When it comes to men’s hairstyles, the taper fade is a timeless classic. It’s versatile, stylish, and works for almost any hair type or length. Whether you’re going for a sleek, professional look or something more relaxed and casual, there’s a taper fade style out there for you. This guide will walk you through the top 10 taper fade styles for men, helping you find the perfect cut to suit your personality and lifestyle. Check out taperfade.co to know more
What is a Taper Fade?
Before we dive into the styles, let’s clarify what a taper fade actually is. A taper fade involves gradually cutting the hair shorter as it moves down the head towards the neckline. The hair at the top remains longer, while the back and sides are trimmed to create a seamless transition. This gives a clean, sharp look that’s both modern and sophisticated.
The Art of the Taper
The taper fade is not just a haircut; it’s an art form that requires precision and skill. The gradual blending of lengths from the top to the neckline needs a keen eye and steady hand. Barbers often use clippers of varying guards to achieve the perfect taper, making it a blend of technical skill and creative flair.
Versatility of the Taper Fade
One of the biggest advantages of the taper fade is its versatility. It can be adapted to suit different face shapes, hair textures, and personal styles. Whether you have straight, curly, or wavy hair, there’s a taper fade variation that will complement your natural hair pattern, enhancing your overall look.
Historical Context
The taper fade has been a staple in men’s grooming for decades. Its origins can be traced back to the military haircuts of the early 20th century, which required a neat and tidy appearance. Over the years, it has evolved with changing fashion trends, becoming a favored choice for men around the world seeking a modern, stylish look.
1. The Classic Taper Fade
The classic taper fade is the go-to for anyone new to this style. It’s subtle, understated, and perfect for any occasion. This style keeps the length on top, allowing for flexibility with styling. You can slick it back for a formal event or mess it up with some product for a more laid-back vibe.
Why Choose the Classic?
Choosing the classic taper fade is often the safest bet for those venturing into the world of fades for the first time. Its subtlety makes it suitable for both professional and casual settings. The style is versatile, meaning you can easily adjust your look with minimal effort or product.
Styling the Classic Taper
Styling the classic taper fade is straightforward. For a formal look, apply a small amount of pomade or gel to the top and comb it back for a sleek finish. For casual outings, use a texturizing spray or mousse to add volume and definition, giving you a relaxed, tousled appearance.
Maintenance Tips
Maintaining the classic taper fade involves regular trims to keep the fade looking sharp and clean. Scheduling visits to your barber every 3-4 weeks will ensure your hairstyle remains in top condition. Investing in quality hair products will also help maintain the health and appearance of your hair.
2. Low Taper Fade
For those who prefer a more conservative look, the low taper fade is ideal. It starts the fade just above the ears, creating a subtle transition that’s perfect for professional settings. Pair it with a side part or a pompadour for an added touch of elegance.
Characteristics of the Low Taper Fade
The low taper fade is characterized by its gradual transition, beginning just above the ears. This makes it less dramatic than higher fades, offering a more subtle and polished appearance. It’s perfect for individuals who want a clean-cut look without making too bold a statement.
Best Face Shapes for Low Taper Fade
The low taper fade is particularly flattering for round and oval face shapes, as it elongates the appearance of the face. It adds structure without overwhelming facial features, making it a versatile choice for many men. Adding a side part can further enhance the elongating effect.
Styling and Products
Styling a low taper fade can be as simple or as sophisticated as you like. For a professional look, use a comb to create a defined side part and apply a lightweight gel or pomade. For a more relaxed style, use a sea salt spray for texture and leave the top slightly tousled.
3. High Taper Fade
If you’re looking to make a statement, the high taper fade is the way to go. This style begins the fade higher up on the head, creating a more dramatic contrast between the top and sides. It’s bold and edgy, perfect for those who like to stand out.
Making a Statement
The high taper fade is all about making a bold statement. It’s a style that demands attention with its dramatic contrast between the longer hair on top and the closely cropped sides. This haircut is perfect for those who want to showcase their confidence and individuality.
Suitable Hair Types
While the high taper fade works well with most hair types, it is particularly striking with straight and wavy hair. The smooth transition accentuates the texture and movement of the hair on top. Curly hair can also benefit, adding an extra layer of dimension and interest.
