When it comes to hairstyles for men, diversity is often the last word that comes to mind. However, in recent years we’ve seen a gradual move toward trendy, less black-and-white looks, including the fade haircut with its numerous variations.
In a fade haircut, the length of the hair decreases gradually towards the bottom, commonly to bare skin. There are many hairstyles that include a fade, yet it’s hard to find two fades that are completely alike. Here, we highlight 20 popular fade hairstyles that might inspire your next salon visit.
@virogas.barber
The look of hipsters, artists and well-dressed men in general, the taper fade style is one of the sexiest fade haircuts. And the best part of all? It’s incredibly low maintenance, only requiring some light styling with a bit of gel or pomade.
Fade haircut styles with a side part are very trendy right now and also flattering for different face shapes. It helps when the hair is longer on top as well. A fade and comb over are a popular combo.
@ambarberia
One of the best fade haircuts for men with rounder faces is a pompadour with a low taper fade. This hairstyle builds a height and elongates the face while providing a neat and sharp look.
@savillsbarbers
If you don’t like high-contrast high fades, opt for a perfectly blended shadow fade. With this short fade look, you’ll want a line up, and bye-bye styling tools and styling products!
@eddie_rtb
Drop fades haircuts are named what they are because the fade will drop behind the ear. This typically means that the taper will form an arc from the temples to the nape. Get this fun update for your fade at your next visit to the barber shop.
@criztofferson
Another variation of a skin fade, a low bald fade has been a cool, frequently asked men’s cut for several years. It’s an understated and neat look that is made more prominent with an absolutely precise (almost artistic) line up.
@zeke_the_barber
With a sharp decrease in hair length on the sides and back of the head, the disconnected look is a long top short sides hairstyle. The choppy top and faded sides/back in this case are created with clippers and scissors. The cut is particularly in-style right now.
@baldysbarbers
The blurry fade with a pompadour for men can be worn in both a professional and fun, eccentric way. However, it takes a steady hand and eye for precision on the barber’s part to ensure the perfect blending of the men’s fade haircut – so choose yours wisely.
@javi_thebarber_
Complete with spiky, punk rock ends, a high top fade works best when the hair is relatively long on top. Try to ensure that the gel you’re using is a particularly high-hold one, as you don’t want the look to fall flat by mid-concert!
@justin_thebarber
A skin fade haircut is a particularly bold type of men’s style. Whereas many shadowed looks still technically have a whole head of hair, this style is bare up the neck to only an inch or so from the crown.
@wester_barber
A mid fade cut offers guys the best of both worlds. The style isn’t as extreme or edgy as its bald variation, but it also captures the essence of the shadowy trend in general. In this instance, the hair is combed back away from the face.
@patty_cuts
Ideal for, quite literally, all different types of hair, temple fades probably look the least shadowy but they offer an option for more conservative men, making it a great choice for your first-time fade.
@beboprbarber
Also known as the “South of France Fade,” the burst fade mohawk is an ideal style for a man looking to get a Mohawk with a trendy touch. Usher rocked this style in the late 90’s and early 2000’s (in case you’re an R&B fan!).
@aluppercut
The all around fade offers you to play with a high contrast look – longer length on top and fade to the skin on the sides and back look fierce and sharp, and it’s completely on-trend. If your hair is curly, you’ll want to add a line up.
@_mannys
A buzz fade is achieved by using exactly what you’d assume: electric clippers. They buzz the hair to ensure everything is of the same short length (with the exception of the actual fade). In this case, it has the look of a high and tight taper.
@edwardklipperhands
If you plan to get really funky with your look, a box fade is an option. It’s a favorite for many African American men, a style to show off your natural texture and achieve cool geometric shapes.
@suggsdabarber
Popularity for faded undercuts really picked up speed last year, and the new trend is only looking to grow. The hair is combed back slick and either held with a styling gel or let loose. The key is that the hair on the top is significantly longer than the rest of the head.
@benwardscissorhands
With all the different types of fades to choose from, it’s easy (and encouraged) to get a bit wild. One of the easiest ways to up the ante is with a shaved line, where the arc begins at the temples and runs towards the nape of the neck.
@javi_thebarber_
When it comes to fade hairstyles that incorporate geometric, abstract designs, the sky is truly the limit. If you have angular facial features, opt for lines with acute angles and mirror them in your facial hairstyle.
@sprucecruz
A comb over fade haircut is one of the coolest fade haircuts in general, and it offers so many features to help make it your own. Here, the look is made more distinguished by extremely slick hair and razor-sharp lines.
@_anthonybarber
If the goal is to update your current style, opting for a fade haircut (whether high, medium or low) is an excellent choice. Fades can be customized to suit your personal preferences and make you standout to a greater or lesser degree.
Thinking of changing your look and switching to something sharper and more defined this time? Men’s fade haircuts are great for giving your mane that extra clean finish. Whether you want to achieve a smooth transition between the lengths or visually enhance the height of your top layer, the following hairstyles will inspire your next chop.
