Zayn Malik has returned to music after eight years with a fresh country-inspired sound. Along with his new album, Room Under The Stairs, the former One Direction star unveiled a very different look that has fans divided.
Known for his punk rock style and half-shaved haircuts, Malik surprised followers on August 23 by showing off long, thick hair and a full beard. In an Instagram video, he sang an acoustic version of “Shoot At Will” while dressed in a cream-colored shirt and matching denim. But it was his hair and beard that caught everyone’s attention.
Many fans were shocked by how quickly his hair grew. “Give me the haircare routine cause how tf your hair grows that fast,” one user commented. Just two months earlier, Malik had posted a selfie with short, spiky hair.
Other followers praised the new look, with one writing, “Just ur hairrrrrrrrr cutyyyy,” while another called him “Bear man.” Some joked about his style, saying it gave him a “caveman vibe” or saving money by skipping haircuts.
On X (formerly Twitter), fans expressed confusion. “Does anybody know why he’s growing out his hair?” one asked. Another added, “His hair and beard are soo long.”
Malik’s fashion style has often been bold and playful. He experiments with textures like mesh and leather and sticks mostly to dark colors. In a 2023 interview with Alex Cooper on Call Her Daddy, Malik said he struggled to find his style growing up. He explained that not dressing like others often led to criticism.
“The clothes you want to wear, the way you want to cut your hair — it was always like something was questioned if you weren’t doing the norm,” Malik said.
Now, as he embraces a new sound and look, Malik continues to challenge expectations — even if it leaves some fans unsure.
