All You Need to Know About a Crew Cut
The crew cut has been around for decades and barely changed — for one good reason: it’s still universally liked. It’s one of the most popular men’s hairstyles in the world, and one of the easiest. A barber’s go-to, it’s simple to maintain, simple to style, and although it has its limitations, it’s the obvious choice if you want something almost as low-maintenance as a buzzcut but with a little more shape.
The crew cut is clean and suits most face shapes and nearly every hair type. If you’re in Oxfordshire and considering one for the first time, this guide covers your options, the pros and cons, and whether a crew cut is right for you.
If you’re after a new haircut, our men’s hair service page is a good place to start. And if you’re dealing with thinning hair, a receding hairline or hair loss, our men’s hair systems are a non-surgical option worth knowing about.
Crew Cut FAQs
What is a crew cut?
A crew cut is a short, neat style where the hair on top is kept slightly longer than the sides and back. The hair tapers — gradually getting longer towards the top — creating a sharp, clean finish. The key point is that it keeps some length on top while staying short at the sides. So when a client asks for a “short back and sides,” they’re essentially asking for a version of a crew cut.
The style dates back almost 100 years, originally linked to sport — rowing in particular, hence “crew” — and later the military, thanks to its sharp, low-maintenance look.
Choosing who cuts it is worth a thought, as barbers and hair salons each have their pros and cons. If you’re unsure, our post on barbers versus a hair salon will help.
What are the crew cut options?
Classic crew cut: The standard version you’ll see most often — short on top (typically 1–2 inches), with the sides tapered shorter using clippers. Neat, formal and low-maintenance.
Short crew cut: A shorter take on the classic — less length on top, often even shorter sides. A no-frills choice if convenience is your priority.
Textured crew cut: A slightly messier, more relaxed version with a little more left on top, styled for movement and flair. It offers more options but needs a touch more styling.
Crew cut with a fade: The sides start very short and blend longer towards the top. Our guide to the fade haircut explains how that works.
If you grow a good beard, pairing facial hair with a crew cut can look great too — our post on styling facial hair can help.
The pros of a crew cut
Easy to style: Even a textured crew is low-effort — easy to manage, with widely available products.
Professional: A crew cut never looks out of place — smart enough for a suit, easy enough for socialising.
Great in hot weather: An underrated point — longer hair can be uncomfortable in the heat, so a crew cut is a genuinely good choice for summer or holidays.
The cons of a crew cut
Limited styling: With little length on top, there isn’t a huge amount you can do with it. If that’s a concern, adding texture on top with a fade at the sides opens up more options.
Upkeep: Cut shorter, a crew cut loses its sharpness as it grows and needs more frequent appointments to stay crisp. Many clients enjoy it sharp for around six weeks, then let it grow before the next cut.
Is a crew cut right for you?
The crew cut is a genuine classic — ideal if you want a clean, low-maintenance style. Add texture or a fade if you want to be more experimental. Styling options are limited, but it’s a safe, reliable choice that works with most hair types and face shapes — and if you want something smart and professional, you won’t go far wrong.
Before deciding, think about your hair type, face shape and lifestyle. If you’re ready for a change, book a consultation and we’ll talk through the best approach — our guide on how to ask for a haircut is a useful read first.
