Fade Haircuts 101: Transform Your Look Today

In the 40s and 50s, the fade haircut was a staple in the US military, valued for its practicality and sharp look. By the 90s, it had evolved into a popular cultural symbol, thanks to icons like Will Smith in “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.” This era saw the fade transition into an edgier hairstyle, particularly embraced in black and Hispanic communities, with styles ranging from Tapers to skin fades, and low to high fades.

Recently, the fade has made a comeback, gaining acceptance across various age groups and in workplaces due to its versatility. It suits all face shapes and hair types, offering a range from subtle low fades to bold high fades. This adaptability makes the fade not just a men’s hairstyle, but a universal style statement.

What is fade haircut?

A fade haircut is a popular hairstyle characterized by a seamless transition in lengths and sometimes colour, particularly on the back and sides of the head. In a fade, the hair is typically buzzed with clippers, and the length gradually changes from one length to another, offering a variation of textures and layers.

The essential feature of a fade is how the hair is blended from one level to another. It begins with a shorter length, often nearly shaved, at the lowest part of the head, and progressively tapers up to a longer length as it reaches the top. This transition is carefully crafted to ensure a smooth gradation of lengths, avoiding any abrupt or visible lines.

There are several types of fades, including low, mid, and high fades. These terms refer to how high the shortest part of the fade reaches up the head. In a low fade, the shortest length starts just above the ears and extends upward. A mid fade begins higher up the head, usually at the level of the temples, while a high fade reaches even further up, often starting just below the crown.

The art of a fade haircut lies in the skillful blending of different hair lengths, creating a smooth and aesthetically pleasing transition from the shortest part to the longer length on top of the head. This style can be customized to suit individual preferences in hair length, texture, and overall appearance.

Do Fade Haircuts Come in Various Styles?

While the fundamental technique remains consistent, the men’s fade haircut offers a diverse range of variations.

1. High Skin Fade & Buzz Cut

The High Skin Fade & Buzz Cut is a striking combination that pairs the ultra-short, neat look of a buzz cut with the dramatic effect of a high skin fade. In this style, the hair is cropped very short at the top, echoing the simplicity and low maintenance of the traditional buzz cut. The sides, however, feature a high skin fade, where the hair tapers down to the skin for a sharp contrast. This high fade often starts just above the temples, accentuating the facial structure.

Adding a unique touch to this style is the surgical line, a razor-sharp line etched into the hair, often used to give a more defined edge to the fade. This style works exceptionally well with beards, creating a seamless partnership between the clean lines of the haircut and the ruggedness of facial hair. The High Skin Fade with Buzz Cut is not just a hairstyle; it’s a bold statement that combines practicality with a special style flair.

2. Mid Skin Fade & Curly Hair

The Mid Skin Fade + Curly Hair style is an artistic blend of texture and precision, ideal for those with natural curls. This hairstyle features a mid skin fade on the sides, where the hair is closely shaved but not as high as a high fade, providing a balanced, sculpted appearance.

The mid fade transitions seamlessly into the curly hair on top, allowing the curls to become the focal point of the style. These curls, left longer on the top, add volume and depth, making it an excellent choice for individuals with thick hair. The contrast between the short sides and the voluminous, textured curls on top creates a great look that’s both modern and versatile. The Mid Skin Fade & Curly Hair is not just a haircut; it’s a celebration of natural texture, artfully balanced with the clean lines of a fade.

3. Low Skin Fade & Long Hair

The Low Skin Fade + Long Hair is a versatile and stylish choice that marries the elegance of long hair with the clean, crisp lines of a fade. This hairstyle features long hair on top, offering a canvas for various styling options, while the sides are adorned with a low skin fade.

The low fade starts just above the ears and subtly blends into the skin, providing a neat and tidy look without being overly dramatic. The long hair on top can be styled in numerous ways, such as slicked back for a classic, sophisticated appearance or side-swept for a more casual, relaxed vibe. This contrast between the understated low skin fade and the changeable, expressive nature of the long hair on top makes this hairstyle adaptable to many occasions and personal styles. The Low Skin Fade & Long Hair strikes a perfect balance, offering both the sharpness of a fade and the freedom of long hair.

4. Taper Fade & Slicked Back

The Taper Fade and Slicked Back hairstyle is a timeless classic that combines the refined elegance of a slicked back look with the subtle sophistication of a taper fade. In this style, the taper fade is executed with precision, often resembling a more conservative and less stark version of a low fade. This creates a gradual decrease in hair length on the sides and back, lending a clean and polished appearance.

The slicked back portion of the hairstyle is what brings in the classic charm. Hair on top is styled backward, often with the help of grooming products, to achieve a sleek, classy look. This combination is a favorite among those who frequent a barber seeking a hairstyle that exudes professionalism and style. The Taper Fade and Slicked Back is more than just a haircut; it’s a statement of elegance and a nod to the time-honored traditions of men’s grooming.

