Hairstyle
The high top fade
TIGHT SIDES. FREE FLOW TOP.
The high top fade is a funky throwback to the streets of mid-80s New York City, back when hip hop was on the rise and every self-respecting B-boy’s hair had to keep up. Debates still rage over exactly which of the five boroughs’ legendary MCs invented the high afro fade, but it’s been hot on every block from the Bronx to Brooklyn ever since.
This look is all about an aggressively close shave on the back and sides. The transition from no hair to a full mane on top is abrupt – hence the name. It’s a style that’s graced the heads of many celebrities, and it looks tight with an afro.
How it began
The history
The high top fade is a variation on the flat top hairstyle, and first appeared in the early 80s during the golden era of hip hop. Worn by the biggest rap stars, it’s still going strong today.
The clue is in the name – high. Grow your 'fro as tall as it goes, and keep the slides close to work that juxtaposition.
Kieron Webb - The London Barber
HOW TO
Learn the fundamentals
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![Gently pick]()
01PICK
Gently pick curls loose with an afro comb.
,;Squeeze a fingertip amount of Axe Natural Look: Softening Cream into your hair.
,;Dab product through your hair with a damp sponge
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![squeeze finger]()
02SQUEEZE
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![dab product]()
03DAB
A quick hairspray and it’s time to go.
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![spray hair]()
04SPRAY
