How did men's hairstyles in the early Middle Ages differ from those later in this period?

During the early Middle Ages, hairstyles for men experienced a significant transformation, which is well captured by the selected answer regarding the shift from short hair to long hair with a middle part. Initially, men favored shorter hairstyles that were practical and suitable for their lifestyle. However, as societal norms and cultural influences evolved, particularly with the influence of the Byzantine Empire and later the spread of Christianity, longer hairstyles became more widely accepted and even fashionable among men.

The change to longer hair with a middle part represented a movement towards more elaborate and symbolic hairstyles that conveyed status and identity. This shift was reflective of changing ideals about masculinity and beauty, moving away from utilitarian styles to more ornate ones that could signify nobility and refinement.

The other possibilities do not accurately capture the historical trends seen during this period. Long, lavish locks throughout were not the norm for the entire duration of the Middle Ages. Additionally, while men sometimes wore their hair in buns, particularly in specific cultural contexts, it is not representative of the broader trends of the entire era. The idea that hair was always left unkempt regardless of status is also inaccurate, as grooming and hairstyle choices varied significantly based on social class and cultural influences.