There are two kinds of people; those who style their hair to resemble a super Saiyan powering up, and the folks that will never admit they do!
The average anime viewer might not be aware of all the cool anime hairstyles currently out there. If you belong in this group, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the details right away—or dare we say, get out of your hair?
1. The Baldies
Life presents itself with ironic episodes, and the very first style on the list falls right into that category. The baldies are one of the most striking male anime hairstyles around (oh, the irony)! Most of the bald characters are seen as embodiments of experience and, generally, ones with unbreakable morale.
Despite being one of the most striking anime hair possessions around (or is it?), the baldies are generally seen as incredible supporting characters, or even side characters to the antagonists. There seems to be an archaic correlation between baldness and a supportive nature—case in point, Krillin. It would be incorrect to ignore the importance of a bald lead, though. Yes, we’re looking at you, Saitama!
Biologically-speaking, baldness tends to have a direct correlation with testosterone and is associated with an overall “aggressive” nature. Basically, you do not want to have a baldie as a foe.
2. The Ahoge
The ahoge literally means “stupid hair” and is one of the most striking anime boy hairstyles out there. What appears to just be a strand of hair that cannot be combed down, the ahoge actually helps to provide significant insight into a character. The single strand of hair that sticks out from an otherwise normal, parted style helps to emphasize the character’s “lightness of being” (we did say that life has its ironies; you should know that we’ll also be adding in the metaphors).
While not as cute as the anime girl hairstyles, characters sporting the ahoge radiate naivety along with certain asinine traits. In other cases, the ahoge also can represent certain mischievous character traits associated with young anime boys.
3. The Beehive
What do you think of when you hear someone talking about a beehive hairstyle? If your mind is inclined towards western culture, you’d probably think of Marge Simpson—and you wouldn’t be wrong. However, your eastern counterparts have Edel (from Princess TuTu) with her own version of the beehive. Dare we ask, is it a good time to say hello from the other side (disclaimer: bad puns galore)?
The beehive is usually associated with more of a mechanical character. This also explains the scarcity of such hairstyles in anime—yes, anime is THAT engrossing. Getting back to specifics, the actual beehive portrayed in anime is a bit more subtle than its western counterpart (which are pronounced). Did you know that this is one of the rarest female anime hairstyles around? Yup.
4. Compression
Depending on who you ask, some might say that a blurred sense (or definition) of “femininity” does exist. While longer hair is associated with more feminine traits, the compression hairstyle is a perfect example of how women can lead while holding their own in great battles (this includes the metaphorical ones).
The compression style develops because the longer hair is actually compressed by some sort of headgear or helmet. While this does not have to literally be associated with battles, characters such as Junko, from A Certain Scientific Railgun, pay dividends to the metaphorical lines of such female characters.
Remember the blurry lines stated earlier? Case in point, Hotohori from Fushigi Yûgi. What a gallant gentleman and a valiant warrior.
5. Match-Match
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19609232/Screen_Shot_2020_01_17_at_3.10.08_PM.png)
Possibly one of the more ubiquitous anime hair traits, the idea of having a character’s eye color match with his or her hair color is called “match-match”. Seen in shows such as Fullmetal Alchemist (or on almost all of the characters in Fruits Basket), the idea of the same color is there to show stark ideas or representations that a character might portray.
6. Dyeing Delinquency
You cannot deny that dyeing your own hair is symbolic. Mostly related to an overall notorious nature, anime characters dyeing their hair are symbolic of either rebellion or just an overall shift in character depth. Seen on characters such as Hanamichi Sakuragi from Slam Dunk, or even Shizuo from Durarara!!, the dyeing delinquency is pretty self-explanatory, isn’t it?
7. Expressive (or Mouldable?)
As if quirkiness wasn’t an ongoing theme in certain characters, the element of changing hair patterns (according to mood or setting) definitely takes things to a whole new level.
This style mostly pertains to female anime hairstyles; the expressive character’s hair tends to change according to responses. Angry? Woah, there are spikes on her hair! Sad? Her hair starts to drool! It’s safe to say that anime girl hairstyles tend to be a bit more expressive (think: Renka Ma in Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple).
8. Godiva
You cannot deny the sexual undertones portrayed in much of anime (and, the Godiva style is one such manifestation of this general theme). Used in situations when the character is bereft of overall clothing and needs to (most definitely) censor certain aspects (or assets?) of her body, the Godiva is a rather sensual application of long hair. In a certain sequence in Casshan: Robot Hunter, the beautiful Luna is portrayed in such a manner. In Dominion Tank Police, the Puma sisters also used this style to entice their foes. If you think male anime hairstyles are charming, you clearly haven’t seen the Godiva.
