Updo hairstyles, once considered a style reserved for women, have increasingly become a fashionable choice for men, especially in 2025. The modern updo offers a great way for young men to express their personality while maintaining a sophisticated, sharp, or laid-back look. From slick and professional to carefree and fun, updo hairstyles for men are diverse and cater to different preferences and occasions.
In this article, we will explore seven updo hairstyles that young men can try in 2025. Whether you have curly, straight, thick, or fine hair, there is a trendy updo style that can suit your hair type and personality. These updo styles are perfect for formal events, casual outings, and everything in between.
7 Stylish Updo Hairstyles for Young Men in 2025
1. The Classic Man Bun: The Iconic, Timeless Updo
The classic man bun remains one of the most popular and versatile updo styles for men. Known for its clean, simple, yet trendy look, the man bun is a go-to style for many young men who want to keep their hair out of their face while maintaining a fashionable appearance.
How to Achieve the Classic Man Bun
Achieving the classic man bun is simple and requires only a few basic steps. Start by gathering all of your hair at the top or back of your head. The placement of the bun depends on personal preference—higher buns give off a more edgy and youthful vibe, while lower buns look more sophisticated and classic.
Next, use a hair tie to secure your hair into a tight or loose bun, depending on the look you’re going for. You can leave a few strands of hair loose for a more relaxed appearance. If your hair is long enough, you can twist the bun to add texture and volume.
Who It Suits
The classic man bun works well for young men with medium to long hair. It’s ideal for men who have thick hair and want a low-maintenance yet stylish updo that works for both casual and formal occasions. The style can be adjusted to suit different face shapes and hair textures.
2. The Top Knot: Bold and Structured
The top knot is a bold, structured updo that’s similar to the classic man bun but typically sits higher on the head. It’s a clean yet edgy hairstyle that allows you to keep your hair out of your face while giving off a more assertive vibe.
How to Achieve the Top Knot
To achieve the top knot, begin by brushing your hair to remove any tangles and then gather it at the crown of your head. Secure the hair with a hair tie to form a small, tight knot. You can use a texturizing product or light gel to ensure the top knot stays in place, especially if you have thicker hair.
Unlike the man bun, the top knot should be positioned high on your head, creating an eye-catching look that draws attention to the top of your hair. This style can be worn as tight or loose as desired, with some people leaving strands around the sides or back to create a more relaxed and casual feel.
Who It Suits
The top knot is perfect for young men with medium to long hair who want a look that’s both bold and practical. It works well with thicker or wavy hair types and suits those who prefer a structured style that’s still flexible.
3. The Pompadour Updo: Retro and Stylish
The pompadour is a vintage-inspired hairstyle that has made a huge comeback in recent years. Known for its voluminous top and slicked-back sides, the pompadour updo provides a bold, retro look with a modern twist. It’s ideal for young men who enjoy creating dramatic shapes with their hair.
How to Achieve the Pompadour Updo
To achieve the pompadour, begin by applying a volumizing product to damp hair to create fullness. Use a blow dryer and a round brush to lift the front section of the hair upwards, creating volume at the top. Once you’ve achieved the desired volume, comb the sides back to keep the style sleek.
For a modern touch, you can use a matte pomade or styling wax to hold the hair in place, while leaving the volume on top looking natural and voluminous. A side part or a clean, slicked-back look can enhance the overall pompadour shape. This style works best for men with medium to long hair who want a sharp and sophisticated look.
Who It Suits
The pompadour updo is a great choice for young men who have straight or slightly wavy hair and are looking to add height and volume to their look. This style is perfect for both casual and formal occasions, making it a versatile option for those who love bold, defined hairstyles.
4. The Curly Updo: Embrace Natural Texture
For young men with curly hair, embracing your natural texture with a curly updo is a great way to stand out in 2025. The curly updo works with both short and medium-length curls, allowing you to keep your curls in check while still showing off their volume and bounce.
