As a beginner trying out the drop fade, there can be a lot of trial and error to get the look just right. Whether you’re new to this hairstyle or simply looking to try something fresh, the drop fade offers a clean, modern look that suits a variety of hair types. I’ve tested 10 different drop fade styles for beginners this June, and I’m here to share exactly what worked for me and the tips I learned along the way. From how to style it to what face shapes work best, Emma at Hair and Glory has got you covered!
1. Classic Drop Fade for Women
- Style Tip: The classic drop fade is a clean, timeless option that works well for any occasion, offering a sharp contrast between the longer top and faded sides.
- Perfect for: Women who prefer a neat, low-maintenance style with a bit of edge.
- How to Style: Fade the sides gradually from the top to the ears, leaving the top longer for styling flexibility. Keep it sleek by applying a light pomade or styling cream.
2. Drop Fade with Soft Waves
- Style Tip: Adding soft waves to the top of your drop fade creates a feminine, relaxed look while maintaining the sharpness of the fade.
- Perfect for: Women who want to combine texture and volume without losing the precision of the fade.
- How to Style: Create soft waves with a curling iron or flat iron, then apply a texturizing spray to enhance the waves. The sides should stay clean and faded for contrast.
3. Drop Fade with Fringe
- Style Tip: Pairing a drop fade with a fringe (either blunt or wispy) can add dimension and frame the face beautifully.
- Perfect for: Women who want a bold yet feminine look.
- How to Style: Cut the fringe to your desired length (blunt or soft), then create a drop fade on the sides, ensuring the fringe blends seamlessly with the top layers.
4. Textured Drop Fade
- Style Tip: A textured drop fade is perfect for those who want more volume and movement in their hair, giving the style a fresh and lived-in feel.
- Perfect for: Women who have naturally textured or layered hair and want to embrace a more relaxed look.
- How to Style: Use a texturizing mousse or spray to add volume to the top while maintaining the clean fade on the sides. You can use your fingers to tousle the top for a natural look.
5. Drop Fade for Round Faces
- Style Tip: A drop fade can help elongate round faces by creating height on the top and a sharp contrast with the sides.
- Perfect for: Women with round faces who want to add angles and elongate their features.
- How to Style: Keep the top volume high and layered, and fade the sides low to enhance the slimming effect on the face.
6. Drop Fade with Subtle Highlights
- Style Tip: Adding subtle highlights to the top of your drop fade can create depth and add dimension, making the fade stand out even more.
- Perfect for: Women looking to refresh their drop fade with a little pop of color.
- How to Style: Apply highlights to the longer top section of the hair, leaving the faded sides darker for contrast. Use a lightweight styling gel to define the layers.
7. Drop Fade with Shaved Side Designs
- Style Tip: A shaved design along the fade adds a unique and bold statement to your drop fade, perfect for women looking to stand out.
- Perfect for: Women who want an edgy, creative style.
- How to Style: After creating the fade, use clippers to carve in a geometric or artistic design along the sides, adding a personalized touch to the look.
8. Drop Fade with Long Curls
- Style Tip: A drop fade works beautifully with long curls on top, as the fade enhances the curls’ natural texture and volume.
- Perfect for: Curly-haired women who want to maintain their curls while still having a sharp and clean fade.
- How to Style: Keep the curls long on top and fade the sides. Use a curl-defining cream to enhance the curls and add shine.
9. Drop Fade for Fine Hair
- Style Tip: A drop fade can add volume and texture to fine hair, giving it more body without the need for excessive styling.
- Perfect for: Women with fine or thin hair who want more movement and volume.
- How to Style: Keep the top a bit longer and add a light-hold mousse for volume, while keeping the sides closely faded for a sharp contrast.
10. Drop Fade with a Side Part
- Style Tip: A side part in a drop fade adds a soft, feminine touch to the traditionally bold style.
- Perfect for: Women who want a more structured yet stylish look.
- How to Style: Part the hair on one side and keep the fade consistent, ensuring that the longer top section blends well with the fade.
FAQs
- What is the best way to style a drop fade? The best way to style a drop fade is by keeping the top textured and voluminous while keeping the sides clean and faded.
- Is drop fade easy to maintain? Yes, drop fade is low-maintenance, requiring only occasional trims to keep the fade fresh.
- Does drop fade work for all face shapes? Yes, the drop fade can be customized for different face shapes, such as round or square faces, to add definition and height.
- How long does it take to style a drop fade? Styling a drop fade typically takes 10-15 minutes, especially if you add texture to the top.
- Can you do a drop fade at home? Yes, a drop fade can be done at home, but it requires precision tools like clippers, and for the best results, a professional may be recommended for the first cut.
Have you ever tried a drop fade? Let me know which one you’d pick in the comments!
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