40 Best Taper Fade Hairstyles for Men (Complete Style Guide)
Looking for a new haircut that never goes out of style? The taper fade might be exactly what you need. It works with almost any hair type, face shape, and lifestyle. In this guide, you will learn what a taper fade is, see 40 different ways to wear it, and get simple tips on choosing the right one and talking to your barber.
By the end of this article, you will know the difference between a low taper fade and a high one. You will also learn how to pair a taper fade with a beard, a quiff, or even a mullet. Let’s get started.
What Is a Taper Fade Hairstyle?
A taper fade is a haircut where the hair slowly gets shorter as it moves down toward the neck and ears. The top stays longer. The sides and back blend smoothly into very short hair or skin. There is no hard line, just a soft, gradual change.
This is different from a regular fade haircut. A normal fade can fade from long to short at almost any point on the head, sometimes reaching quite high up the sides. A taper fade usually stays lower and closer to the hairline, keeping more length on the sides overall.
Barbers love the taper fade because it is easy to adjust. You can make it low, high, skin-level, or subtle. That is part of why so many men’s taper fades exist today, from clean office looks to bold, edgy designs.
This haircut also works for almost every hair texture. Curly, straight, thick, thin, wavy, or coily hair can all be shaped into a great taper fade. That flexibility is a big reason it has stayed popular for decades.
Another reason people love this haircut is how low-maintenance it can be. A well-done taper fade grows out nicely and does not look messy right away. Many men only need a touch-up every two to four weeks.
The taper fade has a long history in barbershops. It became especially popular in the military decades ago, where short, neat sides were a practical requirement. Over time, civilians began asking for the same clean look, and barbers started adding creative touches on top to make it more personal.
Today, the taper fade shows up everywhere, from red carpets to school hallways to office buildings. Celebrities, athletes, and everyday men all wear some version of it. That kind of wide appeal is rare in the world of haircuts, and it is a big part of why this style has lasted so long.
You will also notice that barbers sometimes use the terms “taper” and “fade” a little differently depending on where you live. In some shops, a taper fade simply means any gradual blend, while in others it refers specifically to the lower, softer version described above. It never hurts to ask your barber how they define the term before your appointment.
Best Taper Fade Hairstyles for Men
There are so many ways to wear a taper fade. Below are 40 popular styles, grouped by fade height, hair type, hair length, and finishing touches. Each one gives a slightly different look, so you can find the version that fits your face, your hair, and your personal style.
Low Taper Fade Hairstyle
The low taper fade keeps the fade close to the ears and neckline. It leaves more hair on the sides than a mid or high fade. This is one of the most popular and safest choices for work, school, or any formal setting.
Men who want a subtle change often start here. It is a soft introduction to the taper fade world, and it suits almost every face shape. Pair it with a side part or a simple comb-over for a clean, professional look.
Mid Taper Fade Hairstyle
A mid taper fade starts the fade around the middle of the head, just above the ear. It creates more contrast than a low fade but still looks balanced and neat. Many men consider this the perfect middle ground.
This style works great with textured tops, quiffs, or slicked-back styles. It gives your haircut a bit more edge without looking too dramatic. It is a top pick among trendy taper fades today.
Styling Tip: Use matte clay or styling paste for natural texture, then blow-dry the top to add volume and keep your mid taper fade looking sharp all day.
High Taper Fade Hairstyle
The high taper fade starts much higher on the head, sometimes near the temple. This creates a bold, sharp contrast between the long top and the very short sides. It is a favorite among men who want a modern, confident look.
Because the fade sits so high, this style pairs beautifully with spiky, textured, or pompadour tops. It is often chosen by men with round or square face shapes since it adds height and definition.
Skin Taper Fade
A skin taper fade takes things down to bare skin at the very bottom of the fade. This creates the sharpest, cleanest contrast possible. It is a bold choice, often paired with a longer or textured top for extra drama.
This style needs more frequent trims since skin grows out faster and looks uneven sooner. Still, many men feel it gives the cleanest, most polished version of a taper fade.
