The taper fade haircut is a versatile, low-maintenance style suitable for any face shape or hair type. Its air of timelessness appeals to men of all ages, offering them many options to express their individuality while looking great.
As the name implies, this cut combines a fade and a taper—that’s double sophistication for you. If you’re looking to try it out, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we highlight stunning variations of this haircut to help you find the perfect one.
What Makes the Taper Fade Haircut?
This haircut is longer on top and tapers down to a shorter length at the sides and back, creating a seamless transition. It’s a classic choice for men seeking a neat, eye-catching, and easy-to-maintain hairstyle.
It typically incorporates:
- A taper: graduated lengths that gradually shorten from the top of your head down to the nape of your neck, leaving longer hair on top.
- A fade: gradually blending hair into the skin, often exposing the scalp.
The combination of both styles results in a smooth transition that creates a versatile, sharper, and bolder look.
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The Versatility of the Taper Fade
A taper fade can be tailored to suit every occasion, whether casual or formal. It allows you to embrace a stylish look without spending much time on your hair. Also, it complements a variety of hair types, lengths, and textures, making it suitable for every man, regardless of your ancestry.
Additionally, this haircut enhances any face shape or personal style. The gradual transition between lengths will highlight your facial features, giving you a crisp and polished appearance.
How to Pick the Right Taper Fade for Your Face Shape
While this haircut complements any face shape, it’s essential to pick the right one for your features. Picking a style that fits your face shape will ensure the cut enhances your natural features.
If you have a heart-shaped face, a bald taper fade will take the attention from your forehead and balance out your chin. Similarly, high tapers suit square faces as they accentuate your angular features and create a striking contrast. Low and mid styles add height and structure to round faces, giving a flattering and balanced look.
How to Maintain & Style This Haircut
Regular upkeep and styling are essential to keep your haircut looking sharp and neat always. Follow these tips:
- Visit your barber every two to four weeks to touch up your haircut’s defined lines and shape.
- Wash and condition your hair with a high-quality shampoo and conditioner.
- Apply hairstyling products such as gels, pomades, or waxes to moisturize and create diverse looks.
- Customize your look by adding curls or adjusting the height or length.
Types of Taper Fades
Low Taper Fade
This style begins to taper near the ears and neckline, creating a subtle and clean look perfect for professional and casual settings. The low taper fade is versatile. It adapts to slicked-back and messy styles and strikes the perfect balance between a laid-back and edgy appearance.
Mid Taper Fade
This cut begins tapering at the temples and blends smoothly down the sides and back. It’s versatile and easy to maintain. Additionally, it offers a sharper contrast than the low taper fade, making it an excellent choice if you’re looking to switch from a skin fade.
High Taper Fade
This fade begins to taper above the ears and stays high on the sides and back, creating a bold contrast between the longer hair on top and shorter sides. It’s a modern, edgy look ideal for undercuts or disconnected hairstyles.
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Curly Looks
This haircut blends style and functionality, featuring a clean-defined taper emphasized by voluminous curls. Wear it if you like to maintain your natural curls while defining your edges.
Textured Crop
This style incorporates layers and textures into its varying top and side lengths. Like other taper fade styles, it typically features short hair on the sides and back, with longer hair on top.
Side-Part
Upgrade your favorite taper style with a side part to elevate its crispness and beauty. Experiment with a straight part, zig-zag, or add unique shapes to it.
Man Bun Fade
Got hair long enough to be manipulated into a man bun? Combine it with a taper fade for a funky, youthful look.
Pompadour/Quiff Taper
This style combines the taper fade with a pompadour or quiff. The finished look is a fashion-forward haircut that exudes confidence.
Afro Fade
This style is specifically tailored for afro-textured kinky or coily hair. It accentuates the beauty of your hair texture, leaving room for diverse lengths.
Braided Taper
Thinking of braiding your hair into cornrows or box braids? Shave off the sides and back to create that tapering, faded look. You’ll love how cute you’ll look.
Explore the Timelessness of Taper Fades
The taper fade haircut has become synonymous with timelessness and versatility. It can be combined with any hairstyle or cut, whether curls, mullet, or even braids. Embrace this haircut to express your personality while exuding a suave look. It’s become the best friend of the modern, stylish man.
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