Taper fade haircuts have been a popular trend among men for many years.  Nowadays guys are very careful about their looks. They want to be fashionable, classy, stylish and trendy, and one of the first things they do to improve their overall appearance is a nice haircut. However, with so many options to choose from, finding the right haircut can be a little tricky.

But don’t worry, we got your back. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at what taper fade haircuts are, the different types of taper fades, and how to get the perfect taper fade for you. We created this guide to help you make an informed decision regarding your future haircut. So, let’s get going!

What is a Taper Fade Haircut?

what-is-taper-fade-haircut
Source: @herr_sani via Instagram

A taper fade haircut is a stylish hairstyle that involves fading the hair gradually from one length to another. The hair is trimmed shorter at the temples and nape of the neck and gradually becomes longer towards the top of the head. This creates a smooth transition from short to long hair and provides a clean, crisp look.

Taper fades are popular for a number of reasons. They are versatile and can be styled in many different ways, from a classic, clean-cut look to a more modern, edgy style. 

What is difference between TAPER and FADE Haircut?

taper-fade-haircut-guide

To be straightforward, taper fade is a mixture of two haircut techniques: Separately Taper and Fade. The only difference between the two methods is the length of the hair at the top, which is kept longer than the hair along the sides and back of the head.

While In a fade haircut, progressively as the hair gets close to your neck, it becomes shorter or even shaved, whereas, in a taper haircut, it also gets gradually short but not that short. A taper is basically a lengthy fade. The taper fade is a mix of these two hairstyles, with a few additional twists and turns.

25 Super Cool Taper Fade Haircuts

1. Blowout Taper Fade

Blowout-Taper-Fade-haircut
Source: @lasbarberasdesevilla via Instagram

Blowout Taper Fade is combination of the blowout and taper fade haircuts. The top of the blowout taper fade haircut has thick, textured hair that gradually gets thinner and decreases volume towards the back and sides. The taper fade means gradually cutting the hair short—often to the skin or very short—down the sides and back. These two haircuts are combined to create a modern, adaptive haircut with volume on top that transitions into a fade.

2. Curly Top with High Volume

Curly-Top-with-High-Volume
Source: @themilestone_barbershop via Instagram

Curly Top with High Volume (naturally curly wavy hair) is a hairstyle that features tightly curled hair on top that is styled to have maximum volume. Typically, curls in this style are directed upward and away from the face to give a more sophisticated look. Curly-haired people often use volumizing mousses, curl boosters, and gels to get this look. Curling irons or rollers may be necessary for those with straight hair, but they can also utilise volumizing treatments to achieve the required curl pattern.

3. Undercut Taper Fade

Undercut-Taper Fade-haircut
Source: @Friseur_Karin_Bolz via Instagram

The Undercut Taper Fade is a trendy men’s haircut that features a visible contrast between the top of the hair, sides and back. The top of the hair is left longer and can be styled in many different ways, while the sides and back are tapered down to the skin or to a very short length, creating a fade. This shape offers a versatile, modern look that can be dressed up or down according with the occasion.

4. Swiveled French Crop

swiveled-French-Crop-haircut
Source: @barberbirdman via Instagram

The Swiveled French Crop is a variation of the classic French Crop haircut. The fringe is cut to rest above the eyebrows, but it is fashioned to the side, providing the hair a sweeping, angled look. Apart from the top, the hair is cut to a medium length, with the sides and back usually shorter than the top. To achieve the swiveled look, hair is styled with a comb or fingers and product, such as pomade or wax, to create a sleek, angled fringe that covers one eyebrow and covers the forehead.

5. Curly Taper Fade

Curly-Taper-Fade-haircut
Source:@ savercuts via Instagram

With this Taper Fade, you will lighten your curls while maintaining their tight, glossy appearance. Although the style appears straightforward, it has a sense of elegance. Anyone with curly hair who desires a modern appearance with some edge can adopt this haircut.

6. Skin Taper fade

Skin-Taper-fade-haircut
Source: @staytrue3dwin via Instagram

Undoubtedly, the skin fade taper is one of the most popular haircuts. It gives you the high, tight look of a military haircut. The key to this haircut is to get the fade as high as possible on the sides and back.

