The mid fade is the perfect all-rounder haircut. Halfway between a high fade and a low fade, it’s a tapered cut that ends between your temple and ears. Not only is it flattering, professional, and easy to maintain, it’s also versatile. That means you can style it in many different ways. For example, old-school gel or side-parted looks get a fresh, modern twist when paired with a mid fade. Meanwhile, a mid fade paired with a slick back or natural curls looks polished and sophisticated. Check out these versions of the mid fade that will make you want to book a trip to the barber right now.
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1. Mid-Bald Fade with Tight Curls
The mid fade can be adapted to suit multiple hairstyles and create a sleek appearance. It is ideal because of its versatility, and pairing your tight curls with a mid bald fade will give your hair even more definition. This is created because the sides and back are shaved off, drawing the eye to the hair on the top of the head and highlighting your curly texture. Curly hair is sexy but can also be high-maintenance, and the fade can help keep it under control. In addition, it will also create a contrast between the shaved sides and the thick hair on top. The result is a simple, effective cut with a masculine and modern twist. You may wish to wear your haircut with facial hair for a more balanced appearance.
2. Mid Fade with Comb Back
The mid fade haircut is tapered and ends between the temple and the ears. One of the appeals of this fade is that it is easier to wear and more subtle than other more dramatic fades, and can be styled in various ways. The comb back hairstyle features hair brushed back and can look very dapper. It can be adapted to suit different hair textures and lengths and is a masculine haircut that is well-suited to a fade. The combination will highlight the top of your head and give it volume. This can make your hair look fuller and thicker.
3. Mid Fade with Crew Cut
The crew cut is a masculine look favored by men who want a no-fuss haircut. It is defined by its simple short appearance and will look neat, lending itself well to multiple occasions, including the workplace. The crew cut can also be personalized to suit your preference, and pairing it with a fade like a mid fade is an excellent option. This fade is subtle, with the length between the top of the head and the sides and back being gradually shorter. It is ideal for men of all ages and can be adapted to various hair textures and types. Plus, it will make your crew cut feel sharper and more modern.
4. Mid Fade with Edgar Haircut
The Edgar haircut is a timeless choice for men who want short hair that is easy to maintain and versatile. It is a cropped, straight cut that goes around the head and features a small, straight fringe. You can adapt your hairstyle to suit your hair texture and type. You can do so by pairing the cut with a mid fade for those who want to add attitude and edge. This will help create a slight contrast between the hair on the sides and back of the head with that on top. It can make your hair look thicker and fuller and give a youthful appearance. In addition, the Edgar haircut can draw attention away from an uneven hairline.
5. Mid Fade with French Crop
The French crop is a classic men’s hairstyle defined by the short hair at the back and sides and a slight fringe. The appeal of this haircut is that it is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to various hair types and textures. You can also personalize your look, including a mid fade, giving it a sleek appearance. If your hair is naturally textured, the fade will help enhance that and create contrast. This is achieved by gradually shortening the hair on the sides and back. Your fade can also make your hair more manageable and reduce daily styling time. The mid fade is not dramatic, but it will give your haircut a modern update.
6. Mid Fade with Long Wavy Hair
Long wavy hair looks sexy and cool. It is one of the most sought-after hair textures and can make even the most simple haircut look good. The way you style your hair can also help frame your face and draw attention to your features. The appeal of pairing your hair with a fade is that it can create interesting proportions as the hair on top will appear thicker and fuller. You can choose to leave it longer on the top for more contrast. The mid fade can give you a masculine and sleek appearance and is a practical addition to your haircut as it can reduce styling time.
7. Mid Fade with Man Bun
The man bun has become one of the most popular ways for men to wear their hair. It is a simple and easy updo that is practical and can keep your hair away from your eyes. The man bun can be created with shoulder-length hair or longer and with any type of hair; the curlier your hair, the thicker and less structured your man bun will be. To give your man bun a slight edge, add a mid fade. The mid fade is defined by hair gradually tapering on the sides and back of the head and ends between your temple and ears. It is excellent for those who want a more professional and manageable look.
