A high fade offers bold contrast and edge, while a low fade delivers subtle structure and everyday versatility. The best fade for you depends on your lifestyle, face shape, and how sharp you want your silhouette.
In 2026, men’s grooming is all about subtle decisions with big impact. And one of the most defining details in any haircut is the fade. Whether you’re a London professional near Fitzrovia or a creative working from cafés in Shoreditch, your fade says a lot before you do. The high fade and low fade remain two of the most requested cuts at Pall Mall Barbers Fitzrovia, but each creates a completely different look and vibe.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your fade is doing you justice, this guide breaks it down so you can walk into your next appointment with clarity and walk out sharper than ever.
What Is a High Fade and Why Do London Men Love It
A high fade starts around the upper temples, aggressively shortening the sides and back of the head for a bold contrast. It brings attention to the upper crown and delivers a clean, edgy silhouette that works well with short-to-medium top lengths. In 2026, the high fade is trending among younger professionals and men looking for a standout, high-energy look.
It pairs best with defined styles like textured crops, structured pompadours, or slick-back tops. If you want to frame your face or create a more angular appearance, this cut does the job. Barbers in Fitzrovia recommend high fades for men with rounder face shapes who want to add structure and height. It’s also ideal for men who wear their hair tight and want their beard trim to pop.
What Makes the Low Fade a 2026 Staple
The low fade, by contrast, starts just above the ears and softly tapers up. This gives a more understated, natural blend that works with all hair types and face shapes. It’s the go-to choice for men who want structure without sacrificing subtlety. The low fade has become a staple in 2026 for professionals who want to look polished without going too aggressive.
London’s best barbershops near Tottenham Court Road and Great Portland Street often recommend low fades to clients who want something office-appropriate that also transitions well into weekends. It’s especially flattering on longer or oval face shapes, and blends beautifully with classic side parts, soft waves, and longer crowns.
Which Fade Works Best With Your Lifestyle?
If you’re in a high-visibility role or like your grooming to make a statement, the high fade brings boldness and edge. It photographs well, works for social media and content creators, and feels intentionally styled. However, it also requires sharper upkeep, especially around the sides and neckline.
On the other hand, the low fade suits men who want their haircut to last a little longer between trims. It’s less about flash and more about flow. You still get clean edges and a polished shape, but the maintenance feels more relaxed. For London men with early morning commutes and client meetings, the low fade blends seamlessly into any routine.
Barber Insight: “It’s not just about face shape, it’s about personality. High fades say bold. Low fades say balanced.”
Styling and Product Recommendations for Each Fade
For high fades, structure is everything. You want a product with hold and definition like Pall Mall Barbers Matte Clay to keep your crown crisp and your side lines defined. This product creates volume and hold without shine, perfect for showing off that contrast.
Low fades benefit from more natural movement, so we recommend Pall Mall Barbers Styling Cream. It adds a bit of hold and a touch of shine while keeping your style soft and wearable. Use it on damp hair for a lightweight finish that still feels fresh by the end of the day.
No matter the fade, always use a clean edge trimmer to maintain your neckline between visits—and consider a beard trim in Fitzrovia to keep everything symmetrical.
Where to Get the Perfect Fade in Fitzrovia
Book Your Fade With the Experts at Pall Mall Barbers Fitzrovia
Whether you’re leaning bold with a high fade or opting for smooth subtlety with a low fade, it all comes down to the execution. At Pall Mall Barbers Fitzrovia, every fade is consultation-led, tailored to your face shape, routine, and goals.
Conveniently located near 45 Fitzroy Street, we offer walk-in and appointment services that help London men keep their grooming standards high year-round. Come in with questions—leave with a cut that actually works for your lifestyle.
Walk in sharp. Walk out balanced.