Edgy Variations
To add an extra edge to your high taper fade, consider incorporating design elements such as shaved lines or patterns into the fade. This adds a personal touch and can highlight your unique style. Pairing with bold hair colors can further enhance the striking appearance of the high taper fade.
4. Mid Taper Fade
The mid taper fade strikes a perfect balance between the low and high versions. It starts the fade halfway up the head, offering a versatile style that can be dressed up or down. This style works well with various hair lengths and textures.
The Balance of the Mid Taper
The mid taper fade provides a harmonious balance, starting halfway up the head. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want a noticeable fade without going too extreme. It offers the best of both worlds, combining subtlety with a touch of boldness.
Versatility in Styling
The mid taper fade’s versatility is one of its strongest assets. It works well with a variety of hairstyles, from slick backs to textured crops. Depending on the occasion, you can easily transform your look with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals.
Ideal Hair Textures
This fade is ideal for a wide range of hair textures, from straight to curly. The mid point of the fade allows for a smooth transition that complements natural hair movement. For those with thicker hair, it can help reduce bulk, while adding volume to finer hair types.
5. Taper Fade with a Quiff
Adding a quiff to your taper fade gives it a modern twist. This style involves styling the hair on top upwards and back, creating volume and texture. It’s a trendy look that’s great for social events or a night out.
Creating the Quiff
Creating a quiff involves lifting the hair upwards and away from the face. It adds height and volume, giving the taper fade a contemporary and stylish edge. This look is achieved using a blow dryer and volumizing products to set the hair in place.
Perfect Occasions
The quiff paired with a taper fade is perfect for social occasions and nights out. It exudes confidence and style, making it a popular choice for events where you want to impress. It’s adaptable enough for daytime wear but can be easily dressed up for evening events.
Maintenance and Products
To maintain a quiff, regular trims are necessary to keep the shape and volume. Use a good quality mousse or styling cream to add texture and hold. A hair spray can also help to lock in the style, ensuring it lasts throughout the day or night.
6. Curly Taper Fade
Curly hair and taper fades are a match made in heaven. The taper fade helps to manage the sides and back, while the curls on top are left to do their thing. It’s a fresh, modern look that celebrates natural texture.
Embracing Natural Curls
The curly taper fade is all about embracing your natural curls. It allows the curls to take center stage while keeping the sides and back neatly trimmed. This contrast highlights the natural beauty and texture of curly hair, creating a dynamic and stylish look.
Managing Curly Hair
Managing curly hair can be challenging, but the taper fade makes it easier by reducing the bulk on the sides. Regular moisturizing and the use of curl-enhancing products are essential to keep the curls defined and frizz-free. A good leave-in conditioner can also help maintain the health of your curls.
Styling Options
With a curly taper fade, styling options are abundant. Whether you want to let your curls flow naturally or define them with a curl cream, the choice is yours. You can also experiment with different lengths and curl patterns to create a unique and personalized look.
7. Taper Fade with a Pompadour
The pompadour has made a comeback in recent years, and pairing it with a taper fade gives it a contemporary edge. This style involves sweeping the hair on top upwards and back, creating a voluminous look that’s both classic and modern.
The Revival of the Pompadour
The pompadour, once a symbol of the rock and roll era, has made a significant comeback in modern fashion. Paired with a taper fade, it combines the classic volume of the pompadour with the sleekness of the fade, creating a look that’s both retro and cutting-edge.
Achieving Volume
Achieving the volume required for a pompadour involves using a blow dryer and volumizing products. A round brush can help create lift at the roots, while a strong-hold gel or pomade keeps the style in place. The result is a dramatic, eye-catching hairstyle that’s sure to turn heads.
Perfect for Various Occasions
The pompadour taper fade is versatile enough for both formal and casual settings. It can be styled to look polished and refined for business meetings or left with a bit more texture for a night out. This adaptability makes it a favorite for men who want a standout style.
8. Skin Taper Fade
For those who prefer a clean, sharp look, the skin taper fade is an excellent choice. This style involves fading the sides down to the skin, creating a crisp contrast with the longer hair on top. It’s a bold style that requires regular maintenance but is well worth the effort.
Bold and Crisp
The skin taper fade is known for its bold and crisp appearance. By fading the hair down to the skin, it creates a stark contrast between the top and sides. This results in a clean and polished look that stands out and emphasizes facial features.