5. Temple Fade & Curly Hair

The Temple Fade and Curly Hair, also known as the Brooklyn Fade or Low Fade, is a hairstyle that rose to popularity in the early 2000s, combining the distinctive characteristics of a temple fade with the natural allure of curly hair. In this style, the temple fade is the focal point, where the hair is tapered down to the scalp, typically around 1 cm (0.4 in) above the hairline. This tapering extends to about 2 cm (0.8 in) from the hairline, blending seamlessly into the curls on top.

The curly hair on top is usually kept at the same length, ranging from 2–5 cm (0.8–2.0 in), depending on the preference of the client. This length allows the natural texture of the curls to be showcased, creating a striking contrast with the precisely faded temples. The blend of the meticulously tapered temple fade and the expressive curls results in a dynamic and modern hairstyle. The Temple Fade and Curly Hair is not just a haircut; it’s a personalized statement, reflecting the unique style and preferences of each client.

6. Bald Fade + Texture On Top

The Bald Fade and Texture On Top hairstyle is a bold and modern take on skin fades, where the hair not only tapers down but also exposes the skin at its shortest points. This style features a bald fade, also known as a skin fade, where the sides and back of the head are shaved so closely that the skin is completely visible. This creates a striking rim of baldness that encircles the head.

At the top, however, the hairstyle takes a turn towards texture and volume. Instead of continuing the close shave, the hair on top is left longer to allow for texturizing. This contrast between the bald fade and the textured hair on top creates a distinct and eye-catching look. The texture on top can vary from subtle waves to more defined curls or choppy layers, depending on the hair type and desired style. Often, this hairstyle incorporates elements of a mid skin fade, where the transition between the bald fade and the textured top is more gradual. The Bald Fade and Texture On Top is a perfect choice for those seeking a contemporary haircut that combines sleek precision with a touch of edgy flair.

7. Burst Fade & Slicked Back Hair

The Burst Fade & Slicked Back Hair is a contemporary twist on the classic slicked back style, incorporating one of the more popular fade haircuts of recent years. The burst fade is a unique approach to fading, where the hair tapers in a line that curves around and behind the ear, giving an effect reminiscent of a sun rising or setting. This tapering doesn’t go straight down to the neck but instead creates a longer, rounded shape along the sides.

On top, the hair is left longer, allowing it to be slicked back. This creates a sleek and polished look, with the hair smoothly combed back for a clean, refined appearance. The contrast between the rounded, burst fade and the slicked back hair on top makes for a dynamic and modern hairstyle. This style combines the sharpness of a well-executed fade with the classic appeal of slicked back hair, offering a look that is both trendy and timeless. The Burst Fade & Slicked Back Hair is perfect for those who want a hairstyle that stands out while maintaining an air of sophistication.

8. Drop Fade and Pompadour

The Drop Fade and Pompadour is an amalgamation of classic and modern styles, offering a sophisticated look that’s both trendy and timeless. In this hairstyle, the drop fade is the standout feature, characterized by the way the fade “drops” low behind the ear and toward the nape of the neck. This technique creates a subtle arc in the fade, adding a unique dimension to the style. Men can opt for a high, mid, or low drop fade depending on their preference, but the essence of the drop fade remains the same – a smooth, gradual reduction of hair length that elegantly contours the head.

Complementing the drop fade is the pompadour on top. The pompadour involves styling the hair in a voluminous manner, swept upwards and back from the forehead. This creates a striking contrast with the short, neatly cut hair on the sides and back. The combination of the drop fade with the pompadour brings together the sharp, clean lines of a modern fade and the classic, voluminous look of the pompadour, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate a refined yet bold hairstyle.

9. Mohawk Fade & Textured

The Mohawk Fade & Textured hairstyle is a cool and edgy take on the classic mohawk, blending the distinctiveness of a mohawk with the sleekness of a fade. This haircut starts with the Mohawk Fade, where the hair on the sides of the head is faded down, often to the skin, while leaving a strip of longer hair that runs from the front to the back of the head. This creates the iconic mohawk silhouette, known for its bold and rebellious vibe.

Adding to this dynamic style is the textured element on the mohawk itself. Instead of a traditional, slicked mohawk, the hair on top is given a textured look, often achieved through layering or using styling products to create a more tousled, voluminous appearance. This textured mohawk offers a modern twist, making the style more versatile and approachable while still retaining its edgy appeal. The Mohawk Fade & Textured hairstyle is perfect for those who want to make a statement with their hair, combining the daring nature of a mohawk with the contemporary flair of a textured top.

10. Mid Fade & Comb Over

The Mid Fade & Comb Over hairstyle is a timeless and classic look, blending the sharpness of a mid fade with the elegance of a comb over. This style starts with a mid fade, where the hair gradually shortens from a higher point on the sides and back, creating a clean and contemporary look that’s not too drastic. The mid fade provides a neat and tidy canvas for the comb over.

The comb over part of this hairstyle is where the classic charm comes in. Hair on top is left longer, allowing it to be combed over to one side. For a sleek and polished look, shiny products like pomade can be applied to damp hair. The comb over is not just about styling; it adds body and volume, making the hair appear fuller and healthier. Using a comb to neatly part and style the hair, and sometimes a hair dryer to add volume and set the style, completes this sophisticated look. The Mid Fade & Comb Over is a versatile choice, ideal for those who want a hairstyle that balances traditional style with modern finesse.