9. Male Binding Bangs
The male binding bangs are possibly one of the most ogled anime boy hairstyles; there’s just something eerie and secretive about these characters—adding to their charm. This is definitely one of our top picks! The most striking aspect of this hairdo is how it shows a perfect balance between charming and mysterious. Sanji, from One Piece, immediately comes to mind (audible drooling noises).
10. Helicopter Hair
Also from One Piece, Buffalo seems to always come to mind when helicopter hair is in the equation. With a bunch of utility aspects assigned to the style, his helicopter hair helps to propel him with great velocity. Not only that, the aerodynamics are such that it does not make him lose balance. Talk about full utilization!
11. Antennae
Anime creators: you have to add quirks to every bit of our human aspects, don’t you!
This unique style is seen mostly on female anime characters, adding a certain element of intelligence and wit along with a quirky twist. As seen on many Love Hina characters, the antenna throws light onto their general intellect. That being said, we don’t think that the reader needs this type of hairstyle to prove intellectual prowess—unless you want to add some quirk!
12. Anti-Gravity
There might be a number of cool anime hairstyles that are polarizing, but the anti-gravity male anime hairstyle tends to hit the perfect balance between sexy and impactful. Not only does it have earthly abilities, but the anti-gravity hairstyle (quite like its name) is an embodiment of character traits that transcends the human mind.
Let’s face it, the anti-gravity hairstyle is so good that we root for the characters sporting it, irrespective of motive. Think about it: be it Vegeta from Dragon Ball Z, or Ryuk from Death Note, fans just go “gaga” over this hairstyle. Honestly, we don’t blame them!
13. Mohawks
Did you really think we would gloss over this one? Hell no! The mohawk is the most polarising anime boy hairstyle—there, we said it.
Punk hairstyles have always been an attention-grabbing aspect of various pop cultures; that’s not any different in the anime world. The style is often associated with a rebellious character and oozes self-confidence. Be it Tapion from Dragon Ball Z, or Gō Koga from Bleach, mohawks belong in a class of their own (in anime, hair is more of an inherent attribute). A certain level of confidence is needed to understand, similar to what the characters sporting it ooze.
14. Hair Intakes
It’s not possible to associate anime girl hairstyles without going back to its feline roots. While most other hairstyles cater to a specific female character, the hairline intake can be used to represent many character traits. Historically, this style has been used to target a “Cat Girl” character trait. Yet, the hair intakes also have been used to define robotic or mechanical characters, such as ones orchestrated by Artificial Intelligence (AI). Miyabi Hotaka, from Absolute Duo, sports this rather perfectly.
15. Hair Reboots
Do you think anime is supposed to delve into deep-rooted constructs that are based on reality rather than fantastical realms? Then, why are you doubting hair reboots?
While this might not be as cool of an anime hairstyle as anti-gravity, hair reboots have a thing of their own that other styles might not possess. Hair reboots not only aid in new character arcs, but also help to propel the storyline in unfathomable directions. Sure, alopecia in humans might cause changes to the hair, but when it comes to the anime world, it throws light on the never-ending resilience that the character possesses. Take Goku, for instance, and his conflict with Janemba—his hair grows back within a short span!
16. Twintails
Anime hair can be a tricky thing to emulate, but the twintails are a good exception. Not only is the style one of the more approachable anime girl hairstyles to try out, but you can also easily rock it (think: Mine from Akame ga Kill!).
17. Bangs
Characters such as Ayatsuji and Olivier Mira Armstrong have shown time and time again that bangs are truly (dare we say it, bang-on) incredible if you know how to wear them. As we mentioned above, anime hair is an integral part of character arcs, and bangs are no exception. In fact, if you see someone sporting them, they’re probably a total badass.
18. Top Knots for Men
One of the most iconic anime boy hairstyles is the top knot. This style is a perfect way to show all of the major transitions a character might be undergoing. Usually sported by boys who turn into gallant gentlemen, or samurais, the top knot is also a metrosexual style icon.
Along similar lines, the top knot is deep-rooted in Japanese warrior culture; and, most anime characters sporting it are total badasses, irrespective of their motive or agenda. Take Asahi Azumane for instance; he might be one of the softest characters around, but there’s no denying that he’s one of the top aces in the entire league. Oh, and of course, that damned top knot (where the otaku at?).
19. Drills
Hunter X Hunter is an enthralling tale, and Biscuit Krueger is an engrossing character. While she might have deceived many with her age–you can’t really blame her. With incredible-looking drills, the style not only puts various high-maintenance anime boy hairstyles to shame, but also draws (and holds!) the attention of viewers and fans.
