Hair That Turns Heads: What Styles Men Secretly Love

Hair is more than just strands growing from our scalps—it’s an expression of personality, mood, and style. Throughout history, hair has played a significant role in attraction, social status, and self-confidence. For women especially, hair choices can feel deeply personal—and sometimes, deeply scrutinized.

While the saying “you should do what makes you feel good” is absolutely true, many still wonder: What hairstyles do men really find attractive? More specifically, what hair styles do men secretly love but might not say out loud?

Let’s unpack this question by diving into psychology, cultural influences, and the real-life preferences of men—while remembering that ultimately, the best hairstyle is the one that makes you feel confident.

Hair and Attraction: Why It Matters

Hair has long been linked to attraction and desirability. From evolutionary psychology to modern pop culture, healthy, shiny, and styled hair is often perceived as a sign of youth, vitality, and personal care.

Research published in the Journal of Social Psychology found that men (and women) often associate longer, well-maintained hair with femininity and health. But the story doesn’t end with length—style, color, and texture all play a role in perception and personal preference.

What’s interesting, though, is that the styles men secretly love are often different from what women assume they prefer. Let's explore the surprising favorites.

1. The Effortlessly Tousled Look

Why men love it: The “I woke up like this” hairstyle—loose, slightly messy waves or curls—exudes a casual, laid-back, and approachable vibe. It suggests fun, spontaneity, and a low-maintenance attitude (even if it took a curling iron and texturizing spray to perfect).

Men say:

“There’s something really sexy about hair that’s down, loose, and a little wild. It feels real.” – Mark, 29

This look gives the impression that you’re confident without trying too hard, which many men find irresistible.

2. Ponytails and Buns (Yes, Really)

Why men love it: You might be surprised, but many men find ponytails, messy buns, or top knots incredibly attractive—especially the kind that’s casually thrown together.

This may stem from a subconscious sense of comfort or intimacy. A ponytail often signals authenticity and no-frills confidence.

Men say:

“My girlfriend wears a messy bun on Sundays and it’s my favorite look. It’s so relaxed and natural.” – Derek, 35

Bonus points for wispy strands falling around the face—it adds softness and a touch of romance.

3. Long, Flowing Hair

Why men love it: This one is no secret. Long, healthy hair has long been associated with femininity and allure in many cultures. It creates a sense of drama and softness and offers movement that captures attention.

Evolutionary biology may play a role—long, shiny hair is seen (consciously or not) as a sign of health and fertility.

Men say:

“There’s just something timeless about long, silky hair. It’s classic and elegant.” – Alex, 31

Of course, this doesn’t mean short hair isn’t attractive (more on that below), but there’s no denying that long hair tends to be a head-turner for many men.

4. Hair Down with Soft Curls or Waves

Why men love it: Curls or soft waves add volume, texture, and a playful, feminine vibe. They’re seen as more fun and romantic than stick-straight styles.

Soft curls are also perceived as more “touchable,” which subconsciously appeals to many men.

Men say:

“When my wife curls her hair for date night, it’s game over. It’s glamorous but still soft and pretty.” – Justin, 40

5. Sleek, Straight, and Polished

Why men love it: While waves and curls have their place, many men also appreciate a super sleek, straight look. It feels modern, clean, and sophisticated.

This style says: “I’ve got it together.” Pair it with a sharp outfit, and it screams confidence.

Men say:

“There’s something about straight, shiny hair that’s just really put together. Like she means business—in a good way.” – Andre, 27

6. Bangs (Surprise!)

Why men love it: Bangs can be polarizing among women, but many men secretly love them. They add mystery, a youthful flair, and draw attention to the eyes.

Curtain bangs, in particular, are a style many guys find flirty and intriguing—without the “drastic” feel of full fringe.

Men say:

“I never thought I liked bangs until my girlfriend got curtain bangs. Now I’m obsessed.” – Leo, 34

7. Short Hair or Pixie Cuts

Why men love it: While conventional wisdom suggests men prefer longer hair, that’s far from universally true. In fact, many men admire short hair for its boldness, confidence, and edginess.

Short cuts like pixies or bobs project self-assurance and modern style. Men who appreciate individuality and strong personalities often gravitate toward these styles.

Men say:

“When a woman rocks a pixie cut, it shows she’s confident and doesn’t follow the crowd. That’s hot.” – Miguel, 30

8. Braids and Twists

Why men love it: Braided styles, from classic French braids to intricate box braids or crown braids, offer a mix of femininity, culture, and creativity.

Braids are eye-catching and suggest attention to detail, heritage, and a unique sense of style.

Men say:

“I’m always fascinated by braided styles. It’s like wearable art.” – James, 33

9. The Beachy Vibe

Why men love it: Think sun-kissed highlights, loose waves, and a little frizz—the “beach hair” look. It feels fun, relaxed, and full of movement. This carefree style can transport the imagination to summer days and salty air.

Men say:

“That beachy wave look just reminds me of vacations and good vibes. It’s effortlessly sexy.” – Chris, 28

10. Hair with Color—But Not Overdone

Why men love it: While bright neons might not be for everyone, subtle color changes like caramel highlights, balayage, or a soft red hue often catch men’s attention in a good way.

Color shows a willingness to experiment and have fun without going too far into extremes (unless bold color is part of your identity—which some men absolutely love, too).

Men say:

“My girlfriend dyed her hair auburn and it totally transformed her vibe. I didn’t expect to love it, but I did.” – Nathan, 36

More Than the Style: What Men Really Notice

While men may have style preferences, what they notice most isn't just how your hair looks—it’s what your hairstyle says about you. Here are some of the things that hair can signal:

• Confidence: Whether you’re rocking a pixie cut or waist-length waves, if you wear it with pride, it’s attractive.

• Effort: Men notice when someone takes care of their appearance—not in terms of perfection, but in terms of showing pride in their look.

• Individuality: Unique cuts, colors, or natural styles show authenticity—and many men are drawn to people who express themselves genuinely.

What About Natural Hair?

The conversation about “styles men secretly love” wouldn’t be complete without talking about natural hair, especially for women of color. For decades, society’s beauty standards leaned heavily toward straight, Eurocentric styles. But things are changing.

More and more men are celebrating curls, coils, and kinks—and not just tolerating, but loving them.

Men say:

“There’s nothing more beautiful than when a woman wears her hair the way it naturally grows. It’s powerful.” – Jordan, 32

Natural hair signals authenticity, confidence, and cultural pride—qualities that are undeniably attractive.

The Influence of Context

Hair preferences also depend on when and where a style is worn. For example:

• Date night: Soft curls or sleek styles may feel more polished and romantic.

• Gym or errands: A high ponytail or bun looks cool and confident.

• Vacation: Braids, beachy waves, or hats add flair and ease.

• Formal events: Updos, glam waves, or retro rolls can be showstoppers.

Men appreciate versatility. A woman who can pull off a messy bun on Monday and red carpet glam on Friday? That’s impressive.

Final Thoughts: Your Hair, Your Power

So, what hairstyles do men secretly love? The truth is, they love a lot of different styles—especially when worn with confidence, authenticity, and personality. The “secrets” are often just styles that aren’t flashy or overly discussed, but deeply appreciated when they appear.

Here’s the bottom line:

• Men don’t care as much about what you do—they care about how you wear it.

• Confidence is the most attractive “style” of all.

• Authenticity and self-expression trump trends.

• You don’t have to fit a mold—just own your look.

At the end of the day, the hairstyle that will truly turn heads is the one that makes you feel powerful, beautiful, and unapologetically yourself.