Published By Brooke
Updated 01-4-2023
Quick Guide To Androgynous Haircuts
Not everyone is familiar with androgynous haircuts and fashion. If you aren't sure what exactly it means to have an androgynous style, this quick guide will help give you the lowdown.
What does it mean to be androgynous?
Androgynous Toeing the line between beautiful and masculine. "boyish"
The word androgynous, as a description of someone's appearance or fashion sense, means to be both masculine and feminine. If someone has facial features that are a combination of strong and defined, as well as soft and feminine, they might be described as androgynous. For instance, a woman with "boyish" features, or a man that is a "pretty boy" may be considered to have an androgynous look.
However, there is much more to the term "androgynous" as it relates to gender identity.
What is a brush cut?
A brush cut is one of the most popular short androgynous haircuts. It is a short haircut that basically looks like it's a grown-out version of a buzz cut because the strands are just long enough to start sticking outward.
How can I style my short hair?
All the best androgynous haircuts are low maintenance. There are tons of ways to style short gender-neutral haircuts. If you have a pixie cut, French crop, a bowl cut, or a mohawk, one of the best ways to style and add androgynous hair texture to your short hair is with matte hair wax.
Take a nickel-sized amount and run it through your androgynous haircut with your fingers, tousling it until it appears purposefully messy and texturized – which is exactly what you need to make a statement with the gender fluidity of your short androgynous hairstyle and an edgy look.
What is a long pixie cut?
Imagine the haircut between a short pixie cut and a short bob. If you are growing your hair from a shorter cut to something a bit longer, you'll need to learn how to style a long choppy pixie. We see this haircut most often on middle age and older women.
Bottom Line
Androgynous hairstyles or gender-neutral styles are equally masculine and feminine. They come with shaved sides and baby bangs, long pixie haircuts and extremely short undercuts with a rather long top, disconnected texture that flatters both thick hair and fine hair.
If you wanna make a statement, opt for a low-maintenance hair solution, stick to the current short haircuts trends, and also stand out with your style, choose one of the androgynous haircuts from this guide.
Androgynous haircuts and hairstyles are masculine and feminine altogether, so can be worn on either men or women.They tend to toe the line between "feminine" and "masculine," becoming gender-neutral, often combining elements of popular short haircuts and hairstyles like buzz cuts, a pixie cut, Mohawks, fades, and bobs.Many androgynous haircuts require a lot of upkeep because they have shaved sides or designs that need to be maintained to look fresh. Other androgynous haircuts, like a choppy bob, are low-maintenance and require little to no styling.So, what kind of androgynous haircuts and hairstyles are you interested in trying out in the New Year? Here's a look at the most popular androgynous haircuts:
@ylenia94rinitiThis is one of our favorite androgynous hairstyles because of its versatility. You can buzz the sides completely, or wear it as a fade haircut. We recommend the cut for those with medium to coarse hair.It looks especially killer if you have naturally curly hair like the photo. To style it, use a tiny bit of hair gel around the sides to ensure you don't have any pieces sticking up. Then, apply the same hair gel to the top, running it through the strands with your fingers. Use sparingly, though so the top does not look greasy.Note: If you need help finding the right product, check out our recommendations for the Best Hair Gel.
@jeevaa_romeoIf you want to wear your hair short but still have some freedom in how you style it, this androgynous haircut is the way to go. You can play around with different hair colors on top to contrast the sides, as well as different textures. It looks just as great flat ironed and slicked back as it does with a perm or loose waves from a curling iron.You can achieve the messy, piecey texture with the help of a hair wax. In fact, we've written an entire guide on the Top 10 Best Hair Wax options, as well as a guide on how to use them.@getnmoneyDeciding between a buzz cut, a long pixie, and a mohawk? This look is the best of all three worlds, combining gorgeous elements from the most popular androgynous haircuts. It’s also one of the best androgynous haircuts for round faces as the high top and shaved sides and back visually elongate the face.Note: Only try this haircut if you are prepared to go short all over. It is quite a bit of effort to maintain, since you have buzz or fade the sides frequently to keep it looking fresh. Once you decide it is not the right cut for you anymore, you'll have to chop off the longer section and even things out before you start to grow it back.