7. Afro Taper Fade

Afro Taper Fade haircut
Source: @seeyourselfcuts via Instagram

This is a common haircut for black men with afros because this gives you a more natural seeming combination of hair. The afro’s natural texture is combined with a low taper fade on the sides and back of the head. As a result, you get a remarkably charming look that is beautiful for anyone wearing an afro.

8. Wavy-Messy Top

Wavy-Messy Top haircut
Source: @jeffryluvaze via Instagram

AND YES! This is also a hairstyle that will have you looking beautiful even though it look like you’ve just risen from your bed. The hair on top of your head is left long and messy while the sides and back are tapered and faded. When you don’t use a comb or brush to style your hair, you’re said to have a “messy” hairstyle.

9. Bald Taper Fade

Bald Taper Fade haircut
Source: @mickcutz via Instagram

With Bald Taper Fade hairstyle: Features you very short hair all over your head. The bald fade starts short on the sides, back of the head and gradually lengthens as it moves toward the crown of the head. To add definition to your haircut, you can also request a line-up. This style is great for those who like their hair cut extremely short.

10. Caesar Taper Fade

caesar Taper Fade haircut
Source: @bumansss via Instagram

Caesar Taper Fade haircut is implied by the name, Julius Caesar is the source of inspiration for this hairstyle. This is a popular haircut for men with thick hair. The top is trimmed shorter, while the sides and back fade out. But the most important thing to keep in mind when getting this haircut is to not have too much length on top.

11. Clean Temple Fade

Clean Temple Fade haircut
Source:@ jbyrd0572 via Instagram

Clean Temple Fade is a very clean and modern take on the Taper Fade and has been around for quite some time. The hair on the top is cut short, while the sides gradually fade from base to top. The temple fades give this style its name, as well as its distinct look.

12. Curly Dyed Highlights

Curly Dyed Highlights haircut
Source: @khodor_98 via Instagram

For men with thick hair, this is a common style. The top is trimmed shorter, while the sides and back fade out. But the most essential factor of this haircut is to not have too much length at the top.

13. High Taper Fade

High Taper Fade Haircut
Source: @ torreblancabs via Instagram

High Taper Fade hairstyle features a higher fade than the standard taper fade. It is ideal if you have thick hair that has to be controlled. By contrasting the high fade on the sides with the longer hair on top, your hair will stay short and neat while adding volume to the front.

14. Mid-Taper Fade

Mid-Taper Fade haircut
Source: @b_cutzz30

This typical Taper Fade has been around for a while. The sides and the back are cut to a medium length, while the top is left long enough to be styled into a combover or pompadour.

15. Low Taper Fade

Low Taper Fade haircut
Source: @stan.cuts via Instagram

This style is quite similar to the mid-taper fade variant, but the sides and back are faded out less sharply. This taper fade may be styled in a variety of ways, making it a highly fashionable and cutting-edge option. It’s up to you whether you want to keep some length at the top, shave it all off, or something in between.

16. Casual Brush Up with Highlight Dye

1Casual Brush Up with Highlight Dye
Source: @raivin.zhao via Instagram

One special haircut for both boys and men is the casual brush-up with highlights. The highlights give the haircut some edge while keeping it informal. The sides are tapered and closely shaved to the skin for a neat look.

17. Brushed Back Top with Subtle Fade

Brushed Back Top with Subtle Fade haircut
Source: @guga_cuts via Instagram

This hairstyle is highly versatile and may be used both formally and casually. The idea is to keep the top combed back and neat-looking. It also gives the haircut a rough tone, which is balanced by the modest fade at the sides and back.

18. Styled Pompadour and Classic Taper

18. Styled Pompadour and Classic Taper haircut
Source:@bar.ber_dr via Instagram

This trendy hairstyle blends a traditional pompadour with a taper fade. The sides have a very smooth and mild fade that blends with the hair. The end result is a thoroughly modern look, perfect for those who value flair but don’t want to go overboard.

19. Curly Fringe Fade

Curly Fringe Fade haircut
Source: @ bgirlnedou

The curly fringe fade is a great haircut for men with curls. The top is ultra-long, while the sides are tapered. This haircut is great for men who are starting to experience thinning around the temples but yet want to keep their hair long on top.

