Why Every Guy Should Try a Taper Fade at Least Once
The first time I saw a taper fade, I was just a kid at the barbershop, totally clueless about the style. Now, I get why it’s everywhere this cut blends hair from longer on top to shorter on the sides and back, creating a smooth, clean look. A taper fade works with any hair type and always feels fresh and stylish. My barber told me it’s the perfect mix of sharp and natural, without harsh lines. If you want a haircut that fits school, work, and weekends, the taper fade is always a winner.
How Does a Taper Fade Compare to Other Popular Haircuts?
I’ve experimented with a lot of hairstyles over the years—buzz cuts, crew cuts, high fades, even a mohawk once when I felt brave. Out of everything, the taper fade stands out for its flexibility. Some cuts are bold and loud, but the taper fade is just right: it’s noticeable without being flashy, neat but not boring.
One big difference between a taper fade and a regular fade is how gradual the transition is. In a regular fade, the sides go from short to even shorter very quickly, while a taper fade makes the change much slower and smoother. I noticed that after getting a high skin fade, the sides felt almost bald. With a taper fade, I keep some length, so my head doesn’t feel cold in winter! If you’re looking for something with a similar effect but a bit more edge, these burst fade styles are worth checking out.
Barbers often say the taper fade is the “gentleman’s choice.” I agree, since it fits with just about any look. My friends with curly hair like the taper fade because it keeps the sides under control, while the top can stay big and bold. If you want something more dramatic, a high fade or undercut might suit you. If you prefer subtle, go for the low taper fade or temple fade.
Top Taper Fade Hairstyles for a Stylish and Modern Look
Taper Fade Mohawk
The taper fade mohawk keeps the sides faded while leaving a strip of longer hair down the center of the head. This bold cut is for guys who want a modern, edgy style that grabs attention without shaving the sides completely. It’s both sharp and playful.
Taper Fade Comb Over
This style features a taper fade on the sides, with the top left long enough to comb over to one side. It creates a polished, professional look that’s perfect for business or formal occasions. The clean sides make the combed top stand out even more.
Burst Taper Fade
A burst taper fade radiates out from behind the ears, creating a rounded, sunburst effect. This cut is often paired with a mohawk or faux hawk for a striking, trendy finish. It’s a great way to add a creative twist to your regular fade.
Taper Fade Faux Hawk
The taper faux hawk leaves more length through the middle, spiked or textured, with faded sides. It delivers the attitude of a mohawk but is more wearable and low-maintenance. The style is fun and easy to customize.
Taper Fade with Hard Part
Here, the barber shaves a clear line (hard part) into one side of the head, combined with a taper fade. The line adds sharp definition and helps separate the styled top from the faded sides. It’s sharp, modern, and super easy to style in the morning.
Taper Fade with Waves
Perfect for men with wavy or 360 waves hair, this style tapers the sides and back while the waves on top stay defined and neat. The fade highlights the natural texture and keeps the overall look clean. It’s especially popular in urban styles.
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What Face Shapes and Hair Types Look Best with a Taper Fade?
When I asked my barber if the taper fade would suit me, he laughed and said, “It suits everyone.” After years of watching different people get the same style, I think he’s right. I’ve seen guys with round faces, square jaws, long faces, and even diamond-shaped faces—all looking great with a taper fade.
If you have a round face, the taper fade can add some definition and make your features stand out. For square faces, it helps soften the edges, while for longer faces, it stops the style from making your head look even longer. My little brother has a chubby face, and after getting a taper fade, his cheeks look slimmer. I have straight, medium-thick hair, and the fade always helps my hair look fuller and more styled.
Guys with curly or wavy hair get a bonus: the taper fade controls the sides and lets the curls shine on top. My cousin has super tight curls, and this is the only cut that keeps his hair looking tidy without losing all the natural texture. Even men with thin or fine hair can benefit, as the fade adds dimension and makes the top seem thicker.
If you’re not sure, I always say try it once. Hair grows back, after all! And most barbers know how to adjust the taper to fit your head and hair type. Just ask for advice and show them a photo if you’re nervous.
How to Ask for a Taper Fade at the Barbershop
Walking into a barbershop without knowing what to say can feel awkward—I’ve been there more than once. The first time I tried asking for a taper fade, I ended up with a cut that wasn’t even close. Now, I always come prepared.
To get a taper fade, start by telling your barber you want a “taper fade haircut.” If you have a photo, pull it up on your phone. Barbers love when you have a clear idea, and a picture helps avoid any confusion. Next, explain how much length you want on top. I like to keep two or three inches so I can style it in different ways, but you can go shorter or longer.
The barber will probably ask if you want a low, mid, or high taper. I usually go for a mid taper because it gives a nice balance—not too extreme, not too subtle. If you want a skin fade at the bottom, make sure to say so. Sometimes, I ask for a little line-up around the edges or a clean neckline, which gives it a sharper look.
It’s a good idea to talk about your hair routine too. If you use pomade, gel, or just a quick brush in the morning, let your barber know. This helps them shape the top so it works for your everyday life. Once, I forgot to mention I comb my hair to the side, and my barber cut it straight across—lesson learned!
