Ever caught your reflection and wondered why certain haircuts make your cheekbones pop — in a good way — while others exaggerate a narrow forehead or pointed chin? If your face has that distinctive diamond contour (high cheekbones, narrow temples, and a tapered jaw), choosing the right haircut can make a massive difference. This guide to mens hairstyles for diamond shaped faces will help you pick cuts and styles that balance proportions, highlight your best features, and match your personal style.
Quick primer: What defines a diamond-shaped face?
A diamond-shaped face is widest at the cheekbones, with a narrower forehead and chin. The goal with hair and grooming is to soften the sharp cheekbones, broaden the forehead visually, and add structure around the jaw. That means volume on top, reduced width at the temples, and sometimes a touch of fringe to even things out.
Best mens hairstyles for diamond shaped faces
Below are styles that naturally complement the diamond face cut, with notes on who they suit and why they work.
1. Textured Crop with a Soft Fringe
A textured crop with a light fringe helps shorten a long forehead and softens the cheekbone line. Keep the sides tapered but not skin-tight; a low fade that preserves some width near the ears works well. Use matte clay or light paste for a piecey finish.
2. Modern Quiff or Voluminous Pompadour
Height on top draws attention upward and makes the forehead look broader. A quiff or medium pompadour with tapered sides balances the face’s proportions. Blow-dry upward and back, then finish with a medium-hold pomade for structure without stiffness.
3. Side Part with Longer Top
A classic side part offsets sharp cheekbones by creating visual symmetry. Keep length on top to sweep hair that’s slightly voluminous; avoid heavy sideburns which emphasize the cheekbone width. This is a polished look for the office and dressier events.
4. Undercut with Textured Top
The contrast of an undercut works if the top is textured and not overly flat—think messy, lived-in volume rather than a flat blocked top. This modern look suits men who like edge while still wanting balance.
5. Medium-Length Waves or Curtain Bangs
If you have natural wave or are willing to grow a bit longer, curtain bangs or side-swept layers can disguise a narrow forehead and soften cheek angles. This relaxed style pairs well with casual, layered clothing.
How to style and maintain these haircuts
Products and technique matter as much as the cut. Here are practical, real-world tips:
- Use a blow dryer to add lift at the roots for quiffs and pompadours — always pre-style damp hair.
- Choose matte paste or clay for textured crops; pomades and creams are better for sleek side parts or pompadours.
- Ask your barber for graduated tapering at the sides — not a skin-tight fade — to keep cheekbones from appearing too wide.
- Trim often: diamond-shaped faces benefit from clean lines around the hairline and controlled length on the sides.
Facial hair and shaping for a diamond face
Facial hair is a powerful tool for balancing a diamond face.
- Short stubble or a boxed beard adds width to the jawline, countering a narrow chin.
- A strong, trimmed mustache with light stubble can visually break up a long face.
- A clean-shaven look with a light taper at the jaw keeps the face tidy and emphasizes cheekbones for a sharper look.
Outfit pairings that flatter diamond-shaped faces
Clothing and necklines can support your hairstyle to create cohesive style.
- Collared shirts with structured lapels (blazers) balance the narrow forehead by broadening the shoulder line.
- Layered outfits (e.g., T-shirt + overshirt + jacket) add horizontal lines that contrast the vertical taper of a diamond face.
- Necklines: crew and slightly wider V-necks work well; turtlenecks can look great with shorter haircuts that keep attention high.
- Accessories like thicker-framed glasses or beanies provide visual width around the temples.
Styling scenarios: Match your haircut to your lifestyle
Professional, corporate look
Go for a side part or neat quiff with a low taper. Keep product light and finish with a matte or low-shine pomade. Pair with a fitted blazer and crisp shirt for a sharp silhouette.
Casual, creative settings
Try a textured crop or messy undercut. Use sea-salt spray and matte paste for a lived-in style. Combine with denim jackets, layered tees, and boots to complete the vibe.
Active or low-maintenance
A short textured crop or controlled fade needs minimal daily styling. Keep regular trims every 4–6 weeks and use a light defining product to keep texture without time-consuming routine.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Too much volume at the temples — this exaggerates cheekbone width.
- Flat, long hair without layers — can make the face look longer and more angular.
- Neglecting beard grooming — uneven facial hair draws attention to the chin and can throw off balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can men with diamond-shaped faces wear long hair?
Yes — long hair works if it has layers around the face to soften cheekbones and consider curtain bangs or side-swept styles to reduce the forehead’s narrow appearance. Avoid one-length long hair that hangs straight and emphasizes the face’s angles.
2. What’s the best beard style for diamond-shaped faces?
Short stubble or a full, neatly trimmed beard that adds width at the jaw works best. Keep the sides tapered and the chin area slightly fuller to balance the tapered jawline.
3. How often should I trim my haircut to keep it flattering?
Plan touch-ups every 3–6 weeks depending on the style. Short textured crops and fades need more frequent maintenance (every 3–4 weeks), while longer layered styles can go 5–6 weeks between cuts.
Next steps — get the cut that fits your life
Mens hairstyles for diamond shaped faces are all about balance: add height, reduce temple width, and soften sharp angles with texture or fringe. Take a photo of your face shape to your barber and reference specific styles in this post. If you want quick inspiration, check out our haircut gallery and read more on coordinating beards in our beard styles guide. For daily routines, our grooming routine article can help you build a consistent style habit.
Ready to try a new look? Book a consultation with your barber, show them this guide, and experiment with one of the recommended cuts for a fresh, confident update. Share your before-and-after photo or ask for personalized advice in the comments — I’ll help you refine the perfect look.
