19 Shaggy Hairstyles for Men with Relaxed Texture

The modern man is moving away from rigid, high-maintenance fades. Effortless style is now the ultimate status symbol in grooming.

Shaggy hairstyles provide a rugged yet refined look. They celebrate natural movement and relaxed textures without looking unkempt.

For men with relaxed texture, these cuts offer versatility. You can transition from a professional office environment to a casual weekend with ease.

This guide explores 19 premium shaggy styles tailored for men. Discover how to leverage your hair’s natural flow for a superior aesthetic.

1. The Classic Surfer Shag

The classic surfer shag is defined by long, sun-kissed layers that fall naturally around the face. It is designed to look like you just stepped off a beach, emphasizing a carefree and adventurous masculine spirit. This cut works best when the hair is allowed to air dry, highlighting the subtle bends in relaxed hair.

To maintain this look, use a light sea salt spray on damp hair to add grit and volume. This prevents the hair from looking too flat while maintaining that “day at the beach” texture. It is a low-maintenance option for men who prefer a hands-off approach to their daily grooming routine.

This style is particularly flattering for men with oval or heart-shaped faces. The layers help soften a sharp jawline while providing enough volume to balance out the forehead. It’s a timeless choice that bridges the gap between youthfulness and mature ruggedness.

2. The Messy Mod Cut

Inspired by the British rock scenes of the 60s and 90s, the messy mod cut features heavy fringe and shorter layers at the crown. For men with relaxed texture, this style provides an edgy, intellectual vibe that feels intentional but not over-styled. The weight is kept forward to create a bold silhouette.

Styling requires a small amount of matte clay or pomade. Work the product through the mid-lengths to ends to create separation and definition. This ensures the “shaggy” element looks like a conscious style choice rather than a lack of a haircut.

This cut is ideal for men with straighter, relaxed textures who want to add the illusion of thickness. By layering the top heavily, the hair appears fuller and more energetic. It pairs exceptionally well with tailored casual wear, such as denim jackets or slim-fit blazers.

3. Tapered Shag with Long Fringe

This hairstyle combines the clean lines of a taper with the wilder energy of a shaggy top. The sides and back are kept relatively neat, while the top is left long and heavily textured. The focal point is a long fringe that skims the eyebrows, adding a sense of mystery.

More Amazing Ideas

18 Hairstyles for Neck Length Hair with Easy Texture — Read more19 Long Relaxed Hairstyles for Black Women for Flowing Body — Read more22 Mohawk Hairstyles for Black Women with Fierce Texture — Read more18 Protective Hairstyles for Relaxed Hair to Prevent Ends — Read more21 Hairstyles for Relaxed Hair That Look Polished — Read more

A lightweight styling cream is the best tool for this look. It provides enough hold to keep the fringe in place while allowing the rest of the hair to move naturally. It’s a sophisticated take on the shag that works well for professionals who still want some edge.

Men with square or rectangular face shapes benefit most from the tapered shag. The height on top elongates the face, while the fringe breaks up the forehead. It creates a balanced, masculine profile that looks sharp from every angle.

4. The 90s Grunge Bob

The 90s grunge bob is a mid-length cut that sits right at the jawline. It features internal layers to remove weight, allowing relaxed hair to flow and bounce. This style is an homage to the alternative rock era, perfect for men who want a bold, artistic look.

Maintenance involves using a moisturizing leave-in conditioner to keep the hair healthy and frizz-free. Since the hair is longer, keeping the ends hydrated is crucial for a premium appearance. Avoid heavy waxes that might weigh the hair down and kill the natural movement.

This style works exceptionally well for men with high cheekbones. The jaw-length cut draws attention to the middle of the face, highlighting masculine features. It is a confident choice for men who are comfortable with longer hair lengths.

5. Relaxed Wolf Cut for Men

The wolf cut is a modern hybrid of a shag and a mullet, characterized by extreme layering and a wispy finish. For men with relaxed texture, it offers a dramatic silhouette that is both trendy and masculine. It features a shorter top and sides with a longer, tapered back.

Use a texturizing powder at the roots to give this cut the “bite” it needs. The powder adds instant volume and a matte finish, making the layers pop. It’s a high-fashion look that requires a bit of confidence to pull off successfully.

