Looking for a fresh new look? Well, the messy fringe hairstyle might just be the perfect style for you! It’s that effortless, laid-back vibe everyone’s talking about, and trust me, it never goes out of fashion.
From casual days out to more polished events, this versatile style works on all face shapes and hair types. You can keep it simple or get creative with layers, textures, and lengths—there’s a messy fringe for everyone!
“A messy fringe can balance out rounder faces by adding angles and structure around the forehead,” says hairstylist Emily Ross.
So, why not give the messy fringe haircut a shot? It’s a bold move that’s guaranteed to turn heads. Whether you’re after a casual weekend style or something that speaks volumes, this hairstyle is your ticket to an effortlessly chic look.
Ready to try something different? Get inspired by the 25 styles we’ve put together for every face shape and find the one that suits you best!
What is Messy Fringe Haircut?
A messy fringe is a hairstyle where the fringe (or bangs) is intentionally cut to look undone, textured, and natural, rather than smooth and perfectly styled. This look emphasizes a carefree, effortless vibe, with layers, uneven lengths, and a tousled appearance. It’s a versatile and low-maintenance haircut that works well with various hair types and face shapes.
Key Features of a Messy Fringe Haircut:
- Textured Layers: The fringe is cut with layers to create volume and movement, making it look more relaxed and voluminous.
- Uneven Lengths: Unlike traditional bangs, messy fringes are often cut with varying lengths to give a more lived-in, casual appearance.
- Tousled Look: The overall goal is to have the fringe appear naturally messy, often with some pieces sticking out or falling irregularly.
- Versatility: It can be worn with straight, wavy, or curly hair, and it can be adapted to suit different face shapes.
- Low Maintenance: Since the fringe is meant to look effortless, it’s easy to maintain with minimal styling, making it perfect for those who want a “bedhead” look.
This style gives a laid-back, modern touch to any haircut while maintaining a youthful, trendy appearance.
5 Secret Tips for Perfecting the Messy Fringe Look
- Start with the Right Cut: The foundation of a messy fringe is a good haircut. Ask your stylist for a layered, textured fringe that’s slightly uneven. This creates natural movement and volume for a messier look.
- Use the Right Styling Products: Choose a light texturizing spray or sea salt spray. These products help add texture and volume, giving your fringe that messy, tousled effect without weighing it down.
- Avoid Over-Perfecting: A messy fringe should look effortless, not neat. Skip using a comb, and instead, use your fingers to gently separate and arrange the fringe for a more natural look.
- Blow-Dry with a Round Brush: To add volume and shape, blow-dry your fringe with a round brush. Focus on lifting the roots and flicking the ends out for a messy, relaxed style.
- Embrace the Bedhead Vibe: Don’t be afraid of some flyaways or imperfect strands. The more natural and “bedhead” it looks, the better! If needed, lightly tousle with your fingers throughout
Here are 25 Messy Fringe Hairstyles for every face shape, designed to give you the perfect look no matter your style! Whether you’re going for a casual vibe or something more bold, these hairstyles will keep you on trend.
1. Classic Messy Fringe
This messy fringe is perfect for anyone who loves a timeless look with a modern twist. It’s not too short, not too long—just right! With the classic messy fringe, you’ll have bangs that softly hit just above your eyebrows, giving you a natural yet chic appearance.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: Request a fringe that is medium-length, ideally just grazing your eyebrows. Your stylist will cut in soft layers for texture.
- Texturize: Have your stylist add light layers around your face to give the fringe volume and depth.
- Blow-Dry: Use a round brush while blow-drying the fringe to lift the roots and create natural movement.
- Sea Salt Spray: Apply a sea salt spray to damp hair to enhance texture and give that tousled look.
- Finger Comb: After blow-drying, gently run your fingers through the fringe instead of using a comb to keep the messiness and natural texture intact.
Tips:
- To avoid a heavy, stiff look, let your fringe air-dry instead of using a flat iron.
- For more volume, add some subtle layers at the back.
- If you have thicker hair, request more layers to lighten up the fringe.
- Refresh your messy fringe with a light texturizing spray every few days.
