Short, natural hairstyles for Black women incorporating faded sides were a popular trend around 2019. These styles offer a range of looks, from subtly tapered sides to more dramatically shaved designs. This allowed for personalized expression while embracing natural hair texture. Examples include fades paired with closely cropped curls, textured afros, or defined coils, creating a blend of femininity and edginess.
The rise of these styles reflected a broader movement towards embracing natural hair within the Black community. They offered a low-maintenance yet fashionable alternative to traditional longer styles or chemically straightened hair. This shift provided versatility, allowing individuals to easily transition between professional and casual settings. Moreover, it promoted healthy hair growth and scalp care by minimizing manipulation and damage from heat or chemical treatments. The popularity around 2019 cemented these styles as a contemporary expression of Black beauty and self-acceptance.
Further exploration of this topic could involve examining specific fade techniques, styling tips for different hair textures, product recommendations for maintaining healthy natural hair, and the cultural significance of these hairstyles.
1. Short Length
Short length played a crucial role in the popularity of faded natural haircuts for Black women around 2019. This length offered several advantages, contributing significantly to the overall aesthetic and practicality of the style. Shorter hair requires less manipulation, reducing the risk of breakage and promoting healthy growth. This proved particularly beneficial for individuals transitioning from chemically straightened hair to their natural texture. Additionally, short length provided a lightweight feel, ideal for active lifestyles and warmer climates. The ease of styling and maintenance further enhanced the appeal, aligning with the trend towards simpler, more natural hair care routines. Examples include the TWA (teeny weeny afro) combined with a fade, creating a chic and minimalist statement.
The connection between short length and faded styles lies in the balance and contrast they create. The cropped length on top accentuates the defined lines of the fade, emphasizing the artistry of the cut. This interplay between short, textured hair and precisely sculpted sides allowed for diverse styling options. The close-cropped length provided a blank canvas for barbers and stylists to showcase intricate fade designs, from subtle tapers to bold geometric patterns, further personalizing the look. This focus on precision and detail contributed to the overall sophistication and chicness associated with the style.
Understanding the importance of short length within this trend provides valuable insight into its lasting influence. It emphasizes the practicality and aesthetic versatility that drove its popularity. While individual preferences vary, the core principles of easy maintenance, healthy hair practices, and personalized expression continue to resonate. Short length, coupled with faded sides and natural texture, remains a relevant and stylish option for Black women seeking a contemporary and empowering hairstyle.
2. Natural Texture
Natural texture forms the foundation of this 2019 hair trend. Prior to this period, many Black women relied on chemical relaxers or heat styling to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards. The embrace of natural hair texture signaled a significant cultural shift toward self-acceptance and celebrating Black identity. This movement found expression in a variety of styles, with faded haircuts offering a particularly stylish and contemporary option. The interplay between the sharp lines of the fade and the organic texture of the hair created a visually striking contrast, highlighting the beauty of natural curls, coils, and waves. Examples include tightly coiled hair paired with a high fade, showcasing the versatility of natural texture within this trend. This allowed individuals to express their unique hair characteristics while embracing a fashionable and low-maintenance style.
The emphasis on natural texture had practical implications for hair health. Chemical relaxers and excessive heat styling can cause damage and breakage. Embracing natural hair allowed for healthier growth and reduced the need for harsh treatments. This focus on hair health further fueled the trend, aligning with a broader movement toward natural hair care practices. The popularity of faded haircuts provided a stylish and accessible entry point for women transitioning from chemically processed hair to their natural texture. The short length facilitated easier management during the transition phase, while the fade offered a modern aesthetic that celebrated the emerging natural curls and coils.
Understanding the connection between natural texture and this specific hairstyle provides valuable context. It underscores the cultural significance of the trend, highlighting its role in promoting self-love and challenging conventional beauty norms. This shift towards embracing natural hair continues to influence contemporary hairstyling. The versatility and visual appeal of faded natural haircuts remain relevant, offering a canvas for individual expression and celebrating the diverse beauty of Black hair.
3. Faded Sides
Faded sides represent a crucial element within the 2019 trend of chic, stylish, short, natural haircuts for Black females. The technique involves gradually shortening the hair on the sides and back of the head, creating a seamless transition from longer hair on top. This creates a visually striking contrast that accentuates the natural texture of the hair and adds a contemporary edge. The fade can range from subtle and tapered to dramatic and high, offering diverse styling options. Examples include a low fade that gently blends into the natural hairline, a mid fade that reaches the temples, or a high fade that extends above the temples, each offering a distinct silhouette.
The incorporation of faded sides provided several benefits. It offered a low-maintenance element to an otherwise textured style, simplifying daily grooming routines. The clean, sculpted lines of the fade also offered a polished aesthetic suitable for various settings, from professional environments to casual outings. Furthermore, faded sides provided a canvas for personalized expression. Barbers and stylists could incorporate artistic designs into the fade, creating unique patterns and adding an element of individuality. This customization allowed individuals to showcase their personal style while adhering to the broader trend.
