The taper fade haircut has stood the test of time, remaining a popular choice for men of all ages and styles. This versatile cut combines the classic appeal of a taper with the modern edge of a fade, resulting in a look that’s both sophisticated and trendy.
Whether you’re aiming for a professional appearance or a more casual vibe, there’s a taper fade variation to suit your needs. Let’s explore 20 classic taper fade haircuts that will keep you looking sharp and stylish.
1. The Classic Taper Fade
The classic taper fade is the foundation for many modern variations. This timeless style features hair that gradually shortens from the top of the head down to the neckline. The fade typically begins around the temples and behind the ears, creating a clean, polished look.
To achieve this style, the barber will use clippers to create a seamless transition from longer hair on top to shorter sides and back. The classic taper fade works well with various hair types and face shapes, making it a versatile choice for many men.
2. Low Taper Fade
The low taper fade is perfect for those who want a subtle, professional look. This style keeps the fade very low on the head, typically starting just above the ears and neckline. The gradual transition from longer to shorter hair is less dramatic than other fade styles, making it an excellent choice for conservative workplaces or those new to fade haircuts.
This style pairs well with longer hair on top, allowing for versatility in styling. Whether you prefer a sleek combover or a textured quiff, the low taper fade provides a clean backdrop for your chosen style.
3. Mid Taper Fade
The mid taper fade strikes a balance between subtlety and boldness. The fade begins around the middle of the sides and back of the head, creating a noticeable contrast between the longer top and shorter sides.
This style is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various hair types and personal preferences. It works particularly well with textured styles on top, such as messy crops or wavy quiffs, as the mid-fade helps to accentuate the volume and movement of the hair.
4. High Taper Fade
For those seeking a more dramatic look, the high taper fade is an excellent choice. This style features a fade that starts high on the sides and back of the head, typically near the temples. The high taper fade creates a stark contrast between the longer hair on top and the short sides, resulting in a bold, eye-catching appearance.
This style is particularly flattering for those with oval or oblong face shapes, as it adds width to the sides of the head. It pairs well with a variety of top styles, from short and textured to long and slicked back.
5. Skin Taper Fade
The skin taper fade, also known as a bald fade, is the most dramatic variation of the taper fade. This style features hair that gradually fades down to the skin, creating a super clean and sharp look. The fade can start low, mid, or high on the head, depending on personal preference.
This bold style is perfect for those who want to make a statement with their haircut. It works exceptionally well with highly textured or curly hair on top, as the contrast between the bare sides and the voluminous top creates a striking visual impact.
6. Textured Crop Taper Fade
The textured crop taper fade combines the rugged appeal of a textured crop with the cleanness of a taper fade. The top is cut short but left with enough length to create texture and movement. This is typically styled forward or to the side, with a messy, undone look.
The taper fade on the sides keeps the style neat and fresh, while the textured top adds a modern, edgy vibe. This style is low-maintenance and works well for men with straight, wavy, or slightly curly hair.
7. Pompadour Taper Fade
The pompadour taper fade marries classic 1950s style with modern barbering techniques. The pompadour involves sweeping the hair on top upwards and backwards, creating height and volume at the front. The length gradually decreases towards the crown.
The taper fade on the sides provides a contemporary twist on this classic style. It helps to accentuate the volume on top while keeping the overall look clean and sharp. This style works best for those with straight or wavy hair and requires some effort to style and maintain.
8. Slick Back Taper Fade
The slick back taper fade is a sophisticated style that works well in both formal and casual settings. The hair on top is left long enough to be combed straight back, creating a smooth, polished look. The taper fade on the sides adds a modern touch to this classic style.
To achieve this look, you’ll need to use a strong-hold pomade or gel to keep the hair in place. This style is particularly flattering for those with square or diamond-shaped faces, as it helps to elongate the face.
9. Quiff Taper Fade
The quiff taper fade combines volume on top with clean, faded sides for a stylish, youthful look. The quiff involves brushing the front section of hair upwards and backwards, creating height and texture. The rest of the top can be styled similarly or left more relaxed.
The taper fade on the sides helps to emphasize the volume of the quiff while keeping the overall style neat. This versatile cut can be styled in various ways, from a neat, professional look to a more relaxed, textured style for casual occasions.
10. Curly Top Taper Fade
For men with naturally curly hair, the curly top taper fade is an excellent option. This style embraces your natural texture on top while keeping the sides neat with a taper fade. The length on top can vary based on personal preference, from a short, tight curl pattern to longer, looser curls.
The taper fade helps to control the volume on the sides, preventing the style from becoming too “poofy” or unmanageable. This cut is relatively low-maintenance for curly-haired men and can be styled with minimal product for a natural, effortless look.
