BARBER 202 / FADE
Fades and taper consultations in Washington, DC
The height. The blend. The finish. Get specific about the details that make a fade feel like your own.
Choose the placement and shortest finish
Low, mid, and high describe where the blend sits. Skin describes how short the bottom finishes. Those are separate choices, so tell Pat both where you want the transition and whether you want visible shadow left at the shortest point. If you prefer a focused taper around the temples and neckline, bring a reference and explain the weight you want to keep around the rest of the sides.
Give the top and hairline their own instructions
A fade does not describe the whole haircut. Talk through the length on top, how you normally style it, and whether you are preserving length for a particular look. Explain whether you prefer your natural hairline followed or a more defined outline. Point out any area you want left alone. The aim is an agreed plan before the first pass, rather than relying on a name or guard number alone.
Keep the shape working between visits
Ask what to request at your next appointment and how the blend is likely to look as it grows. If you are considering a home touch-up, keep the original outline in mind and avoid repeatedly moving an edge to make it match. A full fade and a line-up are different requests. Review the service options on Patrick’s theCut page, and call if you are unsure which one fits the work you want.
Before you book
Does a fade have to go down to skin?
No. Discuss the shortest finish separately from the height. Tell Pat if you want some shadow left at the bottom.
What if I want a taper instead?
Review the haircut options on theCut and tell Pat that you want a taper consultation. Bring a reference to show where you want the blend and where you want to keep weight.