When we talk about a fade haircut, we usually mean a soft graduation technique that keeps your sides and back shorter than the top. This type of men’s hairstyle originated from military fashion and became widely popular thanks to its tidy shape, practicality, and low maintenance. The ‘fading’ effect is achieved by blending the line between the shorter and longer strands so that the hair ‘disappears’ into the skin as it moves downward.
A fade and a taper are the two commonly confused hair cutting techniques for men. Where a taper maintains more length with a subtle transition around the neckline and sideburns, a faded look creates a sharper contrast and offers a dramatic blend that starts higher and often shows skin at the bottom. At the same time, a taper fade haircut is a hybrid style with a mix of clean graduation and visual balance that makes the transition from longer to shorter strands smoother.
The cool feature of fade haircuts is their compatibility with other popular styles and shapes. If you ask your local barber, they’ll name the following hot hair trends in men’s grooming fashion – a mix of textures, natural volume, and endless movement. From textured crop fades to high and tight looks, here are the most up-to-date styling ideas to try next.
If you seek a subtle transition between the lengths, choose this fade look. The gradient starts just above the ears, offering seamless regrowth and low maintenance.
@nettyfadesandcuts
For this style, the short faded sides are paired with a heavily textured top brushed all the way forward as a fringe. The mix of textures creates maximum contrast with the clean sides and elevated top section.
@amirali__rajabi1
Here you can see a contemporary revival of the classic forms with clean faded sides. It helps you maintain that signature ‘business in the front, party in the back’ look with the ultimate precision and style.
@totem.barber
The classic voluminous pompadour is effectively combined with a precision fade at the sides. This style usually features a low/mid fade to maintain a full shape at the crown.
@kert_north_barber
To get a balanced fade, ask your barber to start the blending around the temples while keeping natural curls on top. It provides structure and showcases an incredible texture.
@lowfadestudio
This military-inspired extremely short crop presents closely cropped sides with a slightly longer top section. You get a very low-maintenance option for active lifestyles.
@frysfades
Achieve a dramatic contrast between a highly textured longer top and skin-faded sides to emphasize volume and movement on top.
@benwillsonhair
For this side-parted look with clean faded sides, the hair is cut at the temples, halfway between the ears and the crown to create a structured and polished haircut suitable for professional settings.
@barbearia__085
This Mohawk version introduces the burst fade technique with a curly top to enhance the contrast of lengths and textures.
@carpesbarber
Here, the longer central strip of hair is styled into a ridge with faded sides. It looks less extreme than a traditional mohawk but creates a striking silhouette.
@union.barbers
This crop combines shag and mullet elements with heavy layering on top and faded sides. A good add-on – the intentionally ‘messy’ disconnected layers that create the charm and build inner style.
@disk.from_fbs
With this fluffy haircut, you can easily control volume while showcasing softness on top. It helps you balance an airy texture with structured sides.
@katharinefuller
Not sure what kind of fade you need? We understand your concern since each fade variation is defined by its unique technique, visual effect, and overall match with other male haircuts. Want something classy but textured? Then, go for a scissor fade. Looking for something modern and sharp? A skin fade or a shadow fade is your ideal option.
Commonly known as bald fade, this is the shortest form of fade tapering to bare skin for maximum definition and contrast. It looks simple yet elegant and well-defined.
@monterobarber_
With this look, you get a gradual reduction in length to natural hairline. It typically leaves more hair than a standard fade for a subtler effect.
@ott.hair
Try a distinctive semicircular pattern extending from the ear to create a unique dimensional effect, which looks particularly flattering with textured tops.
@cutsbyvasu
In this style, the fade line arcs downward behind the ear to draw a unique contour and add an interesting shape to the otherwise standard haircut.
@kris_blurry
Also called the Brooklyn fade, this crop focuses on fading around the temple area for a clean and defined look.
@bob.barber9
A shadow-like fade never goes completely to the skin but maintains a slight hint of hair at the shortest point for a softer transition.
@antxbvrs
Created with scissors, this style delivers a softer, more natural-looking transition with abundant texture.
@kizuna_salon
This trendy version of the fade offers a geometric style with sharp angles and defined shapes.
@rococobarbersuk
Did you know that fades can start at different levels? Whether the natural gradient is positioned higher or lower, it affects the overall style impact and maintenance schedule. Low fades are less demanding in terms of styling because of their subtle and conservative nature. A high fade, on the other hand, requires regular trims to maintain a high-contrast look. Here are the most popular styles to choose from.
The fading element begins at the temples, setting a dramatic contrast and emphasizing the top volume while reducing the side bulk to zero.
@folhabarbeiro
The blending section in a mid-fade cut starts around the temple level to achieve a balanced look suitable for both professional and casual settings.
@easy_hussle1
While beginning just above the ears, this subtle hair styling option is an ideal variant for conservative environments even with added definition.
@dmitry.laurent
Want to get a more seamless transition between lengths without distinct lines? Then, go for a natural gradient effect that blends shorter and longer strands nicely.