Curly Taper Fade Hairstyle
A curly taper fade keeps natural curls on top while fading the sides and back. It celebrates natural texture instead of hiding it. This look has become one of the most popular taper fades for men with curly or coily hair.
Barbers often use scissors instead of clippers on top to shape the curls without weighing them down. A little curl cream or leave-in conditioner keeps the top looking defined and healthy all day.
Long Hair Taper Fade Hairstyle
The long hair taper fade keeps several inches of length on top while fading the sides short. This creates a striking contrast and gives you plenty of styling options, from slicked back to messy and textured.
This style takes more effort to maintain since long hair needs regular washing, conditioning, and product. But the payoff is a unique, eye-catching look that stands out from shorter, more common cuts.
Blowout Taper Fade Hairstyle
The taper fade blowout hairstyle uses a round brush and blow dryer to lift the top hair up and away from the face. This creates height and volume above a clean, faded base. It is especially popular among men with thick or coarse hair.
This look feels bold and full without needing a lot of hair length. A light hold hairspray helps keep the volume in place through the day.
Taper Fade Mullet Hairstyle
The taper fade mullet hairstyle blends a modern fade on the sides with longer hair left at the back. It mixes an old-school look with fresh, clean styling. This combination has made a big comeback in recent years.
Many men love this style because it feels playful and a little rebellious. It works especially well with wavy or straight hair that flows nicely at the back of the neck.
Styling Tip: Use a lightweight styling cream to define the longer back while keeping the top textured for a modern, balanced taper fade mullet look.
Textured Crop Taper Fade
The textured crop taper fade pairs short, choppy layers on top with a smooth fade on the sides. The top is usually cut with scissors to create movement and a slightly messy, natural finish. It is a favorite for a low-effort, high-style look.
A small amount of matte paste or clay adds texture without shine. This makes the textured crop one of the easiest taper fade for men to style each morning.
French Crop Taper Fade
The French crop taper fade features a short fringe across the forehead with tight sides that fade down. It has a clean, almost military feel but with a modern twist. This style suits men who want something sharp and simple.
Because the top stays short, this cut needs very little daily styling. A small amount of product to define the fringe is usually all it takes.
Messy Taper Fade
The messy taper fade hairstyle keeps a slightly longer, tousled top over neatly faded sides. It looks relaxed and effortless, even though the fade underneath is precise and clean. This contrast is what makes the style so appealing.
To get this look, use a light styling cream and simply run fingers through damp hair. It is one of the more low-key, easygoing taper fade hairstyles around.
Short Taper Fade Hairstyle
A short taper fade hairstyle keeps minimal length on top, usually less than an inch. It is neat, simple, and works well for men who prefer low maintenance over dramatic styling. This is a great everyday option for busy schedules.
Because there is so little length, this cut barely needs any product. A quick towel dry is often enough to finish the look.
Classic Taper Fade Hairstyle
The classic taper fade hairstyle is timeless. It usually pairs a neatly combed or side-parted top with a simple, understated fade. This look has been popular for generations and remains a safe, sharp choice today.
It suits nearly every workplace and formal event. Many men return to this classic taper fade haircut style again and again because it never looks out of place.
Ivy League Taper Fade
The Ivy League taper fade keeps slightly more length on top than a classic crew cut, combed neatly to one side. It has an academic, polished feel, often seen in offices and formal settings. The fade underneath keeps things fresh and modern.
This is a great choice for men who want a professional look with a small hint of personality. It blends tradition with a current, updated edge.
Crew Cut Taper Fade
The crew cut taper fade keeps the top short and even, fading smoothly into the sides. It is simple, sporty, and incredibly easy to maintain. Many athletes and busy professionals choose this style for its practicality.
There is very little styling needed here. A dab of light pomade can add texture, but this cut looks great even completely dry.
Styling Tip: Apply a small amount of light pomade or matte paste for subtle texture, or leave it natural for a clean, low-maintenance look.
Buzz Cut Taper Fade
The buzz cut taper fade keeps the top extremely short, almost matching the fade underneath, but still leaves a slight length difference between the top and sides. It is one of the lowest-maintenance taper fade hairstyles available.