2. Long Messy Fringe Hairstyle
For those who like a bit of extra length, the long messy fringe offers a laid-back yet stylish look. This style is perfect for longer hair, where the fringe blends seamlessly into the rest of your locks. It’s great for people who want to try a fringe without committing to a short cut.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: Ask for a long fringe that falls between your cheekbones and chin. It should have layers for a more natural flow.
- Texturize: Request the fringe to be sliced at the ends for an uneven, messier finish.
- Styling: Use a flat iron on the tips of the fringe for a slightly wavy effect to complement the messy vibe.
- Finish: Use a light mousse or texturizing cream for extra volume and that tousled, wind-swept look.
- Drying: Blow-dry your fringe using your fingers to add lift and texture, avoiding any combs or brushes to maintain the messy look.
Tips:
- Keep the fringe longer for a more relaxed, carefree look.
- Layer the sides slightly to blend the fringe into your longer hair.
- Regularly trim the fringe to keep it from becoming too long or uneven.
- Use a dry shampoo to give the fringe more body and avoid flatness.
3. Shaggy Messy Fringe Haircut
The shaggy messy fringe gives you that edgy, rock ‘n’ roll look with messy, textured layers throughout. This hairstyle works great for both men and women and is perfect for those who want a more bold, youthful look.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: Ask your stylist for a shag haircut with a heavily layered fringe that falls around your eyes.
- Texturize: Request your stylist to use a razor to give your fringe a choppy, uneven finish.
- Styling: Apply a generous amount of texturizing spray or mousse to damp hair, then tousle with your fingers.
- Drying: Blow-dry using a diffuser on medium heat to keep the volume without weighing down the layers.
- Messy Finish: Finger-comb your fringe and allow it to fall naturally. Use your hands to tousle it further for that messy, lived-in look.
Tips:
- The more layers, the better! Layers create movement and volume for a fuller, messier fringe.
- Use a texturizing paste to keep the hair separated and full of texture.
- Avoid smoothing products; the more messy, the better!
- Keep the shaggy fringe uneven for a more lived-in look.
Also Try: 25 Classy Short Shaggy Hairstyle Ideas
4. Short Messy Fringe
For those who love a bold, edgy look, the short messy fringe is the way to go. It’s daring and fresh, adding a playful twist to your hairstyle. This works particularly well for those with a more angular or square jawline.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: Ask your stylist for a short fringe that ends right above the eyes. Layer it to create a soft, uneven texture.
- Styling: Apply a light styling cream to damp hair to add texture and make it easier to shape.
- Drying: Blow-dry the fringe forward, using your fingers to create a tousled, messy effect.
- Texturize: Once dry, apply a texturizing spray or powder to add volume and separate the strands.
- Finishing Touch: Use your fingers to gently move the fringe around until it looks perfectly imperfect.
Tips:
- The shorter the fringe, the more upkeep it requires, so schedule regular trims.
- Use a lightweight texturizer to prevent the fringe from feeling heavy.
- Keep the rest of the hair slightly longer to balance out the short fringe.
- For extra volume, blow-dry with your head upside down.
5. Wispy Messy Fringe
A more delicate take on the messy fringe, the wispy messy fringe is soft, airy, and light, adding a subtle, romantic touch. This style works particularly well for those with fine hair and those who want a low-maintenance yet feminine look.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: Request wispy, thin layers that fall just above your brows. The fringe should look soft and light.
- Texturize: Ask your stylist to use a razor for lighter ends that blend seamlessly into the rest of your hair.
- Styling: Apply a lightweight mousse or volumizing spray to damp hair for lift without adding too much texture.
- Drying: Blow-dry with a round brush to lift the roots but let the fringe dry naturally for a softer effect.
- Finishing: Once dry, lightly run your fingers through the fringe to separate the pieces without over-styling.
Tips:
- Wispy fringes work best with softer, lighter textures—avoid heavy creams or gels.
- Don’t over-dry the fringe—let it air-dry a bit to maintain its soft, airy feel.
- For more volume, flip your head upside down while blow-drying to lift the roots.
- Keep trimming every few weeks to prevent it from getting too heavy.
6. Curly Messy Fringe
For those with curly hair, the curly messy fringe is the ultimate style to embrace your natural texture while still looking trendy. This look celebrates volume and movement, offering a perfect balance of messy and controlled curls.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: Ask your stylist to cut the fringe just above the eyes, allowing your natural curls to form without too much weight.
