20 Best Curly Hairstyles for Men with Fade Cuts
Curly hair comes with its own unique charm and character, but for many men, styling those curls can feel like a challenge. Enter the fade—a modern, versatile haircut that pairs perfectly with curly hair.
Whether you’re looking for a sleek, professional style or something bold and edgy, pairing a fade with your curls can take your look to a whole new level.
This guide will walk you through why fades are ideal for guys with curly hair, showcase 20 stunning fade styles, and provide tips to maintain this fresh haircut.
What is a Fade?
A fade is a men’s haircut style where the hair gradually transitions from long at the top to shorter on the sides and back. The term “fade” refers to the seamless blending of hair lengths, creating an effortlessly clean and polished look.
Variations like the high fade, low fade, mid fade, and skin fade offer endless options to suit different face shapes and personal preferences.
The key to any good fade is precision. Barbers use clippers in combination with scissors to achieve a smooth gradient that transitions naturally.
Benefits of a Fade for Curly Hair
Why should curly-haired men opt for a fade? Here’s why this haircut is perfect for those curls:
- Low Maintenance on the Sides: Shorter sides mean less time spent taming unruly curls and easier upkeep.
- Contrast and Definition: The fade emphasizes the curls on top, creating a sharp, defined contrast that highlights your hair’s volume and texture.
- Versatility: Fades provide a clean base that works whether you prefer a professional look or something more daring.
- Great for Any Hair Length: Whether your curls are long or short, fades can be adjusted to complement your style.
20 Fade Hairstyles for Men with Curly Hair
Below, we explore 20 fade hairstyles that will make you proud to show off your curls. Whether you’re going for subtle or dramatic, there’s a look for everyone.
1. Fade Hairstyles for Men with Curly Hair
Ideal for showcasing tight, small curls, the low fade ensures a clean and polished look while keeping all the attention on the curls at the top.
This style is a fantastic choice for those who want a neat, professional appearance with just the right amount of personality.
2. Mid Fade with Loose Waves
A versatile option that strikes a balance between casual and formal, the mid fade offers a smooth, gradual transition from the sides to the top.
It works especially well with looser curls or waves, giving off a relaxed yet stylish vibe that suits any occasion.
3. High Fade with Voluminous Curls
This bold style is perfect for those who want to stand out.
The high fade creates a sharp, clean contrast with the full, voluminous curls on top, adding height and drama. It’s a confident look that’s great for making a statement.
4. Skin Fade with Textured Fringe
The skin fade takes the sides down to bare skin, creating a sharp and modern look.
Paired with a textured fringe at the top, this style adds an edgy, unique touch, making it perfect for someone who likes a bold yet refined appearance.
5. Temple Fade with Side Part
A subtle fade around the temples combines perfectly with a clean side part for a polished, stylish look.
This haircut is ideal for those seeking a professional, timeless style that works equally well in casual and formal settings.
6. Drop Fade with Coiled Curls
The drop fade curves around the head, following the natural hairline to create a fresh, modern appearance.
This style is especially flattering for coiled curls, as it enhances their shape and texture, offering a sophisticated yet trendy vibe.
7. Burst Fade with Mohawk Curls
For those looking to turn heads, the burst fade is a bold choice.
It frames the curls in a fauxhawk or mohawk style, delivering a dramatic and edgy look that’s hard to ignore. Perfect for someone who wants to stand out from the crowd.
8. Scissor Fade with Loose Curls
A softer take on the traditional fade, the scissor fade keeps some length on the sides while creating a sharp, defined gradient.
This style complements loose curls beautifully, offering a natural, laid-back look with a touch of precision.
9. Taper Fade with Short Twists
Starting with a seamless taper at the neck and temples, this fade gradually blends into the hair on top.
It works particularly well with short, twisted curls, offering a clean yet stylish look that’s easy to maintain and perfect for everyday wear.
10. High Skin Fade with Shaved Design
Take your fade to the next level with a high skin fade paired with a custom shaved design.
The sharp contrast of the fade draws attention to the intricate design, creating a modern, standout look that allows you to express your individuality with style.
11. Afro Fade
Combining a high fade with a mini afro lets your natural curls take center stage while maintaining a neat and controlled look.
This style is perfect if you want to embrace your texture while keeping your haircut fresh and modern.
12. Shadow Fade with Tight Curls
This sophisticated fade features a subtle gradient that blends seamlessly into your natural curls, creating a refined yet relaxed appearance.
It’s a great option for those who want a low-maintenance style that doesn’t sacrifice elegance.
13. Curly Top with Undercut Fade
Pairing a voluminous curly top with an undercut fade creates a bold, high-contrast look.
This modern style is ideal for showcasing your curls while keeping the sides clean and sharp for an edgy vibe.
14. Slick-Back Fade with Wavy Curls
For a sleek, polished look, style your wavy curls by slicking them back.
The fade on the sides keeps the cut professional and well-groomed, making it perfect for both formal and casual settings.
15. Low Bald Fade with Spongy Curls
This cut is perfect for tighter, sponge-like curls.
The low bald fade adds a sharp contrast between the sides and the top, creating a clean, visually striking outline that enhances your natural texture.
16. Mid Bald Fade with Beard Connection
Blend a mid bald fade seamlessly into your beard for a cohesive, rugged appearance.
This style is especially flattering for tightly coiled curls, providing a structured yet masculine look that ties everything together.
17. High Skin Fade with Curly Quiff
Add height and volume by styling your curls into a quiff with a high skin fade.
This bold look draws attention to the top of your hair, making it a standout choice for those who love a striking, modern haircut.
18. Low Taper Fade with Defined Ringlets
Show off your natural ringlets by pairing them with a subtle low taper fade.
This style offers a polished and well-balanced appearance, making it great for anyone looking for a versatile and easy-to-maintain haircut.
19. Disconnected Fade with Longer Curls
A disconnected fade creates a dramatic contrast between the short, neat sides and longer, textured curls on top.
This bold, eye-catching style is perfect for someone who wants to make a strong fashion statement.
20. French Crop with Burst Fade
Keep your style short and trendy with this combination of a French crop and burst fade.
The cropped curly fringe in the front is complemented by the burst fade on the sides, giving you a sharp, modern look that’s easy to manage.
How to Ask Your Barber for the Perfect Fade
It’s important to communicate clearly with your barber to ensure your haircut meets your expectations. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Bring References: Show photos of the exact style you have in mind.
- Be Specific: Mention the type of fade you want (low, high, mid, skin, taper, etc.).
- Specify Curl Treatment: If you want the top trimmed or kept longer, explain clearly.
- Ask for Advice: Your barber has experience—ask them for recommendations that suit your face shape and curl pattern.
Maintaining Your Curly Hair Fade
Once you’ve got the perfect fade, here’s how to keep it looking fresh and stylish:
- Frequent Trims: Visit your barber every 2-3 weeks to maintain the fade.
- Moisturize Your Curls: Use curl creams or leave-in conditioners to keep curls hydrated.
- Diffuse While Drying: A diffuser attachment on your blow dryer can preserve curl definition while adding volume.
- Avoid Overwashing: Wash your hair 2-3 times a week to prevent drying out your curls. Use sulfate-free shampoos for added care.
- Shape With a Sponge or Comb: Tools like a curl sponge can enhance your natural texture for a clean, polished finish.
Experiment With Your Style
Fades are an excellent way to highlight the unique beauty of your curly hair while keeping things fresh and low-maintenance. With so many variations, you can experiment to find the style that suits your personality and lifestyle.
Remember, your hair is a reflection of you. Don’t be afraid to play around with styles, try bold designs, or keep it classic—you’ve got the curls to pull it off.