8. Mid Fade with Short Afro
The appeal of the mid fade haircut is that it is incredibly versatile and can be added to any haircut. To give your afro hairstyle a fresh, modern twist, you can pair it with a mid fade. In addition to looking polished and sleek, the fade can also reduce weight from your hair. This makes it easier to style and less maintenance. Afros are naturally textured, and when worn with the hair short on the back and sides, it can give your look more structure. This will also draw attention to the top of the hair and is a great way to show off your curls.
9. Mid Fade with Short Curls and Line Up
Curly hair can be versatile and styled in various ways, but if you want an edgy and cool haircut, consider pairing it with a line up and fade. The mid fade will add structure to your hair, remove weight, and keep it looking masculine and sleek. The line-up will add a modern twist and is a fantastic way to express yourself. It is created by shaving sharp angles or straight lines into your hair. This will focus on your temples and draw attention to the hairline. There are several options to choose from, and you can make it subtle or dramatic, depending on your preference. You could also add hair designs if you want to show off your fun side and let your personality shine.
10. Mid Fade with Widows Peak + Slick Back
If you have a widow’s peak, there are several ways to style it, and the right cut can make it look stylish. Some men try to hide it, but a slick back hairstyle is a perfect choice for those who want to embrace it. The slick back is a classic style that is dapper and can be adapted to suit various hair types and lengths. It can subtly add structure to your hair. For a contrasting look, you can pair it with a mid fade, which will give your hairstyle a sharpness and edge. It can also highlight the hair on the top of your head because it gradually fades on the sides and back, ending between the temples and ears. Combining a mid fade with a widow’s peak and a slick back makes for a bold hairstyle that should be worn with confidence.
11. Mid Fade with Slick Back
It’s no wonder you’ll see the mid fade with slick back hairstyle everywhere. It’s an incredibly flattering cut because it subtly frames your features while making your face look longer and more balanced. Plus, women consider the slick back to be one of the sexiest haircuts for men. Even better, it’s easy to style too as the structure is built into the cut itself. All you need is some clay or pomade, and you can create a look that’s perfect for work, a night out, or when you need to impress.
12. Mid Fade with Natural Waves
Make the most of your hair’s naturally wavy texture by combining it with a mid fade. Wavy hair is often thicker and harder to manage than straight hair, so a mid fade is a great choice. That’s because it will give your locks some structure while keeping your face as the focus. Plus, your curls will be under control – all you need is some defining spray, and you’re good to go.
13. Mid Fade with Faux Hawk
If you want to try out the faux hawk in a subtle way – or work your way up to the real thing – try teaming it with a mid fade. The difference between this style and a classic faux hawk is in the disconnection. A mid fade tapers the faux hawk into a gradient, allowing you to get the same punk effect but with a more casual feel.How do you cut a mid fade haircut?
14. Mid Fade with Hard Part
Those looking for a unique cut could try the mid fade with a hard part. Inspired by the 1920s, the style combines a sharp, wide, razored parting with an equally sharp fade. To make the most of the contrast between skin and hair, it looks best on guys with dark hair and fair skin. And because it’s such an attention-grabbing style, you’ll need to make sure you use pomade to keep every hair in place. Plus, regular visits to the barber are necessary to ensure the cut remains super clean and defined.
15. Mid Fade with Mohawk
The mohawk is a classic men’s hairstyle for a reason. It has an attitude, intensity, and a rock’n’roll vibe like no other. Put a new twist on the style by pairing it with a mid fade. The look works particularly well if you want to combine your mohawk with a beard, as it will connect the two in a cool way. A mid fade will also give your mohawk a stylish feel.
16. Mid Fade with Fringe
For a modern take on the ’60s bowl cut, try a mid fade with a fringe. Instead of a soft gradient, this look involves keeping the hair longer on top – but still finishing at the same place as a classic mid fade. When it comes to styling a fringe, sweeping it to the front is very flattering. It creates a symmetric effect that balances features and makes your face look more square.
17. Mid Fade with Line Up
If you’re looking to make a bold statement with your hair, a mid fade with line up will make sure all eyes are on you. Your barber can get creative with this look, shaving in different shapes and lines to create the final effect. However, pairing a line up with a mid fade means the cut has more structure and will look even more striking from the side than it does from the front.
