Ryan Gosling’s role in the 2011 movie Drive cemented his status as a style icon. His edgy yet timeless haircut became instantly popular, and for good reason. With its short sides, textured top, and a cool, rebellious vibe, the “Drive” haircut is a versatile choice for men who want a stylish and low-maintenance look.
What is the Ryan Gosling “Drive” Haircut?
The Ryan Gosling “Drive” haircut can be classified as a high-fade with a textured, disconnected top. Here’s how to break it down:
Short Sides & Back:
The sides and back are cut short using a fade technique. This creates a clean transition from skin to hair, with the length gradually increasing towards the top of the head.
Textured Top:
The hair on top is longer – usually between 2-4 inches – and features lots of texture for a tousled, effortless look. This adds dimension and makes the hairstyle easy to style in various ways.
Disconnected Undercut:
Often, there’s a slight undercut element, which means the top portion of the hair is disconnected from the sides. This emphasizes the contrast and adds an edgy touch.
How to Ask Your Barber for It
Communicating your desired hairstyle clearly to your barber is crucial. Here’s what to ask for:
- Show a picture: Having a photo of Ryan Gosling in “Drive”is the easiest way to communicate.
- “High fade” on the sides and back: Ask for a fade that starts very short and transitions smoothly to the top.
- Two to four inches on top: Specify the desired length on top, but be open to your barber’s suggestion based on your hair type.
- Texture: Request plenty of texture to be cut into the top section using texturizing shears.
- Mention the undercut: Ask if a slight disconnect or undercut would work well with your hair texture.
Styling the Drive Haircut
The beauty of this haircut is its low-maintenance styling. Here are a few ways to get the look:
- The Classic Tousle
Start with towel-dried hair. Apply a small amount of matte hair product (clay or pomade) and work it evenly throughout your hair. Use your fingers to tousle your hair, creating a textured and slightly messy look. Aim for a side part or a more unstructured style.
- The Slicked Back
Apply a pomade with medium to high shine to towel-dried hair. Comb your hair backward for a sleek, polished look. Use your fingers to add a little volume at the front.
- The Pompadour Variation
Apply a matte styling product to your slightly damp hair. Blow-dry your hair while using a brush to direct it upwards for extra volume. Style the front section into a subtle pompadour and secure it with a bit of product.
Products to Use
Matte Clay or Pomade: Perfect for a natural, textured look, these products provide hold without an obvious shine. Clays tend to offer a stronger hold, while pomades can give a slightly sleeker finish. Look for products labeled “matte” or “natural finish.”
High-shine Pomade: Achieve a slicked-back style with extra polish. These pomades offer a strong hold and a noticeable shine, great for formal occasions or a vintage-inspired look. Be mindful of your hair type, as overly thick pomades can weigh down fine hair.
Salt Spray: Add texture and volume to finer hair types. Salt sprays create a beachy, windswept texture and can add a touch of volume even to thinner hair. Use it on damp hair before styling, or even on dry hair for a quick refresh.
Other Options: Depending on your hair and desired style, you might also experiment with:
- Hair Wax: For a pliable hold with a touch of shine.
- Fiber Pastes: Creates separation and textured styles.
- Styling Cream: Tames frizz and adds light definition for a natural look.
Who Does It Suit?
Thick Hair: Thicker hair naturally handles the texture and volume of this cut with ease. If your hair is very thick, ask your barber to add extra thinning to the top section to avoid too much bulk.
Square or Oval Face Shapes: The short sides and slightly longer top can help elongate your face shape and balance out your features.
A Desire for Edgy but Versatile Style: This cut works for various settings with just a bit of styling effort. It suits both casual and more formal environments depending on how you style the top and the products you use.
Other Factors: Consider these as well:
- Hairline: A receding hairline might make the high fade sides feel more exposed. Opt for a lower fade or a slightly longer version of this cut.
- Personal Preference: While generally versatile, this haircut does have a distinct edginess. If you prefer a very clean-cut look, it might not be your ideal style.
Important Note: Always consult your barber or stylist! They can assess your hair type and face shape, customizing the haircut and product recommendations specifically for you.
Rock the Drive Look!
The Ryan Gosling “Drive” haircut is a stylish and modern choice that’s easy to maintain.
With these tips, you can channel Gosling’s effortlessly cool style and make this iconic look your own. This haircut offers a perfect balance of style and versatility. It’s edgy enough to turn heads, yet clean-cut enough for work or formal occasions.
The key to pulling off the Drive haircut is confidence. Once you have the right cut and know how to style it, rock it with self-assurance and you’ll own the look.
