Choosing a haircut for children has become much more exciting in recent years. Gone are the days of the simple bowl cut or a standard buzz being the only options. Today, kids’ hairstyles are just as varied and stylish as adult trends, often mirroring popular looks seen on athletes, celebrities, and social media influencers. Parents and children alike are experimenting with length, texture, and unique designs to express personality and individual style. Whether your child prefers a low-maintenance look that can withstand rough play or something more polished for special occasions, there is a trendy cut out there that fits the bill perfectly.
This guide explores thirteen of the most popular hair trends for kids right now. From sharp fades and modern mullets to curly tops and intricate shaved designs, these styles cover a wide range of hair types and lengths. Understanding these trends can help you and your child communicate better with your barber or stylist, ensuring you walk away with a look that boosts confidence. Upgrading a haircut is a simple way to let a child feel grown-up and stylish. Let’s dive into the top looks that are making waves on playgrounds and in classrooms everywhere.
1. The Modern Mullet
The mullet has made a surprising and strong comeback, shedding its old reputation to become one of the coolest cuts for kids. This modern version is much more refined than the styles from the 1980s. It typically features shorter hair on the top and sides, often paired with a fade, while leaving a distinct length at the back. The transition between the short and long sections is smoother, creating a look that is edgy but still neat enough for school. It allows kids to have a bit of fun with their hair without it looking messy or unkempt.
This style works particularly well for active children because it keeps hair out of their eyes while still allowing for some length and movement. It is a versatile cut that can be styled in various ways—spiked up on top, slicked back, or left messy for a textured look. The “party in the back” aspect gives kids a sense of flair and individuality. Because it relies on texture, it is also a great low-maintenance option; a little bit of sea salt spray or texturizing paste is often all that is needed to keep it looking sharp throughout the day.
2. The Textured Crop
The textured crop is a massive trend that focuses on short, manageable length with plenty of movement on top. The sides are usually faded or tapered down to the skin, creating a clean and sharp silhouette. The top is cut in layers to enhance the natural texture of the hair, and it is often styled forward toward the forehead. This is a fantastic option for a Kids Haircut in New York, where stylish yet practical looks are highly sought after. It is perfect for busy mornings because it requires very little effort to look good; the messy, textured finish is intentional.
This haircut is especially popular because it suits almost all face shapes and hair types. For kids with straight hair, the layering adds volume and prevents the hair from lying flat and lifeless. For those with wavy or curly hair, the crop helps manage the bulk while showing off the natural curl pattern. The fringe can be cut blunt for a bold look or choppy for a softer appearance. It is a modern, fashionable choice that looks great in photos and stays tidy even after a long day of running around.
3. The Skin Fade
The skin fade is a technique that has dominated men’s grooming and has now firmly established itself in kids’ fashion. This style involves blending the hair on the sides and back down to the bare skin, creating a seamless gradient effect. It can be a low, mid, or high fade, depending on how much contrast you want. The precision of this cut makes any hairstyle look instantly cleaner and more professional. It pairs beautifully with almost any style on top, whether it is a crew cut, a pompadour, or a curly mop.
Parents love the skin fade because it lasts a long time. Since the hair on the sides is cut so short, it takes longer to look messy or overgrown compared to a standard scissor trim. For kids, the high-contrast look is bold and makes them feel like they have a “grown-up” haircut. It keeps them cool during the summer months and is incredibly easy to wash and dry. While it requires a skilled barber to execute the blend perfectly, the result is a sharp, standout look that draws attention to the style on top of the head.
4. Geometric Patterns and Lines
One of the most creative trends emerging right now is the use of shaved designs. This involves using clippers and razors to carve patterns, lines, or shapes directly into the short hair on the sides or back of the head. Simple hard parts—a shaved line where the hair parts—are a classic entry point, but many kids are opting for more elaborate Hair Designs like lightning bolts, zig-zags, or even stars. This trend turns a standard haircut into a unique piece of art that reflects the child’s interests and personality.
