35 Trending Crew Cut haircuts for Men

What is a Crew Cut?

The Crew Cut is a classic men’s hairstyle featuring short hair with a slightly longer top and tapered or faded sides. Originating in the military and among college rowing teams, it evolved into a versatile modern style. Suitable for most face shapes and hair types, the Crew Cut haircut works for everyday wear or formal events. Its low-maintenance nature and styling flexibility, whether textured, neat, or spiky, make it a timeless, masculine choice for men.

Ready to update your look? These popular crew cut styles blend classic structure with fresh details to suit every face shape and lifestyle.

Popular Crew Cut Haircuts

Crew Cut Fade

The Crew Cut Fade blends sharp edges with smooth texture, delivering a clean, low-maintenance look that’s trending hard. The short, even top adds volume while the skin fade sharpens the sides for bold contrast. Blow-dry upward, then shape with Texture Clay for controlled definition and natural movement. 

Classic Crew Cut

The Classic Crew Cut is neat, timeless, and full of quiet confidence. The hair on top stays short yet thick enough to create texture and subtle movement. The sides taper down gradually for a smooth, natural finish. Blow-dry upward and shape using Styling Cream to add soft volume and hold, perfect for teens who want a fresh, clean look.

Messy Crew Cut

The Messy Crew Cut adds a cool twist to the classic shape with extra texture and movement up top. Hair stays thick and tousled, while the skin fade around the sides keeps it fresh and clean. Blow-dry with your fingers, then work in Molding Paste for a flexible, touchable hold that lasts all day, no stiff feel, just pure style.

Long Crew Cut

The Long Crew Cut delivers bold volume up top with extra length, while the high skin fade sculpts the sides for clean contrast. This look thrives on texture and movement, making it perfect for guys who want standout style. Blow-dry upward, then apply Molding Paste to boost thickness, hold shape, and keep every strand effortlessly in place.

Military Crew Cut

Modern Crew Cut

The Modern Crew Cut upgrades a classic look with crisp sides and a textured top that adds effortless edge. The length up top gives room for light volume, while the fade keeps it clean and cool. Blow-dry forward, then shape with Styling cream to boost control and natural texture, a no-fuss style that always looks fresh.

Textured Crew Cut

The Textured Crew Cut gives off a cool, laid-back vibe with choppy layers on top and a smooth skin fade on the sides. Its messy finish adds volume and movement, perfect for teens who want an effortless edge. Blow-dry with fingers, then work in Molding Paste to define texture and keep it flexible without looking stiff or heavy.

Crew Cut Low Fade

The Crew Cut Low Fade blends timeless simplicity with modern sharpness, making it perfect for style-conscious young men. This haircut keeps the top short and neatly textured, flowing into a seamless low fade for a clean, fresh look. Use Texture Clay to enhance definition and hold, blow-dry forward for subtle movement, and finger-shape for a casual yet polished finish.

Short Crew Cut

The Short Crew Cut is all about clean edges and low-maintenance style. The top stays short and even, while the high skin fade creates bold contrast that frames the face. This cut is easy to manage just blow-drying and finish with Texture Clay to lock in shape, add dry texture, and keep your look sharp all day.

Medium Crew Cut

The Medium Crew Cut strikes the perfect balance between short and stylish. The top holds just enough length for light texture and volume, while the faded sides keep the look clean and defined. Blow-dry upward with your fingers and finish with styling cream for a soft, controlled hold that adds natural movement without weighing the hair down.

Taper Fade Crew Cut

The Taper Fade Crew Cut blends sharp detail with a smooth, polished vibe. The top stays short and flat for a structured look, while the taper fade melts cleanly down the sides and neckline. Blow-dry in place and finish with styling cream to keep it neat, touchable, and styled without stiffness  perfect for everyday confidence.

Crew Cut No Fade

The Crew Cut No Fade keeps it clean and classic with even length all around and a slightly textured top. No fade means softer edges, perfect for a natural, low-key style. Blow-dry forward for direction, then use styling cream to boost light hold and texture without stiffness ideal for guys who want easy control and timeless appeal.

Crew Cut Buzz Cut

The Crew Cut Buzz Cut delivers sharp simplicity with uniform, ultra-short length across the top and tight sides. It’s perfect for guys who want a bold, low-maintenance style that still looks clean and confident. Skip heavy styling just apply a small amount of Texture clay post-shower to enhance texture and lock in a dry, natural finish.

Crew Cut Quiff

The Crew Cut Quiff adds a modern twist to a classic cut with short sides and a lifted, voluminous top. The hair is cut close on the back and sides, while the front is left long enough to style upward. Blow-dry with a round brush, then shape using Texturizing Paste for strong hold, movement, and all-day definition.