This cut is highly adaptable to different hair densities. Whether your hair is thin or thick, the wolf cut can be tailored to add volume or remove bulk. It’s a versatile option for the modern man who wants to stay ahead of the trends.

6. Choppy Layers with Full Beard

This style focuses on short, choppy layers throughout the head to create a rugged, textured appearance. When paired with a well-groomed full beard, it creates a powerful contrast between the wild hair and the structured facial hair. It’s the ultimate “outdoorsman” aesthetic.

More Amazing Ideas

22 Hairstyles for Wavy Hair That Define Texture — Read more19 1920s Hairstyles for Long Hair with Faux Bob Styling — Read more20 Curly Ponytail Hairstyles for Black Women with Soft Texture — Read more23 60s Hairstyles for Long Hair with High Mod Beehives — Read more19 Braid Out Hairstyles for Black Women for Wavy Texture — Read more

To style, use a medium-hold fiber paste. Rub a small amount between your palms and “scrunch” it into the hair to emphasize the choppy ends. This creates a multi-dimensional look that catches the light and shows off the hair’s natural texture.

This look is perfect for older men who want to embrace their natural texture while maintaining a masculine edge. The beard adds a level of maturity and structure that balances the playfulness of the shaggy layers. It’s a classic, robust style.

7. The Bedhead Shag

The bedhead shag is designed to look like you’ve just woken up with perfect hair. It uses strategic layers to create a “messy on purpose” look that is soft to the touch. This style thrives on relaxed textures that have a bit of natural kink or wave.

A light grooming foam is the secret to achieving this look without the crunch. Apply it to damp hair and let it dry naturally, occasionally ruffling the hair with your fingers. The result is a soft, touchable texture that looks effortlessly cool.

This style is great for men who have a busy lifestyle. It doesn’t require precise styling, making it a quick option for the morning. It projects a relaxed, approachable persona that works in almost any social setting.

8. Mid-Length Flow Shag

The flow shag is all about length and movement, usually reaching the back of the neck or shoulders. It is characterized by layers that sweep back away from the face, creating a “flow” effect. This is a popular choice among athletes and creatives alike.

To keep the “flow” looking premium, use a wide-tooth comb and a light-hold cream. Comb the hair back while wet and let it fall into place as it dries. This ensures the layers are organized but still retain their shaggy, relaxed essence.

This style is particularly effective for men with thicker relaxed textures. The layers help manage the weight of the hair, preventing it from looking like a “helmet.” It’s a sophisticated way to wear long hair while keeping it masculine and tidy.

9. The Brit-Pop Shag

The Brit-pop shag is a tighter, more controlled version of the traditional shag. It features a heavy, straight-across fringe and shorter sides, reminiscent of 90s London style. For men with relaxed texture, this provides a neat but textured frame for the face.

A matte pomade is ideal for this look to keep the fringe in place while adding texture to the top. Focus on the ends of the hair to create that signature “piecy” look. It’s a smart-casual style that works well with polo shirts and trench coats.

More Amazing Ideas

21 Hairstyles for Dark Brown Hair with Deep Glossy Texture — Read more21 Hairstyles for Medium Length Hair That Look Chic — Read more19 Hairstyles for Long Hair for Easy Styling — Read more21 Natural Hairstyles for Black Women Medium Length Looks — Read more23 Natural Long Hairstyles for Black Women That Retain Body — Read more

This cut is excellent for men with prominent foreheads, as the fringe provides full coverage. It also helps to accentuate the eyes and cheekbones. It’s a stylish choice for men who want a haircut with a clear cultural heritage.

10. Textured Mullet Shag

The modern mullet shag is a far cry from the versions seen in the 80s. It features a subtle transition from the shorter front to the longer back, with shaggy layers throughout. It’s an edgy, bold choice for men with relaxed texture who want to stand out.

Use a texturizing spray to emphasize the different lengths within the cut. The key is to keep the hair looking “lived-in” rather than perfectly groomed. It’s a high-energy style that reflects a rebellious and fun personality.

This style works best for men with adventurous fashion tastes. It pairs well with vintage clothing and bold accessories. While it’s a statement piece, the relaxed texture keeps it from looking too harsh or artificial.

11. Soft Layered Undercut Shag

This style features a subtle undercut on the sides and back, hidden beneath a canopy of long, shaggy layers. It reduces the overall volume of the hair, making it easier to manage for men with very thick, relaxed texture. The top remains long and flowing.

