Stepping into a barbershop without knowing what cut to get can be overwhelming... we get it. But that's where we come in. At MensPlace, it's not just about sitting in the chair and getting a trim. It's about understanding your personal style, your routine, and the shape that works best for your face and hair type.
The three main styles
Fade: clean, modern, and sharp
Perfect for guys who like a crisp finish with a bit of edge. The hair gradually gets shorter from top to bottom, often ending at the skin. Popular variations are the low fade (subtle and professional), mid fade (the most versatile), and high fade (bold and modern). A fade does require maintenance: visit your barber every 2-3 weeks to keep those sharp lines.
Taper: classic and low-maintenance
More classic and easier to manage. The hair tapers gradually but not down to the skin, so it grows out naturally. Ideal for a professional look without too much fuss. The big advantage? You can wait 3-4 weeks between visits to our barbershop. Perfect for a busy schedule.
Textured crop: versatile and trendy
Great for thick or wavy hair — shorter sides, longer on top, full of style. Variations like the French crop or Caesar cut give you different options. Does require daily styling with product, but grows out nicely. Plan a visit every 3-4 weeks.
What suits your face shape?
Your face shape largely determines which cuts suit you best.
Oval face: almost everything looks good on you. Feel free to experiment with different styles.
Round face: choose volume on top to create length. Avoid too much volume on the sides.
Square face: textured crops and medium-length styles soften your strong jawline. Avoid tight buzz cuts.
Long face: go for volume on the sides to achieve balance. Not too much height on top.
Heart-shaped face: side parts and textured crops with volume on the sides balance a wide forehead.
Your hair type makes the difference
Thin hair: shorter, layered styles create volume. Textured crops work well with matte products. Avoid styles that are too long and fall flat.
Thick hair: lots of possibilities. Fades, undercuts, and pompadours use your natural volume. Be aware that too much length can become unmanageable.
Straight hair: almost anything works, but you'll need products for texture. Slick backs and side parts are natural choices.
Wavy or curly hair: embrace your texture with crops and medium-length styles. A good barber knows how to work with curls.
Think about your lifestyle
Short on time in the morning? Choose a taper or short fade that styles itself. A bit of product and you're done.
Conservative work environment? Classic tapers, side parts, and subtle fades are professional yet polished.
Creative job? Experiment with textured crops, high fades, and trendy styles.
Physical work or lots of sport? Go for practical, short styles that stay out of your way.
The right products
For fades and tapers, use light pomade or cream for a natural finish, or matte clay if you don't want shine.
Textured crops call for matte clay or paste for definition. With wavy hair, sea salt spray helps add extra volume.
Sleek styles like slick backs need pomade with shine or gel for strong hold.
Basic toolkit: a good comb, a hairdryer for volume, and the right product for your hair type.
Tips for talking to your barber
Bring reference photos, they help enormously. But be realistic about what's achievable with your hair type.
Ask the right questions: "How often do I need to come back?" "Which products do you recommend?" "Does this suit my hair type?" "How do I style this myself?"
Be honest about how much time you have for styling. There's no point in a complicated cut if you've only got 5 minutes in the morning.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for my hair to grow out?
On average 1-1.5 cm per month. A fade starts looking less sharp after 2-3 weeks, a taper can last 4-6 weeks. Read more on how often you should go to the barbershop.
Can I easily change styles?
Absolutely. Start more conservative if you're unsure — going shorter is easier than waiting for it to grow longer.
What if I'm not satisfied?
Mention it during the cut. Afterwards, you can always come back for a correction. Good barbershops are open to feedback.
Start the conversation
At MensPlace, it's all about finding what suits you. Whether you prefer subtle and timeless or trendy and bold, we'll help you choose a look that feels like you.
Every great haircut starts with a conversation, and we're always down to chat. Ready for your new look? Book an appointment and come see us.