Don’t feel silly for asking questions. Barbers see every hair type and face shape, and they usually have good advice. I always check in the mirror before leaving the chair to make sure everything looks right. If something’s off, say it! A quick fix is much better than pretending you love it, then going home to regret it.
How to Maintain a Taper Fade at Home
The best thing about the taper fade, in my opinion, is how easy it is to keep fresh between barber visits. I used to think it was complicated, but after a few tips from my barber, I found a routine that works.
First, I keep my hair clean by washing it every other day. Overwashing dries out the scalp and makes the hair look dull, so I skip the shampoo sometimes and just rinse with water. After washing, I pat dry with a towel and let it air dry. For styling, I use a little pomade or matte clay, which gives my hair a soft hold and keeps the look natural. Heavy gels never work for me—they just weigh my hair down.
To keep the neckline and sides tidy, I use a simple trimmer once a week. I don’t try to blend the fade myself; I just clean up around my ears and the back. My barber warned me not to go too high or I’d ruin the fade, so I stick to small touch-ups. If I let it go more than three weeks without a visit, the fade starts to lose its shape.
If you have a beard, matching the fade to your beard is key. I trim my beard every few days, tapering it down so there’s no hard line between my hair and beard. It took a bit of practice, but now it’s second nature.
My biggest tip: book your next haircut before leaving the barbershop. I used to forget and then scramble to find time. Keeping a regular schedule keeps my hair and mood in check.
Not sure which fade fits you best? Low fade vs mid fade vs high fade
Taper Fade Variations and Styling Tips
The more I played around with my haircut, the more I realized how many ways you can style a taper fade. There’s not just one “right” way, which is what makes this cut so popular.
If you want something sharp and business-ready, keep the top shorter and style it with a side part. I’ve done this for job interviews, and it always looks neat. If you like a bit of edge, let the top grow longer and mess it up with some clay for a textured, modern look.
Curly and wavy hair can look amazing with a taper fade, especially if you let the top stay big. I once grew my curls out just to try it, and the fade kept the sides from puffing out while the top still had bounce. Guys with thick, straight hair can also benefit; the fade makes the top stand out and keeps the rest in check.
You can also try different types of tapers. The low taper fade is subtle, with most of the fade sitting near the neckline. The high taper fade makes a bold statement, starting the fade higher up the head. Some barbers even do temple fades or add designs for more personality. I once asked for a lightning bolt—my friends still laugh about it, but hey, it was worth it!
If you want to style the top, just a bit of pomade or styling cream can go a long way. For special occasions, I’ve slicked it back or done a comb-over. Most days, I keep it simple. If you’re ever unsure, ask your barber for ideas or check out style photos online. You’ll never run out of options.
Common Taper Fade Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
I wish I could say my taper fades have always looked perfect, but I’ve definitely made mistakes along the way. Hopefully, you can learn from what I did wrong.
The biggest mistake is waiting too long between cuts. When the fade grows out, it loses that clean, blended look and starts looking messy. I now get a touch-up every two or three weeks—trust me, it makes a difference.
Trying to blend the fade at home is another trap. Unless you’ve got skills (which I don’t), it’s better to stick to light trims around the edges and leave the blending to your barber. I once tried doing it myself and ended up with a crooked line—I had to wear a cap until it grew out!
Using too much product can also ruin the style. Heavy gels or waxes make the hair look greasy and unnatural. Lighter products keep the hair in place without clumping. I asked my barber for a recommendation, and he pointed me toward a matte clay that changed my life. To see how fades can vary with different top styles, this mid fade haircut variation is a good example.
Not cleaning up the neckline and sideburns is a rookie mistake. I use a trimmer to keep those areas sharp, and it really makes the fade pop. For guys with beards, blending the fade into the beard is important; otherwise, you get a harsh, awkward line.
Last, don’t forget to tell your barber exactly what you want. Photos, explanations, and asking for advice all help. If you leave things vague, you could walk out with something you didn’t expect.
FAQ
What is a taper fade?
A taper fade is a men’s haircut where the hair gradually gets shorter down the sides and back, blending smoothly into the skin around the neckline and ears.
How long does a taper fade last?
A taper fade looks best for two to three weeks, after which it starts to grow out and lose its shape.
Can a taper fade work on any hair type?
Yes, taper fades work on straight, curly, wavy, and even afro-textured hair. Barbers can adjust the fade to fit your specific hair type.
Do I need special products for a taper fade?
You don’t need anything fancy. Light pomades, styling creams, or matte clays help keep the look natural. Heavy gels are not recommended.
How do I ask for a taper fade at the barbershop?
Ask your barber for a “taper fade haircut.” Show a photo if you can, and talk about the length you want on top and how high you want the fade to start.
Does a taper fade suit all face shapes?
Yes, taper fades suit most face shapes, including round, square, oval, and long faces.
What’s the difference between a taper fade and a skin fade?
A skin fade goes all the way down to the skin at the bottom, while a taper fade blends down but usually leaves some length instead of shaving to the skin.
How can I maintain a taper fade at home?
Keep the neckline and sideburns tidy with a trimmer, but leave the blending to your barber for the best results.
Can I pair a taper fade with a beard?
Yes, blending the fade into your beard looks clean and intentional. Make sure to keep the lines even and tidy.
How much does a taper fade cost?
The price varies, but most barbers charge between $15 and $40, depending on location and experience.
