As we move into 2025 and beyond, one thing is certain: the fade hairstyle is here to stay. Not just for next year, but hopefully for the next hundred years as well.
So, what makes this cut so timeless, popular, and in demand? To understand its significance, we need to analyze its origins and evolution over time.
Tracing its roots can be challenging due to its simplistic appeal, but it's likely that men have been sporting some version of the fade since the beginning.
By examining pop culture, superstars, and key moments throughout history, this article will break down the important milestones of the fade. We’ll explore who started this enduring style, the variations that emerged from it.
The History of the Fade
Like the buzz cut, which can sometimes be considered a variation of the fade, the origins of the fade itself can be traced back to its use as a standard military hairstyle.
This cut was designed for hygiene, practicality, and safety, offering a low-maintenance solution for service members. While the fades worn by military personnel in the past looked quite different from the intricately detailed styles offered at your favourite Toronto barber today, the simple bald sides and short tops of that era laid the groundwork for this timeless cut.
Over the years, the fade has evolved, embracing a variety of artistic expressions and modern trends that reflect its enduring popularity.
Cultural Significance of Faded Hairstyles
Unlike its history, which is closely tied to a formal appearance born out of necessity, the cultural significance of the fade hairstyle can be attributed to a multitude of influences. Hip-hop culture played a pivotal role in popularizing the fade, with renowned rappers sporting crisp line-ups, shiny earrings, and artistic touches that added flair to their overall look.
Additionally, masculine movie stars have embraced the fade in iconic Hollywood productions. For instance, Michael B. Jordan’s character in Creed showcases the fade as a symbol of strength and resilience, while Tyler Durden’s transformation in Fight Club from messy hair to a rugged fade with distinctive slashes redefined the concept of masculinity in film. This blend of cultural and cinematic influences has firmly established the fade as a versatile and enduring style.
Types of Fade Haircuts
Skin Fade (Bald Fade)
A skin or low fade features a gradual transition starting just above the natural hairline, revealing about an inch of skin around the sides and back of the head. This fade is among the most popular in the grooming space today, and sweeps down softly behind the ears, maintaining consistent skin exposure for a clean, balanced look. This style pairs well with longer hair on top that is swept back, creating a sophisticated appearance that blends modern elegance with timeless appeal.
Mid Fade
The mid fade begins around the brow area, offering a slightly higher level of skin exposure. It drops behind the ears and along the back of the head, creating a seamless look that accommodates various top hairstyles. This versatile style shines even more when combined with a side-swept hairstyle, making it suitable for both casual outings and formal events.
High Fade
The high fade starts higher up on the head, typically around the forehead, exposing significant skin nearly up to the crown. This fade wraps around the head without a noticeable drop at the back, resulting in a sharp, striking profile. Pairing the high fade with a textured crop on top adds extra dimension and character, making it a popular choice for those wanting to stand out.
Drop Fade
While not a different style, people often use the term "drop fade" to describe certain types of fades, which can be confusing. Both a low skin fade and a mid skin fade qualify as drop fades because they feature a gradual drop at the back of the head. In contrast, a high skin fade does not include this drop towards the nape of the neck, making it distinct from drop fades. This unique descent adds flair to the style, allowing for various top hairstyles while providing an eye-catching contrast that enhances the overall look.
Taper Fade
The taper fade gradually decreases hair length down to the hairline, creating a soft blend at the temples and nape of the neck. Skin exposure varies from low to high, allowing for some length around the ears. Terminology for this style can differ based on location and barber preferences, including variations like temple fade, Brooklyn fade, and blowout fade. A low taper fade can be complemented by a voluminous blowout on top, merging classic charm with modern flair.
Burst Fade
The burst fade features a distinctive semicircular fade around the ear, dropping down behind the ear to the side of the neck. This style does not extend along the nape, giving it a unique identity. When paired with a textured crop on top, the burst fade creates a contemporary style that stands out. Additionally, the burst taper fade features a semicircular shape at the temple, offering a fresh take on the classic taper and can be effectively incorporated with a modern mullet for an eye-catching, vintage-inspired vibe.
How To Maintain a Perfect Fade
To maintain a crisp fade, there isn’t much you can do aside from getting another fresh fade. However, tailoring to your budget and cutting costs of maintenance if needed, you can choose from different trade styles that typically last longer and do not require as many frequent visits to your barber.
Round-up
Despite the endless variations and its peak popularity, there's never a wrong time to rock a fade. While you can read more about which fade suits your face shape, we encourage you to experiment with different styles and find what makes you feel confident and add your personal touch to what has been endlessly refined over the years.