@big_willo_clean_cutz
To choose the optimal fade height, you need to take into account your face shape, hair type, and lifestyle demands. Round faces, for example, are best off with a high fade as it creates slimming lines, while diamond-shaped faces look better with a low fade that keeps volume at the sides and balances out a narrow chin.
At the same time, naturally straight locks favor low fades more for a fuller-looking appeal. Curly and wavy hair reveals its texture better with a drop fade as it keeps the sides clean. For those of you leading an active lifestyle, a high fade paired with a short top layer gives the ultimate clean finish and keeps styling to the minimum.
A good fade hairstyle is not only modern and trendy but also practical and open to customization. A well-chosen crop is designed around your bone structure with the main goal of making you feel comfortable in your own skin. Side fades, for instance, are great for small faces as they help elongate the face, especially with long hair on top. Scroll down for more examples and inspiration!
This form takes the classic fade look from subtle to more dramatic. Still, it frames the face nicely and creates structure around the temples.
@manliket_ep
Want something more interesting than a short back? Try this fade cut, as it affects the overall silhouette of your hairstyle, especially from the side view.
@sergiobarron_
Consider an asymmetrical approach with a fade concentrated on a single side for your next hair transformation. It will help you create a bold, fashion-forward statement.
@hairartiste_sunil
Stay consistent with the fade technique that gives you a uniform appearance and creates a clean, cohesive look from all angles. The style will appear great on bleached locks, blonde hair, and black locks alike.
@thebarberclubst5
While fades can make any haircut look dressier, it can also command attention with other decorative and structural components that enhance its basic patterns. From hard parts to fringe styles and hair tattoos, find out how to add personalization and visual interest to your crop.
Get a razor-defined parting line with faded sides to enjoy a sharp, surgically accurate detail that enhances definition.
@barberomensgrooming
This precise hairline creates sharp angles and clean borders that are particularly popular in urban styles. By contrast, the edge up style offers meticulous detailing around the natural hairline thanks to the crisp, defined borders, especially around the temples and nape.
@boss_cuts
Switch between middle-parted and side-parted looks to complement your fade style and enhance structure for distinct sections in the haircut.
@lonewolves
For those who want to keep their front section a bit longer, a fringe style is a great option. It combines a forward-styled section with faded sides that frame the face while maintaining a clean look.
@symon_glori
Add some intricate patterns shaved into your faded sections, such as cross design or curved lines to create either a subtle or super-bold effect, depending on your style preferences.
@mr_cutz__raj
Getting faded sides or a subtle fade at the back of the head doesn’t necessarily mean you need to keep your top layer short. In fact, this crop is designed in such a way that you can easily combine it with different top lengths, which offers a range of styling possibilities and versatility. Short and clean all over or long on the top and faded along the sides? You choose.
Crop fade styles feature minimal length on top combined with shaved sides. This is a modern take on the classic Caesar cut with enhanced texture and more definition for your short hair.
@datstrangestyler
Introduce balanced or exaggerated proportions between the top and sides with this versatile option that allows various styling approaches.
@paulos_the_barber_shop
Given that a significant length is preserved on top, clean faded sides make the look more contrasting than ever. This, in turn, effectively maximizes styling versatility.
@lasanta__barber
Customize your new crop so that it matches your natural hair texture perfectly. Straight and thin locks need to keep the scalp covered as much as possible. Low to mid fades are here for the rescue. Curly hair will look great with a temple fade or burst fade, each kind giving you a clean cut along the sides and a textured top. The same goes for thick, fluffy hair. The only difference is that it can also rock a high fade look without fear of getting bulky and unruly strands. Here are some ideas to consider.
For this look, clean lines meet the sharp definition, showcasing precise fade technique with minimal blending challenges.
@il.magri
This cut will help you manage excessive bulk while maintaining style and creating a balanced proportion and low maintenance.
@omithebarber_
Get a dramatic texture contrast between the tight sides and curly top. While this style requires specialized techniques to avoid harsh transition lines, it’s a worthy look to wear next.
@papiblendzz
Enhance your natural movement on the top while controlling the sides with a dynamic textural interplay offered by this type of fade.
@whale_0ne
First things first, describe your preferred fade height – low, mid, or high. Then, choose between possible style details. Basically, you need to tell how much skin you want to show. Is it a bald fade, sharp skin fade, taper, or an edgy drop fade? And how about design patterns, such as hair tattoos, hard parts, and fringe elements? To make things easier, show your stylist a couple of reference photos and seal the deal for your next big transformation!
A faded hairstyle usually lasts 2 to 3 weeks before you see significant signs of regrowth. And bear in mind that the shorter and closer to the scalp your fade is, the more frequent your trims need to be for a sharp and defined look.
Getting a power haircut doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to your length or stick to closely cropped trims only. To tell the truth, a blended gradient combined with a textured top is the most harmonious and beneficial option for guys today. Still in doubt? Then ask a hair styling professional for a personalized look that defines your style and keeps your locks neat and sharp all year round.
