2 minute read
Barbering Classics with a Twist
Classics Made Contemporary
Certain looks never go out of fashion, but it’s always good to give these classics a modern twist to make sure they stay relevant. We asked Matrix Ambassador and barbering maestro, Christian Wiles, to share his contemporary take on four classic styles.
THE FRENCH CROP
The French crop is a modern classic, and with this look, I’ve given it a really strong, contemporary feel. This was achieved by using a scissor-over-comb technique for softness — for a more rigid look you can use clippers working the sides and back down into a fade. What defines this look is the difference in length between the top of the hair, which is longer and more textured than the sides and back, and a blunt fringe, which is the main focal point.
THE POMPADOUR
This is a modern, sleek take on a timeless classic. It is achieved by using a scissor-over-comb technique, creating graduation to support the top section of hair. The sides and back can either be taken short using a scissor-over-comb technique or you can personalise the haircut by taking it to the skin with clippers. The key here is not to create disconnection but to make a seamless blend, so the sides can be slicked back from the temple, while still supporting the top section of hair.
TEXTURED SHAPES
Textured hair is often left to its natural growth shape, but for a contemporary take on textured hair, it’s great to cut in some shapes. To create the volume, comb the hair out using a hair pick. Continue to work the pick throughout the haircut and, using a freehand technique with the scissors, build the desired shape and structure to the haircut. You can also work clippers through the hair using a freehand technique to create a sharper more structured look.
DISCONNECTED FADE
Fades were originally all about avoiding any disconnection, but for a modern take on this barbering classic, section off the top section of the hair and keep the length for some dramatic disconnection.
You can personalise this look by adding texture to the top section of hair so it can be worn either dry and textured or slick and wet looking.
@christianwiles1