- Texturize: Request layers throughout the fringe to give it bounce and prevent it from becoming too bulky.
- Styling: Use a curl-enhancing cream to define your curls and make them more manageable.
- Drying: Let your hair air-dry or use a diffuser on low heat to dry the curls without disturbing their natural pattern.
- Finishing: Scrunch your fringe with your hands to keep it tousled and create that messy look.
Tips:
- For more volume, use a root-lifting spray or mousse before styling.
- Avoid brushing your curls, as it can create frizz. Finger-comb for more definition.
- Keep your curls hydrated with a moisturizing leave-in conditioner.
- Regular trims are a must to keep the fringe from growing out too unevenly.
7. Side-Swept Messy Fringe
The side-swept messy fringe is a chic and effortlessly cool style that’s great for both long and medium-length hair. The messy part comes from letting the fringe fall naturally to one side, creating a soft, flattering frame for your face.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: Ask for a long fringe that hits around the eyebrow level, cut on a diagonal to create the sweeping effect.
- Texturize: Request light layers to give the fringe volume and make it easier to sweep to the side.
- Styling: Apply a heat protectant to damp hair and use a round brush to blow-dry the fringe to one side.
- Drying: Dry your fringe completely in the direction you want it to fall, and use a light hairspray to keep it in place.
- Finishing: After drying, use your fingers to tousle and give it a more relaxed, messy appearance.
Tips:
- Keep the rest of your hair styled in loose waves to match the side-swept fringe.
- If the fringe feels too flat, use a dry shampoo for added texture and volume.
- Lightly curl the fringe with a flat iron for a soft, waved effect.
- Trim every 3-4 weeks to maintain the perfect side-swept length.
8. Messy Fringe with a Bob
The messy fringe with a bob combines two bold looks into one—chic and edgy. This style is perfect for those who want a modern, fashionable haircut with an extra touch of playfulness.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: Ask for a blunt bob with the fringe cut slightly longer than usual—around the brow level.
- Texturize: Add layers around the fringe to break up the blunt cut and create a messy effect.
- Styling: Use a texturizing spray or light mousse to add volume and a bit of separation to the fringe.
- Blow-Dry: Blow-dry using a round brush to lift the roots of the fringe and give it more volume.
- Finishing: For a more messy, lived-in look, use your fingers to comb through the fringe instead of a comb.
Tips:
- Keep the bob straight and sleek to contrast with the messy fringe.
- Use a lightweight styling cream to keep the fringe soft and natural.
- To keep the fringe from becoming too heavy, have it trimmed regularly.
- For extra texture, lightly curl the ends of the fringe with a flat iron.
9. Textured Messy Fringe
The textured messy fringe is for those who love a bit of edge with their hairstyle. This style adds volume and definition to the fringe, giving it a more structured, yet still messy, appearance.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: Ask for a medium-length fringe with lots of layers to give the hair texture and volume.
- Texturize: Have your stylist cut the fringe with a razor for extra texture and separation between the strands.
- Styling: Apply a texturizing mousse or spray to damp hair to enhance the natural texture.
- Drying: Blow-dry with a round brush to create volume and lift the roots of the fringe.
- Finishing: Use a bit of styling wax or pomade to add definition to the individual strands of your fringe.
Tips:
- The more texture, the better! Don’t be afraid to go for chunky layers.
- For more separation and volume, use a dry shampoo to lift and refresh your fringe.
- Keep the rest of your hair loose and natural to match the messy vibe.
- Trim your fringe regularly to maintain the right length and shape.
10. Spiked Messy Fringe Haircut
For those who want to embrace a bold, adventurous look, the spiked messy fringe is a fantastic choice. This style is perfect for straight or fine hair and flatters heart and oval face shapes, adding a touch of attitude to your appearance.
How to Get the Spiked Messy Fringe Haircut
1. Ask Your Barber for:
- A mid to high fade on the sides and back.
- The top left longer (about 2-4 inches) for volume and styling.
- Texture added with scissors or a razor for a natural, messy look.
- A slightly disconnected or blended transition between the top and sides.
- If you have a beard, ask for a fade that connects smoothly with the hairstyle.