This style is perfect for hot climates, active lifestyles, or anyone who simply wants a fuss-free haircut. It also tends to highlight strong facial features nicely.
Slick Back Taper Fade
The taper fade with slick back combines longer top hair swept straight back with a clean, faded base. It gives a polished, confident appearance that works for both casual and formal occasions. This is one of the more sophisticated taper fade hairstyles for men.
A strong-hold pomade or gel is key here to keep hair in place all day. This look pairs especially well with a sharp beard line.
Comb Over Taper Fade
The taper fade with comb over features top hair combed to one side over a neat fade. It is a versatile, professional-looking style suited for offices, interviews, and everyday wear. It has remained a top choice for decades.
This cut works with straight or slightly wavy hair best. A light-hold product keeps the comb-over neat without looking stiff or unnatural.
Pompadour Taper Fade
The taper fade with pompadour lifts the top hair up and back, creating noticeable height and volume above a clean fade. It has a bold, retro-inspired look with a modern edge. This is a favorite for special occasions and everyday confidence alike.
A strong pomade and a blow dryer help create and hold that signature lift. This style shines brightest with thicker hair that holds volume well.
Quiff Taper Fade
The taper fade with quiff pushes the top hair upward and slightly forward, creating a soft peak at the front. It feels stylish yet still fairly easy to maintain. This combination remains one of the most popular taper fade hairstyles worldwide.
A medium-hold styling product is usually enough to shape a quiff. It suits nearly every face shape and hair type, which is part of its lasting appeal.
Side Part Taper Fade
The side part taper fade uses a clean, defined line to separate the top hair, combed neatly to one side, above a smooth fade. It has a polished, put-together feel perfect for work and formal events.
This style pairs beautifully with straight or fine hair. A comb and a small amount of product help keep that side part crisp throughout the day.
Styling Tip: Use a comb with a small amount of pomade to keep the side part neat and the hairstyle in place all day.
Taper Fade with Fringe
The taper fade with fringe brings the top hair forward across the forehead instead of back or to the side. It creates a youthful, trendy look that has grown very popular in recent years. This style works especially well with straight or slightly textured hair.
Light wax or clay helps separate the fringe strands for a piecey, textured finish. It is a fresh take on more traditional taper fade hairstyles.
Faux Hawk Taper Fade
The faux hawk taper fade lifts the center section of hair upward, similar to a mohawk, while fading the sides down close to the skin. It offers a bold, edgy look without the full commitment of a real mohawk.
This style works well for nights out or casual settings where you want to stand out. A strong-hold gel keeps the center strip lifted throughout the day.
Mohawk Taper Fade
The mohawk taper fade takes the faux hawk idea further, with sides shaved much closer and a stronger central strip left long. It is one of the most daring taper fade hairstyles on this list.
This look demands confidence and a bit more daily styling effort. It works great for creative fields, performances, or anyone wanting a truly unique statement.
Afro Taper Fade
The afro taper fade keeps a rounded, natural afro on top while fading the sides and back. It celebrates natural coily texture beautifully and has become one of the most searched Black men’s taper fade hairstyles today.
A pick or wide-tooth comb helps shape the afro’s round silhouette. Regular moisturizing keeps the curls healthy, soft, and full of natural bounce.
Wavy Taper Fade Hairstyle
The wavy taper fade hairstyle works with natural waves on top, faded neatly on the sides. The waves add texture and movement without needing much extra styling. It is a relaxed, natural-looking option for wavy-haired men.
A light sea salt spray can enhance the natural wave pattern. This keeps the style looking effortless and beachy all day long.
Straight Hair Taper Fade
The straight hair taper fade works beautifully because straight strands lie flat and smooth, making the fade underneath look extra crisp. This pairing suits side parts, comb-overs, and slicked-back styles especially well.
Since straight hair holds shape easily, styling usually takes very little time. A small amount of light pomade is often all that is needed.
Thick Hair Taper Fade
Thick hair taper fade styles use the natural fullness on top to create volume, texture, or height above a clean fade. Thick hair holds pompadours, quiffs, and blowouts particularly well.
