It's official: The undercut is trending. This edgy style — which leaves the upper layers long, with the sides and back cut short — was popularized in the '90s by men, but is quickly becoming a trendy 'do for cool ladies. So much so that we even think it deserves its own name: The Lady Fade.
The Lady Fade is a new take on traditional short cuts, with hair pros now using a more modern and flattering method. Hairstylist Edward Lampley says that instead of clippers, fades are done with scissors to create a trendier vibe — less like a barbershop buzz cut. “With the undercut, you are shaving off the hair completely, and the point of the fade is to create a hair shape that will [enhance] your head shape and facial features,” he explains.
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And, while the style requires a lot of upkeep (like most short styles), it's one major way to try something new and adventurous — it creates texture and a variety of styling options.
Click ahead to learn how some of Hollywood's finest do the Fade.
The 'do works for all hair types, as long as you do it right. But, it’s not ideal for all face shapes. “The Lady Fade isn’t for everyone,” Lampley adds. “It’s best for someone with prominent features, such as strong cheekbones and great eyebrows…It’s a drastic change, [so it’s] very important to sit down with your stylist and discuss it.”
The levels of Lady Fade vary from super close-cut, as seen on Amber Valletta, to a less severe take on Malin Åkerman. Rosamund Pike wears a barely-there fade that is only visible when her hair is up, while Rosario Dawson prefers an asymmetrical approach.
Are you into the Lady Fade, or is the pixie more your short-hair speed?
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