@dilay.szYou can't go wrong with a simple, stylish short haircut like this one. It works for all hair types, but if you've got thin locks, we recommend fading the sides.Thin, long locks have the potential to look stringy and unhealthy. This is a super popular androgynous hairstyle because it also complements the majority of face shapes and structures.
@shorthairforlifeIf you're thinking about trying out a fun new hair color, we recommend going for a fiery shade of copper. It is one of the most fashionable hair colors of the season and looks sharp with any short hair cut. If you need a little inspiration when it comes to choosing a red hair color, check out our recent blog on the best auburn hair colors.@alessandropinna_viavespucci3How cool is this modern version of a bowl cut? The blunt edges are unexpected, giving this haircut a striking look. We especially love it with a bold hair color like platinum, silver, or vibrant red tones.Styling this androgynous haircut is a breeze, too. If you've got naturally straight hair, all you have to do is apply a small bit of hair wax and blow-dry. If not, simply flat iron or leave as your natural texture.@chrisjones_hairShoulder-length haircuts are some of the easiest to maintain and style. You can slick back with hair gel for something a bit edgy, or wear straight for a more natural look. You can also through it up into a top knot or man bun - whatever you are feeling that day.If you are looking to try something more daring than a layered bob, go for an unexpected undercut with a design. That way, you can show it off when you pull your hair up and hide it for a different look.@anthony_cressWe've seen tons of celebs rock this androgynous look this year. From Zac Efron's platinum cut to Scarlett Johansson's more-honey-colored blonde, we're loving how diverse it can be.If you have thin hair, styling should consist of hair wax and texturizing dry shampoo to give you more volume. But, if you have thick locks, use a round brush on damp hair and lift strands up as you blow-dry.It can be difficult to achieve this much height regardless of your hair type, but a little teasing never hurt anybody.@sonia_rohrbachIf an undercut and a pixie cut had a baby, this androgynous style would be its offspring. It is perfectly-piecey with just enough length in the front to give off rocker vibes.You don't have to go full-blown cotton candy pink, but it certainly wouldn't hurt. Pro tip: This haircut looks best on people with oval, diamond, or heart face shapes.Shaved Sides with Line Detail
@smokinhothair2Are you the artistic type? Going with an androgynous haircut like the one in this image allows you to get creative and combine your favorite aspects of multiple hairstyles.This one takes the length and cut of a mushroom cut on one side, as well as a shaved cut on the other. It also adds edgy design lines for an asymmetrical look.@tobiasdionisiThere is something so badass about the French Crop haircut. Not only was it one of the hottest trending short hair cuts in 2024, but it is the ideal androgynous haircut for both men and women. We love seeing it paired with a platinum blonde, it also looks great with a rich brown. This is one androgynous cut that looks best when it is all one color. The dimension of the cut is supposed to be focused on the bangs, not the color.
@xxlealWe've featured this image before in our post about the Coolest Haircuts For Men in 2024, but this stylish flow is not exclusive to the male gender by any means. We love this androgynous cut because it pairs just as well with a beard as it does with gorgeous curls. As long as you have thick, coarse locks, you can pull off this androgynous look.@dedicatedbrandFor the person who hates styling their hair but still wants to rock longer locks, try this choppy lob. It's perfect for androgynous hair because it works with virtually all face shapes and hair types.You'll love how it requires minimal maintenance, goes with all kinds of outfits, and looks great when paired with a beanie.
James Beaumont is a hair legend, and we're thrilled to be able to share this androgynous look he created with all of you. It works for both men and women because it combines elements of a few different cuts.You've got a buzz cut fade underneath, alongside a disconnected mushroom cut. The androgynous cut appears to have a hard part, as well. It's a true work of art, but something like this would require a ton of maintenance.@ylenia94rinitiThis androgynous style is for the bold and the thick-haired. It's a high-contract 'do that should only be attempted by a professional stylist or barber - trust us, there's a lot you could mess up here.The hairstyle in the image shows a high skin fade that leads into a section of long hair. It almost resembles an asymmetrical mohawk of sorts. But keep in mind, a cut like this will require you to get weekly (or bi-weekly) touchups on the side that is shaved or eventually turn it into a buzz cut.
