What is a Crew Cut?
The classic Barber Shop cut - the crew cut - is a low-maintenance haircut that has remained popular and in style for generations. It is a truly timeless look that’s as ideal in professional settings as it is in fashion and street culture.
It's a go-to for those who want a sharp, clean look with minimal upkeep. This style features short sides and back, usually buzzed or tapered, with a slightly longer top for subtle styling.
The expert stylists at 20th Salon and Barber in the Mission District of San Fransisco know how to provide the optimal crew cut for your unique look. For the best Mission District Barber Shop, come stop by soon!
Key Takeaways
- Timeless military-inspired hairstyle.
- Short sides and back, longer top.
- Suitable for most face shapes and hair types.
- Easy to style and maintain.
- Available in various modern variations.
The Different Variations of the Crew Cut
Classic Crew Cut
The classic crew cut is a uniform, short style that emphasizes simplicity and neatness. Facial structures with sharper lines gravitate toward this cleaner cut. The even length across the top and tapered sides accentuates the natural bone structure.
The clean lines make it an ideal option for individuals looking for a polished and professional appearance. It suits various face shapes but is especially effective for square or oval faces, as it highlights the jawline while keeping a balanced and symmetrical profile.
Ivy League Crew Cut
The Ivy League crew cut offers a slightly longer top for more styling options while maintaining the traditional short sides.
This variation works best for individuals who prefer a bit of texture or volume. The additional length on top provides the flexibility to part the hair or create a slightly tousled, relaxed look.
The Ivy Crew is a classic and versatile cut perfect for those with rounder faces - as the added height helps elongate the face for a more balanced, angular appearance.
Crew Cut with Fade
The crew cut with a fade adds dimension by gradually blending the hair from shorter lengths at the sides to a longer top.
Whether opting for a low, mid, or high fade, this style offers a sharp contrast that can help define facial features.
A low fade works well for more conservative looks, while a high fade creates a more pronounced transition for a bold effect. This cut complements a variety of face shapes, particularly oval and square, as it enhances the contours and structure and gives the face a well-defined silhouette.
How to Choose the Right Crew Cut for Your Face Shape
Choosing the right crew cut depends on your face shape. The key is balance. Some styles elongate the face, while others soften angles.
- Oval faces: Most crew cut styles work.
- Round faces: Add height to elongate the face with a longer top.
- Square faces: Soften angles with a classic crew cut.
- Long faces: Keep the top short to balance proportions.
How to Communicate the Perfect Crew Cut to Your Barber
Getting the crew cut you envision starts with clear communication.
Start by using the right terms. For example, mention whether you want a "fade" or a "taper" on the sides, and reference "clipper guard numbers" to describe the exact length you’re after. The more specific you are, the better.
Photos are another great tool. Bring in a picture of the crew cut you’re thinking about—it’ll help your barber see exactly what you want. A visual reference removes any guesswork and gives you the results you're expecting.
Barber Shop Vocab
- Fade: A smooth transition from shorter hair on the sides to longer hair on top.
- Taper: A gradual decrease in hair length around the sides and back, less dramatic than a fade.
- Clipper Guard Numbers: Used to specify hair length (e.g., #1 for a short cut, #4 for longer).
- High, Mid, or Low Fade: Indicates where the fade starts—high near the crown, mid halfway, or low closer to the ears.
- Textured: A cut that adds volume and a natural, tousled look for styling flexibility.
How to Style and Maintain a Crew Cut
Styling and maintaining a crew cut is straightforward when you use the right products.
For a classic crew cut, a light pomade or wax keeps your hair neatly in place without adding too much shine or weight.
If you have an Ivy League crew cut, use a gel or mousse to shape the longer top for a polished or textured look.
A faded crew cut benefits from cream or wax to emphasize the contrast between the faded sides and the top. Regular trims every 3-4 weeks keep the style sharp and fresh.
Wrapping Up: Crew Cuts From The Best Barber Shop San Fransisco Has to Offer
The crew cut is a versatile, low-maintenance style that can be adjusted to suit various face shapes and preferences. Whether you prefer a classic look or a more modern fade, this haircut delivers simplicity with a sharp, clean finish.
Located in the Mission District of San Fransisco, 20th Salon and Barber is one of the top-rated barber shops in the city. Our expert stylists are professionals dedicated to exceeding expectations in every way. If you need a sharp new cut, 20th Salon and Barber is a great place to hang out with some great people, and you’ll leave with the best haircut in San Fransisco!