Understanding the significance of faded sides within this trend provides crucial insight into its popularity and lasting influence. This technique offered a harmonious blend of practicality, versatility, and artistic expression. The clean lines and sculpted shape complemented the natural texture of Black hair, creating a style that was both modern and timeless. The ability to customize the fade further enhanced its appeal, allowing individuals to express their unique personalities. This element continues to be a popular choice in contemporary hairstyling, demonstrating its enduring relevance and adaptability within the broader context of natural hair expression.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding short, faded natural hairstyles for Black women, focusing on practical aspects and styling considerations relevant to the 2019 trend.
Question 1: What are the maintenance requirements for these hairstyles?
Regular moisturizing and cleansing are essential to maintain healthy natural hair. Short, faded styles typically require less frequent washing than longer hair, but consistent conditioning is crucial to prevent dryness. Trimming the faded sides every few weeks helps maintain the desired shape and crispness.
Question 2: Are these styles suitable for all hair textures?
Faded haircuts can be adapted to suit various natural hair textures. Consultation with a skilled barber or stylist experienced with natural hair is recommended to determine the most flattering fade and length for individual curl patterns and density.
Question 3: What styling products are recommended?
Products designed for natural hair, such as curl creams, gels, and oils, can enhance definition and manageability. Choosing products that provide moisture without weighing the hair down is crucial for maintaining volume and preventing product buildup.
Question 4: How often should I visit a barber or stylist for maintenance?
Maintaining the shape of a faded haircut typically requires visits every 2-4 weeks, depending on the rate of hair growth and the desired crispness of the fade. Regular trims prevent the style from looking overgrown and maintain its polished appearance.
Question 5: Can these styles be adapted for formal occasions?
Absolutely. While often associated with a casual aesthetic, short, faded natural hairstyles can be easily elevated for formal events. Accessorizing with elegant headbands, jewelry, or incorporating intricate braiding or twisting techniques can transform the look for special occasions.
Question 6: How can I protect my hair at night?
Wrapping the hair with a satin scarf or bonnet, or using a satin pillowcase, minimizes friction and helps maintain moisture, preventing breakage and frizz. This is especially important for maintaining the health and appearance of natural hair.
Maintaining healthy hair practices and consulting with a skilled stylist ensures a successful and stylish outcome. Individual preferences and hair characteristics should be considered when selecting a specific style within this trend.
Further exploration of this topic could include detailed tutorials, product reviews, and interviews with professional stylists specializing in natural hair.
Tips for Achieving Chic, Short, Faded Natural Hairstyles
Achieving a stylish, short, faded natural hairstyle requires careful consideration of individual hair texture, face shape, and desired level of maintenance. These tips provide guidance for navigating these factors and ensuring a successful outcome.
Tip 1: Consult a Skilled Stylist: Locating a stylist experienced with natural hair and fade techniques is crucial. A thorough consultation allows for personalized recommendations tailored to individual hair characteristics and desired aesthetic.
Tip 2: Consider Face Shape: Certain fade styles complement specific face shapes. Round faces often benefit from higher fades, while oval faces offer greater versatility. A skilled stylist can offer guidance on selecting the most flattering fade.
Tip 3: Choose the Right Fade Height: Fade height significantly impacts the overall look. Low fades offer a subtle, classic appearance, while high fades create a more dramatic and edgy statement. Personal style and lifestyle considerations should inform this decision.
Tip 4: Maintain Moisture Balance: Natural hair requires consistent moisturizing to prevent dryness and breakage. Utilizing quality leave-in conditioners and oils helps maintain healthy hair and enhances the definition of curls and coils.
Tip 5: Protect Hair at Night: Utilizing satin bonnets or pillowcases minimizes friction and moisture loss, preserving the style and promoting healthy hair growth.
Tip 6: Experiment with Styling Products: Various styling products, such as curl creams, gels, and edge control, can enhance definition and create different looks. Experimentation allows individuals to discover the products that best suit their hair texture and desired style.
Tip 7: Regular Trims are Essential: Maintaining the crispness of a faded haircut requires regular trims every 2-4 weeks, depending on individual hair growth rates. This prevents the style from appearing overgrown and maintains its polished appearance.
Following these tips ensures a successful and stylish outcome. Regular maintenance and communication with a skilled stylist contribute significantly to the longevity and overall aesthetic of the chosen style. These practices promote healthy hair while allowing for personalized expression through versatile and chic short, faded natural hairstyles.
The following conclusion summarizes the key benefits and cultural significance of this trend.
Concluding Observations
Short, faded natural hairstyles for Black women gained significant prominence around 2019, representing more than just a fleeting trend. This style signified a cultural shift toward embracing natural hair texture and celebrating Black identity. The combination of short length, natural texture, and faded sides offered a versatile and stylish option that challenged conventional beauty standards while promoting healthy hair practices. The trend’s popularity stemmed from its practicality, ease of maintenance, and the ability to personalize the look through varying fade heights and designs. This convergence of factors solidified its place as a contemporary expression of Black beauty and self-acceptance.
The legacy of this 2019 trend continues to shape contemporary hairstyling choices. It serves as a testament to the power of embracing natural hair and highlights the ongoing evolution of hair as a form of personal and cultural expression. Further exploration and appreciation of diverse hairstyling practices within the Black community enrich understanding of the multifaceted nature of beauty and identity. This encourages ongoing dialogue and celebration of the diverse expressions of Black hair and its profound cultural significance.