The Best and Worst Haircuts for Men in Their 40s

THE DEFINITIVE DOS AND DONTS FOR MEN ON THE CUSP OF MIDDLE AGE.

By: Julia Malacoff
BestLife

Your wardrobe has evolved since your 20s. So have your musical tastes, your exercise habits, even your cocktails of preference. (So long, things-mixed-with-Coke!) Shouldn’t your haircut reflect your more dignified station in life, as well?

Of course. That’s why we checked in with several of New York’s top hairstylists to compile the definitive barbershop do’s and don’ts for men on the cusp of middle age. Here you’ll find not only hairstyles that are perfectly handsome, sophisticated, and age-appropriate, but you’ll also see helpful examples of what not to do (and yes, they’re the follicular equivalents of natural disasters).

Best: Short & Textured
“A universal style that looks great on every guy is a short and textured cut,” says Mia Santiago at Sharon Dorram at New York City’s Sally Hershberger salon. “Whether you decide to fade the bottom a bit or not, this is a fantastic and versatile cut. It can be worn messy and piecey for a casual weekend look or a hard side part can make it more regal and sophisticated.”