Introduction
In a world saturated with fleeting trends, certain hairstyles possess a timeless appeal, consistently demonstrating their enduring style and adaptability. Among these, the low temple fade stands out as a haircut that seamlessly blends classic sophistication with modern edge. It’s a style favored by men of all ages and walks of life, a testament to its versatility and effortlessly cool aesthetic. But what exactly is a low temple fade, and why has it become such a staple in contemporary men’s grooming? This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of the low temple fade, providing everything you need to know to understand, achieve, and maintain this stylish haircut.
What is a Low Temple Fade?
The low temple fade, in its simplest definition, is a type of fade haircut where the hair is gradually tapered shorter, starting just above the ears and temples. The crucial element is the “low” aspect: the fade begins lower on the head compared to other fade styles, such as the mid fade or high fade. This placement gives it a more subtle, refined look, making it a versatile choice suitable for various hair types, face shapes, and personal styles. The transition from hair to skin (or hair to shorter hair) can be extremely smooth, often achieved using clippers and blending techniques. This can create a stark contrast or a gradual transition depending on the preferred aesthetic.
The enduring popularity of the low temple fade is a result of its practicality and aesthetic appeal. It offers a clean, sharp appearance that looks great in a professional setting while also effortlessly transitioning to a casual or even a more edgy style. The low temple fade is generally easier to maintain than haircuts that are longer all over, as the short sides require less effort to style. Additionally, the cut can be adapted to complement various hair types, from straight to curly, and can be customized to suit the individual’s unique preferences.
Who is the Low Temple Fade For?
So, who exactly is the low temple fade perfect for? The truth is, it’s a remarkably adaptable hairstyle.
Hair Types
Let’s consider hair types. The low temple fade works well with a variety of hair textures. Men with straight hair can achieve a clean, precise look, allowing the fade to showcase the sharp lines of the cut. For men with wavy hair, the fade complements the natural texture, providing volume and movement on top while keeping the sides neat. Those with curly hair can also benefit from this style, as the fade can help to manage the volume and reduce the bulkiness on the sides, allowing the curls to sit well on top. The versatility of the low temple fade means that it can be tailored to complement the natural texture and enhance the overall look of your hair.
Face Shapes
Furthermore, consider face shapes. The low temple fade can be adapted to suit a range of face shapes. For those with oval faces, which are generally considered the most versatile, this hairstyle offers a balanced and flattering look. Men with square faces can soften their features, as the cut provides a modern and refined style, highlighting their strong jawlines. For those with rounder faces, the low temple fade can add some dimension, making the face appear longer. Even men with diamond-shaped faces can benefit from the low temple fade, which can balance out the wider cheekbones.
Beyond these considerations, the low temple fade is ideal for the modern man with an active lifestyle. Its low-maintenance nature makes it a convenient choice, reducing the time spent on styling. The need for frequent washing and products is minimal compared to longer hairstyles, making it ideal for individuals who prioritize convenience without compromising on style.
How to Get a Low Temple Fade
Now, how do you go about getting a low temple fade? The process begins with a crucial step: finding the right barber.
The key to a successful low temple fade is a skilled barber who understands the intricacies of fading and blending. Research barbers in your area who specialize in men’s haircuts and have a strong portfolio of fade styles. Look for positive reviews, especially those that mention fade cuts, to ensure you’re selecting a professional who delivers exceptional results.
Clear communication with your barber is also essential. Before you even sit in the chair, have a conversation. Have a clear picture in mind of the desired style. Bring inspiration photos to illustrate the specifics of what you want. This can include pictures of celebrities, models, or even examples from the internet. Be specific about the height of the fade – emphasizing “low” is crucial to ensuring the cut starts where you envision. Discuss the desired hair length on top. Do you want it longer for styling versatility, or shorter for a more minimalist look? The more details you can provide, the better the chance of achieving the desired outcome.
Once you’re in the chair, the barber will execute the cut. They will begin by using clippers to trim the sides and back, gradually tapering the hair from the desired starting point (just above the ears and temples). The fade is meticulously crafted using clippers, trimmers, and often a razor to blend the hair seamlessly. The barber will then address the hair on top, which is either left longer or cut to a specific length, depending on your preference and the desired look. The entire process can take anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the style and the barber’s skill.