11. Crop Haircut with Fade

The Crop Haircut with Fade is a stylish and versatile hairstyle, perfect for those seeking a modern twist on classic looks. This haircut combines the neatness of a fade with the textured appeal of a crop haircut. The key feature of this style is the fringe, which can be adapted to either a longer or shorter length depending on one’s face shape and hairline.

The fade in this hairstyle is expertly crafted by a barber to blend seamlessly into the cropped top. This creates a clean, contemporary look around the sides and back of the head. The crop itself is characterized by a textured look, often achieved with styling products and techniques that give the hair a lively, tousled appearance.

What makes the Crop Haircut with Fade particularly appealing is its adaptability. The length of the fringe can be adjusted to flatter different face shapes, and the texture on top can be customized to suit individual hair types and preferences. This hairstyle is not just about following a trend; it’s about creating a personalized look that brings out the best in one’s features.

12. Quiff Fade Haircut

The Quiff Fade Haircut is a modern interpretation of the classic quiff, combining it with the clean aesthetics of a fade. This hairstyle is characterized by a quiff at the front – where the hair is kept longer and styled upwards and back – and a fade that blends into this longer length at the sides and back. The result is a striking balance between the voluminous quiff and the streamlined fade.

In this style, the quiff is often textured, which can vary from slightly tousled to a more pronounced, messier look. This texture adds a contemporary edge to the classic quiff, making it suitable for a variety of hair types and personal preferences. The fade, typically a medium fade, complements the quiff by providing a neat, tidy cut along the sides and back, enhancing the overall shape and focus of the hairstyle.

The Quiff Fade Haircut is more than just a fashion statement; it’s a versatile style that combines the boldness of a quiff with the clean lines of a fade. Whether styled neatly for a more formal look or textured for a casual, edgy appearance, this haircut offers a dynamic and fashionable option for those looking to combine classic style with modern flair.

How to Request a Fade Haircut from Your Barber?

When you’re ready to request a fade haircut from your barber, there are four key points you should be familiar with –

1. Determining the height of Your Fade

The first consideration is deciding how high you want the fade to go. Fade haircuts can vary from low, mid to high, each offering a different look and feel. Discuss with your barber the most suitable option for your face shape and style preferences. A high fade can create a bold statement, while a low fade offers a more subtle transition. Mid fades strike a balance between the two. Your lifestyle and the styles you typically wear can also influence this choice. Remember, different fade heights can complement various face shapes and styles differently, so it’s important to consider what works best for you.

2. Choosing the Style for the Top

The style you choose for the top of your hair in combination with the fade significantly defines the overall look. Unlike the back and sides that are faded, the top is where you have the opportunity to express your personal style. Whether you want a longer length to play with different styles or prefer it short and easy to manage, it’s important to figure out how you want the top to complement the fade. Consider looking for some inspiration beforehand to help articulate your vision to the barber. Remember, the top is the centerpiece of your hairstyle, so choosing a style that resonates with your personal aesthetic is key.

3. Deciding on the Shortness of the Fade

An essential aspect to discuss with your barber is how short you want the fade to be. This involves deciding on the length of hair at the shortest part of the fade. You might opt for a skin fade, which can go down to bald, or choose a specific guard size for the clippers, such as 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, or 3. For instance, mentioning “a number 2 on the sides” can give your barber a clear idea of the desired shortness.

It’s a good practice to start longer and gradually go shorter to find the perfect length, as you can always go shorter but can’t add length back once it’s cut. If unsure, ask your barber to test a small area on the head first to see if the length is right. This approach respects both your and the barber’s time, ensuring you’re satisfied with the level of shortness in your fade style.

4. Bringing a Picture for Reference

One of the easiest and most effective ways to communicate your desired hairstyle to your barber is to take a picture with you. Find a picture that represents the look you are aiming for, especially if it’s a specific style like a high skin fade. This can help ensure that both you and your barber are on the same page. Showing different pictures of the hairstyle you want can provide a clear visual reference and minimize misunderstandings. A picture can often convey more about the specific nuances of the style you desire than words alone, helping your barber understand exactly what you’re looking for.

FAQs

What is the difference between a basic haircut and a fade?

A basic haircut typically involves cutting the hair to one uniform length, while a fade involves gradually decreasing the hair length down the sides and back, creating a blend from short to longer hair.

Who should get a fade haircut?

A fade haircut suits anyone looking for a stylish, modern look. It’s versatile and can be adapted to different hair types and personal styles, making it a great choice for many individuals.

What do I tell my barber for a fade?

Tell your barber the type of fade (low, mid, or high), how short you want it, and the style for the top. Bringing a picture can also help in conveying exactly what you want.

Do fade haircuts look good?

Fade haircuts generally look good as they provide a clean, sharp look that’s both modern and versatile. They can be tailored to suit individual faces and styles, enhancing overall appearance.