How to make the decision
Begin with placement and shape rather than guard numbers. Your hair density, growth direction, top length and tolerance for frequent maintenance all affect the result.
Practical guidelines
- Choose a low fade or taper
- Keep the top textured but not excessively tall
- A side part or crop adds useful width
- Avoid very high fades with towering quiffs
Ad placement
Styles worth previewing
Low Taper Fade
A soft, low taper focused around the sideburns and neckline.
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French Crop
A compact textured top brushed forward into a short, clean fringe.
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Side Part
A defined classic part with a controlled top and conservative sides.
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A good brief specifies fade height, shortest length, the weight above the blend, top length, texture and neckline. Generate the visual first, then use those details to make the request precise.
Create Your Barber PreviewFrequently asked questions
What matters most when oblong faces?
Start with the silhouette and blend height, then agree on the shortest guard, retained side weight, top length and maintenance level.
What should I show my barber?
Bring a clear side and back reference and describe what you like about the placement, shape and contrast.