The vague promise of a British summer should inspire change. But there are more affordable style switch-ups than restocking your wardrobe.
We tapped Britain’s best barbers for their pick of this season’s killer hairstyles, from Zayn’s buzz cut to Vincent Gallo’s shoulder-length locks. All you need now is the weather.
The Choppy Crop
Why It Works
“It’s versatile and can be tailored for each individual,” says Jamie Stevens, a three-time winner of the British Men’s Hairdresser of the Year award.
“It’s been a big look this season for guys looking to ditch the long locks for something shorter and easier to maintain.”
What To Ask For
“Short, choppy, relaxed. Ask your barber to take it shorter on the sides, point cut the top and ensure enough texture for that messy look – you’re wanting a variation on the popular French crop.”
Best For
“This look works really well on guys with thicker hair and looks even better if there’s a slight wave. Style with some MR Style Sea Salt Spray and finish with a small amount of MR Style Wax to really set it off.”
The Curly Top
Why It Works
“It’s easy to take care of and can be easily adapted,” says Olivia Baudino, Holborn store manager at The Legends Barbershop. “Take it super-shiny and flat for big events or messy with minimal product for holidays and festivals.”
What To Ask For
This season, more is more. “It’s not as short as it was last summer – blend short sides with a long top to keep it versatile.”
Best For
Anyone. “It suits all face shapes. If you have an oval face you can really go for any level of volume, but if your face is slightly rounder be sure to leave some extra on top to give your face proportion.”
The Buzz Cut
Why It Works
Where Zayn goes, every man should follow. “It’s an obvious option to keep your head cooler during warmer days,” says Adam Brady from Ruffians. “Plus the less hair you have, the less hassle you have.”
What To Ask For
“A buzz cut with a taper on the back and sides. To add interest, have them start at 0.5 on the base of the neck, working up to a grade one. On the top section, go for a grade two or three for contrast.”
Best For
Accentuating good genes. “It works best on those with symmetrical head shapes. If you’ve got a wider or longer face it can look a bit cartoony. Opt for stubble or a short beard as well just to make sure you accentuate your angles nicely.”
The Textured Quiff
Why It Works
“It’s great for the more fashion-conscious man,” says Nathan Billingham, manager of Birmingham’s Everyman Barbers. “It’s an easy style to maintain and looks fresh whether it’s styled or not.”
What To Ask For
“A tight skinfade on the sides with a zero mid-blend. On top, ask for a heavy textured quiff – it emphasises definition from the fade.”
Best For
“Anyone after a low-maintenance look. It’s a style that requires easy-to-use products – use a decent salt spray such as Evo’s Salty Dog on freshly washed hair, blow-dry for volume then style with Evo’s Cassius Clay for a natural, textured finish.”
The Shoulder-Length Trim
Why It Works
Summer doesn’t have to mean short. Brent Pankhurst, founder of Pankhurst London, recommends a Vincent Gallo style: “It gives your hair freedom and sets off your facial features without overtaking them.”
What To Ask For
“Find a barber that’s used to cutting longer hair and make sure they don’t give you a short back and sides regardless.” Say you just want a minor trim – and ensure the barber follows the brief.
Best For
The stronger your jaw, the better it looks. “Just make sure to keep your hair in good condition. Wash it twice a week but rinse it every day, and add a styling conditioner in the morning to keep it healthy and give it texture.”
The Beach Wave
Why It Works
“It’s easy to maintain,” says Joe Easton, master barber at London salon Man Made. “There’s no right or wrong way for it to look. That’s the beauty of it.”
What To Ask For
“Keep the length on top but opt for a short, tapered back and sides. It’s a more natural, textured beach look.”
Best For
“Those that need versatility, since it still looks smart in the office. It’s also great for those that are growing out their hair as it means they can experiment with a longer, more loose style as opposed to the short, slick look.”