18. Mid Fade with Blowout
The cool contrast of a blowout and a mid fade will earn you some attention. It’s all about height and volume at the crown of your head, paired with super smooth faded sides. For those reasons, it suits men with more angular features. To get the structural look of this hairstyle, leave your hair fairly long on top then use some pomade to hold it in place.
19. Mid Fade with Short Curls
A mid fade is a great way to show off short curls. As the rest of your hair is already short, the mid fade will blend perfectly with your natural waves. Because the mid fade means there’s very little hair on the side of your head, all eyes will be on your curls. Plus, as there’s less hair overall, it’s a very manageable curly style.
20. Mid Fade with Quiff
A quiff hairstyle looks great on all face shapes but is particularly flattering if you have a round face. That’s because it draws the eye up, making your face seem longer. Meanwhile, the mid fade has the same effect – with the bonus of making your hair look thicker. A quiff with a mid fade is a popular style for footballers, who often combine it with streaks or highlights. So if you want that soccer haircut, give this hairstyle a try.
Mid Fade Haircuts FAQs
How do you cut a mid fade haircut?
To cut a mid fade, you’ll need a pair of clippers with different sized guards from one to four. You’ll also need something to section off the top of your hair — crocodile clips are ideal. Start with the longest setting, and run the clippers up the side of your head, using a scooping motion to pull them away at the top. Just remember that a mid fade ends between your temple and ear. Switch to the next length down, and repeat the process, stopping lower than the previous section. Repeat moving down through the guards until you’ve completed the fade.
How do you ask for a mid fade?
To ask for a mid fade haircut, you need to understand what it is. This fade is tapered and ends between the temple and ears. It can add structure to your hair, giving you a sleek and professional appearance, or it could also achieve a contrast. When explaining to your barber what you want, be as specific as possible. You also want to discuss your hair texture and length and how this fade can be adapted to suit this and reflect your style. It may also help bring a picture or several photos to give a better idea of what you want.
Is a mid fade a good haircut?
The mid fade is one of the most versatile haircuts and can be adapted to suit hair of various lengths and textures. It can create a contrast with the hair on the top of your head, making it appear fuller and thicker. Or it can add structure and give you a neat and polished appearance. The appeal of the mid fade is its versatility, and it can be worn in a variety of settings. It is also a subtle fade, falling between the high fade and low fade. It is defined by hair tapering on the sides and back and ending between the temple and ears.
Mid fade vs. low fade
The mid fade haircut tapers and ends between the temple and ears. It is versatile, easy to maintain and worn by men with various hair types and textures. The low fade is a subtle look that focuses on the bottom inch of the hair. It tapers down the sides and lower on the head. Length is kept on the top. This is an excellent option for letting you add a modern twist to a classic hairstyle. The most obvious difference between these fades is that the mid fade tapers higher up than a low fade.
Mid fade vs. high fade
The mid fade haircut is the middle ground between the high and low fades. It tapers and ends between the temple and the ears and is an incredibly versatile and wearable look. The high fade provides a far more noticeable contrast between the hair on the top and the sides and back, created by the close shave. It starts above or around the temples. Both fades can be adapted to suit various hair textures and lengths and can be styled to suit your preference, from crew cuts to pompadours.
What is a mid bald fade?
A mid bald fade features a zero or razor as the shortest length, moving up to a one, two, or sometimes three depending on the graduation you want. It’s a more dramatic look than a regular fade.
What number is a mid fade?
You can request any number range for the clipper guards in a fade, but generally, you’ll start at a zero or one, moving through to three or four as the longest. A zero might be a bit short for some guys to start at, so you might like to graduate from a one to a three instead. Keep in mind that the bigger the variation, the more dramatic the fade will be.
How long does a mid fade last?
A mid fade will need touching up every three to four weeks. Keep in mind that the shorter you go, for example, a bald fade, the more regularly you’ll need to maintain the style.
Arabella Roden is a skilled writer and sub-editor with over ten years of experience across print, digital, and B2B. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and specializes in beauty, hairstyles, fashion, tattoos, and lifestyle topics. Arabella is currently the Chief Sub Editor at Mecca Brands and has been writing for The Trend Spotter since 2019.
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