11. Faux Hawk Taper Fade
The faux hawk taper fade offers a more wearable version of the classic mohawk. The hair on top is left longer and styled upwards and towards the center, creating a strip of hair that resembles a mohawk. However, unlike a true mohawk, the sides are not completely shaved but instead feature a taper fade.
This edgy style allows for versatility in styling – it can be worn bold and spiky for a night out, or toned down for a more professional setting. The taper fade helps to accentuate the faux hawk shape while keeping the overall look neat and groomed.
12. Side Part Taper Fade
The side part taper fade is a classic, gentlemanly style that never goes out of fashion. This cut features a defined side part, with the hair on top combed to one side. The taper fade on the sides adds a modern touch to this timeless look.
This style works well for various hair types and face shapes. It’s particularly suitable for professional environments but can also be styled more casually for everyday wear. Use a pomade or styling cream to keep the part defined and the hair in place.
13. Buzz Cut Taper Fade
The buzz cut taper fade is a low-maintenance option that combines the simplicity of a buzz cut with the style of a taper fade. The hair on top is cut very short, typically with a #1 or #2 guard on the clippers. The sides and back feature a taper fade that blends seamlessly into the buzz cut.
This style is perfect for men who want a no-fuss haircut that still looks sharp and intentional. It’s also a great choice for those with thinning hair, as it creates a uniform appearance across the scalp.
14. Ivy League Taper Fade
The Ivy League taper fade, also known as the Harvard Clip or Princeton, is a sophisticated style that’s slightly longer than a crew cut. The hair on top is cut short, typically about an inch long at the front, gradually getting shorter towards the crown. The sides feature a classic taper fade.
This refined style is perfect for professional settings and works well with straight or slightly wavy hair. It can be styled with a side part for a more formal look or brushed forward for a casual appearance.
15. French Crop Taper Fade
The French Crop taper fade features short hair on top with a defined fringe (bangs) at the front. The fringe is typically cut straight across the forehead. The sides and back are tapered and faded for a clean, modern look.
This style is low-maintenance and works well for men with various hair types. It’s particularly flattering for those with receding hairlines, as the fringe can be used to conceal a high forehead.
16. Messy Textured Top Taper Fade
For a more relaxed, casual look, consider the messy textured top taper fade. This style features longer hair on top that’s cut in a way to enhance natural texture. The hair is typically styled forward or to the side with a tousled, undone appearance.
The taper fade on the sides provides a nice contrast to the messiness on top, keeping the overall look intentional and stylish. This cut works well for various hair types and is perfect for those who prefer a more laid-back aesthetic.
17. Comb Over Taper Fade
The comb over taper fade is a versatile style that can be adapted for both formal and casual settings. The hair on top is left longer and combed over to one side. The amount of volume can be adjusted based on personal preference – from a sleek, flat comb over to a more voluminous style.
The taper fade on the sides keeps the look clean and modern. This style works particularly well for those with thicker hair, as it allows you to showcase your hair’s natural volume and texture.
18. Spiky Top Taper Fade
For those who like an edgier look, the spiky top taper fade is an excellent choice. The hair on top is cut to medium length and styled upwards using a strong-hold product to create spikes. The length and direction of the spikes can be varied to suit your face shape and personal style.
The taper fade on the sides provides a nice contrast to the texture and volume on top. This style works best for those with straight or slightly wavy hair and is perfect for creating a bold, eye-catching look.
19. Crew Cut Taper Fade
The crew cut taper fade is a classic, military-inspired style that’s both practical and stylish. The hair on top is cut short, typically between a quarter-inch to an inch in length, with the front slightly longer than the back. The sides feature a taper fade that blends seamlessly into the top.
This low-maintenance style is perfect for those who want a neat, clean look without much styling required. It’s particularly flattering for those with strong facial features and works well with most hair types.
20. Textured Quiff Taper Fade
The textured quiff taper fade is a modern take on the classic quiff. The hair on top is left longer, especially at the front, and styled upwards and backwards to create height and volume. Unlike a classic quiff, which is often smooth, this version embraces natural texture for a more relaxed, contemporary look.
The taper fade on the sides helps to accentuate the volume on top while keeping the overall style neat and fresh. This versatile cut can be styled in various ways, from a more defined, sleek look to a messier, casual style.
In conclusion, the taper fade haircut offers endless possibilities for customization and personal expression. Whether you prefer a classic, professional look or something more edgy and modern, there’s a taper fade variation to suit your style. Remember, the key to pulling off any of these looks is confidence and proper maintenance. Regular trims every 3-4 weeks will help keep your taper fade looking sharp and stylish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and products to find the perfect taper fade for you!