More than a trim, the fade’s a statement. It’s a way to showcase your style and a testament to the skill of your barber. From its early days to becoming a staple of modern men’s looks, the fade has seen evolution after evolution. Let’s take a look at how this iconic cut has changed, and why it remains a firm favourite at Chaps & Co.
What is a classic fade?
The classic fade is a technique that involves a gradual transition from shorter to longer hair, typically starting very short at the neckline and gradually increasing in length towards the top of the head. The technique creates a smooth blend, giving the haircut a clean, sharp appearance. Initially, the classic fade was about precision and uniformity, focusing on a smooth, consistent gradient showcasing the barber’s technical skill. However, even in its early stages, barbers began to experiment with variations, subtly altering the length and blending, leading to the variety of styles we see today. The classic fade is timeless but you’ll find so many popular fade haircuts today there’s a style for everyone.
The Rise of the High Fade
As the fade gained popularity, barbers began pushing the boundaries, exploring different fade heights to create more dramatic looks. The high fade is a bold variation where the fade starts high on the sides and back of the head, often near the temples. This style creates a contrast between the very short sides and the longer top which creates a more pronounced and edgy look.
The Understated Low Fade
In contrast to the high fade’s boldness, the low fade offers a more subtle approach. This fade begins lower on the sides and back, typically just above the ear, creating a softer and more gradual transition. This style creates a more understated yet polished look, suitable for professional settings and everyday wear. The low fade’s versatility makes it suitable for various hair types and styles.
Versatility with the Mid Fade
Recognising the need for a middle ground that offers both sharpness and subtlety, barbers created the mid fade. This style sits between the high and low fade, offering a balanced and adaptable look that suits a wide range of hair types, face shapes and personal preferences. It blends the sharpness of the high fade with the subtlety of the low fade, making it a versatile choice for many. The mid fade offers the adaptability that many of us are looking for.
Originality and Movement with Textured Fades
As styling techniques advance, barbers incorporate texture into fades, adding a new dimension to this classic cut. Textured fades involve adding layers and movement to the hair on top. This approach adds depth and dimension to the classic fade, making it stand out and allowing for greater personalisation. Barbers all have their own approaches and you’ll find your barber can help you develop a signature style, incorporating your preferred fade.
Sharp Contrasts with a Skin Fade
If taking your fade to the absolute edge appeals, then the skin fade is for you. This style involves fading the hair down to the skin, creating a stark contrast and a clean, shaved appearance. The skin fade’s precision and sharpness make it a popular choice when teamed with a range of styles from pompadours to slick backs.
Blending Techniques and Styles for Your Unique Fade
Today, the fade has become a highly versatile and customisable haircut, allowing for endless creativity and your own style. Barbers can blend various fade techniques, incorporating elements of different fades to create styles that reflect individual preferences and personalities.
The evolution of the classic fade reflects the leveling up in the barbering industry, with almost any preference achievable. The classic fade is still enduringly popular, but you can make tweaks and customisations, so it feels more like your own. Our barbers are always ready to help you create your signature look and turn that classic fade into something that’s 100% you. Book an appointment today to discuss your perfect fade.
More than a trim, the fade’s a statement. It’s a way to showcase your style and a testament to the skill of your barber. From its early days to becoming a staple of modern men’s looks, the fade has seen evolution after evolution. Let’s take a look at how this iconic cut has changed, and why it remains a firm favourite at Chaps & Co.
What is a classic fade?
The classic fade is a technique that involves a gradual transition from shorter to longer hair, typically starting very short at the neckline and gradually increasing in length towards the top of the head. The technique creates a smooth blend, giving the haircut a clean, sharp appearance. Initially, the classic fade was about precision and uniformity, focusing on a smooth, consistent gradient showcasing the barber’s technical skill. However, even in its early stages, barbers began to experiment with variations, subtly altering the length and blending, leading to the variety of styles we see today. The classic fade is timeless but you’ll find so many popular fade haircuts today there’s a style for everyone.
The Rise of the High Fade
As the fade gained popularity, barbers began pushing the boundaries, exploring different fade heights to create more dramatic looks. The high fade is a bold variation where the fade starts high on the sides and back of the head, often near the temples. This style creates a contrast between the very short sides and the longer top which creates a more pronounced and edgy look.
The Understated Low Fade
In contrast to the high fade’s boldness, the low fade offers a more subtle approach. This fade begins lower on the sides and back, typically just above the ear, creating a softer and more gradual transition. This style creates a more understated yet polished look, suitable for professional settings and everyday wear. The low fade’s versatility makes it suitable for various hair types and styles.
Versatility with the Mid Fade
Recognising the need for a middle ground that offers both sharpness and subtlety, barbers created the mid fade. This style sits between the high and low fade, offering a balanced and adaptable look that suits a wide range of hair types, face shapes and personal preferences. It blends the sharpness of the high fade with the subtlety of the low fade, making it a versatile choice for many. The mid fade offers the adaptability that many of us are looking for.
Originality and Movement with Textured Fades
As styling techniques advance, barbers incorporate texture into fades, adding a new dimension to this classic cut. Textured fades involve adding layers and movement to the hair on top. This approach adds depth and dimension to the classic fade, making it stand out and allowing for greater personalisation. Barbers all have their own approaches and you’ll find your barber can help you develop a signature style, incorporating your preferred fade.
Sharp Contrasts with a Skin Fade
If taking your fade to the absolute edge appeals, then the skin fade is for you. This style involves fading the hair down to the skin, creating a stark contrast and a clean, shaved appearance. The skin fade’s precision and sharpness make it a popular choice when teamed with a range of styles from pompadours to slick backs.
Blending Techniques and Styles for Your Unique Fade
Today, the fade has become a highly versatile and customisable haircut, allowing for endless creativity and your own style. Barbers can blend various fade techniques, incorporating elements of different fades to create styles that reflect individual preferences and personalities.
The evolution of the classic fade reflects the leveling up in the barbering industry, with almost any preference achievable. The classic fade is still enduringly popular, but you can make tweaks and customisations, so it feels more like your own. Our barbers are always ready to help you create your signature look and turn that classic fade into something that’s 100% you. Book an appointment today to discuss your perfect fade.