2. How to Style It:
- Start with damp hair (towel-dried but not soaking wet).
- Apply a pre-styler or sea salt spray for added texture.
- Blow-dry using your fingers or a vented brush to create volume.
- Use a matte clay, wax, or pomade to spike up the front and mess up the top.
- For extra hold, use a lightweight hairspray to keep the spikes in place.
Tips to Maintain the Look:
✔️ Get regular trims (every 3-4 weeks) to keep the fade fresh.
✔️ Use a high-hold, low-shine product for a natural messy finish.
✔️ Avoid overloading product—a small amount goes a long way.
✔️ Use a blow dryer on medium heat to create volume before applying styling products.
✔️ Keep the fade clean by shaving or trimming in between barber visits.
✔️ Wash your hair 2-3 times a week (overwashing can strip natural oils).
This style is great for a modern, edgy, and masculine look while remaining easy to maintain. Would you like product recommendations for your hair type?
11. Messy Fringe Haircut with High Fade
For those who want to make a stylish impact, the messy fringe with a high fade is an ideal choice. This look works well with straight or wavy hair and is particularly flattering for square and oval face shapes, offering a bold yet fashionable vibe that fits perfectly in casual, trendy settings.
How to Get This Hairstyle
1. What to Ask Your Barber:
- A high fade on the sides and back (skin fade or taper fade depending on your preference).
- Leave the top longer (2-4 inches) for movement and texture.
- A choppy, layered cut on top for a natural messy effect.
- A fringe that falls slightly over the forehead but with a rugged, unstructured look.
- If you have a beard, ask for a fade transition that blends into it.
2. How to Style It:
- Start with damp hair (lightly towel-dried).
- Apply a pre-styler or sea salt spray for added texture.
- Use a blow-dryer with a diffuser or your hands to create natural movement.
- Work in a light matte clay or texturizing wax with your fingers for a messy, undone look.
- Scrunch the fringe forward slightly, letting it fall naturally.
- Avoid over-styling—this haircut looks best when it’s effortless!
Tips to Maintain the Look:
✔️ Get a trim every 3-4 weeks to keep the fade sharp.
✔️ Use lightweight styling products for a natural, flowy finish.
✔️ Wash your hair 2-3 times a week to prevent dryness.
✔️ Apply dry shampoo on no-wash days to keep volume intact.
✔️ Use a hairbrush or fingers to style—avoid combing for a natural effect.
✔️ Blow-dry on low heat to maintain movement without stiffness.
This style works great for a laid-back yet fashionable look! Need product recommendations for your hair type? 🚀
12. Messy Fringe Haircut with Undercut
A trendy and effortless hairstyle featuring a textured, tousled fringe with a sharp undercut for contrast. The top is left longer for a natural, voluminous look, while the sides and back are neatly shaved. Perfect for a stylish yet low-maintenance appearance.
How to Get This Hairstyle:
✔️ Ask your barber for an undercut on the sides and back, with a clear contrast between the top and shaved sections.
✔️ Keep the top 2-4 inches long, with layers for added texture and movement.
✔️ Request a choppy or point-cut fringe that falls slightly over your forehead for a relaxed effect.
✔️ If you have wavy or curly hair, ask for natural texture enhancement to make styling easier.
✔️ Style with matte clay or sea salt spray, using your hands to scrunch the hair for a messy, effortless vibe.
Tips to Maintain the Look:
✔️ Get an undercut touch-up every 3-4 weeks to keep the contrast sharp.
✔️ Use lightweight styling products to maintain volume without weighing hair down.
✔️ Avoid over-washing—2-3 times a week is enough to keep natural oils intact.
✔️ Blow-dry on low heat while scrunching the fringe to enhance texture.
✔️ For added definition, use dry shampoo on non-wash days to absorb excess oil and add volume.
This cut is perfect for a bold yet easygoing look! Want product recommendations based on your hair type? 🚀
13. Asymmetrical Messy Fringe
This edgy style takes your messy fringe up a notch with a slanted, asymmetrical cut. Perfect for those who want to make a bold statement, the asymmetrical fringe is a unique and fun way to embrace the messy look.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: Ask for a fringe that’s shorter on one side and gradually gets longer as it moves across your forehead. The angle should be sharp but not extreme.
