Term

Fade

A fade is a smooth blend from very short hair to longer hair, usually done with clippers. It matters because it decides how hard or soft the transition looks: a visible edge reads as dramatic, while a blended fade reads as neat and understated. In a blended two-block cut the transition is faded, which suits settings with traditional dress expectations. A fade is different from a two-block cut, which is defined by two distinct zones. See also: Taper, Clipper guard, Two-block cut, and the guide The Two-Block Cut Explained.