Ever stood in front of the mirror wondering which haircut actually suits your face? If you’ve been told you have an “oval” face, consider it a win—oval faces are one of the most versatile shapes for men’s hairstyles. In this guide you’ll find easy-to-follow advice, real-world styling tips, and outfit combinations that make the most of mens hairstyles for oval faces so you walk out looking confident every morning.
Why oval faces are a styling advantage
Oval faces have balanced proportions and a gently rounded jawline, which means most haircuts will complement your features. The key is choosing styles that enhance your natural symmetry—whether you prefer short, textured looks or longer, swept-back hair. Knowing how to work with your hair texture, density, and lifestyle makes all the difference.
Top 8 mens hairstyles for oval faces
1. The textured crop
Why it works: The textured crop adds volume and movement at the top while keeping the sides tapered. It’s especially flattering on oval faces because it preserves natural balance without elongating the face.
Styling tips: Use a matte clay or sea salt spray for a lived-in texture. Work product through damp hair and finish with a quick blast of low heat for hold.
Outfit pairing: Goes great with casual smart looks—think denim jacket, plain tee, and slim chinos. For date night, swap the tee for a crisp white shirt.
2. Classic side part
Why it works: The side part brings structure and is ideal for professional settings. It subtly emphasizes cheekbones and keeps the face looking polished.
Styling tips: Ask your barber for a clean taper at the temples and a longer top you can comb over. Use a light pomade for sheen and hold. If you have fine hair, try a volumizing mousse first.
Outfit pairing: Perfect with suits and blazers—wear with a patterned shirt or knit tie for texture.
3. Modern pompadour
Why it works: The pompadour adds height and charisma without throwing off proportion. Oval faces can handle the added volume at the crown.
Styling tips: Blow-dry upward for volume, use a medium-hold pomade, and smooth the sides. Keep the silhouette soft, not rigid.
Outfit pairing: Pairs well with leather jackets and dark denim—great for evenings out.
4. Short and simple buzz cut
Why it works: For those who want low-maintenance, the buzz cut cleans up an oval face and highlights bone structure.
Styling tips: Keep it consistent—buzzes look best when maintained every 2–4 weeks. Pair with a short beard or clean shave depending on your personal style.
Outfit pairing: Minimalist wardrobe—white tee, bomber jacket, and sneakers make this look effortless.
5. Textured quiff
Why it works: A slightly tousled quiff adds movement and personality. It works for medium-length hair and gives a youthful edge.
Styling tips: Start with a volumizing product at the roots and finish with clay for hold. Scrunch for texture rather than combing too neatly.
Outfit pairing: Smart-casual outfits—chinos, a knit polo, and desert boots.
6. Slicked back undercut
Why it works: The contrast between longer top hair and tight sides can frame an oval face dramatically. It’s modern and bold.
Styling tips: Use water-based pomade for a cleaner finish and comb back while damp. Maintain side length regularly to keep the undercut sharp.
Outfit pairing: Sharp coats, turtlenecks, and tailored trousers for a refined vibe.
7. Long layers and curtain bangs
Why it works: If you prefer length, soft layers and curtain bangs can accentuate an oval shape without overwhelming it.
Styling tips: Use a leave-in conditioner to avoid bulk, and blow-dry with a round brush to shape the curtain. Trim every 6–8 weeks to avoid split ends.
Outfit pairing: Laid-back weekend looks—overshirts, slim jeans, and Chelsea boots.
8. Faux hawk
Why it works: The faux hawk gives a rugged focus to the center of the face and keeps the sides neat, which works well on oval shapes.
Styling tips: Use a strong-hold wax to spike the center while keeping sides smooth. Good pick for medium-length hair that you want to style quickly.
Outfit pairing: Streetwear—graphic tee, bomber, and jogger pants or fitted jeans.
How to tell which haircut is best for you
Consider these factors: hair density (thin, normal, thick), hair texture (straight, wavy, curly), lifestyle (low-maintenance vs. daily styling), and whether you have a receding hairline. For example, if you have a receding hairline but an oval face, go shorter on the sides and add texture on top to camouflage thinning—search for “hairstyles for men with oval faces and receding hairline” when looking for specific inspiration.
Practical barber instructions and maintenance
Bring photos to your barber. Tell them how much time you want to spend styling each morning. Use phrases like “tapered sides,” “textured top,” or “one-to-two finger length on top” to communicate clearly. Regular trims every 4–8 weeks keep most mens hairstyles for oval faces looking intentional.
Style tips: products, facial hair, and grooming
- Products: Keep a matte clay, light pomade, and sea salt spray in your grooming kit for versatility.
- Facial hair: Short stubble or a neatly trimmed beard can complement most oval-face haircuts—use the beard to balance a longer forehead or to define a softer jawline.
- Scalp care: Use a clarifying shampoo once a week and a gentle shampoo/conditioner combo to keep hair healthy and manageable.
Real-world advice: quick routines for busy mornings
If you have 3 minutes: towel-dry, apply a small amount of product, and style with fingers. If you have 10 minutes: blow-dry for volume, use product to shape, and finish with a light spray. For time-poor guys, aim for styles that look good with minimal effort—textured crops, buzz cuts, and short side parts are friendly options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are oval faces good for all hairstyles?
A: Yes—oval faces are among the most adaptable face shapes. Most cuts look flattering, but the trick is tailoring the haircut to your hair type and lifestyle so it enhances your proportions.
Q: What are the best short haircuts for oval faces?
A: The best short haircuts include the textured crop, buzz cut, short side part, and tapered undercut. These styles highlight bone structure and are easy to maintain.
Q: How do I style an oval face with thinning hair or a receding hairline?
A: Opt for textured styles that add volume like a crop or quiff, and avoid overly long, flat top styles. Keep sides neat and consider a shorter overall cut or subtle layering to disguise thinning.
Conclusion
Knowing your face shape gives you an advantage when choosing a haircut—especially for mens hairstyles for oval faces, which offer a wide range of flattering options. Whether you want something low-maintenance like a buzz cut or a more styled look like a pompadour, pick a haircut that matches your hair type and daily routine. Ready for a new look? Book a consultation with your barber, bring a few photos, and try one of the styles above this season.
Want more grooming and style guidance? Check out our other posts on Grooming basics, Men’s fashion tips, and Short hair styles to build a complete style routine.
Call to action: Try one new cut this month—take a clear photo of your current haircut, choose one of the styles above, and show it to your barber. Share your before/after in the comments below to get tailored styling tips.