Because thick hair can feel heavy, regular thinning by a skilled barber helps keep the top manageable. This makes daily styling much easier.
Thin Hair Taper Fade
Thin hair taper fade styles focus on shorter tops that create the appearance of extra thickness. Textured crops and short, choppy cuts work especially well here since they add visual density.
Lightweight styling powders or texturizing sprays can help create the illusion of fuller hair. Avoiding heavy, oily products is key for thin hair types.
Asian Taper Fade
Asian taper fade hairstyles often work with naturally straight, thick hair, making textured crops, fringes, and side parts especially popular choices. The fade adds a modern contrast to classic Asian hairstyle trends.
Barbers experienced with straight, dense hair textures can create sharp, clean lines that really let the fade stand out.
Black Men’s Taper Fade
Black men’s taper fade hairstyles often highlight natural curl patterns, from tight coils to loose curls, paired with precise fades. Popular versions include the afro taper fade, curly taper fade hairstyle, and taper fade with design.
Moisturizing products and regular trims help keep curls looking defined and healthy between barber visits.
Beard Taper Fade
The taper fade with beard combines a well-groomed beard with a clean fade for a complete, polished look. The fade often continues seamlessly into the beard line, creating one smooth, connected style from hairline to chin.
This combination is extremely popular because it frames the face nicely and adds a mature, confident feel. Regular beard trims keep the connection between hair and beard looking sharp.
Line Up Taper Fade
The line up taper fade adds crisp, straight edges around the hairline, temples, and neckline. This sharpens the entire look and makes the fade appear even more precise and intentional.
Barbers usually finish this with a straight razor for the cleanest possible lines. Touch-ups every one to two weeks keep the line-up looking fresh.
Temple Taper Fade
The temple taper fade focuses the fading action specifically around the temple area, near the hairline by the ears. It is often combined with a low or mid fade for a subtle, natural-looking transition.
This style suits men who want a gentle fade without too much contrast. It blends nicely into most everyday hairstyles.
Burst Taper Fade
The burst taper fade curves around the ear in a half-circle shape instead of running in a straight line. This creates a unique, rounded fade pattern that pairs especially well with longer top styles like mullets or long taper fade hairstyle combinations.
Because the shape is more complex, this style requires a skilled barber to execute cleanly.
Styling Tip: Use a texturizing spray or matte clay to add volume on top while keeping the burst fade clean with regular barber touch-ups.
Drop Taper Fade
The drop taper fade curves downward toward the back of the head instead of staying level. This creates extra length at the back and adds a dynamic, flowing shape to the overall haircut.
This style pairs especially well with mullets, longer tops, and textured styles that benefit from added length at the back.
Taper Fade with Design
A taper fade with design adds shaved patterns, lines, or shapes into the faded area for a personalized, artistic touch. Popular designs include simple lines, stars, or geometric shapes.
This is a fun way to express personal style. Keep in mind that designs need more frequent touch-ups since the shaved sections grow out faster than the surrounding hair.
Taper Fade with Hard Part
The taper fade with hard part uses a shaved line to create a sharp, defined part instead of a natural comb part. It adds extra definition and a bold, modern edge to classic side-part styles.
This detail pairs beautifully with slicked-back or comb-over taper fade hairstyles, giving them a fresh, updated feel.
Modern Taper Fade
Modern taper fade hairstyles often mix several trends together, like textured tops, subtle designs, and skin fades, into one cohesive, current look. These styles are what most barbers show off in their portfolios today.
If you want to stay on top of trends, ask your barber to show you a few modern taper fade hairstyle options during your next visit.
Textured Quiff Taper Fade
The textured quiff taper fade combines a piecey, matte-finish quiff with a clean fade below. It has a slightly undone, cool-guy look rather than the sleek finish of a classic pompadour quiff.
A texturizing paste helps create that separated, piecey look. This is one of the trendiest, most versatile taper fade hairstyles for men today.
