In terms of short dread styles for men, versatility and individuality take center stage. Whether you’re looking for a bold, edgy look or a more laid-back, natural vibe, there’s a wide array of styles to choose from. Short dreads offer the perfect balance between low maintenance and high style, allowing for an effortless yet distinctive appearance.
From neat, structured dreads to more free-form, messy looks, these styles offer a chance to express personality while keeping things fresh and manageable. In this guide, we’ve curated 44 of the best short dread styles for men, each one unique and ready to elevate your hair game.
1. Dapper Twisted Crown

A sleek short dread style where strands are meticulously twisted into tight crowns, sitting neatly atop the head. Small sections of the dreads are braided near the roots, giving the style a regal flair. This look is perfect for those seeking a sophisticated yet bold appearance, ideal for both formal and casual settings.
2. Urban Mohawk Dreads

Dreads are shaved on the sides, leaving a distinct, bold strip of twisted locks down the middle. This style blends the iconic mohawk with the raw texture of dreadlocks. A statement look that demands attention, it’s excellent for those who crave edginess without compromising on the dreadlock aesthetic.
3. Clean Cut Short Dreads

For those who prefer a tidier approach, this style keeps everything short and clean. Dreads are subtly shaped, offering a minimalistic look that’s far from boring. Whether you’re attending a professional meeting or hanging out with friends, this stylish yet low-maintenance option suits any occasion.
4. Low Fade with Dreads

A stylish contrast of a low fade and neatly shaped dreads. The fade gives a fresh, smooth finish on the sides while the top remains full of beautiful, defined dreads. An ideal balance of clean lines and textured volume makes this style a go-to for both comfort and flair.
5. Two-Tone Dreadlocks

Bring out your creativity with two-tone color combinations. This style involves dreads of two different colors, strategically placed for maximum impact. Bold and distinct, this style allows individuals to showcase their personality with the vivid contrast of dark and light hues.
6. Cropped Dread Spikes

Short, spiky dreads create a daring, youthful look. The dreads are kept compact, spiking up at the crown for a jagged, edgy finish. Perfect for those who want an instant burst of personality, this style pairs well with a laid-back or energetic vibe.
7. Fringed Dreadlocks

Fringed ends add a touch of casual rebellion to the look. Rather than keeping the ends neat, the dreads are left loose, creating a soft, frayed fringe effect. This style works beautifully for those who want to add a playful yet structured twist to their usual dreadlocks.
8. Afro Dreads

A fusion of the classic afro and short dreadlocks. The dreads are allowed to grow slightly outwards, creating a fluffy locs hairstyle, full-bodied look that’s both bold and effortlessly cool. This style offers volume and style without being overly complicated, making it a true standout.
9. Dreaded Buzz Cut

A bold blend of a buzz cut and dreadlocks, where the top is kept short and dreads are carefully sculpted to form an even, clean shape. The sides are faded or shaved completely, creating a sharp contrast between the dreads and the clean, neat sides.
10. Short Dread Braids

Small, intricate braids woven into the short dreadlocks create a style that’s both elegant and striking. This look pairs well with a sleek, professional vibe or a casual day out. The braids add a unique twist to the standard short dread look, offering variety in texture and form.
11. Simple Dreaded Undercut

The undercut on short dreads provides a clean and edgy look. The top remains full of defined dreads while the sides are shaved close to the scalp. This style is clean, minimal, and ideal for those who want a subtle yet attention-grabbing hairstyle.
12. Dreadlock Mohawk with Fade

A bold, statement-making dreadlock mohawk. The sides are shaved while the center remains full of thick, twisted dreads. A sharp fade blends seamlessly with the dreadlocks, providing a contrast that gives the style a unique, sharp finish.
13. Short and Sculpted Dreads

This style features dreads that are shaped and sculpted into precise, uniform sections. Each lock is twisted tightly near the roots and tapered toward the tips. The neat, sculpted look is both modern and professional, ideal for those who prefer a structured and refined appearance.
14. Side Swept Dreadlocks

Dreads swept to one side for a sleek and smooth look. A deep part is created, and the dreads are styled with a bit of product to keep them in place. This style is perfect for anyone looking for a polished yet effortless vibe.
15. Micro Dreads

Tiny, compact dreads form the basis of this understated yet chic look. Micro dreads are styled to perfection, giving a delicate and refined appearance. Despite their small size, they pack a punch, offering a clean and sophisticated edge without being too overpowering.
16. Deep Parted Short Dreads

A deep side part gives the dreads a voluminous, asymmetrical look. The dreads are twisted tightly and positioned so they fall effortlessly on one side. This style adds an element of depth and sophistication without requiring much maintenance.
17. Dreaded Pompadour

A daring take on the classic pompadour, with short dreads stacked high and styled towards the back. The rest of the hair is kept short, offering a smooth contrast. This style is perfect for making a bold impression at any event, combining both retro and modern elements.
18. Twisted Side Dreads

Short dreads twisted into small sections and then styled to one side. The uniform twists give a clean, groomed finish while the side placement offers a relaxed and cool vibe. Perfect for those who appreciate sleekness with a touch of laid-back elegance.
19. Layered Dreadlocks

Layers in short dreads add texture and depth, creating a more voluminous, dynamic look. The layers are cut in varying lengths, allowing the dreads to naturally fall into place. This style is all about movement and dimension, offering a sophisticated yet low-maintenance option.
20. Short Dread Puffs

Tight, small dreads puffed up into a fun, voluminous look. The dreads are kept short but fluffed out for a lively, playful appearance. This style is perfect for those looking for something bold yet fun, with an effortlessly cool vibe.
21. Dreaded High Top

