2017 men’s haircuts emphasized shape, texture, and low-maintenance structure, with styles ranging from tight tapers to textured crops and longer messy tops. This evergreen profile explains the defining looks of 2017, how they suited different hair types and face shapes, and how to preserve the key elements today. You will find clear breakdowns of popular styles, step-by-step guidance on fading and layering, product choices for texture, and adjustments for curly or thinning hair. Focus shifts from short-lived gimmicks to repeatable techniques that support lasting results across hair lengths and densities.
Key Styles of 2017
In 2017, barbers and stylists favored clean lines, blended nape-and-sides, and purposeful texture. Common silhouettes included taper-fade cuts with defined edges, cropped tops with side-swept bangs, and disconnected undercuts with longer hair on top. Textured quiffs and short pompadours offered structured lift, while messy crops embraced relaxed movement. These shapes balanced sharp perimeter lines with softer internal layers, creating definition without excessive upkeep. The palette favored medium to dark tones, with subtle contrast between top and sides to enhance facial structure.
Variant Approaches
- Taper-fade: Gradual transition from longer top to shorter sides, creating a streamlined profile.
- Textured crop: Choppy yet controlled length on top with close fading at the perimeter.
- Undercut disconnect: Significant length on top with a sharply tapered or shaved side.
- Side-swept fringe: Longer fringe brushed to one side, balanced by clean back and sides.
How to Choose by Hair Type and Face Shape
Face shape and hair texture strongly inform which 2017 style will look and feel best. Oval faces generally suit a wide range of cuts, while square jawlines pair well with soft tapering and textured tops to reduce angularity. Round faces benefit from height and contrast at the sides, such as a textured quiff with a clean back. Curly hair often looks best with slightly longer top length and blended sides to prevent a triangular silhouette. Straight hair can carry sharp fades and defined edges, whereas wavy hair thrives with layered texture and soft movement.
| Hair Type | Recommended 2017 Style | Key Feature | Maintenance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight, thick | Taper-fade with textured top | Clean lines, midtop length | Low to moderate |
| Wavy, medium density | Textured crop or side-swept fringe | Choppy layering, soft fringe | Moderate |
| Curly, fine | Longer top with blended sides | Retain length, avoid short sides | Moderate to high |
| Thinning, fine | Short textured taper | Minimal weight, blended fade | Low |
Cutting and Styling Techniques
Executing 2017-inspired cuts relies on a sequence of precise clipper and shear movements. Start with a clear outline using a guard for baseline length, then create seamless transitions with multi-level tapers. Use point cutting and texturizing shears to remove weight and encourage natural lift without harsh lines. For tops, hold hair at a moderate elevation to preserve bulk while allowing movement. When working with curly hair, dry cutting or cutting when stretched can yield more accurate lengths. Avoid over-thinning at the crown; instead, blend incrementally to retain shape without exposing the scalp.
Step-by-Step Approach
- Section the hair: top, sides, and back.
- Establish length with clippers, moving from shorter to longer guards upward.
- Refine edges and perimeter using shears and detail trimmers.
- Create internal texture with point cutting, focusing on weight removal.
- Style with light to medium hold products to enhance shape without stiffness.
Product Choices and Routine
2017 styles leaned on pliable hold and natural movement rather than heavy shine. Matte pastes, clay, and lightweight pomades worked well for textured crops and quiffs, while creams and light gels suited smoother tops. For curly hair, leave-in conditioners and curl-defining creams helped maintain pattern without crunch. A simple wash-and-condition routine every 2–3 days preserved volume and prevented product buildup. Air drying or diffusing encouraged shape, whereas brushing when wet was minimized to protect curl integrity.
- Matte paste: buildable texture, medium hold.
- Clay: dry finish, moderate hold with reworkability.
- Cream: hydration and light control for longer tops.
- Sea salt spray: added grit for messy, piecey definition.
Modern Adaptations and Longevity
Many 2017 cuts remain popular because they translate well into current trimming techniques and lifestyle needs. You can adapt a 2017 taper by adjusting fade tightness, top length, or product choice to match today’s norms. For professional environments, slightly higher blends and softer fringes keep the look polished. In creative settings, more disconnected undercuts or pronounced texture can be introduced. The core principles—clean perimeter lines, balanced proportions, and texture that suits your hair type—ensure the style stays relevant and easy to maintain over time.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Routine trims every 3–4 weeks preserve shape, especially for tapered sides and defined lines. Between visits, use clipper guards to maintain consistent growth at the back and sides. Wash with a gentle sulfate-free shampoo to retain product flexibility, and apply a small amount of styling product to damp or dry hair as needed. For touch-ups, focus on the neckline and around the ears, where regrowth is most noticeable. Adjust product quantity based on hair density: less for fine hair, slightly more for thick or curly hair.