Fade to Flat Top
A retro classic originating from 1950s military culture that gained iconic status in 1980s-90s hip-hop. Features hair cut to form a perfectly flat horizontal plane on top with modern faded sides. Popularized by icons like Will Smith and Kid 'n Play. Requires thick, straight or coarse hair for best results and demands precision barbering with flat-top guides. Style with strong-hold gel or pomade to keep hair upright; maintain every 2-3 weeks for geometric precision.
IDEAL_FACE_SHAPES
SUITABLE_FOR
- vintage lovers
- thick straight hair
MULTI-ANGLE_VIEW
FRONT / SIDE / BACK
HISTORY_&_ORIGIN
The flat top emerged from U.S. military culture in the 1950s, designed to be uniform and practical. It became an icon of hip-hop culture in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with artists like Kid 'n Play, Big Daddy Kane, and Will Smith sporting elaborate versions. The style represents a unique intersection of military precision and urban creativity.
MAINTENANCE
High maintenance style requiring touch-ups every 2-3 weeks to maintain the perfectly flat plane. Daily styling is essential - the hair must be trained to stand upright. Requires strong-hold products applied religiously. The geometric precision is the key feature.
RECOMMENDED_PRODUCTS
- Strong-hold gel
- Flat top comb/pick
- Blow dryer
- Wave cap or durag
- Finishing spray
- Edge control
BARBER_TIPS
Ask for a classic flat top with faded sides. This cut requires a specialist - not all barbers can execute it well. The barber should use flat top guides/combs for precision. Discuss the height you want - flat tops can range from subtle to dramatic. Your hair needs to be thick and coarse for best results.
STYLING_STEPS
- 1
Apply strong-hold gel to damp hair
- 2
Blow dry while using flat top comb to push hair straight up
- 3
Work in sections to ensure all hair stands upright
- 4
Use hand and comb to flatten the top into a level plane
- 5
Apply more gel to any areas that won't stand
- 6
Wear wave cap for 30 minutes to set the shape
