Beard or no beard, another thing to consider is that the drop fade is a high-maintenance hairstyle. It lives or dies on that tapered contrast, so it might not suit men who don’t like spending lots of time in the barber’s chair. “Because this trim is lower at the back, you may notice it growing out a big quicker than usual,” says Conlon. No big deal if you’re a regular, but it may up your cash outlay if you’re not used to a weekly visit.

How To Get It

It’s one thing to decide upon a haircut, but communicating it properly to your barber is a must. Don’t play head games with muddled, unclear chat.

“Ask for something low around the edges,” says Stanley. “You have to decide whether the fade should hit the skin: a 0, 0.5 or a full 1.” This dictates how close your drop fade cut will be.

While Hollywood types with stylists on standby have long opted for a stark skin fade, this style will grow out quicker and require regular chops if it’s to stay razor-sharp. Think about how often you want to visit (and indeed, pay) the barber. If you’re tight on time or cash, opt for a softer fade to give you a little wriggle room.

That said, a quality hairstyle isn’t solely your barber’s responsibility. They lay they foundations, but it’s up to you to style your topiary each morning. Selecting the right product will make this job a doddle.

“It all depends on the length and hair type,” says Stanley. “For example, I’d suggest a textured salt spray for a longer look, finished with matte hair clay to ensure plenty of natural movement.” If you’re looking for a tighter finish though, look elsewhere. “A pomade will create a classic 1920s look. This creates a slick, wet finish with a more traditional, polished feel.”

Or, if you prefer to keep the barber small talk to a bare minimum, take a picture for visual reference. We’ve got plenty below.