- Layering: Have your stylist add layers to the fringe for more movement and texture.
- Styling: Apply a light styling gel or mousse to damp hair, focusing on the fringe to give it texture and shape.
- Blow-Dry: Blow-dry the fringe toward one side using a round brush to add volume and direction.
- Finishing: After drying, use your fingers to mess up the fringe and create that asymmetrical, tousled look.
Tips:
- Avoid heavy products that can flatten the texture—keep it light and airy.
- For more volume, lift the roots of the fringe while blow-drying.
- Keep the rest of your hair straight or lightly wavy to contrast the angled fringe.
- Regular trims are essential to maintain the precise asymmetry.
14. Tousled Messy Fringe
If you’re all about that carefree, just-rolled-out-of-bed look, the tousled messy fringe is for you! This style embraces imperfection and makes messy hair look chic and intentional.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: Ask for a medium-length fringe that’s cut in soft layers, falling just above your eyebrows.
- Texturize: Have your stylist use a razor or thinning shears to add texture and separation to the fringe.
- Styling: After washing, towel-dry your hair and apply a sea salt spray to enhance the natural texture.
- Drying: Blow-dry your hair upside down to add volume at the roots, and let the fringe dry naturally.
- Finishing: After drying, use your fingers to tousle the fringe, giving it a deliberately messy yet stylish look.
Tips:
- Keep your fringe soft and light—avoid using too much product.
- For more volume, use a root-lifting spray or mousse before drying.
- Refresh the look with dry shampoo if it starts to fall flat.
- Keep the rest of your hair loosely styled to complement the tousled fringe.
15. Messy French Crop Fringe Haircut
A modern twist on the classic French crop, featuring a short, textured fringe with a messy, effortless finish. The top has a choppy, layered effect, while the sides are faded or undercut for a sharp contrast. This hairstyle is perfect for a stylish yet low-maintenance look.
How to Get This Hairstyle:
✔️ Ask your barber for a French crop with a short, choppy fringe, keeping the sides tapered, faded, or undercut for contrast.
✔️ The top should be 2-3 inches long, with textured layering to achieve a natural, messy finish.
✔️ Request point-cutting or razor texturing to add more movement to the hair.
✔️ Style using matte clay or a texturizing powder, scrunching the hair with your hands for a relaxed, tousled look.
✔️ If you have straight hair, use a sea salt spray for extra texture before blow-drying.
Tips to Maintain the Look:
✔️ Get a fade/undercut touch-up every 3-4 weeks to keep the style sharp.
✔️ Use minimal styling products to maintain a natural, effortless look.
✔️ Wash your hair 2-3 times a week to avoid stripping natural oils that enhance texture.
✔️ Blow-dry your hair on low heat while running your fingers through it for an undone, lived-in effect.
✔️ Use dry shampoo to keep volume and texture fresh between washes.
This cut is edgy, stylish, and easy to maintain—ideal for those who love a fashionable yet effortless look! Need product suggestions? 💇♂️🔥
16. Messy Fringe Haircut with Taper Fade
A trendy and versatile hairstyle that combines a textured, messy fringe with a clean taper fade on the sides. The contrast between the tousled top and the smoothly blended fade creates a stylish yet effortless look, perfect for any occasion.
How to Get This Hairstyle:
- Ask your barber for a messy fringe with layered texture on top and a taper fade on the sides and back.
- Keep the top around 2-4 inches long to allow for movement and natural volume.
- Request point-cutting or razor texturing to enhance the messy, tousled effect.
- Style using a matte clay, texturizing powder, or sea salt spray for a relaxed, natural hold.
- Blow-dry your hair while scrunching it with your hands to create a disheveled, voluminous finish.
Tips to Maintain the Look:
- Get a taper fade refresh every 2-4 weeks to keep the clean, sharp contrast.
- Avoid using heavy or greasy products to maintain a natural, effortless appearance.
- Wash your hair 2-3 times a week and use dry shampoo in between washes to keep the texture fresh.
- Apply a small amount of matte clay or pomade and use your fingers to style the fringe for a relaxed finish.
- If you have straight hair, use a sea salt spray or light mousse for added texture and volume.
