Which fade suits you? How to choose the right fade
A fade isn't a haircut – it's a technique: a smooth transition from short to longer hair. Which version suits you depends on face shape, hair type and how often you want to sit in the chair. Our barbers break down the differences.
Short answer
Which fade suits you?
Choose a low fade or taper for a discreet look and longer between cuts. Mid and high fades add contrast and suit round or square faces. A skin fade gives the sharpest finish but needs maintenance every two weeks.
The difference between fade types
A low fade starts just above the ears and stays close to the neckline. It's the most discreet version, works in any setting, and is a safe first choice if you've never had a fade before. It frames the head without changing your silhouette dramatically.
A mid fade starts around the temple and creates clearer contrast between the sides and the top. It suits round and square face shapes because it draws the eye upward and adds length. A high fade starts higher still and is the boldest – great with thick hair and styles with volume on top, like a pompadour or a textured quiff.
A skin fade (or bald fade) takes the transition all the way down to the skin with no guard. The result is sharp and clean, but grows out visibly fastest – expect maintenance every two to three weeks. A taper fade is the opposite: only the temple and neckline are tapered, the rest is left longer. It's the lowest-maintenance option and holds its shape for four to six weeks.
Hair type matters too. Straight, thick hair gives the sharpest transitions. Curly hair produces a softer fade that often suits a lower starting point, since the curls already create volume. Finer hair does best with a taper or low fade – too much contrast can make the top look sparser than it is.
Low fade and taper = most discreet and longest between cuts
Skin fade is the sharpest look but needs a trim every two weeks
We always assess face shape and hair type before the clippers start
How to choose your fade – step by step
Five questions to run through before booking, so you and your barber mean the same thing.
- 1
Start with face shape
Round or square faces benefit from a mid or high fade that draws the eye upward. Long, narrow faces are balanced by a low fade that keeps width at the sides.
- 2
Consider hair type
Thick, straight hair handles sharp transitions. Curly hair suits a lower starting point. Finer hair does best with a taper or low fade so the top doesn't look sparse.
- 3
Pick a maintenance level
A skin fade needs a cut every 2–3 weeks, a regular fade every 3–4, and a taper holds 4–6 weeks. Choose what you can realistically book.
- 4
Decide the length on top
A short top gives a clean look with minimal styling. A longer top needs product but allows more variation – quiff, slick back or textured finish.
- 5
Book and bring a reference
Bring a photo of the fade height you want. We go through it during the consultation and adjust for your growth pattern and neckline.
What our guests say
"Amazing attention to details, and all wishes taken into account. Best haircut experience!"
Verbatim excerpts from published Google reviews.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a fade and a taper?
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A fade is a gradual transition across the whole side and back, from very short to longer. A taper only affects the temple and neckline and leaves the rest longer. A taper is more discreet and grows out more gracefully.
How often do I need to redo a fade?
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Skin fade every 2–3 weeks, regular low or mid fade every 3–4 weeks, taper 4–6 weeks. The shorter the bottom of the transition, the faster the regrowth shows.
Does a fade work with curly hair?
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Very well. Curly hair creates a softer transition and the volume on top becomes a natural contrast. We usually recommend a low or mid fade with curls for a balanced shape.
Can I combine a fade with a beard?
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Absolutely – a beard fade connects the hairline to the beard so the transition is seamless. We do it as part of the haircut or as a beard trim. See our beard care guide for home maintenance.
What does a fade cost?
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A fade is included in our standard men's haircut. Current prices are on our prices page, synced directly from the booking system.
What should I say when booking?
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Say which height you want (low, mid or high), whether you want a skin fade or some length left at the bottom, and how long the top should be. Bring a reference photo if you have one.
Find us on Östermalm
Book your fade on Östermalm
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