Men’s Medium Length Hairstyles 2016: A Retrospective on Popular Trends

2016 witnessed a significant shift in men’s hairstyles, with medium-length cuts emerging as a dominant trend. This article delves into the popular styles that defined the year, offering a retrospective look at the cuts, styling techniques, and the overall influence on men’s grooming. Understanding these trends offers valuable insight into the evolution of men’s fashion and the enduring appeal of versatile medium-length hairstyles.

The Rise of the Textured Pompadour

One of the most prominent men’s medium length hairstyles in 2016 was a refined take on the classic pompadour. Unlike the high-volume styles of previous decades, the 2016 iteration featured a more textured and slightly less structured approach. This meant less backcombing and more focus on natural volume and movement. The sides were typically tapered or faded, creating a sharp contrast with the fuller top. Products like matte pomades and texturizing clays were key to achieving this look, providing hold without stiffness. This versatility made the textured pompadour suitable for both formal and casual occasions, contributing to its widespread popularity. The inherent masculinity of the style, combined with its adaptability, solidified its place as a leading men’s medium length hairstyle in 2016.

The Undercut’s Continued Reign

The undercut, a mainstay in men’s hairstyles for several years, continued its strong presence in 2016. The combination of short, shaved sides and longer hair on top provided a bold yet sophisticated contrast. This style, suitable for various hair types, offered flexibility in styling. The longer top could be swept to the side, styled into a quiff, or left to fall naturally. The clean-cut sides added a touch of modern edge, making it suitable for a range of personalities and professional settings. Variations included fades of varying degrees and different lengths on top, showcasing the adaptability of this men’s medium length hairstyle in 2016.

The Casual, Effortless Waves

In contrast to the more structured styles, 2016 also saw a rise in the popularity of natural, effortless waves. This style embraced the inherent texture of the hair, focusing on enhancing its natural movement rather than imposing strict structure. Men with naturally wavy or curly hair found this a particularly appealing choice. The key here was less about styling products and more about choosing a cut that allowed the waves to fall naturally and attractively. A light texturizing spray could be used to enhance the waves and add a touch of separation, but overall, the aim was to showcase the hair’s natural beauty. This casual, low-maintenance approach contributed to the appeal of this men’s medium length hairstyle in 2016.

The Influence of Celebrity Hairstyles

As always, celebrity hairstyles played a significant role in shaping the trends of 2016. Numerous A-list actors and musicians sported various iterations of the styles mentioned above, influencing countless men to emulate their looks. This visibility amplified the popularity of these men’s medium length hairstyles, further solidifying their status as leading trends of the year. The power of celebrity endorsement cannot be underestimated in driving these trends.

Styling Products and Techniques

Achieving the perfect men’s medium length hairstyle in 2016 required the right styling products. Matte pomades offered a strong hold with a natural finish, ideal for textured pompadours and undercuts. Texturizing sprays and clays helped enhance natural movement and definition, particularly beneficial for the effortless wave style. The application techniques also varied depending on the desired look. For the pompadour, backcombing (with caution!) was often employed to build volume. For the undercuts and waves, focusing on the direction of the hair and using fingers to shape rather than a comb was key to a more natural effect. This attention to detail enhanced the overall style.

The Enduring Appeal of Versatility

The enduring appeal of these men’s medium length hairstyles in 2016 can be attributed to their versatility. Each style could be adapted to suit various hair types, face shapes, and personal preferences. This adaptability made them accessible to a broad audience, regardless of individual characteristics. The ability to transition seamlessly between formal and casual settings further enhanced their appeal. This versatility ensured the longevity of these trends beyond 2016.

Men’s Medium Length Hairstyles 2016: A Lasting Impact

The men’s medium length hairstyles of 2016 showcased a blend of classic styles with modern interpretations. From the textured pompadour to the effortlessly styled waves, the focus was on creating looks that were both stylish and versatile. The year saw an emphasis on natural textures and adaptable styles, making it a significant period in the evolution of men’s grooming. Many of these styles continue to influence current trends, highlighting their enduring appeal and the timelessness of well-executed medium-length cuts. [See also: Men’s Hairstyle Trends 2017] and [See also: How to Choose the Right Hairstyle for Your Face Shape]. These popular men’s medium length hairstyles from 2016 remain inspirational and relevant even today.

Conclusion

The year 2016 in men’s hairdressing was characterized by a diverse range of medium-length styles, each offering unique characteristics and styling possibilities. This diverse selection allowed men to explore various looks, from the structured pomp to the natural wave, reflecting a period of experimentation and expression within men’s grooming. The lasting impact of these men’s medium length hairstyles underscores the cyclical nature of fashion and the continuous search for the perfect balance between style and practicality.