Ever caught yourself scrolling through photos of The Beatles, James Dean, or late‑60s style icons and wondered, “Could I actually pull that off?” If you’re craving a timeless, characterful haircut with a modern twist, 1960s mens hairstyles are a treasure trove. From the mod mop to the refined pompadour, these looks can add personality to your wardrobe and confidence to your stride—when done right.
Why 1960s Mens Hairstyles Still Matter
The 1960s produced some of the most enduring men’s hair trends: the relaxed mop, sharp side parts, long fringe, and bold pompadours. They were about attitude as much as shape—rebellious, polished, or effortlessly cool. Today, those same principles translate into looks that complement modern streetwear, tailored suits, and smart‑casual outfits alike.
Top 1960s Mens Hairstyles to Try Now
The Mop Top (Beatles Style)
What it is: Medium length, straight hair with a rounded fringe and soft layers. Ideal for straighter hair textures.
How to get it: Ask your barber for even layers around the head with a slightly longer fringe. Keep the sides and back tapered but not too short—aim for mobility and movement.
Style tips: Use a lightweight cream or low‑shine pomade to tame flyaways. Blow‑dry with a round brush for volume, or let it fall naturally for that classic laid‑back mod look.
Outfit pairings: Slim wool suit and Chelsea boots for a modern mod vibe; or a knit polo and tapered jeans for casual weekend wear.
The Pompadour (Classic and Rockabilly)
What it is: Shorter sides with longer top hair swept back and up for height and drama.
How to get it: Request length on top (3–5 inches) with faded or tapered sides. A barber experienced in vintage cuts will shape the top to allow height without bulk.
Style tips: Use a strong-hold pomade or wax for sculpting and a matte clay if you want a more modern, textured finish. Comb through and blow‑dry up and back to build volume.
Outfit pairings: Leather jacket and slim jeans for a rockabilly edge; sharp blazer and loafers when you want to dress it up.
The Side Part and Ivy League
What it is: A clean, sharp part with short sides and a slightly longer top—polished and preppy.
How to get it: Ask for a defined side part with graduated sides and 1–2 inches on top for styling. Your barber can use scissors over comb for a refined finish.
Style tips: Classic hair cream or light pomade keeps the part in place with subtle shine. This cut is low maintenance and great for business casual settings.
Outfit pairings: Tailored chinos, oxford shirt, and a lightweight blazer—perfect for the office or dinner dates.
The Longer, Natural Look
What it is: Longer length across the top and sides, often pushed back or worn with a loose fringe—the later 1960s embraced more length and texture.
How to get it: Grow the hair out with regular trims to maintain shape. Tell your stylist you want length but defined layers to avoid heaviness.
Style tips: Sea salt spray, texturizing paste, or a bit of cream will bring out natural waves and movement. This is a good pick for guys with thicker, wavy hair.
Outfit pairings: Overshirts, relaxed denim, and suede boots for a bohemian/rock style. Add sunglasses and a scarf for more period authenticity.
Styling Products and Maintenance
To recreate authentic 1960s mens hairstyles, the right products and routine matter:
- Pomade (medium to strong) for slicked-back pompadours and side parts.
- Matte clay or paste for a modern textured take on vintage looks.
- Lightweight creams and sea salt sprays for natural mops and longer styles.
- Frequent trims every 4–8 weeks to keep shape—longer styles need less frequent shaping but more control.
How to Ask Your Barber for a 1960s Cut
Barbers appreciate clarity. Use reference photos and be specific about length on top, taper on the sides, and fringe shape. Say things like, “I want a mop top with soft layers and a long fringe,” or “I want a pompadour with a low taper on the sides.” Mention the finish you prefer—matte or shiny—so they know which product to recommend.
Outfit Combinations That Match 1960s Vibes
These simple combinations will help the haircut feel intentional, not costume-y:
- Mod/Beatles look: Slim suit, narrow tie, and Chelsea boots. Keep colors neutral or in jewel tones.
- Rock & roll: Fitted tee, leather or denim jacket, skinny jeans, and boots.
- Preppy Ivy: Oxford shirt, V‑neck sweater or blazer, chinos, and loafers.
- Bohemian/late‑60s: Patterned shirts, flared or straight-leg jeans, suede jacket, and layered accessories.
Real-World Advice: What Suits Your Face Shape and Hair Type?
Not every 1960s men’s haircut fits every face. Here’s a quick guide:
- Oval faces: Most styles work well—experiment with pompadours or mop tops.
- Square faces: Soften strong angles with longer fringe or textured tops; avoid overly severe side parts.
- Round faces: Add height (pompadour) or longer lengths with angles to elongate the face.
- Curly hair: Embrace texture—go for longer, layered styles rather than tight pompadours.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can modern men wear 1960s mens hairstyles without looking like they’re in costume?
Absolutely. The trick is to update the finish and fit—use modern products (matte clays, lighter pomades) and pair the cut with contemporary clothing. Subtlety keeps the look wearable.
2. How long does it take to style 1960s looks every morning?
It depends on the cut. A side part or shorter pompadour can take 5–10 minutes with product and a blow dryer. Longer mop tops or textured styles might need 10–15 minutes to shape and apply texturizer.
3. What should I tell my barber if I want a Beatles-style haircut?
Bring photos and ask for even, rounded layers with a longer fringe and tapered but not tight sides. Mention you want movement rather than a helmet look; that helps the barber create a modern interpretation.
Conclusion — Embrace 1960s Mens Hairstyles with Confidence
1960s mens hairstyles offer timeless shapes and personality that still feel fresh when adapted for today. Whether you choose the mop top, a sleek pompadour, or a clean side part, the key is tailoring the cut to your hair type, face shape, and wardrobe. Ready to try a retro look? Book a consult with your barber, gather reference photos, and check out our styling product guide for the best pomades and clays.
Want more help picking the right cut for your face and lifestyle? Explore our Retro Style Guide and our Men’s Haircare page for product recommendations and step‑by‑step routines. If you liked this post, subscribe to get regular style updates and grooming tips delivered straight to your inbox.