Supermodel Cara Delevingne is recognized around the world for her androgynous look. She has some of the most stunning bone structure that is both masculine and beautiful at the same time.Her haircuts range from buzz cuts to pixie cuts, lobs, and everything in between, but one this is for sure: she is an inspiration for androgynous hairstyles.@halleberryActress Halle Berry is another celeb who is not afraid to play around with androgynous haircuts. Over the years, she has worn her hair long, in a pixie cut, and in a tousled mohawk.The pixie cut in this photo is purposefully-messy and beautifully androgynous, appropriate for both men and women.@scarlettjohanssonworldScarlett Johansson is known for her sexy, feminine appearance, but she is no stranger to testing the waters with androgynous haircuts. In fact, she is spotted wearing a pixie cut more often than not, but we can't blame her.With bone structure like hers, she would look just as glam with a buzz cut.
@kristexnstewartIt is no secret that Kristen Stewart is an androgynous icon. She is always sporting outfits that are inspired by menswear, whether it's an all-black suit, leather jacket, or backwards ball cap.Kristen's haircuts are no different, beautifully toeing the line between feminine and masculine. In this look, she's wearing a choppy short bob, which is one of our favorite androgynous haircuts, especially with a bleach blonde color.
Nicole Richie doesn't necessarily have an androgynous look, but this is one of the trendiest hairstyles for both men and women in 2024. We love it with a pop of color like this bubble gum pink.
20 of the Best Androgynous Haircuts for 2024
Buzzed Sides and Long Top
@ylenia94rinitiThis is one of our favorite androgynous hairstyles because of its versatility. You can buzz the sides completely, or wear it as a fade haircut. We recommend the cut for those with medium to coarse hair.It looks especially killer if you have naturally curly hair like the photo. To style it, use a tiny bit of hair gel around the sides to ensure you don't have any pieces sticking up. Then, apply the same hair gel to the top, running it through the strands with your fingers. Use sparingly, though so the top does not look greasy.Note: If you need help finding the right product, check out our recommendations for the Best Hair Gel.Messy Pompadour
@jeevaa_romeoIf you want to wear your hair short but still have some freedom in how you style it, this androgynous haircut is the way to go. You can play around with different hair colors on top to contrast the sides, as well as different textures. It looks just as great flat ironed and slicked back as it does with a perm or loose waves from a curling iron.You can achieve the messy, piecey texture with the help of a hair wax. In fact, we've written an entire guide on the Top 10 Best Hair Wax options, as well as a guide on how to use them.Shaved Side + Long Hair
@getnmoneyDeciding between a buzz cut, a long pixie, and a mohawk? This look is the best of all three worlds, combining gorgeous elements from the most popular androgynous haircuts. It’s also one of the best androgynous haircuts for round faces as the high top and shaved sides and back visually elongate the face.Note: Only try this haircut if you are prepared to go short all over. It is quite a bit of effort to maintain, since you have buzz or fade the sides frequently to keep it looking fresh. Once you decide it is not the right cut for you anymore, you'll have to chop off the longer section and even things out before you start to grow it back.Soft Waves + Quiff
@dilay.szYou can't go wrong with a simple, stylish short haircut like this one. It works for all hair types, but if you've got thin locks, we recommend fading the sides.Thin, long locks have the potential to look stringy and unhealthy. This is a super popular androgynous hairstyle because it also complements the majority of face shapes and structures.Copper Pixie
@shorthairforlifeIf you're thinking about trying out a fun new hair color, we recommend going for a fiery shade of copper. It is one of the most fashionable hair colors of the season and looks sharp with any short hair cut. If you need a little inspiration when it comes to choosing a red hair color, check out our recent blog on the best auburn hair colors.Platinum Bowl Cut with Shaved Sides
@alessandropinna_viavespucci3How cool is this modern version of a bowl cut? The blunt edges are unexpected, giving this haircut a striking look. We especially love it with a bold hair color like platinum, silver, or vibrant red tones.Styling this androgynous haircut is a breeze, too. If you've got naturally straight hair, all you have to do is apply a small bit of hair wax and blow-dry. If not, simply flat iron or leave as your natural texture.Layered Bob Haircut
