The mod cut has successfully made a comeback in recent years. This British rock icon-style men’s haircut blends modern edge with the vintage look of the ‘60s. For fashion-forward men looking for a timeless look, the mod cut is quickly becoming a go-to choice.
There are several ways that the mod cut can be styled, so it’s important for people to have an understanding about the cutting process as well as what tools to use. Keep reading to find out all about the popular mod cut for men.
Table of Contents
What is the mod cut?
Face shapes that suit the mod haircut
How a barber achieves the mod cut
Trendy ways to style the mod cut
Classic mod cut
Mod cut with side-swept fringe
Textured mod cut
Is the mod cut making a comeback?
Final thoughts
What is the mod cut?
The mod cut, also known as the wolf cut or skater hair, is a popular men’s haircut that originated in the ‘60s. This retro-inspired haircut was made popular by bands such as The Beatles, and it features medium-length hair with a heavy fringe that falls over the forehead. The fringe is tapered on the sides for a polished look, and the overall haircut is finished in a rounded shape.
Although it’s traditionally a sleek haircut, modern variations have incorporated more texture into the look which now makes it a versatile choice for trendy men.
Face shapes that suit the mod haircut
The mod haircut isn’t a style that will suit everyone. People with oval, heart-shaped, and diamond faces typically suit this hairstyle best. This is because all of these face shapes allow for classic and modern variations of the mod cut, without looking out of place.
People who have round faces will find that the mod cut is challenging to adapt to as the straight fringe will often emphasize the roundness of the face. Those with square faces may also want to stay away from the mod cut because of their strong jawline.
How a barber achieves the mod cut
The mod cut may be a classic hairstyle, but there are now modern variations of it that appeal more to trendy individuals. There are certain ways to style this haircut to ensure it looks both modern and vintage.
Tools needed:
Thinning shears
High-quality hair-cutting scissors
Spray bottle
Fine-tooth comb
Round brush
Hairdryer
Lightweight pomade or hair styling cream
Step 1: Start preparing the hair
Preparation for styling the mod cut should start with clean, damp hair. A spray bottle can be used to maintain the wetness of the hair. Using a fine-tooth comb, remove any tangles before cutting.
Step 2: Base shape
Start by sectioning the hair, from the top and working down the sides. The mod cut requires a round shape, so using scissors, cut the hair into a medium-length round shape. Make sure to keep the top section a little longer.
Step 3: Cut the fringe/bangs
Using the fine-tooth comb, comb the front section downwards and use hairdressing scissors to cut the bangs, either straight or slightly rounded. Ensure they’re kept long enough to graze over the eyebrows.
Step 4: Blend the sides
Use either scissors of thinning shears to taper and blend the sides of the hair so that they transition into the top. Sharp fades should be avoided as the mod cut requires a seamless transition that looks natural.
Step 5: Time to style the cut
Use a round brush while blow drying the hair to add direction and volume to the look. For a more polished finish, use a small amount of lightweight styling cream or pomade.
Step 6: Maintaining the mod cut
To keep the look sharp, it’s recommended to book a trim every 4-6 weeks. When styling at home, use a comb or brush for daily maintenance.
Trendy ways to style the mod cut
Each variation of the mod cut allows people to show off their personal style and make their own mark on this versatile men’s haircut. While some styles keep it classic, others incorporate modern elements to them which is often more appealing to trendsetters.
According to Google Ads, “mod cut” received an average monthly search volume of 246,000 in 2024. The most searches appeared in February when they reached approximately 450,000. This was followed by January and March when searches reached 368,000 each month.
Keep reading to find out more about what styles of the mod cut are the most popular today.
Classic mod cut
The classic mod cut has a timeless appeal that’s lasted since the ‘60s. It’s an effortless look that features a rounded shape with a heavy fringe and tapered sides. It can be styled in a retro aesthetic or with added texture for a more contemporary and relaxed vibe. This men’s haircut is making a big resurgence in the modern fashion world.
Mod cut with side-swept fringe
People looking for a modern twist on the mod cut often turn to the side-swept fringe. This variation of the classic hairstyle features a longer fringe that’s brushed to the side for a more relaxed and softer look. The signature round shape and tapered sides still remain, but the addition of the fringe will add movement as well as versatility to the haircut.
This version of the mod cut is more flattering to different face shapes, so it continues to grow in popularity.
Textured mod cut
By using styling products such as hair creams and pomades, the textured mod cut has never been easier to achieve. This is another modern take on the classic mod look that still incorporates the overall round shape and signature fringe into it. The big difference is that layers are added to the sides which gives it a more tousled finish.
It’s a low-maintenance look that still captures the vintage charm of the traditional mod look, but with modern features that appeal more to trendy individuals.
Is the mod cut making a comeback?
The mod cut was popular over a decade ago, but is it starting to make a comeback again? Fashion-forward consumers and social media users seem to think so. The latest mod cut trend comes as a result of its gender-neutral versatility and the nostalgic appeal it brings forth. New modern variations of the mod cut are also helping to make it more appealing, such as mod cuts with textured layers and fades.
Celebrities like Harry Styles and K-pop stars have worn mod-inspired looks in recent years as well, which has boosted its appeal to many people globally.
Final thoughts
The mod cut is a timeless men’s haircut that continues to evolve with modern times. Whether the individual prefers a classic look or one that oozes sophistication and versatility, there are now many variations of the mod cut for people to play with. By using the right tools and the correct cutting techniques, creating the perfect mod cut for any occasion is completely achievable.