The drills also represent just how convoluted Krueger’s life has been, adding to the depth and greatness of her entire training process. All in all, having drills might be one of the most unique aspects of anime.
20. The Afro
The afro hairstyle still resonates with the idea of being cool, and many hipster elements are derived from this iconic style. While not in fashion (for the most part) within the anime world, the afro is still one of the most striking male anime hairstyles around! For instance, Mr. Satan (a shaky and loosely funny individual) is one of the most iconic anime characters in the Dragon Ball Z universe. There is a great element of swagger in those sporting this great hairstyle. We think it’s truly worth admiring!
21. Wild and Sexy (oof!)
Just as a queen bee seduces a plethora of mates, the “wild and sexy” style is possibly the most sensual of them all. With no real or definitive way to describe the specifics of this hairstyle, it visually stands out with tons of locks going in several directions. The characters wearing this female anime hairstyle fall into a very specific femme fatale template. Be it Fujiko Mine, from Lupin the Third, or Queen Bee, from Golgo 13, you’ll have a hard time forgetting about them!
22. Short and Spiky
This anime hairstyle needs no introduction. Come on, have you not watched the Naruto series?
For obvious reasons, short and spiky hair is possibly one of the most popular anime boy hairstyles. While shining a bright light on the character’s depth, the spikes represent obstacles (or hurdles) each faced and overcame. It’s no secret that the style is also really easy to maintain.
The road to being a Hokage is rough and spiky, but once you attained the acumen of your abilities and will-power, there’s really no going back. Even if you don’t end up where you imagined, at least you look baller.
23. Slicked Back—Female
While the style establishes a no-BS attitude, it’s also extremely attractive. Take Rurichiyo Kasumiōji from Bleach—it’s the epitome of an anime girl hairstyle. Not only is she capable of carrying a chunk of the arc, she’s attractive while doing so. Definitely one of the best contenders on the list of cool anime hairstyles, the slicked back is definitely (as Ron Weasley would say) wicked.
24. Side Swipe—Female
Anime girl hairstyles tend to portray characters as (dare we say it) less sinister and having a propensity for softness. However, in some cases, the side swipe also portrays the character’s coy nature. The only common character trait that the side swipe possesses, irrespective of an arc, is an overall headstrong nature and general stubbornness. Yes, Petra Ral, we are looking at you!
While these characters might seem really attractive on the surface, the side swipe is one of the least desirable female anime hairstyles. So, does that it mean it’s unique?
25. The Scruffy
The scruffy is one of the best male anime hairstyles since time immemorial; it exudes a nonchalant approach to life and has a very callous, mysterious sex appeal. Messy hair, don’t care? Do you now see where that comes from?
Emulating anime hair can be tricky business! Not only is the scruffy easy to do, it’s even easier to maintain. Be it Hinata or L Lawliet, from Death Note, there is a certain sense of friendliness and a mysterious nature to the scruffy. Of course, this depends on how you look at it.
26. The Ponytail
This is a tricky scenario. While ponytails on some male characters represent a frivolous nature, men such as Koya, from Inuyasha, and Yu Kanda, from D.Gray-man, strike the perfect balance between fierce and gentlemanly. The ponytail, therefore, becomes an overall trait carried by the character.
27. Short Hair—Female
Despite being such a common anime hairstyle, the short-haired ladies are usually ones that require further introspection into their character traits. Oftentimes notorious, characters with shorter hair tend to spark more dissection by the viewers. Seen in Mikoto Urabe in Mysterious Girlfriend X, shorter hair can be paired with some bangs.
28. Dreadlocks
While radiating a sense of pacification, dreadlocks also have the ability to exude a serene and calculative nature. Not only that, on a physical level, dreadlocks show that the character is concerned about overall cleanliness and cares about hygiene. Of course, the coolness these characters radiate goes without saying. Yes, Kanonji, we are looking at you!
29. Long Bangs “Oriental” Style
What seems like a conglomeration of both bangs and healthy locks, the “oriental” anime hair styling is possibly the least talked about. A good example would be Ayeka Masaki Jurai. While one may not know the depth of the character arc, there’s no denying the depth of those beautiful burgundy locks.
30. Long, Loose Locks
Keeping the alliteration aside, characters with long and loose locks are regarded as one of the coolest anime characters; Ushio is a great example of this derivative. While long locks can be a trait resembling brute force and an overall authoritarian figure, the style can also show a gentler side of things. Remember to not get your hopes up; it’s a rarity (long locks actually represent more primal instincts).
To Conclude
The anime world is a mysterious one, bursting at the seams with tons of characters and character traits! If you made it this far, you might agree that anime hair can provide deeper insight into each character’s unique parts. The hair, Chico, never lies?