This hairstyle is a perfect balance of sharp and casual, making it a go-to for guys who want a modern, stylish, and low-maintenance look! 🔥💇♂️
17. Wavy Messy Fringe Haircut
The Wavy Messy Fringe is a stylish yet effortless hairstyle featuring textured waves that fall naturally over the forehead. This haircut embraces a relaxed, tousled look while maintaining a modern, structured shape. It works best with naturally wavy or slightly curly hair, adding volume and movement. The length is usually medium, with layers to create depth and a casual yet fashionable aesthetic.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
✔ Ask your barber for:
- Medium-length layers with a longer fringe that falls over the forehead
- A textured cut to enhance natural waves and movement
- A slight taper on the sides to keep it balanced without looking too heavy
- A razor cut or point cutting technique for added texture
✔ For styling:
- Apply sea salt spray to damp hair for a natural, messy texture
- Use a light styling cream or matte wax for hold without stiffness
- Scrunch or twist sections of hair while drying to enhance waves
- Use your fingers instead of a comb to keep the messy, undone look
Tips:
✔ Regular trims (every 6-8 weeks) to prevent the fringe from getting too long and heavy
✔ Avoid heavy gels—use lightweight styling products for a more natural finish
✔ Use a diffuser when blow-drying to enhance natural waves without frizz
✔ Dry shampoo can help maintain volume and texture on non-wash days
✔ Experiment with parting—push the fringe slightly to one side for a versatile look
This hairstyle is low-maintenance yet trendy, making it perfect for a casual, effortless vibe. Would you like product recommendations for styling?
18. Messy Fringe for Oval Faces
The messy fringe for oval faces is one of the most flattering looks you can go for. It’s all about creating balance while emphasizing the natural symmetry of the face shape, giving you a chic, effortless vibe.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: For oval faces, go for a medium-length fringe that falls just above the eyebrows. You can opt for light layers to create texture.
- Texturize: Ask for soft, feathered layers throughout the fringe to maintain a natural, flowy look.
- Styling: Apply a light mousse or texturizing spray to damp hair, focusing on the fringe area.
- Drying: Blow-dry with a round brush to lift the roots, and let the fringe fall naturally to frame your face.
- Finishing: Use your fingers to tousle the fringe, keeping the look soft and effortless.
Tips:
- For oval faces, this style works best when the fringe is soft and not too heavy.
- Don’t overstyle—keep the texture natural to highlight your face shape.
- Use a volumizing spray to add body at the roots for a bit of lift.
- Trim every 3-4 weeks to maintain the perfect length.
19. Rugged Messy Fringe Haircut
The Rugged Messy Fringe Haircut is a stylish, effortlessly cool hairstyle that combines a textured, tousled fringe with a slightly unkempt yet controlled look. It is characterized by medium-length, layered hair on top with a messy fringe that falls naturally over the forehead.
The sides can be kept shorter or blended seamlessly for a rugged, masculine finish. This haircut pairs well with a beard, adding to its rugged and edgy appeal.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Start with medium-length hair (about 3–5 inches on top). The sides can be tapered, undercut, or left slightly longer for a blended look.
- Ask your barber for a textured cut with point cutting or razor techniques to add movement and a natural messy look.
- Keep the fringe longer so it falls naturally over your forehead, allowing flexibility in styling.
- Opt for a scissor cut rather than clippers for a more natural, rugged texture.
- Use a lightweight styling product like matte clay, wax, or sea salt spray to create a tousled, effortless appearance.
- Style with your fingers instead of a comb to maintain a natural, carefree finish.
Tips:
- Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to keep hair healthy and full.
- Apply sea salt spray on damp hair for extra texture and volume before styling.
- Avoid using too much product to keep the look natural and not greasy.
- Blow-dry with a diffuser to enhance texture and movement.
- Trim every 4–6 weeks to maintain the shape while keeping it rugged and fresh.
- Pair it with a beard or light stubble for a more masculine, rugged vibe.
20. Choppy Messy Fringe Haircut
The Choppy Messy Fringe Haircut is a trendy, modern hairstyle that features a heavily textured, layered fringe with a deliberately undone, effortless look. The choppy layers add movement and definition, making this cut ideal for men who want a stylish yet low-maintenance appearance.
