The crew cut, a timeless classic in male grooming, is a testament to simplicity and practicality. Whether you’re a guy seeking a low-maintenance style or looking to make a bold statement, the crew cut offers versatility and elegance. Synonymous with a sense of discipline and style, the men’s crew cut has been a go-to option for many, transcending generations and trends. So, if you’re considering a fresh look, the guy’s crew cut might be your perfect choice.

What is a Crew Cut?

A crew cut is a type of haircut with lengthier hair on the top, usually, but not always, cut short and graduated in length from the front to the back of the crown. Hair on the sides and back of the head is usually tapered short with clippers, semi-short with clippers or scissors, or medium just with scissors. There have been many variations over the years including the classic crew, long crew and modern crew as well as many more. Each unique style complements the individual’s head differently, depending on facial shape and features. Resulting in a completely tailored “crew cut” just for you. Now, let’s delve into the origins of this popular men’s hairstyle.

What is the history of the Crew Cut hairstyle?

The crew-cut hairstyle dates back to the mid-18th century. The term “crew haircut” was coined to describe the short hairstyles worn by university crew teams to prevent hair from obstructing their view during races. The style gained popularity among college students in the 1920s and 1930s and was widely adopted by men inducted into the military during World War II. Despite declining popularity with the rise of long hair in the mid-1960s, the crew cut has returned to popularity and remains a popular choice for its neat, low-maintenance appeal.

What different types of men’s Crew Cuts are there?

Crew Cut Fade

This is a current barbershop favourite that allows for easy and versatile styling options. It’s a short men’s haircut that looks cool and modern with a taper fade/skin fade.

Maintenance level: High. You will need frequent visits to the salon to keep this style looking fresh, about every 2 weeks.

Messy Crew Cut

Messy Crew Cut, as fashioned by the wonderful Chris Hemsworth. This is a very versatile and fun hairstyle to wear. Not as short as a skin fade on the sides with a very slight disconnection to the length on top. What this allows is ultimate texture and fluidity.

Maintenance level: Medium. You can leave this style for about 4 to 5 weeks depending on personal preference.

Short Crew Cut

As you can see, this is a very fitting style for Mr Tatum. This has well and truly been styled uniquely;y for him, following the almost perfect head shape and bringing the sides high and short to exaggerate that awful jawline.

Maintenance level: High, 2 to 3 weeks visit to the shop.

Long Crew Cut

This is my idea of a long crew cut as the sides do not expose the scalp, meaning more length, density and chance for texture. Still framing the face glamorously and complemented by a slight shadow on the jaw (not clean-shaven) this long crew cut offers a rugged man approach. Jake is going to go home, take#off that suit, and start chopping logs in his back meadow. A real, “gets his hands dirty” type of guy.

Maintenance level: Medium. 4 to 5 week visit to keep edgy.

Classic Crew Cut

Frank, old blue eyes, what a guy. The king of style and swag. Scissors all over and a regular 4 week visit to the barbers, you’re still nowhere near him…haha, I joke. The classic is a classic for a reason, it will never lose its shine.

Maintenance level: medium to fair. I say 4 weeks because it’s Frank and it was probably more frequent for him. The use of the product and the more length means you can make this look fresh about 5-6 weeks after.

Modern Crew Cut

Now to more of what I think is the majority picture when you hear the words crew cut. Similar to Mr Tatum, less of a fade and more of a high blend. Zayne has added the mix of stubble on this one though, too. It's like Mr Tatum and Jake’s hair had a baby. Anyway, a fresh look nonetheless and is one to consider for sharpness and ease of manageability.

Maintenance level: High. 2 to 3 week visit to the shop to keep on top of this modern look.

Why is the Crew Cut for Men so popular?

The Crew Cut is a polished look. One that represents a well-groomed man, professionalism and aura. A classic Crew Cut tailored to you can be slimming and structured thus making it an eye-capturing style. Slightly less harsh than a skin fade, wear a suit with a classic Crew cut and watch the environment respond positively ;). It is an easy look to maintain as well as radiating positive energy from this style. Because it is a shorter style, it takes no time to dry and can be easily enhanced with a styling product to last the day! You don’t like using products, did I hear you say? That's fine, a classic crew can be tailored to your specifics where the product is not needed…although, as a professional, the product can be the icing on the cake. I’ve been growing my hair recently but heck, after typing this I want a classic crew cut!

Where Can I Get a Crew Cut Haircut in Liverpool?

We love a crew-cut haircut at Swanky Malone and have perfected the art at this point. You can find our hair services over on our gents page. Our salon can be found on Jamaica Street in the Baltic area of Liverpool. Simply book your appointment and we’ll see you soon!

FAQ

What is the difference between a Crew Cut and a Buzz Cut?

While both are short hairstyles, a crew cut retains visible length on the top of the head and varies in length on the sides. A buzz cut, on the other hand, is typically one length all over.

How short is a Short Crew Cut?

A short crew cut offers the same practicality and stylish look as the traditional version with a little more edge. The look is very similar to a buzz cut and also features a top, back, and sides that have been cut short with clippers.

What is a Crew Cut Low Fade?

The most subtle of all the fade options, crew cut low fades start to fade into a shorter cut roughly 1 inch above your ears.

How to style a Textured Crew Cut?

Today, most hairstyles favour a textured appearance for a more relaxed and less rigid look. The crew cut is no exception to this and can appear more contemporary and cool with the aid of texture.

What is the maintenance level for different types of Crew Cuts?

The maintenance level for each style varies. Some styles require frequent visits to the salon to keep them looking fresh, while others can be maintained with less frequent visits.

What are some popular variations of the Crew Cut?

There are several variations of the crew cut, including the classic crew cut, the long crew or the modern crew cut, along with many more.

Crew Cut - Learn Everything About This Traditional Men’s Hairstyle