20. Brush Up Fade

Brush Up Fade haircut
Source: @xian_m_alawi via Instagram

If you have thick hair, choose the taper fade haircut. The hair on the sides is cut short, while the top of your head is left longer. The longer top hair is then combed up to provide texture and volume.

21. Taper Fade Slicked Back

Taper Fade Slicked Back haircut
Source: @esquirebarbercoquitlam via Instagram

This modern cut is suitable for men of any age. While the top hair has significant length, the sides and back hair are short and faded into a neat line. You can use a hair product or just little water to slick your hair back.

22. Quiff Taper Fade

Quiff Taper Fade haircut
Source:@golimorda_barbershop via Instagram

Quiff taper fade haircuts are extremely popular among young men with thick hair. The sides and back are faded while the top is combed up and styled into a quiff to maintain a clean, formal businessman look.

23. Curly Top with Undercut

Curly Top with Undercut haircut
Source:@ barbershop_gerando via Instagram

The long, curly hair on top with short hair around make up this hairstyle unique. The sides are shaved to give the appearance of an undercut, giving this style a very modern look.

24. Brushed Up Shaved Hairline

24. Brushed Up Shaved Hairline
Source: @caesarbarbermxl

This is a fashionable taper fade hairstyle with a brushed-up appearance and a shaved hairline. The top is slicked back and styled forward, while the sides are shaved short. It has a beautiful but edgy look that suits men of all ages.

25. Receding Hairline with Beard

receding Hairline with Beard
Source: @roquewes via Instagram

This is a common style for men, especially those who desire to hide a thinning hairline. The beard and hair complement each other, giving the man a distinct appearance. The sides and back of the head are faded high to medium, but the top is left long enough to style into a pompadour or quiff. The beard length can vary, but most guys like to wear a thick, full beard that can give your face a more manly aspect.

How to Ask for the Right Haircut?

When it comes to getting the perfect taper fade haircut, it is important to communicate clearly with your barber. Here are a few tips to help you get the look you want:

  1. Bring pictures of taper fade haircuts that you like to show your barber as a reference.
  2. Specify the type of taper fade you want, such as low, high, skin, or temple.
  3. Indicate where you want the fade to start and how gradual or abrupt you want it to be.
  4. Let your barber know if you want any additional details, such as a hard part or a specific length on the top of your hair.

How to Style and Maintain Your Taper Fade Haircut?

Once you have the perfect taper fade haircut, it is important to know how to style and maintain it to keep it looking its best. Here are a few tips to help you keep your new look in top shape:

  1. Use a quality hair product, such as pomade or gel, to style your hair and keep it in place.
  2. Avoid using too much product, as this can weigh your hair down and make it look greasy.
  3. Use a comb or brush to style your hair and create a clean and polished look.
  4. Trim your hair regularly to keep the fade looking sharp and maintain the length of the top of your hair.

Conclusion

The taper fade haircut can be styled in a number of ways. It works well with many textures of hair and allows for a wide range of creative styling options. Whether you’re looking for something that’s cool and laid-back or polished and formal, you have a lot of options to choose from. Taper fade haircuts are a popular and this haircut offers a clean and polished look for men of all ages.

We hope you found this article about fades to black to be interesting. Please share your experience with different taper fades by commenting below. Reader feedback is always welcome.

FAQ’s

Who can get a taper fade haircut?

Taper fade haircuts can be worn by men of all ages and hair types. The versatility of the fade makes it suitable for a wide range of hairstyles and face shapes.

How long does a taper fade take to grow out?

The length of time it takes for a taper fade to grow out depends on how fast your hair grows. On average, hair grows about half an inch per month.

Can I ask for a specific type of taper fade at a barber?

Yes, you can ask for a specific type of taper fade at a barber. It is recommended to bring a picture or show an example of the desired taper fade to ensure the barber understands what you want, you can download images from our website.

How do I maintain a taper fade haircut?

To maintain a taper fade haircut, regular trips to the barber for touch-ups and trims are necessary. You can also use hair products such as pomade, wax, or gel to style the hair on top and keep the fade looking sharp.