Regular Maintenance
Due to its precise nature, the skin taper fade requires regular maintenance to keep it looking sharp. Frequent visits to the barber are necessary to maintain the skin-level fade, ensuring the style remains fresh and defined. Investing time in maintenance is crucial for this look.
Styling Considerations
Styling a skin taper fade involves minimal effort, as the focus is on the fade itself. For the hair on top, you can opt for a slicked-back style, a side part, or even a textured look. The key is to choose a style that complements the boldness of the fade.
9. Taper Fade with a Side Part
A side part adds a touch of sophistication to any taper fade. This style involves parting the hair on one side and styling it across, creating a sleek and polished look. It’s perfect for formal occasions or professional settings.
The Elegance of the Side Part
The side part is synonymous with elegance and sophistication. When combined with a taper fade, it enhances the overall appearance, providing a neat and polished look. It’s a classic choice for those who want to exude professionalism and style.
Creating the Part
Creating a side part involves using a comb to define the parting line. It can be enhanced with a little gel or pomade to ensure the style stays in place throughout the day. The side part can be as subtle or as defined as you like, depending on your preference.
Ideal for Professional Settings
The taper fade with a side part is ideal for professional settings, offering a clean and refined appearance. It’s a versatile style that can transition from office to evening events seamlessly. Pairing it with a well-tailored suit can further elevate your professional image.
10. Textured Taper Fade
If you love texture, this style is for you. The textured taper fade involves using a texturizing product to add volume and movement to the hair on top. It’s a relaxed, casual look that’s easy to maintain.
Emphasizing Texture
The textured taper fade is all about emphasizing the natural texture of your hair. By using texturizing products, you can add volume, movement, and definition, giving your hair a more dynamic and lively appearance. This style is perfect for those who love a laid-back, effortless look.
Suitable Hair Types
This style works well with various hair types, particularly those with natural waves or curls. The texture enhances the natural movement and body of the hair, creating a fuller and more interesting look. Even straight hair can benefit from added texture, providing a tousled, beachy vibe.
Easy Maintenance
Maintaining a textured taper fade is relatively easy. Regular trims keep the fade sharp, while texturizing products like sprays, mousses, or creams maintain the desired texture. It’s a low-maintenance style that allows for creativity and experimentation with different looks.
How to Choose the Right Taper Fade for You
Choosing the right taper fade comes down to personal preference and lifestyle. Consider your hair type, face shape, and how much time you’re willing to spend on styling each day. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles to find the one that suits you best.
Understanding Your Hair Type
Knowing your hair type is crucial in selecting the right taper fade. Different hair types respond differently to various styles. For instance, wavy or curly hair may look better with more volume on top, while straight hair might benefit from more texture. Understanding your hair’s behavior helps in making an informed choice.
Assessing Face Shape
Your face shape plays a significant role in determining which taper fade will suit you best. Oval faces are versatile and can handle most styles, while round faces may benefit from styles that add height and lengthen the appearance. Consulting with your barber can provide insights into the most flattering options for your face shape.
Lifestyle Considerations
When choosing a taper fade, consider your lifestyle and how much time you can dedicate to styling and maintenance. Some styles require more frequent barber visits and daily styling, while others are more low-maintenance. Choosing a style that fits your routine ensures you can maintain the look effortlessly.
Tips for Maintaining Your Taper Fade
- Regular Trims: To keep your taper fade looking sharp, schedule regular trims every 3-4 weeks. Keeping a consistent schedule with your barber ensures the fade remains defined and fresh.
- Use Quality Hair Products: Invest in good quality hair products to maintain your style and keep your hair healthy. Using the right products can enhance your hairstyle and prevent damage.
- Consult Your Barber: Your barber is your best resource. Don’t hesitate to ask for their advice on which style would suit you best and how to maintain it. They can provide personalized tips and product recommendations.
- Experiment with Styling: Use different products and techniques to change up your look and keep it fresh. Experimenting with styling can help you discover new looks and keep your hairstyle interesting.
Conclusion
There you have it—ten taper fade styles that are guaranteed to elevate your look. Whether you’re new to the taper fade game or a seasoned pro, there’s always a new style to try out. So why not head to your barber and give one of these styles a shot? You’ll be turning heads in no time. Happy styling!