Introduction — How to get the haircut you want (and how to use your reference image
When you want to try a new haircut — whether with an AI hairstyle generator or at a barber — combining a clear reference photo with a carefully worded prompt (or explanation) gives you the best result. Start with a high-resolution front-facing photo (like the one you provided), make sure the face and hairline are fully visible, and decide how bold or subtle you want the change to be. Use the reference image to preserve your face shape, hair density, and natural texture; then apply a targeted prompt that specifies fade level, top volume, edge work, and styling finish. This ensures the result feels like “you” — only sharper, fresher, and suited to your features.
1. Modern Taper Fade Haircut — clean, contemporary, and versatile
The modern taper fade is an excellent option when you want a tidy look that still leaves room for natural top volume and easy styling. Ask for short, gradually tapered sides that blend cleanly into the skin near the neckline while keeping length on top so you can sweep or push the hair back. For AI prompts or your barber, emphasize “natural volume on top” and “clean transition” so the top keeps movement and texture without looking bulky. This style works well for most face shapes because the short sides visually lift the jawline while the volume on top maintains proportion.
Prompt: “A young man (referenced image) with thick hair styled in a modern taper fade haircut, clean sides with natural volume on top, cinematic outdoor portrait, realistic lighting, smooth background blur.”
Tip: For real-world styling, use a lightweight matte paste for texture and a blow-dryer on medium heat to create lift. Ask the barber for a 0.5–1.5 fade at the nape and a textured scissor-cut on top.
2. Textured Crop Hairstyle — low-maintenance with modern edge
The textured crop delivers strong surface texture and a slightly messy, fashionable finish. It pairs particularly well with thick hair because the layering at the crown and top adds definition without requiring much daily effort. Request short faded sides to keep the silhouette tidy, and ask for heavily texturized layers on top. When using your reference image with an AI tool, specify “detailed focus on hair texture” so the rendering captures the choppy layers, natural direction of growth, and subtle separation between pieces.
Prompt: “A young man (referenced image) with a textured crop haircut, short faded sides, thick layered top, slightly messy natural look, detailed focus on hair texture, soft daylight, high-resolution portrait.”
Tip: Use a small amount of sea-salt spray or texturizing powder for volume and separation. Tell the barber you want point-cutting for a lived-in texture rather than blunt layering.
3. Side Part Classic Look — timeless, sharp and professional
The side part remains a classic because it instantly gives a clean, structured silhouette. This look is ideal if you want a polished appearance for work or formal events but still want modern softness. Instruct the barber to create a defined part (natural or slightly exaggerated), pair it with a medium fade on the sides, and keep the top long enough to comb over smoothly. When using an AI prompt, emphasize “sleek combed hair with natural shine” and “professional portrait lighting” so the result reads as refined rather than overly styled.
Prompt: “A confident young man (referenced image) with a neat side part haircut, medium fade on sides, sleek combed hair with natural shine, elegant and sharp look, professional portrait lighting, realistic detail.”
Tip: For a natural glossy finish, use a light gel or water-based pomade. For a softer, matte look, choose a cream pomade and style with a comb and medium heat from a blow-dryer.
4. Low Fade with Curved Top — subtle drama and a modern silhouette
The low fade with a curved, voluminous top gives a modern, fashion-forward feel while staying wearable every day. This approach keeps the fade lower on the head, preserving more hair around the temples and creating a soft frame for your face. The top should be cut to form a gentle curve — higher in front and tapered toward the crown — which adds dynamic shape when styled forward or slightly up. For AI generation, mention the beard blend and “clean edges” so the facial hair integrates smoothly with the fade for a cohesive, intentional look.
Prompt: “A handsome young man (referenced image) with a low fade haircut, curved voluminous top, clean edges and light beard blend, realistic daylight, background slightly blurred, stylish and natural pose.”
Tip: A medium-hold wax and a quick blow-dry while shaping with your fingers will keep the curved top natural and controlled. Ask the barber for soft scissors on top and a clipper grade that gradually descends to the skin.
5. Short Pompadour Style — bold lift with a modern twist
The short pompadour offers a dramatic front lift without the upkeep of a traditional long pompadour. It suits thick hair especially well because the natural density helps the front stay elevated. Ask for medium-length sides (a moderate fade) and a noticeably higher front section that tapers into slightly shorter hair toward the crown. When creating an AI prompt, specify “high front volume” and “cinematic lighting” to highlight the volume and create a flattering portrait-style result.
Prompt: “A young man (referenced image) with a short pompadour hairstyle, medium fade sides, high front volume, trendy modern look, cinematic lighting, smooth bokeh background.”
Tip: Use a volumizing mousse when wet and shape the front with a blow-dryer. Finish with a medium-strong pomade to hold the lift while keeping the rest of the style flexible.
Conclusion — Choosing and testing your favorite look
Pick one or two styles that match your lifestyle and maintenance preferences, then run those exact prompts with your reference image in an AI hair-preview tool or show the prompt + photo to your barber. For best results in AI generators, you can tweak each prompt to mention stronger or softer fades, matte vs. shiny finish, or clearer beard blending. In the barber chair, bring the prompt text or a screenshot of your favorite AI output — it helps turn a mental picture into real-world instructions. With a good reference photo and a clear prompt, you’ll get a look that feels contemporary, confident, and uniquely yours.
