The Ultimate Guide to the French Crop Hairstyle

If you're looking to switch up your hairstyle or need a fresh, low-maintenance haircut, the French crop is the perfect choice. It is similar in short back and sides to the crew cut. In this ultimate guide, we will explore everything about this versatile haircut, from it’s history and key characteristics to different variations and styling tips. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, the French crop can be tailored to suit your unique style.

man with textured french crop

Understanding the French Crop Hairstyle

The French crop is characterised by its short, tapered or faded sides and a slightly longer top. This classic look provides ample styling opportunities and can be adapted to suit various hair types and face shapes.

History of the French Crop

Originating in 1920s France, the French crop was inspired by the military crew cut and quickly gained popularity for its clean and sleek aesthetic. Over the years, the style has evolved, becoming a timeless haircut associated with elegance and sophistication and worn by both men and women.

Key Characteristics of the French Crop

The French crop stands out due to its versatility and adaptability. It can be styled in numerous ways, from a messy, textured look to a slick, formal style. This haircut enhances facial features, drawing attention to the jawline and cheekbones while allowing the longer top to be styled to complement different face shapes.

Types of French Crop

There are various types of French crops to suit different preferences. 

Textured French Crop

The Textured French Crop features layered and choppy textures on top, creating volume and dimension. It's perfect for those who prefer a messy, carefree look that's easy to style and maintain. 

man with textured french crop

French Crop Fade

This variation combines the classic French crop with a fade on the sides. The fade can be high, mid, or low, adding a modern touch to the traditional style and emphasizing the length on top.

man with french crop fade

Long French Crop

The Long French Crop keeps the top significantly longer while maintaining short sides. This style allows for versatile styling options, from slicked back to a more relaxed, tousled appearance. 

man with long french crop

Curly French Crop

This version embraces natural curls, enhancing them with a slightly longer top and short sides. It's a stylish and manageable choice for those with curly hair, adding definition and flair.

man with curly french crop

Short French Crop

The Short French Crop is characterized by minimal length on top and very short sides. It's a clean, low-maintenance look that's ideal for those seeking simplicity and a sharp appearance.

man with short french crop

French Crop Taper

This style features a gradual taper on the sides, blending seamlessly into the longer top. The taper provides a sleek and sophisticated look, perfect for a polished yet modern appearance.

man with french crop taper

Skin Fade French Crop

The Skin Fade French Crop includes a fade that transitions down to the skin, creating a striking contrast between the short sides and the longer top. This bold style is edgy and contemporary.

man with short french crop

High Fade French Crop

This variation includes a high fade on the sides, starting above the temples and blending into the longer top. It's a modern take on the classic crop, offering a sharp and trendy look.

man with high fade french crop

Wavy French Crop

The Wavy French Crop highlights natural waves with a slightly longer top and short sides. This style embraces texture and movement, providing a relaxed and effortless appearance.

man with french crop wavy

How to Get the French Crop Hairstyle

Achieving the French crop hairstyle involves effective communication with your hair stylist. Be specific about the length you want for the sides and the top, and discuss the type of texture you prefer, whether it's a textured crop or a sleeker style. Your barber should have all the necessary tools, but if you're doing it yourself (though it's not recommended!), you'll need a high-quality pair of clippers for trimming the sides, a comb for styling the top, and suitable styling products like Gritty Wax Paste or Solid Pomade, both available in our shop.

Styling the French Crop

Maintaining and styling your French crop on a daily basis is key to keeping it looking sharp. Trim the sides regularly to maintain the clean look, and use a shampoo and conditioner suitable for your hair type. Shorter styles tend to be washed more frequently, especially when styling products like wax or pomade are being used. A decent, scalp friendly cleanser like Bare Cleanser. When it comes to styling, experiment with different products like wax, pastes, pomades, or styling creams to achieve the desired texture and hold. Apply the product to blow dried hair or towel-dried hair and use your fingers or a comb to shape the top and create your desired look.

Adapting the French Crop Hairstyle

While the classic French crop is stylish, you can put your own unique spin on it with some adaptations and variations. Consider an undercut or a fade on the sides for a more edgy look, or introduce layers for added texture. Personalising your French crop with accessories like headbands, scarves, or hats can add a unique touch. Experimenting with hair colours or highlights can also give your crop a personalised look.

TAKEAWAY

The French crop is a versatile, stylish, and low-maintenance hairstyle that suits various hair types and face shapes. With a little care and creativity, you can effortlessly achieve a chic and timeless look. So, book an appointment with your hair stylist and get ready to rock the French crop!

French Crop FAQ

What is a French Crop hairstyle?

The French Crop is a versatile haircut characterized by short, tapered or faded sides and a slightly longer top. It can be styled in various ways to suit different hair types and face shapes.

What are the key characteristics of a French Crop?

The French Crop features short sides and a longer top, enhancing facial features like the jawline and cheekbones. It can be styled in multiple ways, from messy and textured to sleek and formal.

What are the different types of French Crop hairstyles?

There are several variations, including the Textured French Crop, French Crop Fade, Long French Crop, Curly French Crop, Short French Crop, French Crop Taper, Skin Fade French Crop, High Fade French Crop, and Wavy French Crop.

How did the French Crop hairstyle originate?

The French Crop originated in 1920s France, inspired by the military crew cut. It quickly gained popularity for its clean and sleek aesthetic and has evolved into a timeless style.

How do I communicate with my hairstylist to get a French Crop?

Be specific about the length you want for the sides and top, and discuss the type of texture you prefer. Effective communication with your hairstylist is key to achieving the desired look.

What tools and products are needed to style a French Crop?

Essential tools include a high-quality pair of clippers, a comb, and suitable styling products like wax, pastes, pomades, or styling creams. Products like Gritty Wax Paste or Solid Pomade are recommended.

How do I maintain a French Crop hairstyle?

Regularly trim the sides to maintain the clean look, and use a shampoo and conditioner suitable for your hair type. Experiment with different styling products to achieve the desired texture and hold.

Can the French Crop be adapted for different hair types?

Yes, the French Crop can be tailored to suit straight, wavy, or curly hair. Variations like the Curly French Crop and Wavy French Crop embrace natural textures, providing a stylish and manageable look.

What are some modern adaptations of the French Crop?

Modern adaptations include undercuts, fades, and the introduction of layers for added texture. Personalizing the French Crop with accessories or experimenting with hair colors can also give it a unique touch.

Is the French Crop suitable for all face shapes?

The French Crop is highly adaptable and can be styled to complement various face shapes. The longer top can be shaped to enhance facial features, making it a versatile choice for many.

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