Styling is simple: use a light oil or serum to add shine and reduce flyaways. The undercut stays hidden most of the time, but it provides a clean, cool feel during warmer months. It’s a practical yet stylish solution for high-density hair.

This look is highly professional when tucked behind the ears, but can be ruffled up for a more casual aesthetic. It’s a “best of both worlds” haircut for the modern professional man. The contrast between the short sides and long top adds a hidden depth to the look.

12. The Artist’s Chin-Length Shag

This cut sits at chin length and features long, sweeping layers that frame the face. It’s a classic “creative” look, often seen on musicians and actors. For men with relaxed texture, it allows the hair to drape beautifully without looking overly feminine.

To style, use a small amount of sea salt paste to give the ends some “chunkiness.” This helps the hair maintain a masculine structure despite the longer length. It’s a look that benefits from a bit of natural oil, so you don’t need to wash it every single day.

This style is perfect for men with oval or diamond face shapes. The chin-length layers help to fill out the face and add a sense of balance. It’s a sophisticated, intellectual look that commands attention in a subtle way.

More Amazing Ideas

25 Bridesmaid Hairstyles for Long Hair with Romantic Braids — Read more23 Quinceanera Hairstyles for Long Hair with Voluminous Ringlets — Read more23 Claw Clip Hairstyles for Long Hair That Hold Heavy Strands — Read more22 Hairstyles for Extremely Long Hair with Easy Updos — Read more20 Hairstyles for Shoulder Length Hair That Add Volume — Read more

13. Casual Side-Swept Shag

The side-swept shag uses a deep side part to create a sense of asymmetry. One side is tucked behind the ear, while the other side flows freely with shaggy layers. It’s a modern take on the classic “gentleman’s cut” but with much more texture.

Use a medium-hold wax to keep the part defined and the hair swept to the side. The goal is to keep the texture “relaxed” while maintaining a specific shape. This prevents the hair from falling into the face throughout the day.

This is an excellent choice for men who want a shaggy look that is still “safe” for the corporate world. It’s organized and neat, but the textured layers provide a hint of personality. It works well for all ages and hair colors.

14. The Rockstar Shag

The rockstar shag is characterized by high-volume layers and a messy, voluminous top. It’s designed to look high-octane and energetic. For men with relaxed texture, this involves using the hair’s natural body to create height and drama.

A blow dryer and a round brush can be used to add initial volume at the roots. Follow up with a strong-hold hairspray to ensure the height lasts all night. It’s a high-maintenance look compared to others on this list, but the payoff is significant.

This style is ideal for men who want to make a grand entrance. It’s a bold, confident look that suits those in the creative industries or anyone who enjoys being the center of attention. It projects power and artistic flair.

15. Face-Framing Shag for Square Faces

This specific shag is cut to soften the sharp angles of a square jawline. The layers are concentrated around the cheekbones and jaw, creating a rounded frame. This balances the face and creates a more approachable masculine aesthetic.

Styling should focus on keeping the layers soft. Use a leave-in conditioner and avoid heavy products that might make the hair look stiff. The movement of the hair is what provides the “softening” effect for the facial features.

This is a great “corrective” haircut for men who feel their features are too harsh. By adding texture and movement around the face, you can create a more harmonious and balanced appearance. It’s a thoughtful, expert-level grooming choice.

16. The Sun-Kissed Tousled Shag

This style emphasizes light and shadow through texture. It’s a medium-length shag where the ends are thinned out to create a wispy, light-catching effect. It looks best on men who have natural highlights or a slightly lighter hair tone.

More Amazing Ideas

24 Bob Hairstyles for Black Women That Flatter Every Shape — Read more17 Hairstyles for Chin Length Hair for a Fresh Look — Read more20 Layered Bob Hairstyles for Black Women with Volume — Read more15 Hairstyles for Ear Length Hair That Look Cute — Read more24 Hairstyles for Chest Length Hair for Daily Wear — Read more

A shine-enhancing spray or a very light hair oil is perfect for this look. It helps the “sun-kissed” layers glisten and look healthy. The “tousled” part comes from simply running your fingers through your hair throughout the day.