Crew Cut Asian

The Crew Cut Asian combines sharp edges with bold texture for a fresh, structured look. The sides are skin-faded clean, while the top stays short, spiked, and full of movement. Blow-dry upward with your fingers, then apply Molding Paste to define volume and hold every strand in place. It’s sleek, stylish, and built for confident expression.

Side Swept Crew Cut

The Side Swept Crew Cut delivers clean lines with smooth flow. The top is left longer and styled to the side for natural movement, while the faded sides create contrast that sharpens the overall shape. Blow-dry using a brush for direction, then apply Styling Cream to add soft hold and shine without making the hair feel stiff or heavy.

Crew Cut Mid Fade

The Crew Cut Mid Fade delivers a crisp, structured look with tight sides and a short, even top. The mid fade blends smoothly from skin to length, creating a bold contrast that defines the jawline. Keep it fresh by blow-drying post-shower, then apply Texture Clay to enhance texture and hold without adding shine  clean, simple, and confident.

High Fade Crew Cut

The High Fade Crew Cut makes a strong statement with tight faded sides and a slightly longer top that’s easy to shape. The sharp fade starts high above the temples, creating clean contrast and highlighting the upper volume. Blow-dry for light lift, then apply Molding Paste to add control, natural texture, and movement without any extra weight.

Curly Crew Cut

The Curly Crew Cut combines tight, natural curls with clean, tapered sides for a balanced and bold look. The top keeps volume and bounce, while the fade sharpens the shape around the ears and neckline. Blow-dry with a diffuser, then apply curl defining cream to enhance texture, reduce frizz, and keep every curl defined and touchable.

Crew Cut with Beard

The Crew Cut with Beard delivers clean contrast up top and rugged definition below. The haircut features a short, even top paired with a skin-tight fade, while the full beard adds balance and boldness. Blow-dry the top lightly and apply matte clay for dry texture and control. Use Beard Balm to keep facial hair soft and well-groomed.

Ivy League Crew Cut

The Ivy League Crew Cut blends classic style with modern edge, featuring a slightly longer top that’s combed neatly to the side and faded short on the sides. This cut offers clean lines with soft movement and subtle texture. Blow-dry with direction, then apply Styling Cream to shape and control without losing that natural, lightweight finish.

Undercut Crew Cut

The Undercut Crew Cut stands out with bold contrast, long choppy layers on top and sharply clipped sides that drop straight into a skin fade. The top brings movement and volume, perfect for finger-styling. Blow-dry upward, then apply texture clay to shape the fringe, boost hold, and add a gritty, trendsetting finish that stays fresh all day.

Crew Cut Comb Over

The Crew Cut Comb Over blends clean fades with sleek styling. The top stays slightly longer and is combed to one side for controlled flow, while the skin fade creates a crisp, modern contrast. Blow-dry with direction, then apply forming cream to hold the shape, smooth flyaways, and give the hair a soft, natural finish with movement.

Crew Cut Mullet

The Crew Cut Mullet fuses sharp edges with retro flair. The front and top stay short and spiky for volume and texture, while the back flows longer for that signature mullet punch. Blow-dry upward and back, then shape with texture clay to enhance grip, hold the style in place, and give it a messy-yet-controlled finish with modern swagger.

Crew Cut Side Part

The Crew Cut Side Part brings timeless structure with a modern twist. The top is kept neat and slightly longer, allowing it to sweep cleanly to one side, while the faded sides add sharp contrast. Blow-dry along the part for direction, then apply styling cream to hold the shape, tame flyaways, and keep it polished all day.

Crew Cut Flat Top

The Crew Cut Flat Top delivers sharp structure and height with a flat, squared-off top and tightly faded sides. This style keeps everything precise while adding bold vertical volume. Blow-dry upward with a brush to lift the roots, then apply molding paste for firm hold and shape control that locks in the clean, sculpted finish all day.

Crew Cut Straight Hair

The Crew Cut Straight Hair style is sharp, neat, and effortlessly modern. The hair is cut short and even across the top, with a smooth skin fade that tapers down the sides. Straight strands give it a clean, structured look. Blow-dry forward, then apply Texture clay to boost texture, tame flyaways, and keep it looking crisp all day.

French Crew Cut

The French Crew Cut features a short, choppy fringe up front with a tight skin fade on the sides for a bold, clean finish. The top is textured for natural volume and movement, making it easy to style. Blow-dry forward and use texture clay to enhance grip, separate the strands, and keep the look fresh all day.

