Creating A buzz

A good clipper is an essential tool for achieving the ultimate buzzcut, a look that’s trending in a range of styles this season

From being synonymous with the military to making a political statement, the buzzcut has a long and varied history. It became a symbol of the pandemic for many in 2020, when Covid-19 forced salons to close, and by 2021 it was a fashion choice, rather than a lockdown necessity.

“The buzzcut is the ultimate iconic look and it’s back,” says Stephen O’Driscoll, artistic director at Marbles Castletroy, which is part of the Hugh Campbell Hair Group in Limerick.

”Pioneered in the Eighties and Nineties by women such as Grace Jones and Sinead O'Connor, it epitomises female rebellion and strength, railing against antiquated notions of gender norms. More recently, celebrities such as Iris Law, MJ Rodriguez, Saweetie and Jordan Alexander have all contributed with stunning impact to the resurgence of the buzzcut.”

The buzzcut is a strong look; it’s literally about paring the hair back to the minimum, showcasing the face and facial features. So it’s a style that warrants an in-depth client discussion, before any clipper is put to use.

“It’s very important to establish clients’ expectations and guide them accordingly. A thorough consultation is a must to determine if a buzzcut is a suitable option for them. It is a great haircut for any texture, but, as with any style, suitability is key. For instance, a buzzcut is a look that brings attention to a person’s features, so it’s best suited to those with softer ones, rather than more pointed in appearance. And as well as bone structure and head shape, you will need to check if the client’s personal style and personality will complement the look.”

If you and your client think a standard buzzcut might look a little too severe, there are ways to tone down any harshness. “Colour is an ideal way to soften a buzzcut – blondes, pastels and vibrant tones are perfect shades for this style. Another option is to leave a little bit of length on the top to add texture, or an Eton crop that showcases buzzcut sides.

“An undercut is also a popular alternative. We have a lot of clients coming in for an undercut as there are many ways to tailor this look to each individual’s needs. Some prefer an undercut that can be hidden during working hours and revealed at the weekend, while others may decide on having a partial buzzcut with a pixie or bob length on top.”