Not sure if you’ve noticed, but guys are increasingly focusing on beauty and grooming. It’s a huge growth industry and although some might say now men will be subjugated through the beauty industry as much as women are, I think we can also look at the flip side of the coin and see it as guys taking care of themselves just as women do. Regardless, boutique men’s care is going from strength to strength as detailed grooming routines are seen as both female and male territory, with grooming establishments like Uppercut Deluxe, a modern take on the 1950s barber shop, popping up worldwide.
I think it’s great that both men and women look after their appearance – to a certain extent, of course. The beauty industry can be exploitative but it’s up to how individuals interpret it. I love visiting the hairdresser and having manicures! I think beauty can easily live side by side with intelligence and a healthy self esteem, and I like it that guys are picking up on it too – it’s less fair if it’s just women caring about their appearance, after all!
Let’s explore some of the grooming trends that men wanting to stay on top of the latest cutting-edge styles and products are loving this year.
Manicures and pedicures
Women aren’t the only ones concerned with cracked heels and scraggly toenails. Although nail polish hasn’t quite hit the spot with men, guys are increasingly keen to get fresh, polished looking hands and feet – particularly those working in offices, whose hands are on display as part of their overall look. Mani/pedi sets geared towards men have been on the market for ages – now, they’re heading in for the works with professionals too. Often when I’m popping in to get a quick mani/pedi I’ll see a guy there doing the same – it’s certainly not uncommon in major Aussie cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Beard oil
Men’s facial hair is definitely on trend right now. For those struggling to tame stray whiskers, boutique beard oil is the perfect solution. The regular application of beard oil moisturises the skin, and makes the hair itself soft and shiny. Many of the oils are derived from natural products, and come in different fragrances such as lavender or rosemary. This is a quirky way to personalise your grooming routine.
Long and luscious hair
It’s not for everyone, but Jared Leto’s balayage-laden locks have become their own pop-culture phenomenon since his Oscar win, showing that one doesn’t have to be a hippy or in a heavy metal band to sport a lengthy mane. With soft curls and subtle blonde highlights towards the tips, he proved that long, voluptuous hair is no longer restricted to female starlets. This hairstyle obviously requires strong conditioning to maintain its shine, but for some is very worth the trouble. Healthy hair never goes out of fashion and if nothing else, provides warmth in the winter time. This is probably not the look guys in corporate offices are going for, but if you have the luxury of working in a creative industry or elsewhere it could be right up your alley.
Classic side comb
The side comb, traditionally for balding guys, is now a sleek look that has been gracing runways and photo-shoots worldwide. A simple comb, high-quality gel and a steady hand is all that’s required for instant suave. This is definitely a look that corporate suits could rock. Expect to see old-school class popping up on the red-carpet in 2014 as this timeless look works wonders paired with a fitted suit for black-tie occasions. The classic side comb style is best for those wanting to bring back the refined look of years gone by into contemporary fashion.
Sky-high quiffs
Each year the bouffant grows higher and 2014 is no exception – quiffs can be styled a number of ways for different looks. A 1950s slicked-back look is perfect for any classic rockers, while a slightly windswept front is more contemporary. The great part about quiffs is they can reflect your personality – the more outrageous, the higher the hair. This look has already taken off among television presenters and celebrities worldwide, and a toned-down look could be perfect for the office – or at least that next party.
These styles and products reflect the changing dynamics of men’s grooming – gone are the days of simple back and sides; 2014 will be a year that furthers the trend of the dramatic and bold. Long, short, natural or dyed, the restrictions or ‘norms’ once placed on men’s grooming are dissipating as the years progress, leaving exciting new possibilities for experimentation.
Do you think these trends will be big in 2014? What’s the best hair cut you’ve seen on a guy lately?
Note: I partnered with Uppercut Deluxe on this post.