Crew Cut Mohawk

The Crew Cut Mohawk blends edgy contrast with clean structure. The center strip stays fuller and sharply defined, while the sides drop into a tight skin fade that highlights the mohawk shape. Blow-dry upward for volume, then shape with texture clay to boost texture, grip, and hold giving this look strong attitude without losing control.

Blonde Crew Cut

The Blonde Crew Cut is clean, low-maintenance, and full of attitude. The top stays short and textured, while the skin fade on the sides adds contrast that makes the blonde tone pop even more. Blow-dry upward to build shape, then use Texture clay for a dry, natural finish that keeps the cut sharp and touchable all day.

Low Taper Crew Cut

The Low Taper Crew Cut offers a smooth, laid-back style with sharp detailing. The hair on top stays short and textured for easy control, while the low taper around the ears and neckline keeps the fade soft and natural. Blow-dry in place and apply styling cream to add light hold, clean separation, and a natural, touchable finish.

Crew Cut Skin Fade

The Crew Cut Skin Fade delivers a clean, high-contrast look with a serious edge. The top stays short and tight with subtle texture, while the skin fade drops aggressively down the sides for a smooth, fresh finish. Blow-dry upward to lift the front slightly, then apply Texture clay for a dry hold that adds shape without shine.

Spiky Crew Cut

The Spiky Crew Cut combines short sides with a choppy, lifted top that brings texture and edge. The sides fade clean into the skin, while the top is styled upward for volume and movement. Blow-dry using your fingers for direction, then apply texture clay to lock in separation, definition, and a matte finish that lasts all day.

Crew Cut Burst Fade

The Crew Cut Burst Fade mixes a short, textured top with a bold burst fade around the ears, creating a clean yet edgy shape. This look adds volume up top while letting the sides stay sharp and skin-tight. Blow-dry upward for movement, then work in Molding paste to boost control, matte separation, and all-day hold.

Drop Fade Crew Cut

The Drop Fade Crew Cut features a short, uniform top with a drop fade that curves naturally around the head for a smooth, sculpted shape. This cut adds clean structure while keeping a soft, gradual finish near the neckline. Blow-dry for a neat lay-down, then apply forming cream to boost control, texture, and all-day natural hold.

 

Crew Cut vs Other Haircuts

Crew Cut vs Buzz Cut

Both the Crew Cut and Buzz Cut are short, low-maintenance haircuts, but they differ in style flexibility. A Crew Cut has extra length on top, allowing for fades, tapers, and light styling, while a Buzz Cut is clipped evenly all over for a uniform, minimalist finish. Crew Cuts offer more customization, whereas Buzz Cuts deliver a clean, military-inspired look.

Crew Cut vs French Crop

A Crew Cut features a tapered top with gradual fades for a neat, athletic appearance, while the French Crop includes a blunt forward fringe and textured top for a modern, European-inspired style. Crew Cuts suit those seeking a sharper, sportier vibe, while French Crops appeal to men wanting a fashion-forward, statement hairstyle.

 

How to Choose the Right Crew Cut

Choosing the right Crew Cut depends on your natural hair type and face shape. These tips will help you pick a style that flatters best.

Hair Type

Your hair type plays a big role in how a Crew Cut looks. Thick hair benefits from shorter tops to reduce bulk, while fine hair looks fuller with slightly longer lengths. Straight hair delivers a clean, sharp finish, while wavy or curly hair adds natural texture. Use lightweight products like texture clay or styling cream to control shape without weighing hair down.

Face Shape

The right Crew Cut enhances your face shape. Round faces look sharper with shorter sides and added height on top. Oval faces suit balanced proportions, while square faces benefit from softer fades to smooth strong jawlines. Matching length and fade style to your features ensures a flattering, well-proportioned haircut that highlights your best angles.

 

How to Ask Your Barber For a Crew Cut

Getting the perfect Crew Cut starts with clear communication. Follow these tips to describe your style, show examples, and ensure your barber delivers the exact look you want.

Describe the Cut Clearly

Tell your barber the exact length you want on top, and specify your preferred taper or fade style for the sides and neckline. For example, say, “One inch on top with a mid fade and clean neckline.” This avoids miscommunication and ensures your crew cut matches your vision.

Show a Reference Photo

Bring a clear crew cut reference photo to your appointment. A visual helps your barber match details like fade height, top length, fringe style, and hair texture. This eliminates guesswork and ensures your haircut looks exactly how you imagined.

