When it comes to modern men’s grooming, few haircuts balance edgy and elegant quite like the South of France haircut. Also known as the Usher haircut or South of France fade, this trendy yet timeless style combines precision fading with textured top hair — perfect for men who want to stand out without going over the top.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore:
- The origin of the South of France haircut
- Who it suits best
- Popular variations and inspirations for 2025
- How to maintain the style
- Tips on how to ask your barber for it
- Mistakes to avoid
- And much more
Whether you’re a style-conscious man in the UK or a barber looking to stay updated, this article has you covered.
Contents
- What Is the South of France Haircut?
- Origins: The Usher Connection
- Who Does the South of France Haircut Suit?
- Popular South of France Styles for 2025
- How to Ask Your Barber for a South of France Haircut
- Maintenance & Grooming Tips
- Best Products for the South of France Fade
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Inspiration: Celebs Who Rock the South of France
- FAQs: South of France Haircut UK (for FAQ Schema)
- Related Reads
What Is the South of France Haircut?
The South of France haircut is a type of burst fade with a curly or textured top, usually styled short to medium in length. The burst fade wraps around the ear and blends seamlessly into the neckline, leaving a fuller crown and often pairing well with natural curls, waves, or sponge twists.
Key Characteristics:
- Burst fade around the ears and sides
- Textured or curly top left longer
- Clean neckline, often tapered
- Can include designs or partings for added flair
- Works beautifully on Afro-textured and curly hair
Origins: The Usher Connection
This haircut gained popularity in the early 2010s when R&B superstar Usher Raymond debuted the style, with his longtime barber Curtis Smith naming it the South of France fade in reference to a trip the artist took. The haircut quickly became a symbol of contemporary urban style and remains a barbershop favourite in 2025.
Who Does the South of France Haircut Suit?
The beauty of the South of France cut lies in its versatility. However, certain hair types and face shapes make it really pop.
Best For:
- Hair Types: Curly, coiled, wavy, Afro-textured
- Face Shapes: Oval, round, square, diamond
- Ages: Teenagers to men in their 40s
If you have straight hair, it can still work with the right product and styling — but the shape looks most defined on natural curls or sponge-twisted hair.
Popular South of France Styles for 2025
Here are the trendiest variations of the South of France haircut to consider this year:
1. Classic South of France with Curls
This is the signature look: a clean burst fade blended into a short-to-medium curly top.
Pair with:
- Defined curls using curl sponge or curl cream
- Temple taper or skin fade
- Natural beard line-up
2. South of France with Sponge Twists
Sponge twists add volume and dimension to the top. This version is edgy and youthful.
Best For: Teens and 20-somethings
Styling Tip: Use a twist sponge with curl-enhancing cream for daily upkeep.
3. South of France with Design
Add a hairline part, side design, or etched art into the fade for a bold street-style finish.
Barber Tip: Clean razor lines will elevate the look.
4. South of France with Beard Fade
Let the burst fade blend seamlessly into your beard, keeping your full profile sharp and masculine.
Recommended For: Oval and round faces — this creates elongation.
5. South of France Fade for Kids
Simple, low-maintenance and stylish — a fantastic choice for young boys with curly hair.
Note: Keep the top slightly shorter for easier upkeep.
How to Ask Your Barber for a South of France Haircut
Don’t risk miscommunication — here’s how to explain what you want:
What to Say:
“I’d like a South of France fade — a burst fade around the ears with a short curly top. Please blend the fade into my beard, and keep the neckline tapered. I’d like the curls defined on top.”
Pro Tips:
- Show a photo: It helps even experienced barbers understand your vision
- Be specific about fade height (low/mid/high)
- Mention if you want any designs, parts or beard blending
- Ask for product suggestions for your hair type
Maintenance & Grooming Tips
To keep your South of France haircut fresh and sharp, follow this maintenance routine:
How Often to Visit the Barber:
- Every 2–3 weeks for a clean fade
- Every 4 weeks for a full shape-up + neckline
- Weekly beard lineup (optional)
Daily Maintenance:
- Moisturise: Use a leave-in conditioner or hair moisturiser daily
- Define curls: Use curl cream or twist sponge
- Brush: Keep edges tidy with a soft bristle brush
- Oil or balm: Keep beard and scalp hydrated
Best Products for the South of France Fade
Here are some UK-available grooming products to pair with your cut:
| Product Type | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Curl Sponge | Magic Twist Sponge Brush |
| Curl Cream | SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie |
| Fade Trimmer | Wahl Detailer Cordless |
| Beard Oil | Bulldog Original Beard Oil (UK brand) |
| Edge Control | Murray’s Edgewax or Eco Styler Gel |
Tip: Add links to Amazon UK, Boots, or local grooming suppliers for affiliate income.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Letting the fade grow out too long: It loses definition quickly
- Skipping product: The top will look flat or frizzy
- Poor communication with barber: Be specific or bring a reference
- DIY edge-ups: Risky unless you’re confident with clippers
- Not brushing or moisturising daily: Leads to dry scalp and undefined curls
Inspiration: Celebs Who Rock the South of France
Looking for visual inspo? These celebrities have mastered the look:
- Usher (the original)
- Jason Derulo
- NBA stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
- UK rapper Dave — often rocks a short curly top with clean fade lines
Final Thoughts
The South of France haircut isn’t just a trendy fade — it’s a style statement that blends precision, culture, and personal flair. Whether you go for a clean curly look or spice it up with a part or design, it’s one of the most adaptable haircuts for men in 2025.
With the right barber, the right communication, and proper maintenance, your South of France fade can look fresh week after week.
FAQs: South of France Haircut UK (for FAQ Schema)
What is the South of France haircut?
A modern burst fade haircut with a longer curly or textured top, made popular by Usher.
How often should I get a South of France haircut?
Every 2–3 weeks to keep the fade clean and edges sharp.
Is the South of France haircut good for curly hair?
Yes — it’s ideal for curly, wavy, and Afro-textured hair.
Can I get the South of France fade with straight hair?
Yes, but you’ll need styling products to add texture or volume to the top.
What do I ask my barber for this haircut?
Ask for a burst fade around the ears, short textured top, and optional beard blending or parting.