The French crop, also known as the Caesar cut, is currently one of the most searched men's hairstyles of 2025. It has recently increased in popularity thanks to Peaky Blinders, Tom Holland (check out his for his West End performance in Romeo & Juliet) and has the latest installment of Gladiator 2. It's safe to say the French crop is back in barbershop demand.
Here, we cover everything barbers need to know about what the French crop is, who it suits, how to cut it and how to style it.
What is a French Crop Haircut?
The French crop is a short men's haircut with a fade on the sides and a blunt fringe at the front. This low maintenance style works for straight, wavy or thinning hair, mkaing it one of the most versatile short hairstyles for men. "The French crop is one of the most popular haircuts that our younger clients request," says Miles Wood-Smith, Master Barber at Murdock London. "It’s a short fade on the sides with enough length on the top to push forward with a fringe. At Murdock London we usually finish with a Sea Salt Spray to create texture and hold in the hair, whilst helping it to keep that natural look."
Who Should Get a French Crop?
The key to this style is to understand your client’s head shape according to Ross Charles, owner of Ross Charles Hairdressing. He advises looking closely at your client’s head shape first, before using your clippers. “Look to see if they have any lumps and bumps and assess their hair and head prior to clipping any hair,” he explains. He also suggests ensuring you use all halves and quarters on the graders to get the perfect, seamless blend. This will take more time, however the result will be worth it.
"I would suggest this cut to any one who has a receding hair line, taking the fringe very short to give the illusion of thicker hair," recommends Keri Blue, founder of Human First UK and short hair artist.
How to Cut a French Crop Haircut
Salv Mulé, Salon Director at Academy Salons, talks us through his step-by-step for the perfect French crop:
- Clipper fade the sides from 1.5 down to zero.
- Layer the top, removing the corners, while keeping up the weight.
- Blow-dry the front section of the hair and create a sharp, blunt fringe.
- Finally, personalise this style with paste or gel for a wet look.
- Comb through the wet products, in order to create separation in the hair.
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