 

How to Style a Crew Cut

Achieving the perfect Crew Cut begins with the right prep, lightweight product, and simple styling. Follow these steps for a crisp, easy-to-maintain look that complements any hair type.

Start with Damp Hair

Styling a Crew Cut works best on clean hair. Wash with a lightweight shampoo and conditioner to remove oil and buildup, giving your style a fresh, natural base. This helps products apply evenly and keeps the cut looking sharp all day.

Apply Lightweight Product

Use a small amount of matte pomade, clay, or wax. Work it evenly through slightly damp hair to add control, hold, and texture without weighing your short Crew Cut down.

Style with Your Fingers

Skip the comb for a relaxed, textured look. Use your fingers to direct hair forward, upward, or slightly to the side for an effortless, versatile style.

Define the Texture

Pinch small sections between your fingers to create separation and depth. Keep it smooth for a neat style or tousled for a modern, casual finish.

Lock It In

Finish with a light mist of hairspray or a matte finishing spray to secure the style. Using minimal product keeps the Crew Cut clean, touchable, and easy to refresh during the day.

 

How to Maintain a Crew Cut

Keeping a Crew Cut fresh isn’t hard but regular upkeep is key. Follow this routine to maintain sharp lines, healthy hair, and a polished look.

Trim Regularly

The Crew Cut grows out quickly, Schedule barber visits every 2-3 weeks to preserve the tight fade and sharp edges. If you're confident with clippers, use guards to clean up your neckline or sideburns at home. This helps maintain the structured silhouette of the Crew Cut and keeps your style low-maintenance yet refined.

Hair Routine

Wash your hair 2-3 times per week using a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup and excess oil. Follow with a hydrating conditioner to keep short strands soft and manageable. If your Crew Cut includes extra length on top, use matte pomade or molding paste for shape and texture. Exfoliate your scalp weekly to prevent flakiness, and always protect exposed areas with SPF spray or a cap when in direct sunlight.

 

Hair Products for a Crew Cut

The right products keep a crew cut sharp, fresh, and easy to style. These essentials cover everything from daily hold to long-term hair health.

Molding Paste

Use molding paste to shape your crew cut with flexible hold and texture. It adds definition without stiffness, perfect for everyday styling.

Texture Clay

Apply texture clay for a matte finish and strong hold. It enhances natural hair texture and keeps your crew cut sharp all day.

Styling Cream

Styling cream gives light hold with natural shine. Ideal for soft, touchable crew cuts that need a controlled, polished finish without stiffness.

Hydrating Argan Oil

Use hydrating argan oil to nourish dry hair and reduce frizz. It keeps your crew cut soft, smooth, and healthy-looking without weighing it down.

Clarifying Shampoo

Clarifying shampoo removes product buildup and excess oil. Use once weekly to keep your crew cut fresh, clean, and scalp healthy.

Hydrating Conditioner

A hydrating conditioner restores moisture, prevents breakage, and keeps your short hair soft and manageable. Essential for daily crew cut maintenance.

Sea Salt Spray

Spritz sea salt spray on damp hair to add natural texture and volume. Great for messy or matte-finish crew cut styles.

 

FAQs

What is a crew cut?

A crew cut is a short men’s haircut with tapered sides and slightly longer hair on top for a clean, low-maintenance look.

What’s the difference between a crew cut and a buzz cut?

A crew cut keeps some length and shape on top, while a buzz cut uses clippers evenly all over for a very close cut.

What face shape suits a crew cut?

Crew cuts flatter oval, square, and diamond face shapes by enhancing bone structure and offering a sharp, masculine silhouette.

How long is a crew cut on top?

Crew cuts usually have 1 to 2 inches of length on top, with shorter faded or tapered sides for a clean contrast.

Is a crew cut good for thinning hair?

Yes, a crew cut adds definition and makes thinning hair look fuller by reducing contrast between the scalp and hair volume.

Can I get a crew cut with curly hair?

Absolutely. A crew cut works well with curly hair by keeping curls manageable while showcasing texture and adding volume on top.

How do I ask my barber for a crew cut?

Tell your barber you want a crew cut with a fade or taper on the sides and specify your preferred length on top.

What are some popular variations of the crew cut?

Popular crew cut variations include the Ivy League, high and tight, textured crew cut, and side-swept styles for modern versatility.

What is the difference between a classic crew cut and a high and tight?

A classic crew cut has gradual tapering, while a high and tight cut features a more dramatic contrast with extremely short or shaved sides.

How often should I get a crew cut trim?

Visit your barber every 2-3 weeks to maintain the shape, fade sharpness, and clean lines of a fresh-looking crew cut.