The Warrior Cut Is TikTok’s Answer To The Low Taper Fade
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3 weeks ago
If it's good enough for Austin Butler, it's good enough for us
While bobs may have taken over salons, barbershops are still working to perfect their taper fade. And the latest take on the trend is the men’s warrior cut, a messy-chic style hailing from TikTok.
What Is A Warrior Cut?
‘A warrior cut is essentially a low taper fade with a longer textured length on the top, and the back left a little shorter,’ explains Jim Shaw, hairstylist and Director of TONI&GUY Billericay, in a conversation with Fresha. ‘Some of the most iconic male celebrities have also recently sported this look, including Brad Pitt, Leonardo Dicaprio and Austin Butler. This has resulted in the look trending on social media.’
Jim notes that the hairstyle has become especially popular with clients between the ages of 20 and 40 – and says that this group will likely have seen the cut pop off on TikTok. And with over 220.4 million posts tagged under #warriorcuthaircut, it’s safe to say the video sharing app likely has some sway over the trend. ‘The cut has been particularly popular on TikTok,’ confirms Jim. ‘With many influencers showcasing their new warrior cuts and giving details on what they asked for in the salon or barbershop alongside tips on how they style their cut at home.’
@jackedurden this one is for the “can I get a 360” keyboard warriors #fypage #tylerdurden ♬ son original – FYP 🤍🇲🇺
Why Is It Called A Warrior Cut?
The warrior cut is named so because it takes its inspiration from military and historical warrior cultures, and is therefore thought to carry connotations of strength and toughness. ‘Being shorter at the sides and back compared to the top, it’s a more low-maintenance style, much like the cuts you would see in the military,’ adds Jim. ‘Although it is slightly more relaxed than a groomed finish, which may be inspired by ancient warriors or Vikings, who wore their hair more effortlessly in mohawks and with their long hair tied back.’
Warrior vs Broccoli Cut
The warrior cut’s increasing popularity has led many to compare it to another major men’s hair trend, the broccoli cut. ‘The warrior cut is similar to the broccoli cut,’ muses Jim. ‘Both feature a shorter sides and back style, with a longer length on top. This means the sides and back are usually tapered to create more of a focus on the longer length hair on the top of the head.’
But that’s where the similarities seem to end. ‘The broccoli cut, however, gets its name by being paired with a super curly permed top, rather than a more effortless, textured top like the warrior cut,’ explains Jim. ‘The warrior cut also has a more subtle blend than the broccoli cut, which features more of a “solidness” at the top. Instead, the warrior cut is more textured with the help of point cutting.’
Who Suits This Cut?
‘The great thing about the warrior cut is that it can be tailored to suit all hair types and textures,’ says Jim. ‘Being a textured cut, it’s a great choice for those who are looking to give their hair added thickness.
‘It also works well for all face shapes,’ he continues. ‘Particularly those with more chiselled features, such as diamond, rectangle and square face shapes, creating a perfect contrast with the longer length, dishevelled top. For those with rounder face shapes, I would advise taking the top slightly shorter for a more flattering finish.’
@james____edward Feel like this has been my most asked question, so here you go :) #idk #hair ♬ original sound – James
How To Ask For This Cut In The Salon
‘The easiest way to ask for this cut is to ask for a low taper fade with textured layers on top,’ recommends Jim. You’ll also want to bring some reference images for your stylist so that they have a clearer idea of what you want.
How To Style A Warrior Cut
The messier, the better, says Jim. ‘This style has a more effortless and messy finish, and looks great when styled with a matte pomade or texturising spray, such as a sea salt spray, to give it a more natural, lived-in finish.’
How To Maintain A Warrior Cut
Regular trims are the key to keeping a warrior cut looking as fresh as possible. ‘Men should visit their barber or hairdresser around every three to five weeks to keep this cut looking its very best,’ recommends Jim. ‘As the cut includes layers, regular trims will help to keep the layers from blending out too much and ensure they look their very best.
‘However, as this cut does feature both shorter and longer layers, clients can go a couple of weeks longer between appointments should they need to,’ he adds. ‘As long as they are looking after their hair at home with good quality haircare products to avoid any damage and split ends. A professional shampoo and conditioner are essential, and I also recommend that my male clients use a hair mask treatment every couple of weeks to provide their hair with extra nourishment.’
Hair Inspiration
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Featured image: (c) Olivier VIGERIE / Warner Bros France (cropped)
