It means that a haircut with a flat or squared top, almost as if a ruler was used to get a perfect line, is what we are referring to. The sides are usually short, close to the skin, maybe even a little faded or high and tight. The cutting of the flat top hairstyles traces back to the 1950s and was a major hit with the athletes and the military army men. The artist Kid of Kid ‘n Play literally made the flat top haircut a new icon in the late 80s and early 90s hip hop era by bringing it back to life with his influence and style.
Flat Top vs Buzz Cut
The buzz cut is a style that revolves around practicality. The main idea of the cut is to give a person a low maintenance hairstyle.
That is, no parts, no angles, no styling routine. The flat top is a barber’s masterpiece as you will also need regular trimming to keep it flat on the top—similar to how a perm haircut also requires upkeep to maintain its shape.
| Feature | Flat Top | Buzz Cut |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | Medium | Low |
| Style impact | High | Minimal |
| Versatility | Limited | High |
| Tools needed | Clipper + comb work | Clippers only |
Flat Top vs Fade
The fade is a technique, not just a single haircut. The fade can be done in conjunction with almost any short hairstyle. Low fade, mid fade, skin fade, taper fade. In fact, the fade can be integrated into the flat top, thus giving you a more distinct and defined look.
Nevertheless, if you view them as different groups, fades are minimal, sleek, and very versatile, they can be suitable for all kinds of environments.
Flat Top vs Crew Cut
Crew cuts become thinner from the back to the front end, leaving the highest point of the hair the longest. They are not unnatural, but are very stylish.
The flat top is all about design and engineering. If you’re in a business atmosphere, a crew cut can make you look more normal and blend in. On the other hand, the flat top? Well, it depends on how far your workplace is conservative—similar to how a fade haircut for men can be styled to look either sharp and bold or more subtle and professional.
Face Shapes and Which Cut Works
Short hairstyles of different length accentuate short heads in a variety of ways:
- Square faces: Structure can be highlighted by flat tops, however, nearly all styles float the face.
- Round faces: To be more specific, flat tops create the illusion of a taller face and thus, roundness is lessened.
- Oval faces: Furthermore, medium hairstyles such as crew cuts and fades are good looking and do not distort the balance of an oval face.
- Long faces: More so, it is better to use trends like buzz cuts or Caesar to change the emphasis of length on the face, rather than making your face longer visually.
Maintenance and Lifestyle Fit
- Buzz cut: Around 5 minutes of a DIY job every 2 weeks.
- Crew cut: Barber visit every 3-4 weeks, no major styling.
- Fade: Regular trims are needed to keep the sharpness of the fade.
- Flat top: Barber visits are more frequent, and in order to keep the flat top styled, products and combing are required.
If you are low-maintenance, a flat top can disappoint you. However, if you like going through the ritual and your haircut turning out just the way you want, then the flat top is money.
Final Thoughts
Flat top haircut is the one that stands apart from the crowd. But maybe it is the main message it shows. It doesn’t shy away from being a bit flamboyant, high-maintenance, and unrestrained in your style of it.
If that’s the case, no crew cut or buzz will look better on you than it will. On the contrary, the other short cuts will make you feel more natural if blending in is what you mainly prefer.
FAQs
1. Is a flat top haircut hard to maintain?
It definitely requires regular trims and some styling every time you want to have a flat top.
2. What face shape suits a flat top best?
Well, I suppose square or round faces are the most suitable ones because the flatness helps to balance the proportions.
3. Can a flat top be combined with a fade?
Yes, a fade on the sides is always a great idea to make your flat top look even more clean and sharp.
4. Is the flat top still popular today?
Although it is no longer a popular mainstream style, it is still a strong and bold choice for those who want a statement haircut.
5. How long does hair need to be for a flat top?
The length on top is generally 1.5 to 2 inches which is basically the minimum that a barber can cut and style the hair for a flat top.
Chris Jordan explores the world of haircuts and grooming, giving readers smart tips on finding their perfect style and using the right products. He’s especially focused on barbering trends, fade styles, and grooming tools. Chris aims to inspire confidence through clean, well-maintained, and stylish hair.