This look is perfect for the summer months or for men who live in warmer climates. It feels light, airy, and youthful. It’s a great way to show off the health and natural texture of your hair.

17. Volume-Heavy Top Shag

This version of the shag keeps the length primarily on the top of the head while the sides are slightly shorter (but still layered). It creates a vertical silhouette that adds height to the wearer. It’s a great way to manage relaxed texture that tends to get puffy.

Use a volumizing mousse on damp hair before blow-drying upside down. This sets the foundation for a high-volume look that won’t fall flat. The shaggy layers on top provide the “messy” finish that keeps it contemporary.

Men with rounder faces should consider this style, as the height on top helps to elongate the face. It’s a modern, “upward” style that feels very current in men’s fashion. It’s both professional and playful.

18. The Modern Mop-Top

The modern mop-top is a uniform shag where the hair is kept at a similar length all around the head. It’s a bold, “heavy” look that celebrates the sheer volume of relaxed hair. It’s a nod to 60s pop culture but updated with modern layering techniques.

To prevent this from looking like a “bowl cut,” the stylist must use point-cutting techniques to create texture. Styling requires a light salt spray to keep the hair from looking too flat against the head. It’s a high-style look for the fashion-forward man.

This style works best for men with straight to slightly wavy relaxed texture. It provides a thick, lush look that is very youthful. It’s a confident choice for men who want a distinct and recognizable silhouette.

19. Subtle Tapered Shag

The subtle tapered shag is the most conservative version of the list. It features very short tapers at the nape and ears, transitioning into short, shaggy layers on top. It’s a “barely there” shag that is perfect for the most professional environments.

A tiny bit of grooming cream is all you need to keep the hair in place. The “shag” element is subtle, providing just enough texture to show you care about your style without being “too much.” It’s an elegant, understated choice.

More Amazing Ideas

25 Hairstyles for Long Hair with Bangs That Add Charm — Read more24 Heatless Hairstyles for Long Hair for Overnight Waves — Read more23 Hairstyles for Hip Length Hair for Simple Styling — Read more20 Thanksgiving Hairstyles for Long Hair for Cozy Dinners — Read more24 Wedding Hairstyles for Long Hair for Timeless Romance — Read more

This is the perfect “entry-level” shag for men who are used to very short haircuts. It allows you to experiment with texture and length without a drastic change. It’s a timeless, versatile cut for any man.

What exactly is “relaxed texture” in men’s hair?

Relaxed texture refers to hair that isn’t tightly curled but isn’t pin-straight either. It typically features soft waves, natural “kinks,” or hair that has been chemically treated to reduce frizz while maintaining body. For men, this texture is the “sweet spot” for shaggy styles because it holds shape easily without requiring excessive styling products.

How do I ask my barber for a shaggy hairstyle?

The best way is to show a photo of one of the styles mentioned above. However, you should also ask for “internal layers” and “point cutting.” Tell your barber you want to maintain length but remove weight to allow for movement. Emphasize that you want a “lived-in” look rather than a sharp, blunt finish.

Which products are best for maintaining a men’s shag?

For relaxed texture, lightweight products are king. Sea salt sprays add grit and volume, while grooming creams provide a soft hold and shine. Avoid heavy gels or thick waxes, as these will weigh down the layers and make the hair look greasy rather than shaggy. Matte clays are also excellent for adding definition to the ends of the hair.

Can older men wear shaggy hairstyles successfully?

Absolutely. Shaggy hairstyles are excellent for older men because the layers can add volume to thinning hair. Furthermore, the softer edges of a shag are often more flattering than the harsh lines of a skin fade. Pairing a shag with a well-maintained beard or “salt and pepper” hair color creates a sophisticated, distinguished masculine look.

How often does a shaggy haircut need a trim?

One of the benefits of the shag is that it grows out better than most structured haircuts. Generally, a trim every 6 to 8 weeks is sufficient to maintain the shape. You’ll want to have your barber “refresh” the layers and remove any split ends, but you can often go longer between appointments than you would with a fade.

Does a shag work for men with very fine hair?

Yes, a shag is actually one of the best cuts for fine hair. The layering technique creates the illusion of thickness and volume. By adding texture to the top and keeping the sides slightly more tapered, fine-haired men can achieve a much fuller look. Using a volumizing mousse or texturizing powder will further enhance this effect.