These designs are temporary, growing out within a couple of weeks, which makes them a low-risk way for kids to experiment with their look. It is particularly popular during summer breaks or holidays when school dress codes might be more relaxed. Kids love the excitement of choosing a new design for each visit to the barbershop. It adds a fun, customizable element to the haircutting experience. Whether it is a subtle double line behind the ear or a complex geometric pattern on the fade, this trend is all about standing out and having fun.
5. The Curly Top with Tapered Sides
Embracing natural texture is a huge theme in current hair trends, and the curly top is a perfect example. Instead of cutting curls short or trying to straighten them, this style celebrates volume. The sides and back are tapered or faded short to reduce bulk and keep the overall shape neat. The hair on top is left long, allowing the curls to pile up and form a rounded or square silhouette. This contrast between the tight sides and the loose, voluminous top looks incredibly stylish and modern.
This cut is not only fashionable but also practical for managing curly hair. By keeping the sides short, it prevents the “triangle” shape that can happen when curly hair grows out evenly. It focuses the attention on the curls on top, making them the star of the show. Maintenance involves keeping the curls hydrated with a good leave-in conditioner or curl cream. It is a confident, playful look that teaches kids to love their natural hair texture. It works for all types of curls, from loose waves to tight coils.
6. The Hard Part
A hard part is a distinct line shaved into the scalp to accentuate the parting of the hair. It adds a very sharp, defined element to any haircut. Usually paired with a Side Part Haircut, this trend gives a classic style a modern, edgy update. It makes styling in the morning much easier because the shaved line acts as a permanent guide; the hair naturally falls to either side, so kids can easily comb it into place themselves. It looks particularly dapper for formal events but is rugged enough for everyday wear.
The hard part works best with styles that have some length on top, such as a comb-over or a pompadour. It creates a clear separation that adds structure to the face. While the line does need to be maintained regularly to keep it looking crisp, the visual impact is worth it. It creates a very polished, deliberate look that suggests the child takes pride in their appearance. This trend has been popular for a few years and shows no signs of slowing down because of its blend of classic barbering and modern precision.
7. The Faux Hawk
The faux hawk offers all the cool factor of a mohawk without the extreme commitment or the shaved sides. In this style, the hair on the sides is cut shorter than the top but not completely shaved off. The hair on top is then styled inwards and upwards to create a crest or spike down the center of the head. It is a versatile look because the crest can be styled dramatically for the weekend or flattened down for a more conservative look during the school week. It strikes a balance between rebellious and respectable.
This trend is a favorite among energetic kids who want a hairstyle that matches their personality. It works well with short to medium hair lengths. Styling requires a strong-hold gel or wax to keep the hair standing up, especially for active children. It is a fun, sporty look that adds height and dimension to the face. The faux hawk can be soft and textured or sharp and spiky, allowing for plenty of customization depending on the child’s preference and hair type.
8. The Surfer Shag
Longer hairstyles are gaining traction again, and the surfer shag is leading the charge. This look is characterized by medium-to-long layers that have a messy, windblown appearance. It is not about having perfect, straight hair; it is about texture and movement. The hair typically falls around the ears and neck, often with a long, side-swept fringe. It is a relaxed, carefree style that looks effortlessly cool. If you visit a skilled New York Barber, they will use scissors to texturize the ends, removing weight so the hair sits nicely without looking like a heavy helmet.
This style is ideal for kids who dislike the buzz of clippers or prefer a softer look. It requires a bit of patience to grow out, but once achieved, it is relatively low maintenance. It doesn’t need frequent trips to the barbershop, making it budget-friendly and convenient for parents. While it looks messy, it does need regular washing and brushing to prevent tangles. A bit of sea salt spray can enhance the beachy vibe. It is a timeless look that channels a laid-back, adventurous spirit perfect for childhood.
9. The Burst Fade
The burst fade is a unique variation of the standard fade that is becoming increasingly popular. Instead of a straight line of fading around the head, the burst fade curves around the ear, creating a semi-circle or “burst” effect. This leaves more hair at the back of the neck, often resembling a wide mohawk or mullet hybrid. It draws attention to the side profile and allows for more length and volume at the back of the head. It is a dynamic, athletic-looking cut often seen on soccer players and athletes.