How to Achieve the Curly Updo
To achieve the curly updo, gather your hair at the crown or top of your head, leaving the curls slightly loose for a natural, voluminous appearance. Use a hair tie to secure the curls in place, making sure not to pull too tight, as you want the curls to remain bouncy and free. You can also use a texturizing cream or curl-enhancing product to define the curls while keeping them in place.
For a more structured look, you can opt for a tight bun or knot while maintaining the curls’ natural form. This style is especially great for men with thicker curls, as it showcases their hair’s natural beauty while keeping it out of their face.
Who It Suits
The curly updo works best for young men with naturally curly or wavy hair. This style suits men who prefer a more relaxed, effortless vibe while still highlighting their natural curls. It’s perfect for those who want a bold, textured look without excessive styling.
5. The Faux Hawk Updo: Edgy and Trendy
The faux hawk updo is an edgy, attention-grabbing style that offers a modern alternative to the classic mohawk. This style is perfect for young men who want to experiment with bold looks while maintaining a bit of style and sophistication.
How to Achieve the Faux Hawk Updo
To create the faux hawk, start by applying a styling gel or wax to damp hair. Use your fingers or a comb to style the hair at the top of your head upwards, while keeping the sides shorter and slicked back. The goal is to create height at the center of your head, while the sides remain neat and trimmed.
Once the hair is styled, use a strong-hold gel to maintain the shape throughout the day. The faux hawk can be as dramatic or subtle as you like, depending on how high you want the center to stand. This style is ideal for young men who want to make a bold statement without going for a full mohawk.
Who It Suits
The faux hawk updo works well for young men with medium to thick hair who want a bold, daring look. It’s a great option for those who want to add height and structure to their hair while keeping the sides neat and controlled.
6. The Braided Top Knot: A Fusion of Styles
For those looking to incorporate both braids and updos, the braided top knot is an innovative hairstyle that blends these two elements for a unique, stylish look. This style is perfect for young men who want to experiment with a more intricate and detailed hairstyle.
How to Achieve the Braided Top Knot
Start by sectioning your hair into small parts and braiding them to create defined, structured braids. Gather all of the braids at the top of your head and tie them together in a knot. The braids should be loose enough to create a textured appearance but tight enough to hold the top knot in place. You can also leave a few loose strands around the face to soften the look.
Use a styling gel to hold the braids and top knot in place while ensuring the style doesn’t lose its shape. The braided top knot is a great way to combine two popular trends and create a sophisticated yet edgy look.
Who It Suits
This style is great for young men with medium to long hair who want to add some texture and creativity to their updo. It works best for men with thick hair, as it allows you to experiment with braids and knots in a manageable way.
7. The Slicked-Back Bun: Sleek and Polished
The slicked-back bun is a polished, professional updo that works well for formal occasions or when you need to maintain a clean, sharp look. It combines the man bun with a sleek, slicked-back style for a neat, controlled appearance.
How to Achieve the Slicked-Back Bun
To achieve the slicked-back bun, start by applying a strong-hold gel or pomade to your damp hair. Comb the product through your hair to ensure it is evenly distributed, then gather the hair into a high or low bun. Slick back the sides using a comb to maintain a sleek look. Secure the bun with a hair tie.
The slicked-back bun is ideal for men who need a hairstyle that stays in place all day while looking sharp and sophisticated. The style can be adjusted for various occasions, from business meetings to elegant parties.
Who It Suits
The slicked-back bun works well for young men with medium to long straight hair. It’s a great option for those who want a more formal, controlled look while still keeping their hair out of their face.
Conclusion
Updo hairstyles for young men are no longer just a trend; they have become a way to express creativity, individuality, and style. From the classic man bun to the more experimental braided top knot, these seven updo hairstyles offer something for everyone, regardless of hair type or personality. Whether you’re going for a bold, edgy look or a sleek, sophisticated style, these updos will ensure you stay ahead of the trend and look your best in 2025.
