The taper fade haircut has become one of the most popular hairstyles for men, thanks to its clean, sharp lines and versatile styling options. This classic cut gradually reduces the length of hair on the sides and back, tapering down to the skin or close to it, while leaving more length on top. The result is a sleek, polished look that works with various hair textures and styles, making it a go-to for men who want to look sharp and well-groomed.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the taper fade hairstyle — what it is, the different types available, how to get it, and how to maintain it for a fresh, sophisticated appearance.
What is a Taper Fade?
The taper fade is a hybrid haircut that combines a taper and a fade. The taper refers to the gradual reduction of hair length as it moves down the sides and back, while a fade involves blending the hair down to the skin or a very short length at the hairline. The beauty of this style lies in its seamless transition from longer hair on top to a shorter, more refined look on the sides.
The taper fade can be customized to suit different hair lengths, textures, and personal styles, making it a versatile option that works for nearly everyone. Whether you’re aiming for a formal, professional look or a more casual, edgy style, the taper fade can be adjusted to meet your needs.
Why the Taper Fade is Popular
The taper fade is a favorite among men for several reasons:
- Versatility: It suits all hair types, from straight to curly, and works well with various lengths. You can style the top in different ways, such as a pompadour, quiff, buzz cut, or textured crop, while keeping the sides and back clean and tapered.
- Low Maintenance: Once you get the perfect taper fade, it’s relatively easy to maintain. A quick trim every few weeks will keep the fade sharp, and the short sides mean less time spent styling.
- Modern Yet Timeless: The taper fade offers a contemporary look that still has a timeless appeal. Whether you’re going for a sleek, formal appearance or something more relaxed and trendy, this haircut always looks stylish and well-groomed.
- Highlights Your Facial Features: The gradual fade highlights the contours of your face, especially your jawline and cheekbones. This makes it an ideal choice for men who want to add definition to their facial structure.
Types of Taper Fades
One of the best things about the taper fade is that it can be tailored to suit your preferences and style. Here are a few common variations of the taper fade that men love:
1. Low Taper Fade
The low taper fade starts just above the ears and tapers down slowly toward the neckline. This style offers a more subtle fade, making it perfect for those who want a clean, professional look without too much contrast. It’s also great for men who prefer a bit more hair on the sides while still enjoying the sleekness of a fade.
2. Mid Taper Fade
A mid taper fade sits higher on the head, starting around the temples. This version of the taper fade offers a balanced look, with more contrast between the top and the sides. It’s a popular choice for men who want a stylish, modern appearance without going too extreme.
3. High Taper Fade
The high taper fade starts higher up on the head, closer to the crown, and quickly fades down toward the skin. This option is for those who want a bolder, more dramatic fade. It creates a striking contrast between the long hair on top and the short or shaved sides, making it a great choice for edgy styles like pompadours or mohawks.
4. Taper Fade with Curls
Men with naturally curly hair can rock a taper fade to enhance their curls while keeping the sides neat and tidy. The fade helps control the volume on the sides, allowing the curls on top to stand out. This style looks particularly good with a line-up or edge-up for added sharpness.
5. Skin Taper Fade
The skin taper fade, also known as a bald fade, takes the fade down to the skin at the sides and back. This version is bold and sharp, creating a stark contrast with the longer hair on top. The skin taper fade is ideal for men who want a modern, edgy look with a clean finish.
6. Taper Fade with a Beard
Combining a taper fade with a beard is an excellent way to create a cohesive and well-groomed appearance. The fade gradually transitions into the beard, blending the two together seamlessly. This is perfect for men who want to add definition to their jawline and keep their beard looking sharp.
How to Ask for a Taper Fade at the Barber
When you go to the barber for a taper fade, it’s essential to be specific about the look you want. Here’s how to make sure you get the perfect taper fade:
- Explain the Type of Fade: Whether you want a low, mid, or high taper fade, be clear about where you want the fade to start and how much contrast you’re looking for.
- Describe the Length on Top: Let your barber know how much length you want to keep on top. If you have a specific hairstyle in mind (e.g., a pompadour, quiff, or crew cut), mention it so your barber can adjust the fade accordingly.
- Discuss the Sides and Back: Do you want a skin fade or something more subtle? Be specific about how short you want the sides and back to go. If you want a more gradual fade, mention that as well.
- Add Details: If you want a line-up, hard part, or any other detailing, make sure to ask your barber to include it in the cut.
How to Maintain a Taper Fade
The taper fade is a relatively low-maintenance haircut, but to keep it looking fresh, you’ll need to follow a few simple grooming steps:
1. Regular Trims
To maintain the sharp lines and gradual fade, you’ll need a trim every 2–3 weeks. This prevents the hair from growing out too much and keeps the fade looking clean and defined.
2. Moisturize Your Hair
For men with curly or textured hair, keeping your hair moisturized is crucial. Use a leave-in conditioner or lightweight oil to maintain the health and shine of your hair, especially if you have longer curls on top.
3. Style the Top
Depending on how long your hair is on top, you may want to style it with pomade, gel, or a styling cream. For a slicked-back look, use a product with strong hold. For a more natural, textured look, opt for a lightweight cream or mousse.
4. Maintain Your Beard (If You Have One)
If you’re pairing your taper fade with a beard, make sure to keep the beard well-groomed. Regularly trim it and apply beard oil or balm to keep it looking neat and polished.
Conclusion
The taper fade is one of the most stylish and versatile haircuts for men. Its clean lines and customizable fade make it suitable for all hair types and face shapes. Whether you prefer a low-key, professional look or something more bold and trendy, the taper fade offers endless possibilities for personalization. With regular trims and a little bit of styling, the taper fade can give you a sharp, modern look that will never go out of style.