It works well with various hair types and can be customized with different fringe lengths and side fades for a personalized touch. This haircut is perfect for creating a youthful and edgy vibe.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Grow your hair to at least 3–5 inches on top for enough length to create texture and layers.
- Ask your barber for a choppy, textured cut with deep point cutting or razor techniques for added separation and movement.
- Keep the fringe longer and layered so it falls naturally over the forehead with a messy, undone finish.
- Taper or fade the sides for a clean contrast, or leave them slightly longer for a more relaxed look.
- Use a matte styling product like clay, wax, or sea salt spray to enhance the choppy texture.Style with your hands by scrunching the hair and pushing the fringe forward for a casual, tousled effect.
Tips:
- Wash with a texturizing shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair lightweight and full of movement.
- Use sea salt spray on damp hair to enhance the natural texture before styling.
- Blow-dry with a diffuser to create volume and emphasize the choppy layers.
- Avoid heavy products that can weigh down the layers—opt for lightweight, matte finishes instead.
- Get a trim every 4–6 weeks to maintain the choppy look without losing definition.
- Experiment with different fringe placements (slightly pushed to the side or straight down) for a versatile style.
21. Straight Messy Fringe
The Straight Messy Fringe is a modern, stylish haircut that blends effortless texture with a structured shape. It’s perfect for those who want a laid-back yet fashionable look that frames the face well.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: Request a straight-across fringe that ends just above your eyebrows. The cut should be blunt for a clean, structured look.
- Texturize: Ask for subtle layering in the fringe to break up the blunt cut and give it more movement.
- Styling: Apply a smoothing serum or styling cream to damp hair to keep it sleek.
- Blow-Dry: Blow-dry the fringe straight with a flat brush to maintain the sleek, straight look.
- Finishing: Once dry, use a flat iron to smooth the fringe out and keep it crisp.
Tips:
- Use a heat protectant before styling to avoid heat damage.
- For added shine, use a light serum or shine spray on the fringe.
- Keep the rest of your hair straight to complement the structured fringe.
- Trim the fringe every few weeks to maintain the straight cut.
22. Layered Messy Fringe Hairstyle
The layered messy fringe is a versatile style that works for all face shapes and hair textures. By adding multiple layers, it creates depth and volume, giving your fringe a more natural, effortless look.
How to Get the Hairstyle:
- Cut: Ask for a layered fringe that starts around the cheekbones and falls naturally over your forehead. The layers should blend well into the rest of your hair.
- Texturize: Get your stylist to use thinning shears to break up the layers and create movement.
- Styling: Apply a lightweight mousse or texturizing spray to damp hair for volume and separation.
- Blow-Dry: Blow-dry your hair with a round brush to lift the roots and add fullness to the fringe.
- Finishing: Use a light hairspray or texturizing powder to hold the layers in place without making the fringe stiff.
Tips:
- Keep the layers soft to avoid a heavy, bulky look.
- For more volume, flip your head upside down while blow-drying.
- Avoid using too much product—lightweight products work best for this style.
- Trim every 4-6 weeks to maintain the layers and overall shape.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them in a Messy Fringe Hairstyle
Messy fringe hairstyles look effortlessly cool, but achieving the perfect balance between “styled” and “effortlessly messy” can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:
A. Overusing Hair Products
❌ Mistake: Applying too much wax, gel, or hairspray can make the hair look greasy, stiff, and unnatural.
✅ Fix: Use a small amount of lightweight styling products like matte clay, sea salt spray, or texturizing powder. Start with a little and add more if needed.
B. Not Adding Enough Texture
❌ Mistake: Leaving the hair too flat or uniform can make the fringe look lifeless.
✅ Fix: Use a blow dryer with a diffuser, apply sea salt spray, or lightly scrunch the hair while styling to create volume and movement.
C. Cutting the Fringe Too Straight or Too Short
❌ Mistake: A perfectly straight or too-short fringe can look unnatural and hard to style.
✅ Fix: Get a textured, layered cut from a barber/hairdresser. Ask for a choppy or feathered fringe instead of a blunt cut.
D. Ignoring Hair Type
❌ Mistake: Trying to achieve the look without considering your natural hair type. For example, very thick or curly hair may need extra thinning and styling.
✅ Fix: Adapt the messy fringe to your hair type. If your hair is thick, ask your barber for thinned-out layers. If it’s fine, use a volumizing powder or spray.