Tutorial: How to Get a Taper Fade Hairstyle Step by Step
Step 1: Research Your Preferred Style
Before you sit in the chair, spend a few minutes looking at different taper fade hairstyles online. Save two or three photos of styles that catch your eye, whether that’s a low taper fade or a bold taper fade with design.
Step 2: Book With an Experienced Barber
Not every barber has the same skill level, so look for one who has clear experience with fades. Reading reviews or checking a barber’s social media page can help you find someone comfortable shaping a clean, blended taper fade hairstyle.
Step 3: Explain Your Fade Height and Top Length
Once you’re in the chair, tell your barber the fade height you want, such as low, mid, or high, along with how much length to leave on top. Being specific here is the single biggest factor in getting the result you want.
Step 4: Let the Barber Work in Stages
Most barbers start with clippers on the sides and back, working from a lower guard up to blend the fade smoothly. They will then move to the top, using scissors or clippers depending on the style you chose.
Step 5: Check the Blend and Finish the Details
Near the end, ask your barber to check the blend in a mirror from multiple angles. This is also the time to request a line up, a beard trim, or any final touches before you leave the chair.
How to Choose the Right Taper Fade Hairstyle
With so many taper fade hairstyles to choose from, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. Here are a few simple things to think about before your next haircut appointment.
Think About Your Hair Type First
Curly, straight, thick, and thin hair all work differently with styling and product. A curly taper fade hairstyle, for example, looks very different from a straight hair taper fade.
Consider Your Face Shape
A high taper fade hairstyle can add height to a round face, while a low taper fade often suits longer face shapes by keeping things balanced. Ask your barber for their honest opinion here.
Think About Your Daily Routine
Busy mornings call for low-maintenance cuts like a buzz cut taper fade or short taper fade hairstyle. If you enjoy styling your hair each day, a pompadour or quiff taper fade might be more fun.
Factor in Your Lifestyle and Workplace
More formal jobs often call for classic, low-key looks like an Ivy League or side part taper fade. Creative fields may allow more freedom for bold choices like a mohawk or design.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Photos
Bring reference pictures of popular taper fade hairstyles to your barber. This helps them understand exactly what result you’re hoping for.
Think About How Much Time You Spend Outdoors
Men who spend a lot of time in the sun or in humid weather often prefer shorter, simpler taper fade hairstyles that hold up well without much fuss. Longer, styled tops can wilt or frizz in heat and humidity.
Consider Your Hair Growth Pattern
Some men’s hair grows in swirls or cowlicks that push against certain styles. A skilled barber can look at your natural growth pattern and suggest which taper fade hairstyle will work with your hair instead of against it.
Try a Few Options Over Time
You do not have to commit to one taper fade hairstyle forever. Many men experiment with a low taper fade for a few months, then switch to a mid or high taper fade hairstyle just to change things up. Haircuts grow back, so there is very little risk in trying something new.
How to Ask Your Barber
Clear communication makes a huge difference when getting a taper fade hairstyle. Barbers cannot read your mind, so being specific helps them deliver exactly what you want.
Name Your Fade Height
Say clearly whether you want a low taper fade hairstyle, mid taper fade hairstyle, or high taper fade hairstyle. This single detail changes the whole look of your haircut.
Describe the Top You Want
Do you want it short and simple, or longer with texture for a quiff, pompadour, or blowout? Mention any specific length in inches if you know it, since that helps barbers measure more precisely.
Mention Any Extra Details
Ask about a line up, a beard trim to match, or a design if you want one. It also helps to say what clipper guard number you liked from a past haircut, if you remember it.
Bring a Photo If Possible
A picture of a modern taper fade hairstyle you like removes any guesswork and helps avoid miscommunication. Most barbers genuinely appreciate a clear visual reference.
Taper Fade Maintenance Tips
A taper fade hairstyle looks its best with a bit of regular care. Here are some simple tips to keep your cut looking fresh between barber visits.
Get Regular Trims
Most taper fade hairstyles need a touch-up every two to four weeks. Skin fades and designs may need trims even sooner since shaved sections grow out fastest.
Use the Right Products
Match your product to your hair type and desired style. Pomade works well for slick backs, while lightweight paste suits textured or messy looks better.
