2017 marked a turning point in men grooming standards, blending sharp cuts with textured movement for a modern yet approachable look. Expect classic tapers, side parts, and short textured crops to appear across editorial spreads and everyday style feeds.
Barbershops updated their clipper guards and scissor techniques to meet the demand for clean lines, dimensional layers, and adaptable styles that move with daily routines. Here is a focused overview of trends, techniques, and expectations for 2017 men haircut culture.
| Style Name | Key Characteristics | Best Hair Type | Maintenance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side Part with Taper | Sharp side, gradual fade, clean neckline | Straight to wavy | Low to Medium |
| Textured Crop | Short top, point fade, piecey finish | Fine to medium | Medium |
| Disconnected Undercut | High top, shaved sides, clear contrast | Medium to thick | High |
| Slicked Back | Longer on top, strong hold, polished line | Straight | High |
Classic Taper Fade Techniques
Blending and Definition
Barbers relied on multi-guard tapering to create smooth transitions from sideburns to the nape. Crisp lines at the ears and a squared-off back edge gave the style structure while remaining low fuss.
Face Shape Considerations
Round faces benefited from a slightly longer top and defined side part, while oval shapes could experiment with shorter highs and tighter fades. Square jawlines paired well with softened side gradients.
Textured Crop and Top Styling
Layering and Movement
Point cutting and scissor-over-comb methods added controlled texture without losing overall length. Air drying or a matte paste enhanced separation while keeping hair looking natural.
Product Choices
Light to medium hold pomades and sea salt sprays provided flexibility, allowing restyling throughout the day without crunchy buildup or excessive shine.
Undercut and Alternative Lengths
High Contrast Styling
Disconnecting the top from the sides meant sharper visual separation, especially when paired with a skin fade. Barbers used guard bridges to maintain consistent shortening along the curve of the head.
Everyday Wearability
To keep undercuts office friendly, men often left slightly more length on top and requested blended transitions rather than extreme skin fades, reducing edge contrast while preserving the style identity.
Slicked Back and Polished Looks
Length Requirements and Grooming
A minimum of four inches on top allowed for a generous comb-back, while tight side burns and a trimmed neckline completed the tailored silhouette. Brushable formulas replaced heavier oils for a softer finish.
Maintenance Routines
Daily brushing, touch up edges every two weeks, and occasional trims at the crown prevented bulk. Nighttime creams or light serums reduced frizz and preserved the sleek line into the next day.
Everyday 2017 Haircut Lifestyle Integration
- Schedule trims on a consistent monthly or six week cycle to preserve your taper fade and neckline.
- Communicate your preferred part, fade height, and top length clearly with your barber using reference photos or direct measurements.
- Use lightweight products that match your hair texture to control volume without creating stiffness.
- Refresh the style with a small comb and a touch of product in the afternoon rather than rebuilding from scratch.
FAQ
Reader questions
How often should I schedule trims for a 2017 style men haircut to keep the taper clean?
Every three to four weeks maintains sharp lines and balanced fade progression, especially for high contrast side parts and undercuts.
What products work best for textured crop without weighing down fine hair?
Light mousse or foam applied to damp hair adds structure and air movement without greasiness, while matte pastes deliver flexible hold for medium textures.
Can a slicked back look be adapted for professional environments?
Yes, keeping longer hair neatly brushed, sides tapered, and using a low luster pomade reduces shine and maintains a more conservative appearance.
What face shapes suit a disconnected undercut most effectively?
Oval and square faces handle the sharp contrast well, while rounder faces may opt for a softer taper and more length on top to balance proportions.