Haircuts
Mid fade: balancing short sides and retained volume
A mid fade places the transition between a low and a high fade. There is no fixed measurement that gives everyone the same result. What matters is where the short area meets the fuller side and how that balance looks from the front.
Look at the darker area above the transition
A mid fade generally leaves a visibly fuller area above the blend. That area strongly affects the impression: broad and substantial, or narrower and lighter. Show your barber how much side hair you want to retain before pointing out the height alone.
Check the front view too. A transition that looks right from the side may add more width from the front than expected. You do not automatically need a higher fade to change this; first discuss how much weight can be removed above the blend.
Be explicit about the connection to the top
The connection looks different with a loose forward top than with hair combed firmly backwards. Arrive with your usual styling or show a photograph of your own everyday haircut. That grounds the discussion in what you actually wear at home.
Ask whether the longer top should gradually connect to the sides or deliberately fall over a shorter section. The term mid fade does not answer that question. Agreeing on it avoids a hanging edge when you intended a connected shape.
Assess the back separately from the side view
The line can descend behind the ear or stay closer to the same height. Look at the back of a reference and indicate the route you want. Head shape, growth direction and the available length all affect how that line translates to you.
Ask to see the side and back with a mirror at the end. Identify any area that feels too heavy or a transition that sits higher than discussed. That is more useful at the next appointment than remembering only that you had a mid fade.
Explore further
Discuss your preferences in the chair
Bring your reference and explain your everyday hair routine. Browse the treatments, then choose an appointment at L’Artiste in Almere.