Recommended Award-Winning Men’s Grooming Product
Pall Mall Barbers Pompadour Paste – Classic Volume, Modern Control
Want a bold, structured style that lasts all day? Pall Mall Barbers Pompadour Paste delivers strong hold, natural texture, and effortless volume, making it the ultimate styling essential for modern gentlemen. Whether you’re going for a sleek pompadour, a voluminous quiff, or a well-groomed side part, this barber-approved formula ensures your look stays sharp and defined—without stiffness or grease.
- Strong Hold, Natural Movement – Locks your style in place while staying flexible.
- Matte Finish, No Grease – A clean, modern look with zero buildup.
- Long-Lasting Volume – Perfect for pompadours, quiffs, and high-textured styles.
- Barbershop-Quality Grooming – Crafted for men who demand excellence.
Master the art of classic styling—because great hair never goes out of fashion.
Pall Mall Barbers Pliable Clay – Maximum Hold, Effortless Style
Struggling to keep your hair in place all day? Pall Mall Barbers Pliable Clay is the ultimate styling essential for men who demand control without stiffness. This professional-grade clay delivers a strong yet flexible hold, keeping your hair perfectly styled while maintaining a natural look. Shop now!
- Matte Finish, No Shine – Ideal for modern, textured styles.
- Long-Lasting Hold – Locks your style in place without weighing it down.
- Easy to Restyle – Stay sharp all day with a flexible, touchable feel.
- Infused with Natural Ingredients – Strengthens and nourishes your hair.
Pall Mall Barbers Volumising Dust – Instant Lift, Effortless Control
Need more volume and texture in seconds? Pall Mall Barbers Volumising Dust is your secret weapon for instant lift, lightweight hold, and natural matte texture. Designed for men who demand fuller, thicker-looking hair, this barber-approved formula absorbs excess oil while adding weightless structure, perfect for achieving a bold, effortless style.
- Instant Volume & Thickness – Boosts hair without stickiness.
- Matte Finish, No Shine – A clean, natural look with texture.
- Flexible Hold – Keeps your style in place without stiffness.
- Barbershop-Quality Styling – Trusted for professional results.
Turn up the volume—because confidence starts at the roots.
Pall Mall Barbers Fitzrovia Location
Pall Mall Barbers Fitzrovia is between Warren Street and Great Portland Street tube stations, and a short walk from Euston. At the north end of Tottenham Court Road, our Fitzrovia barbers are a leisurely stroll from nearby Regent’s Park.
Fitzrovia barbershop is one of our most popular, thanks to its perfect location. Our master barbers are experts and executioners in all men’s haircuts, shaves, and beards, from classic to modern haircuts. That’s what makes Pall Mall Barbers the best barbershop in London. Near Tottenham Court Road, Euston, Warren Street, Oxford Street, and Great Portland Street, you will find our Fitzrovia Barbers. Located close to the BT tower, which stood as the UK’s tallest building until 1980, it is only right that we offer the services of barbers Baker Street, which make you feel tall and proud as you leave.
Nearest Tube Stations
- Warren Street
- Great Portland Street
- Euston
- Tottenham Court Road
FAQs – High Fade vs. Low Fade Haircuts in 2026
- Which fade is trending in 2026?
Both, but high fades are more popular among bold, fashion-forward men. - Can I get a fade that’s somewhere in between?
Yes. Ask your barber for a mid fade. - Is a high fade good for thick hair?
Absolutely, it removes weight from the sides and highlights your crown. - What face shape suits a low fade best?
Oval, longer, or angular face shapes work well. - Do fades work with curly hair?
Yes, both high and low fades can be adapted to curls. - How often should I maintain a high fade?
Every 2–3 weeks for clean lines. - What’s the most versatile fade for office and social life?
The low fade offers the best day-to-night transition. - Which product is best for high fades?
Matte Clay for control and volume. - Can I walk in for a fade near Fitzrovia?
Yes. Pall Mall Barbers Fitzrovia welcomes walk-ins. - Where can I get a professional fade near Tottenham Court Road?
Pall Mall Barbers Fitzrovia, just around the corner.