@chrisjones_hairShoulder-length haircuts are some of the easiest to maintain and style. You can slick back with hair gel for something a bit edgy, or wear straight for a more natural look. You can also through it up into a top knot or man bun - whatever you are feeling that day.If you are looking to try something more daring than a layered bob, go for an unexpected undercut with a design. That way, you can show it off when you pull your hair up and hide it for a different look.Platinum Pixie
@anthony_cressWe've seen tons of celebs rock this androgynous look this year. From Zac Efron's platinum cut to Scarlett Johansson's more-honey-colored blonde, we're loving how diverse it can be.If you have thin hair, styling should consist of hair wax and texturizing dry shampoo to give you more volume. But, if you have thick locks, use a round brush on damp hair and lift strands up as you blow-dry.It can be difficult to achieve this much height regardless of your hair type, but a little teasing never hurt anybody.Pink Choppy Pixie
@sonia_rohrbachIf an undercut and a pixie cut had a baby, this androgynous style would be its offspring. It is perfectly-piecey with just enough length in the front to give off rocker vibes.You don't have to go full-blown cotton candy pink, but it certainly wouldn't hurt. Pro tip: This haircut looks best on people with oval, diamond, or heart face shapes.Shaved Sides with Line Detail
@smokinhothair2Are you the artistic type? Going with an androgynous haircut like the one in this image allows you to get creative and combine your favorite aspects of multiple hairstyles.This one takes the length and cut of a mushroom cut on one side, as well as a shaved cut on the other. It also adds edgy design lines for an asymmetrical look.
French Crop
@tobiasdionisiThere is something so badass about the French Crop haircut. Not only was it one of the hottest trending short hair cuts in 2024, but it is the ideal androgynous haircut for both men and women. We love seeing it paired with a platinum blonde, it also looks great with a rich brown. This is one androgynous cut that looks best when it is all one color. The dimension of the cut is supposed to be focused on the bangs, not the color.Long Top Short Sides Haircut
@xxlealWe've featured this image before in our post about the Coolest Haircuts For Men in 2024, but this stylish flow is not exclusive to the male gender by any means. We love this androgynous cut because it pairs just as well with a beard as it does with gorgeous curls. As long as you have thick, coarse locks, you can pull off this androgynous look.Choppy Lob with Beanie
@dedicatedbrandFor the person who hates styling their hair but still wants to rock longer locks, try this choppy lob. It's perfect for androgynous hair because it works with virtually all face shapes and hair types.You'll love how it requires minimal maintenance, goes with all kinds of outfits, and looks great when paired with a beanie.Disconnected Undercut Fade
James Beaumont is a hair legend, and we're thrilled to be able to share this androgynous look he created with all of you. It works for both men and women because it combines elements of a few different cuts.You've got a buzz cut fade underneath, alongside a disconnected mushroom cut. The androgynous cut appears to have a hard part, as well. It's a true work of art, but something like this would require a ton of maintenance.High Skin Fade + Long Hair
@ylenia94rinitiThis androgynous style is for the bold and the thick-haired. It's a high-contract 'do that should only be attempted by a professional stylist or barber - trust us, there's a lot you could mess up here.The hairstyle in the image shows a high skin fade that leads into a section of long hair. It almost resembles an asymmetrical mohawk of sorts. But keep in mind, a cut like this will require you to get weekly (or bi-weekly) touchups on the side that is shaved or eventually turn it into a buzz cut.Celebrities with Androgynous Haircuts
Cara Delevingne
Halle Berry
@halleberryActress Halle Berry is another celeb who is not afraid to play around with androgynous haircuts. Over the years, she has worn her hair long, in a pixie cut, and in a tousled mohawk.The pixie cut in this photo is purposefully-messy and beautifully androgynous, appropriate for both men and women.Scarlett Johansson
@scarlettjohanssonworldScarlett Johansson is known for her sexy, feminine appearance, but she is no stranger to testing the waters with androgynous haircuts. In fact, she is spotted wearing a pixie cut more often than not, but we can't blame her.With bone structure like hers, she would look just as glam with a buzz cut.Kristen Stewart
Nicole Riche
Nicole Richie doesn't necessarily have an androgynous look, but this is one of the trendiest hairstyles for both men and women in 2024. We love it with a pop of color like this bubble gum pink.