the mop-top with longer curtain bangs framing the face.
- Best for: Heart-shaped and oval faces; wavy hair adds character.
- Products: Texture spray and a dab of cream for control without stiffness.
- Styling tip: Let it air-dry slightly then define the part and piece the bangs with your fingers.
- Outfit combo: Knit sweater, straight-leg trousers, and clean sneakers for a casual vintage mood.
Beatnik Bum / Long and Layered
Description: Longer, layered hair with a relaxed, creative aesthetic — think poets and coffeehouses.
- Best for: Oval faces, wavy hair textures.
- Products: Lightweight leave-in conditioner and matte paste for definition.
- Styling tip: Keep length healthy with regular trims; embrace the natural wave rather than forcing a shape.
- Outfit combo: Overcoat, turtleneck, and slim jeans for a cultured, vintage-inspired look.
Short Crop with Noticeable Sideburns
Description: A clean short cut that nods to the 60s with prominent sideburns for character.
- Best for: Square and rectangular faces.
- Products: Light styling cream to keep hair neat.
- Styling tip: Communicate sideburn length clearly with your barber — it’s a key detail.
- Outfit combo: Button-down, wool trousers, and brogues for polished everyday wear.
Wavy Fringe
Description: Medium-length hair with a textured, forward fringe that’s youthful and soft.
- Best for: Men with wavy hair and wider foreheads.
- Products: Salt spray and low-hold wax for movement.
- Styling tip: Scrunch while drying to encourage wave, then finish by running fingers through the fringe.
- Outfit combo: Denim jacket, white tee, and chinos for effortless cool.
How to Choose the Right 1960s Look for Your Face Shape and Hair Type
Not every 60s haircut suits every man. Here’s a quick guide:
- Oval faces: Most 1960s styles work — experiment with mop-tops and pompadours.
- Round faces: Go for height (pompadour) or structured sides to add definition.
- Square faces: Longer top lengths and soft waves balance strong jawlines.
- Thin/fine hair: Textured fringe or a short crop gives the illusion of fullness; avoid heavy products that weigh hair down.
Products, Tools, and Styling Tips for Authentic Retro Texture
- Pomades (water-based) — control and moderate shine for slicked-back and pompadour looks.
- Matte clays and pastes — great for mop-tops and textured fringes without glossy finish.
- Sea salt spray — adds natural-looking texture for wavy 60s styles.
- Blow dryer and round brush — essential for volume work and shaping the front.
Pro tip: Tell your barber you want a “1960s inspired cut with modern manageability.” Bring photos — a good stylist will adapt the vintage silhouette to your hair’s natural tendencies.
Outfit Pairings to Match Your 1960s Mens Hairstyles
Retro hair pairs best with clean lines and deliberate details. Try these combinations:
- Mop-top + slim trousers + mod jacket = youthful, curated streetwear.
- Pompadour + leather jacket + boots = edgy, evening-ready look.
- Slick back + tailored suit = nod to classic mod culture, perfect for formal events.
- Beatnik long layers + turtleneck + overcoat = artsy, Scandinavian-inspired ensemble.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can modern men realistically pull off 1960s mens hairstyles?
Yes. The key is to adapt length and texture to today’s grooming standards. Use contemporary products and ask for a modernized cut at the barber to avoid looking like you stepped out of a period film.
2. How long will it take to grow my hair into a mop-top or pompadour?
Expect 3–6 months for medium-length mop-top growth and around 4–8 months for a full pompadour depending on starting length. Regular trims to shape layers and remove damage make the transition neater.
3. Which 1960s style is best for thinning hair?
Textured, shorter styles like a cropped mop or a side-part with light volume can create the appearance of thicker hair. Avoid heavy slicked-back styles that show scalp more clearly.
Conclusion: Bring 1960s Mens Hairstyles Into Your Wardrobe
1960s mens hairstyles offer a rich toolkit of looks — from mop-tops and pompadours to slicked-back mod cuts — that can be tailored to your face shape, hair type, and personal style. Try one small change first: a fringe, a tapered side, or added texture with a matte clay, and see how it transforms your outfits. Ready to update your look? Book a consult with your barber and check out our mens style guide and grooming tips for more ways to match vintage haircuts with modern clothing. Embrace the retro — and make it your own.
