How to Choose Men's Hair Styles

The mohawk. The flat top. The pompadour. These are all great hair styles for men. But if you're having trouble trying to decide which one is right for you, there are a few factors you should take into consideration. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right hair style.

Instructions

1. Take a look in the mirror. It's important to know where you're starting from, so that you know where you want to go. In taking an inventory, you want to gauge a couple of things. Is your hair curly or straight? What is the texture of your hair? Is it particularly bushy or easily manageable? Do you have an abundance of hair or are you starting to thin or even go bald? The important thing in this step is to be honest. Delusion will only leave you with a haircut that looks utterly ridiculous.

2. Check out your facial features. This is another examination process in which you have to be brutally honest. Do you have a square jaw, a round jaw or a protruding nose? All of these things are important as your hair style will frame your face. Take note of each feature that stands out.

3. Decide what statement you are trying make. Cool, hip, carefree, party guy is a bit different from a business man who is a captain of industry. Define who you are and how you want people to perceive you. While people shouldn't make judgments without getting to know you, the truth is, they do. So if you're going up for that big promotion, dying your hair blue might not be the hottest idea. However, if your band is going on tour, why not?

4. Research. No, not research in the "I spend days at the library" kind of way. But casually as you're flipping through magazines check out the men's hair styles that you like. Even if you're bald, find something that you believe you'll wear well. Be sure to see if those people you like have similar facial features and hair characteristics as yours. If they do, chances are that the hair style you spotted might be a good fit.

5. Communicate with your hair stylist or barber. They're not mind readers, you have to tell them what you want. And don't be afraid to speak up, it's their job. After all, they want to give you the best service so you continue to return. While some stylists frown on magazine pictures being brought in as examples, other people dig it. Gauge what kind of stylist or barber you have. And if they don't want to have a conversation before they start using the clippers, then maybe it's time to look elsewhere.

Tips & Warnings

• You get what you pay for. While some city stylists truly are overpriced, going to the local discount store will definitely show too. Try and find a moderately priced stylist in your area. After all this is your appearance we're talking about. It gives the very first impression of you the moment you walk through the door.

• Even if your hair is thinning or you are bald, keeping a clean, well-kempt appearance is important. There's nothing worse than a guy who's trying to let his remaining hair go wild. And lose the comb over! Everybody knows. Cut it short and be proud, and people will respect you more rather than if they feel you're hiding something.