18 Cool & Confident Top Knot Styles Every Guy Should Try
A good hairstyle can completely change how a man looks and feels. It’s not just about trends—your hair can show off your personality, make you feel more confident, and help you stand out in a crowd. That’s why choosing the right hairstyle matters.
Classic Top Knot
This is the go-to top knot style. The sides are either shaved or faded, while the hair on top is left long and tied into a knot right at the crown of the head. It gives a clean, modern look that works well for guys with oval or rectangular face shapes. It’s usually done by pulling the hair back tightly and securing it with a hair tie. This style needs regular shaving or fading on the sides, so visiting a barber every couple of weeks helps. The knot itself can be tied at home in a minute or two.
Undercut Top Knot
With this version, the sides are fully shaved or buzzed, making the contrast between the long top and short sides even more striking. It’s bold and edgy, best for younger men or those with strong jawlines. It suits straight or wavy hair and is pretty easy to style—just shave the sides and tie the top. Keeping the undercut sharp means visiting a barber often, but tying the knot is quick and can be done at home.
Top Knot with Fade
This variation blends a fade (skin, taper, or drop) into the look. The top stays long while the sides gradually fade down. It’s cleaner than a full undercut and works well for most face shapes. A barber usually handles the fade, but the top knot itself is easy to tie at home. It’s a great option if you want a more polished but modern look.
Messy Top Knot
This style isn’t about perfection—it’s casual, loose, and effortless. The hair is pulled back without being too neat, giving a relaxed feel. It suits guys with wavy or thick hair and works best with a laid-back personal style. You don’t need a barber for this; just tie your hair loosely and go. A little texture spray can help give it that messy but stylish finish.
Braided Top Knot
This one combines braids and a top knot. The top section of hair is braided—sometimes in cornrows or simple three-strand braids—and then tied into a knot. It’s perfect for men with longer hair and adds a creative touch. You might need help from a stylist for the braids, but once done, it’s easy to manage and looks amazing. It works best on thick or textured hair.
Top Knot with Beard
Pairing a top knot with a beard creates a balanced, masculine look. The beard adds weight to the lower half of your face, which pairs well with the knot on top. This works great for round or oval face shapes and adds personality. It doesn’t need a special haircut, just regular trimming of the sides and beard to keep the look tidy. Both the knot and beard can be styled at home with the right tools.
Top Knot with Dreads
If you have dreadlocks, you can pull them into a top knot for a unique and bold look. This style suits all face shapes and shows off the texture of your hair. Depending on the thickness of your dreads, you may need to use multiple ties to hold them up. Regular care of your locs is essential, and a loctician can help with maintenance. It’s eye-catching and culturally expressive.
High Top Knot
Here, the knot is tied higher than usual—almost at the top of the head. It makes a statement and draws attention upward. It works best for people with long hair and suits round or square faces. Styling is simple: brush the hair up and tie it high. You don’t need a barber unless you’re pairing it with faded or shaved sides.
Low Top Knot
This style places the knot lower, closer to the back of the head. It’s more subtle and laid-back. It works well for men with longer hair and suits most face shapes. It’s also gentler on your hair because there’s less tension. You can do this style entirely at home—just gather your hair at the back and tie it loosely or tight, depending on your look.
Double Top Knot
Why have one when you can have two? The double top knot features two small knots either side-by-side or one behind the other. It’s playful and creative, often seen in more fashion-forward or artistic looks. It works best on longer hair and oval or heart-shaped faces. You can part your hair and tie each section separately. While it’s not a look for everyone, it’s fun and different.
Top Knot with Taper Fade
This version combines the neatness of a taper fade with the boldness of a top knot. The fade starts gradually from the temples and blends smoothly into the longer top. It works for men who want a stylish yet professional look. A barber should do the taper, but you can tie the knot at home. It suits straight or slightly wavy hair and most face shapes.
Curly Hair Top Knot
Got curls? This version pulls your natural curls into a top knot, showing off texture while keeping things neat. It works best with medium to long curly hair and is great for round or diamond-shaped faces. Use a leave-in conditioner to manage frizz, and tie the hair gently to avoid breakage. It’s stylish and shows off your hair’s natural volume.
Samurai Top Knot
Inspired by ancient Japanese warriors, this style has a bold, historical feel. The knot is tight and often placed slightly higher, sometimes with shaved sides. It’s strong, clean, and powerful. Best for men with long straight hair, it requires some effort to maintain the shape. You can style it at home, but a barber can help if you want to combine it with fades or designs.
Top Knot with Shaved Designs
This style adds a creative twist with shaved patterns or lines on the sides. It stands out and gives your haircut a personal touch. A skilled barber is a must for this look. The top is tied as usual, but the sides carry the design. It works best for younger men or those looking to make a bold statement.
Slicked Back Top Knot
This version involves brushing and slicking your hair back using gel or pomade before tying it. It’s clean, sharp, and suits formal settings. It works well for men with straight or slightly wavy hair. Use a good-quality product and a brush to keep the hair in place. It gives a polished look and can be done at home.
Mini Top Knot
If your hair isn’t that long yet, you can still try a mini version. It’s a smaller knot that works with medium-length hair. It’s a great transition style if you’re growing your hair out. Just gather the top section and tie it loosely. Works best with straight or slightly wavy hair and can be styled easily at home.
Top Knot with Side Part
This version keeps a defined side part while tying the longer section into a knot. It’s structured and adds dimension to your hairstyle. It works well with oval or square faces and gives a mix of casual and sharp. You might need a barber to help define the part, but once done, the knot is easy to manage on your own.
Colored Top Knot
Add color or highlights before tying your hair into a knot for a more vibrant, fun look. Whether it’s blonde streaks, bold shades, or subtle tones, this style shows off personality. You’ll need a colorist or barber to dye it properly. Once done, just tie your hair up as usual. Maintenance includes color-safe shampoo and conditioner to keep it fresh.
Styling Tips for Better Top Knots
- Keep your hair clean and moisturized. Wash your hair regularly, and use conditioner to prevent dryness or breakage.
- Use good-quality hair ties. Avoid rubber bands—they pull and damage your hair. Use cloth-covered ties or coil bands.
- Visit your barber regularly. Even if you tie your hair yourself, clean sides and trims keep the overall style sharp.
- Protect your hair at night. If your hair is long or dyed, consider wearing a satin bonnet or using a silk pillowcase to avoid frizz.
- Don’t tie too tight. Pulling your hair too tightly can cause tension and lead to hair loss over time. Keep it snug but comfortable.
Conclusion
Finding the right hairstyle is one of the easiest ways to boost your confidence and feel great about how you look. Top knot hairstyles offer so much flexibility—whether you’re going for clean and classic, or bold and artistic.
Don’t be afraid to try one that catches your eye. Whether you’re growing your hair out, changing your look, or just want something new, there’s a top knot style here for you.
Remember, style is personal. The best look is the one that makes you feel good.
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