When discussing the final outcome, do not be afraid to discuss with your barber. If there are any issues with the fade, discuss adjustments immediately. This open communication is crucial to get the haircut right.
Styling a Low Temple Fade
After getting your low temple fade, styling is a critical component of the overall look. The good news is the low temple fade is very simple to style.
The type of hair products you use will heavily influence the final aesthetic. If you’re going for a sleek and polished look, pomade is an excellent choice. Pomades add shine and provide a medium to strong hold. For a more defined and structured style, gel offers a strong hold and a wet look. For a natural, textured finish, sea salt spray is a great option, adding volume and creating a relaxed, tousled appearance. Waxes are suitable for textured looks, providing a firm hold and a matte finish. The best product will depend on your hair type, length on top, and desired style.
Once you have the product, the styling techniques are simple. If you have longer hair on top, you can consider a comb over or a quiff. Applying product, using a comb or fingers to style the hair, and achieving the desired shape. Air drying offers a natural look, or you can use a blow dryer for additional volume or texture. The goal is to create a cohesive look between the faded sides and the styled top.
Variations of the Low Temple Fade
For those seeking a more edgy look, consider different variations on the low temple fade.
Skin Fade
Sometimes, you see a “skin fade” variation, where the fade goes down to the skin completely. This provides a very stark contrast, and requires great attention to detail. If the top hair is styled to complement the skin fade, the final product can be very fashionable.
Tapered Fade
Another variation involves tapering the hair. Tapering is a gradual thinning of the hair towards the bottom of the head, often with a blend of different lengths. This creates a softer transition between the hair and skin, and is an excellent way to customize a low temple fade to a specific person’s needs.
Textured Low Temple Fade
Texturing the top hair is another customization option. This can be achieved using texturizing shears or by applying hair products that add texture, such as sea salt spray or texturizing clay. This adds dimension and allows for more styling possibilities.
Designs
Some people are more adventurous and will have designs put into their low temple fade. These are often referred to as hair tattoos and require special barbering skills to achieve. If you choose to do this, make sure the barber is a specialist.
Styling Options
Finally, consider the different styles that can be created on the top of the head. You can achieve a simple slick back look, or try a style that has a lot of volume. All of these styles are made possible with a low temple fade.
Maintenance and Care
Now, let’s discuss the practical aspects of maintaining your fresh new cut.
The frequency of trims will depend on how quickly your hair grows and the desired sharpness of the fade. Typically, a low temple fade requires a trim every two to three weeks to maintain the clean lines and prevent the fade from growing out too much.
The good news is that the maintenance for this style is generally quite low. When washing your hair, use a shampoo designed for your hair type. Moisturize and hydrate your hair as needed. You can keep the style fresh in between barber visits. While you probably don’t want to cut the fade yourself, you can always trim the top yourself.
As your hair grows out, the shape of your low temple fade will gradually change. To maintain the overall look, you may need to adjust your styling techniques or use different products. The key is to pay attention to the natural direction of your hair growth and adapt your styling accordingly.
Benefits of the Low Temple Fade
What are the core benefits of getting this style?
A low temple fade’s versatility ensures it works on all kinds of hair and face shapes. The hairstyle is very low maintenance. The low temple fade is considered a stylish and modern look. With the proper styling, the haircut can be worn in various situations, including formal and casual occasions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are a few common pitfalls to avoid with the low temple fade.
One of the biggest is a lack of communication with the barber. If you don’t describe what you want clearly, you could wind up with a different hairstyle from what you expected. Over-styling is another issue. Using too much product can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy. The opposite can also be true. If you do not use enough product, your hairstyle may not stay in place. It’s important to understand the right product amounts to use.
Finally, it’s crucial to understand your hair. If you are using products that are not suitable for your hair type, you may struggle to achieve the desired look. Be sure to ask your barber for suggestions and read product reviews before purchasing any new hair styling supplies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the low temple fade is an undeniably stylish, versatile, and manageable haircut that offers a clean, modern look for men. With the right barber, clear communication, and a little attention to styling and maintenance, you can enjoy the benefits of this classic haircut for years to come.
Are you ready to elevate your style? Find a skilled barber, gather your inspiration photos, and experience the transformational power of the low temple fade. You won’t regret it.