Wash Regularly, But Not Too Often
Washing two to three times a week with a gentle shampoo keeps hair clean without stripping natural oils. Over-washing can leave hair dry and harder to style.
Protect Longer Sections at Night
If you have a long hair taper fade hairstyle or mullet, a silk pillowcase or light wrap can help prevent tangles and breakage while you sleep.
Book Your Next Appointment Early
Many barbers get busy, so scheduling your next taper fade touch-up a few weeks in advance helps keep your look consistent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular taper fade hairstyle?
The low taper fade hairstyle and mid taper fade hairstyle are consistently the most requested versions because they suit almost any face shape, hair type, and workplace setting.
How often should I get my taper fade touched up?
Most men schedule a touch-up every two to four weeks. Skin fades and shaved designs often need attention slightly sooner, sometimes every one to two weeks.
Does a taper fade hairstyle work with curly hair?
Yes. A curly taper fade hairstyle is one of the most popular options today. Barbers usually use scissors on top to shape curls while keeping the sides neatly faded.
Can I get a taper fade hairstyle with long hair on top?
Absolutely. Long hair taper fade hairstyles, mullets, and blowouts all pair long top sections with short, faded sides for dramatic contrast.
What’s the difference between a taper fade and a regular fade?
A taper fade hairstyle usually stays lower and closer to the natural hairline, while a regular fade can start much higher up the head. Tapers tend to look softer and more subtle overall.
Is a taper fade hairstyle good for a job interview?
Yes. Classic, Ivy League, and side part taper fade hairstyles are especially good choices for interviews and professional settings since they look neat and polished.
Can women get a taper fade hairstyle too?
While this guide focuses on men’s taper fade hairstyles, taper fades work beautifully on any gender and hair type.
What should I bring to the barber for a taper fade hairstyle?
Bring a clear reference photo, mention your preferred fade height, and describe how much length you want on top. This combination helps barbers deliver exactly the taper fade hairstyle you’re picturing.
How long does a taper fade hairstyle take to grow out?
A taper fade hairstyle usually starts looking noticeably grown out after about three to four weeks, especially around the neckline and ears. Skin fades tend to show growth a little sooner than softer, low taper fade hairstyles.
Can I style a taper fade hairstyle without any product?
Yes, especially with shorter versions like the buzz cut or crew cut taper fade. Longer or more textured taper fade hairstyles, like a quiff or pompadour, usually look better and last longer with a small amount of product.
Is a taper fade hairstyle suitable for kids and teens?
Yes, many barbers offer simple, low-maintenance taper fade hairstyles for younger clients, such as a classic taper fade or short taper fade hairstyle. These versions are easy to keep neat for school.
Which taper fade hairstyle suits thinning hair?
Shorter, textured taper fade hairstyles tend to work best for thinning hair since they reduce the appearance of gaps and add the illusion of thickness. A skilled barber can also suggest a slightly higher fade to draw attention upward.
Final Thoughts
There is a reason so many men keep coming back to the taper fade hairstyle. It is flexible, it works with nearly every hair type, and it can be dressed up or down depending on your mood and the occasion. Whether you prefer a low taper fade hairstyle for the office or a bold high taper fade hairstyle for the weekend, there is a version out there for you.
Best taper fade hairstyles rarely go out of fashion because barbers keep finding new ways to update them. Modern taper fade hairstyles borrow small details, like textured tops or subtle designs, while still keeping that classic, clean-blended base underneath. That mix of old and new is exactly what keeps this haircut feeling fresh year after year.
If you are still unsure where to start, try one of the more popular taper fade hairstyles from this list, such as the low taper fade, curly taper fade hairstyle, or taper fade with beard. From there, you can always experiment with height, texture, and finishing touches at future appointments.
Remember, a great haircut is really a partnership between you and your barber. Bring your ideas, ask questions, and be open to their suggestions. With good communication, your next taper fade hairstyle can be exactly the one you were hoping for.
Next Up: Want to know if a taper fade will suit your face shape and hair type? Read our complete beginner’s guide on the Taper Fade Men’s Haircut.
