Best Fade Haircuts & Hairstyles [2020 Edition]

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The fade cut in the men’s hairstyling is fast becoming a classic go-to look amongst the legions of stylish gents. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, a fade cut basically refers to long (or at least, longer) hair on top whilst the sides and back are gradually tapered off to give a seamlessly clean look without sacrificing its slick and style-able credentials.

The fade cut is incredibly versatile, so is a suitable option for most guys when heading to the barber for a fresh trim. But what exactly should you be asking your barber when talking about styling options and how to even start thinking about styling it? Allow us to reveal all.

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What To Ask Your Hairdresser Or Barber

To ask for a fade haircut, you must tell your barber or hairdresser exactly what kind of style you want. The more precise you are, the more accurate they will be at delivering your wishes. The fade cut can actually be broken down into various styles: low, mid, high, tapered, to name a few. While we may have said the fade will suit the majority of guys, some will suit the high-fade, but some other face and hair types, it won’t look right and a lower fade will be required.

You can also choose the length you want your fade to be. Naturally, you’ll want to aim for as short as possible – some guys even choose to have no guard on the clippers to get a skin fade – but a good starting point would be a number 1, fading up into a number 2.

Ultimately, if you’re not sure exactly what type of fade or what length to get, ask for your barber’s recommendation, or take a picture in with you of someone else’s hair that you like the look of. They’ll you know if it’s possible.

How To Style The Fade Haircut

There are several ways you can style your fade haircut. For a high fade – where the sides are short up above your ear – a matte look will just a little rustle look good. Patricks M2 medium hold pomade will do the job here, offering a good amount of hold, but is pliable enough so that your hair will do exactly what you want it to. We’d recommend Patricks M2 for any fade style.

Fade haircuts don’t necessarily mean the hair on top has to be short either, just as long as the sides are faded, you have a fade. This means you can also opt for a pompadour style for a vintage vibe. A classic pompadour calls for a high-shine, so a pomade will be your friend here. Reuzel Blue is the perfect product for proving a strong hold and a high sheen. You’ll want to add on some hairspray to really make sure your look stays locked in.

If you prefer a less subtle look, a quiff will do the trick. This doesn’t need to be so shiny, so a matte paste or cream will allow you to run your fingers through your hair to restyle it through out the day.

How To Maintain The Fade Haircut

The main downside to rocking a fade hairstyle is that it will grow out and look unfaded pretty quickly. With this in mind, you’ll want to revisit your barber every two to three weeks to keep your hair looking its faded best.

Men’s Fade Haircut FAQs

What are other types of fade haircuts for men?

Burst fade, temple fade, shadow fade and bald fades are some of the variations of the fade haircut. As with the three main fade haircuts, the style depends on how high the fade goes up on your head.

What is the most popular style of the fade haircut?

The low fade haircut is the most popular cut because it is timeless and trendy at the same time. It is also versatile. You can add the low fade to any men’s hairstyle, short or long, for a clean-cut and fresh finish on the sides and back.

How do I know which fade haircut is for me?

Some fade haircuts look best for a particular face or head shape. Drop fade, for instance, suits men with round or square face shapes. Play around with fades and find the one that suits you the best.