The high-top dread look is a daring choice that involves longer dreads at the top of the head, tapering shorter as they descend. The sides are often faded or shaved for contrast. This style is perfect for those who want to combine height with texture for a standout look.
22. Slicked Back Dreads

Short dreads styled back for a sleek, slicked finish. The locks are twisted tightly, then combed back to create a streamlined silhouette. This polished style works well for professional settings, offering a clean and controlled aesthetic.
23. Twisted Crown Dreads

A simple yet elegant crown formed by short, tightly twisted dreads. The twists circle the head, creating a crown-like appearance that’s both regal and understated. Ideal for those looking for something sophisticated without too much fuss or complexity.
24. Tapered Short Dreads

This style features dreads that are tapered towards the neck, keeping the top full and voluminous while the back and sides fade gradually. It’s a clean, modern look that balances volume with precision. Great for those who like a polished appearance with a bit of texture.
25. Choppy Dreads

Choppy, uneven dreadlocks create an intentionally messy, carefree vibe. Some dreads are slightly shorter than others, creating a natural, rugged look. This style is perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed, unstructured approach to their dreadlocks.
26. Textured Side Sweep

Short dreads swept to one side with added texture for a voluminous, tousled look. The dreads are slightly separated and styled to fall naturally across the forehead. This style brings a touch of freshness and liveliness, perfect for a casual day out.
27. Dreadlock Flat Top

A sharp, flat top formed from tight, short dreads twisted upwards. The sides are kept faded or shaved, creating a clean contrast with the crisp, structured top. This style offers a distinctive, geometric shape, perfect for those who want a bold yet controlled hairstyle.
28. Loose Dread Curls

Short dreads with loose, curly tips add a soft, natural texture to the overall look. This style involves minimal manipulation, allowing the natural curl pattern to shine through. Ideal for a relaxed, bohemian look with a touch of sophistication.
29. Dreadlocks with Beads

Add beads to short dreads for a unique, personalized touch. The beads can be placed sporadically or in carefully selected sections, giving each dreadlock character. This style allows for customization, perfect for expressing individuality through an accessory-laden look.
30. High Fade Short Dreads

A high fade on the sides and neatly maintained short dreads on top. The fade creates a contrast that makes the top stand out more prominently. This style is clean and fresh, with a bold edge that’s perfect for someone looking for a modern, sharp appearance.
31. Zigzag Parted Dreads

A zigzag part through the middle of short dreads creates a unique, eye-catching style. This playful part adds an unexpected twist to the otherwise simple look. The dreads themselves remain short and neatly twisted, offering a perfect balance of fun and sophistication.
32. Short Dreaded Layers with Fade

The top features layered, short dreads while the sides are blended into a smooth fade. The layered sections give the dreads dimension and volume, while the fade keeps the look modern and clean. It’s a refined, stylish choice for those who appreciate a mix of texture and precision.
33. Dreaded Full Frontal

Dreads are twisted in a way that pushes them forward, creating a fuller, more dynamic front. The edges of the dreads are shaped to frame the face, offering an angular yet playful appearance. Ideal for those who love a bold, statement-making look.
34. Undercut with Short Dreads

An undercut with short, styled dreads offers a sharp contrast between the shaved sides and the voluminous top. The dreads are kept short but full of texture, creating a fresh, contemporary vibe. This style is both edgy and versatile, working well for various occasions.
35. Dread Crops with Part

This style features short dreadlocks neatly cropped and parted on one side, offering a clean, polished look. The part adds structure, making the style feel organized yet effortlessly cool. This is a great choice for those who like their dreads with a touch of sophistication.
36. Short Dread Skin Fade

A skin fade that transitions seamlessly into short, defined dreads. The skin fade accentuates the top section, where the dreads sit with added definition. This bold yet minimal look is perfect for those who prefer a sharp contrast in their hairstyle choices.
37. Short Curly Dreads

For those with natural curls, this style keeps the dreads short while allowing curls to form at the ends. A refreshing take on classic dreadlocks, this style highlights natural texture and keeps the look fresh. It’s a great option for those wanting a quick yet stylish look.
38. Messy Dread Crops

Messy, tousled short dreads create an effortlessly cool vibe. The dreads are left intentionally untidy, offering a carefree, rebellious appearance. Perfect for those who want a laid-back look without putting in too much effort, this style oozes a relaxed, free-spirited charm.
39. Neat and Structured Dreads

Short, tightly twisted dreads with a focus on neatness and symmetry. This style offers a clean, refined look that’s perfect for a professional setting or a formal occasion. The precision and structure give the dreads a polished, sophisticated finish.
40. Dreadlock Caesar Cut

A bold yet refined choice, this style involves short, tapered dreads in a straight-cut fringe at the front. The clean, sharp lines make it easy to maintain while offering a distinctive, youthful appearance. Ideal for those who want a hairstyle that’s both trendy and classic.
41. Tight Rooted Dreads

Short dreads that start with tight roots and gradually loosen toward the ends create a neat, controlled style. The twist and turn of each dreadlock add shape and definition. This style offers a structured yet natural aesthetic that works for both casual and formal settings.
42. Shaggy Dread Fro

A shaggy, wild version of the afro, filled with short, textured dreads. The dreads are left loose for a carefree, voluminous finish. This style gives off a bohemian feel, perfect for someone who wants a laid-back, free-spirited vibe.
43. Defined Short Dreads with Highlights

44. Asymmetrical Short Dreads
Short dreads cut into an asymmetrical shape create a fun, edgy look. The uneven length of the dreads on each side gives the style an effortlessly cool, unconventional vibe. Perfect for someone who wants to break away from the norm and try something truly unique.