When it comes to men’s hairstyles, few cuts combine practicality, style, and timeless appeal quite like the tapered crew cut. This haircut has stood the test of time—from military origins to modern fashion runways—and continues to be a favorite for men of all ages. Whether you’re after a low-maintenance look or a clean, professional style, the tapered crew cut offers something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into what a tapered crew cut is, its variations, how to ask for it at the barbershop, how to maintain it, and who it suits best.
What Is a Tapered Crew Cut?
A tapered crew cut is a type of short haircut that features:
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Short hair on the sides and back,
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A gradually decreasing length toward the neckline and ears (this is the “taper”),
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Slightly longer hair on top, usually styled flat, forward, or brushed up.
The “crew cut” itself refers to the short hair on top, originally worn by Ivy League rowing teams (or “crews”) in the early 20th century. The “tapered” aspect modernizes it by creating a smooth transition from the longer top to the shorter sides, often resulting in a cleaner, more refined finish compared to a traditional buzz or uniform cut.
History of the Crew Cut
The crew cut has roots in American collegiate sports teams in the 1920s and 1930s. Its popularity soared in the military during World War II due to its practicality and low-maintenance nature. Over the decades, it became synonymous with discipline, masculinity, and straightforward style. Today, with the addition of modern tapering techniques, the tapered crew cut has evolved into a versatile haircut that works in both casual and professional settings.
Key Features of the Tapered Crew Cut
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Tapered Sides and Back
The defining feature is the taper—a gradual fade from the longer top to the neckline. Tapers can vary in length and intensity:-
Low Taper: Starts fading just above the ears.
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Mid Taper: Begins around the temple or halfway up the sides.
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High Taper: Starts high on the head, near the crown, offering a more dramatic contrast.
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Short to Medium Top Length
The top of a crew cut is typically 1 to 2 inches long but can be slightly longer if you want more styling options. The top is usually blended with the sides to avoid harsh lines. -
Defined Hairline (Optional)
Some versions feature a sharp or lined-up hairline for a cleaner, more modern look.
Popular Variations of the Tapered Crew Cut
The tapered crew cut is highly customizable. Here are a few of its most popular variations:
1. Classic Tapered Crew Cut
A balanced and traditional cut. Short back and sides taper into a longer top, with minimal styling. Ideal for professionals and men looking for a neat, simple look.
2. Taper Fade Crew Cut
Blends a skin fade or high fade into the crew cut. This version is more contemporary and trendy, often seen in fashion-forward cities or barbershops.
3. Textured Tapered Crew Cut
The top is styled with texture using scissors instead of clippers. Perfect for adding volume and dimension, especially for men with thick or wavy hair.
4. Side Part Crew Cut with Taper
Combines a hard or soft side part with the crew cut, giving a slightly retro vibe. Works well for both casual and formal settings.
5. Curly or Wavy Tapered Crew Cut
This variation allows natural curl or wave to show through on the top while keeping the sides neatly tapered.
How to Ask for a Tapered Crew Cut at the Barbershop
It’s always a good idea to bring a photo, but if you want to communicate your desired look clearly, here’s what to say:
“I’d like a tapered crew cut with a [low/mid/high] taper. Keep the top around [1-2 inches] and blend it into the sides. I’d prefer a clean neckline, and maybe some texture on top.”
You can also specify if you want a skin taper (down to bare skin) or a more subtle taper that blends into your natural hairline.
Who Should Get a Tapered Crew Cut?
The tapered crew cut works for a wide range of face shapes and hair types. Here’s a breakdown:
Best Face Shapes:
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Oval (ideal for almost any hairstyle)
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Square (enhances masculine features)
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Round (the taper can add verticality to elongate the face)
Hair Types That Work Well:
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Straight hair
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Wavy hair
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Curly hair (with enough length on top)
Avoid if you have very fine or thinning hair unless your barber knows how to create volume with layering.
Benefits of a Tapered Crew Cut
✔️ Low Maintenance
Requires minimal styling. Just a quick brush or a bit of product in the morning is enough.
✔️ Professional Appearance
Works well in business environments and formal settings.
✔️ Customizable
You can go longer or shorter on top, adjust the taper, or add a fade for a personal touch.
✔️ Keeps You Cool
Especially good for summer months or warmer climates.
✔️ Timeless and Trendy
Combines the best of classic and modern aesthetics.
How to Maintain a Tapered Crew Cut
1. Regular Trims
Every 2–3 weeks to keep the taper sharp and the top from getting too long.
2. Washing and Conditioning
Use a mild shampoo 2–3 times a week and condition to avoid dryness and buildup.
Also read: 5 Best Hair Care Products To Keep Your Crew Cut Fresh
3. Styling Products (Optional)
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Pomade: For a sleek, controlled look.
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Matte Clay or Paste: For a natural, textured finish.
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Styling Powder: Adds volume and light hold for messy or casual styles.
4. Scalp Care
A clean scalp is essential for a healthy look. Consider exfoliating once a week.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Too Short on Top Without Enough Taper
Can look more like a buzz cut than a crew cut.
❌ Skipping the Taper
If you don’t taper the sides and back, it loses the signature contrast that makes it stylish.
❌ Choosing the Wrong Taper Level for Your Head Shape
A high taper might not suit everyone—consult your barber.
Celebrities Who Rock the Tapered Crew Cut
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Chris Evans – Often seen with a clean, mid-tapered crew cut.
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Ryan Reynolds – Known for his textured crew cuts with subtle tapers.
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Zac Efron – Has sported both classic and edgy tapered variations.
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Michael B. Jordan – A sharp taper with a defined hairline, combining modern trends with the traditional cut.
Final Thoughts
The tapered crew cut remains a go-to style for a reason. It’s clean, adaptable, stylish, and easy to maintain—perfect for men who want to look sharp without spending hours in front of the mirror.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or just someone who values simplicity and style, this haircut deserves a spot on your radar. Customize it to your preferences, and you’ve got a look that works for virtually any occasion.
