Men’s grooming is one of the fastest growing categories in the professional beauty world. The reason: Men are embracing styling products while exploring all the different grooming options available to them—including longer lengths. That’s why so many stylists are seeking out barbering techniques to add to their skill sets. “As an educator, who also happens to be a barber-trained cosmetologist, I always incorporate both elements into my work,” says Whitney VerMeer (@whitneyvermeer), Baxter of California Educator. “Because I don’t stick to just a clipper, or just a pair shears, my clients know that I’m doing what’s best for them on a personal level.” In her latest collection, Longing for It, VerMeer modernizes the traditional mullet and gives the classic taper the blowout treatment. Each look embraces a fashion-forward longer length, but still feels strong and masculine.
The Modern Mullet
Months before the shoot, this model had a buzz cut. But by the time the shoot came around, his hair had grown out all the same length, giving him a mullet. “I had planned on cutting the back up quite a bit, but once I got my hands in it, I thought it would be interesting to keep the length,” says VerMeer. “To adjust the proportions, I started by parting off the parietal ridge and cutting from the temple to ear at a 45-degree angle on both sides. This removed weight from the interior and allowed the top to collapse nicely against the head shape.” To finish off the look, she created basic square layers in the back, and added shine with a misting of water and Baxter of California Hard Water Pomade.
The Taper Blowout
VerMeer started this look with a classic taper—cutting the lower portion of the hair with a 1A blade and using a 0A blade to refine it. But for the top portion of the haircut, she made good use of both her cosmetology and barbering skills—layering the sides with a stationary vertical guide behind the ear, and relying on styling tools for the blowout. “While the hair was still damp, I applied Baxter of California Cream Pomade and rough dried it with a blow dryer,” says VerMeer. “Before the hair was completely dry, I added Baxter of California Hard Cream Pomade, used the blow dryer again for 30 seconds, then I hit the cool button to shock the hair and add some volume.” For added texture and definition, VerMeer finished the look with a touch of Baxter of California Clay Pomade.
About: Since 1965, Baxter of California has been a pioneer in understanding and meeting men’s grooming needs. Founded by Baxter Finley amidst an era of freedom and self-expression, the brand continues to operate with the same individualistic mindset today, providing grooming essentials to men of all generations.