This trend works exceptionally well with textured or curly hair. The curved fade creates a beautiful frame for the ear and adds a complex geometric element to the haircut. It is a bold choice that stands out from the more common drop fades or taper fades. Kids love it because it looks fast and sporty. It allows them to keep a significant amount of hair while still enjoying the clean, sharp feeling of a fade around the ears. It is a great compromise for kids who want something short on the sides but substantial in the back.
10. The Slick Back
For a look that screams sophistication and “little gentleman,” the slick back is the go-to trend. This style involves keeping the top long and brushing it straight back, usually with a high-shine pomade or gel. The sides can be an undercut or a taper fade, creating a stark contrast with the sleek top. It is a retro-inspired look that feels very modern and sharp. While it is often chosen for weddings or holiday photos, many kids are adopting it as their daily style because of its neat, tidy appearance.
The key to this look is the product. Parents will need to invest in a quality water-based pomade that holds the hair in place without being too difficult to wash out. It keeps hair completely out of the face, which is practical for schoolwork and sports. While it requires a bit of styling effort in the morning, the result is incredibly polished. It is a confident hairstyle that works well for straight or fine hair types, giving the appearance of thickness and volume.
11. The French Crop with Blunt Fringe
A specific variation of the crop top, this trend features a very distinct, straight-cut fringe across the forehead. The rest of the hair is kept short and textured, while the sides are faded. The blunt fringe adds a strong, geometric frame to the face and creates a very fashion-forward look. It is a popular style in Europe that has made its way globally. It is edgy and modern, perfect for kids who want a haircut that looks different from the standard spiked-up styles.
This cut is excellent for hiding a high forehead or balancing a longer face shape. The blunt line requires precision cutting, so it is important to see a stylist who is experienced with this technique. Despite the sharp fringe, the rest of the hair is often styled to be messy, creating a cool contrast between structure and chaos. It is a low-maintenance style in terms of daily styling—often just a quick ruffle with some clay is enough—but the fringe will need regular trims to keep it out of the eyes and looking sharp.
12. The Disconnected Undercut
The disconnected undercut is a high-contrast style where there is no gradual blend between the short sides and the long top. The transition is abrupt, creating a clear “disconnection.” The hair on top is left very long, often flopping over to one side or slicked back. This creates a dramatic and bold silhouette that is very trendy. It allows for a lot of versatility; the long hair can be tied into a top knot, braided, or just worn loose, while the sides remain cool and clean.
This is a favorite for kids who want length but hate the feeling of hair on their neck or ears. It keeps the head cool while offering plenty of styling options on top. It is a statement haircut that shows a lot of personality. Because the sides are usually buzzed to one length, it is easy to maintain with clippers at home in between salon visits. It works for straight, wavy, and curly hair, making the long section on top a focal point that can be styled differently every day.
13. The Mini Pompadour
The pompadour is a classic style that adds volume and height, and the mini version for kids is adorable and stylish. The hair is cut short on the sides and back, while the front section of the top is left longer. This front hair is then blow-dried or combed up and back to create a “pomp” or wave. Unlike the adult version which can be very high and rigid, the kids’ version is softer and more relaxed. It adds a touch of rock-and-roll flair to a child’s appearance.
This trend is great for special occasions but can also be worn daily with a lighter touch. It requires some volume, so it works best for kids with medium to thick hair. Teaching a child to style their own pompadour can be a fun morning routine. It frames the face beautifully and adds a bit of perceived height. Whether paired with a fade or a classic taper, the mini pompadour is a timeless look that always appears well-groomed and stylish.
Conclusion
The world of kids’ hair trends is more diverse and creative than ever before. From the revival of the mullet to the precision of geometric designs, there are endless ways for children to express themselves through their hairstyles. These trends offer a mix of practicality and style, ensuring that kids not only look great but also feel comfortable and confident in their appearance.
When choosing a new look, consider your child’s hair type, their daily activities, and how much time you are willing to spend on styling. Bringing a picture to the barber is always a helpful way to ensure you get exactly the cut you want. Whether you opt for a sharp skin fade or a relaxed surfer shag, the most important thing is that the child loves their new look. Experimenting with these trends can be a fun way to update their style and let their personality shine.