E. Not Drying the Hair Properly
❌ Mistake: Leaving hair wet or letting it air dry in a random way can make it look frizzy and messy in the wrong way.
✅ Fix: Blow-dry your hair using a medium heat setting and your fingers to add movement and direction. You can also use a round brush for extra control.
F. Using the Wrong Hair Products for Your Hair Type
❌ Mistake: Using heavy wax on fine hair can weigh it down, while using light spray on thick hair may not hold the shape.
✅ Fix:
- For fine hair → Use sea salt spray & light clay for volume.
- For thick hair → Use matte wax or cream for better control.
- For curly hair → Use curl-enhancing mousse or a light pomade.
G. Forgetting Regular Trims
❌ Mistake: Letting the fringe grow too long can make it lose its shape and look untidy.
✅ Fix: Get a trim every 4-6 weeks to maintain the layered effect while keeping the messy fringe stylish.
H. Not Adjusting for Face Shape
❌ Mistake: A messy fringe that is too long or too short may not suit certain face shapes.
✅ Fix:
- Oval Face: Almost any fringe length works.
- Round Face: Go for a choppy, side-swept fringe to add angles.
- Square Face: Keep the fringe soft & slightly longer for balance.
- Long Face: Avoid very short fringes—opt for medium-length, layered bangs.
FAQ on Messy Fringe Hairstyles
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How do you get a messy fringe? | To get a messy fringe, ask your stylist for a light, textured fringe cut with layers. Use a texturizing spray to enhance the messy look and dry using your fingers. |
| Will a messy fringe suit me? | A messy fringe suits almost every face shape, especially if you go for layers and a side-swept look. It adds movement and softens the face. |
| What is the difference between messy hair and fringe? | Messy hair refers to the entire hairstyle looking textured or tousled, while a fringe is specifically a section of hair cut to fall over the forehead. |
| What face shape suits a fringe? | Oval, heart, and square faces usually suit fringes well, while round faces often look best with longer, side-swept fringes. |
| Does a fringe suit a chubby face? | Yes, a fringe can suit a chubby face, especially if it’s side-swept or layered to create a slimming effect. Avoid too heavy or blunt cuts. |
| Who should not get a fringe? | People with very fine, straight hair may find a fringe difficult to manage. Also, if you have a high forehead, avoid heavy, straight fringes. |
| Does a fringe look good on everyone? | While a fringe can look amazing on most people, it’s all about the right cut and styling for your face shape, hair texture, and personal style. |
| How to get fluffy hair? | To achieve fluffy hair, apply a volumizing mousse or dry shampoo to damp hair, blow-dry with a round brush, and finish with a light hairspray for hold. |
| Which hairstyle suits me? | The best hairstyle for you depends on your face shape, hair type, and personal style. A consultation with a stylist can help you decide on the perfect look. |
| Is a messy fringe good for thin hair? | Yes, a messy fringe can add texture and volume to thin hair. Use a texturizing spray or mousse to give it a fuller, thicker appearance. |
| What is fringe vs bangs? | Fringe and bangs refer to the same thing—hair that’s cut to fall over the forehead. The term “bangs” is more commonly used in the U.S. and fringe in the UK. |
| What is a shaggy fringe? | A shaggy fringe is a textured, layered fringe that’s slightly longer and messier. It has a more carefree, tousled look compared to a straight or neat fringe. |
Conclusion
Phew, what a journey we’ve had exploring the amazing world of messy fringe hairstyles! From bold, looks to soft, tousled vibes, we’ve covered a wide variety of styles that can work for any hair type and face shape. The beauty of messy fringe is that it’s versatile, fun, and super easy to style.
So, which one are you thinking of trying out first? Maybe you’ll go for the side-swept messy fringe —or perhaps a soft curly fringe? Whatever you decide, just remember that messy fringe is all about keeping things natural and carefree, with a little bit of edge.
I’d love to hear about your experiences with the messy fringe hairstyle! Have you already rocked this look, or is it your next hair adventure?
Feel free to drop a comment below and share your thoughts or tips! And hey, don’t forget to pass this article along to anyone who’s looking for some messy fringe inspiration. Keep those fringes messy and fabulous! 😊