In the last decade, men’s bald fade haircuts have skyrocketed in popularity. The bald fade haircut is characterized by short hair on the sides and back and gradually getting longer toward the top.
But who can actually carry off such a style? Here’s a rundown of the types of people that can successfully sport a bald fade haircut:
Men with Short to Medium Length Hair on Top
Men with short to medium hair on top benefit most from the bald fade. A few inches of hair that can be shaped into a quiff or comb over is ideal, but a short crew cut is also acceptable.
This style is defined by the sharp contrast between the very short fading sides and the longer hair on top. Men with short buzz cuts on top do not get the same enhancement.
Related: 14 Best Bald Fade Haircuts Ideas – Updated for 2023
Men with Straight or Wavy Hair Textures
Hair that is reasonably straight works best with the bald fade. Men with straight, wavy, or loosely curled hair can pull off a clean style with the lengthier top.
Hair that is curlier or coilier tends to need extra length on top to help it lay flat. Therefore, extremely short, bald, fading sides do not go with such textures.
Related: What is a Bald Fade Haircut?
Men with Oval, Square or Rectangular Face Shapes
Faces with prominent angles look great with a bald fade. The short sides work best with oval, square, and rectangular faces that have strong jawlines. More hair on the sides might help to balance out softer, rounder, or heart-shaped faces.
However, a competent barber may adjust the fade to lessen the appearance of any discrepancy.
Younger and Middle Aged Men
The bald fade is popular among men in their late teen years through their forties and fifties. The cool kids will dig the edgy modern vibe.
But it also works well for elderly guys who desire a low-maintenance, fashionable style with short sides. On older males with very sparse hair, the cut can be overpowering.
Black or African American Men
Black males are a group that frequently sport the bald fade. A striking, well-defined effect can be achieved on afro-textured hair by contrasting very black hair on top with faded sides.
The culture of black barbershops is an inspiration for today’s edgy urban look. However, guys of any race or background can wear it.
Related: How Do I Maintain a Bald Fade Haircut?
Men with Beard or Facial Hair
Beards, goatees, and mustaches look great with the bald fade haircut. Face is highlighted and framed by the extremely narrow shoulders. Therefore, facial hair can be the “accessory” that draws the most attention.
Even though shaven guys can rock bald fades, the style is more interesting when paired with facial hair.
Men with Good Head Shape
Having a well-proportioned skull is advantageous for the bald fade since it displays more of the temples and back of the head. It’s possible that really short faded sides won’t look well on a person with a perfectly round or deformed head.
However, many people may function normally with less-than-ideal head shapes.
Men Who Want an Edgy Modern Style
Men who want to channel a modern bad boy or hip hop style might choose a bald fade. It has an edgy design that is always fashionable, particularly among younger men. It’s appropriate for numerous business situations while still retaining an air of subtlety.
Related: How is a Bald Fade Different From a Regular Fade?
Men Who Want Low Maintenance Styling
The bald fade haircut has the advantage of being simple to care for and quick to style. Every few weeks, all you need are the clippers and a fast buzz to maintain the very short sides. Neither splicing nor trimming is required. Put the top layer of hair up and out of the way.
