Thinking about a fresh new look? The taper fade haircut is a modern favorite that’s simple yet stylish. With shorter sides that gradually blend into longer hair on top, it’s a cut that’s easy to maintain but looks great for any occasion. It’s no wonder stylists keep recommending it—it works for just about any face shape and hair type, so it’s a safe bet for anyone looking to try something new.
Celebs are loving it too! You’ll see stars like Ranveer Singh and Virat Kohli sporting their own versions of the taper fade, proving how adaptable it is. Ready to explore what makes this cut so popular? Let’s dive into the best taper fade styles for men.
What is a Taper Fade?
The taper fade haircut is a style where the hair gradually fades from longer on top to shorter as it moves down the sides and back, creating a clean and natural transition. This gradual fade offers a neat, polished look that can be customized to fit any style preference, from subtle and classic to bold and modern.
There are a few main types of taper fades to choose from:
- Low Taper Fade: Starts just above the ears and keeps the fade lower on the head, giving a softer, more understated look.
- Mid Taper Fade: Begins halfway up the sides and back, creating a balanced, versatile look that isn’t too subtle or too bold.
- High Taper Fade: Starts higher up on the head, usually around the temples, for a more dramatic, high-contrast style.
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Skin Fade: A fade that tapers down to the skin at the base, creating a very sharp and defined look that stands out.
Benefits of Choosing a Taper Fade
The taper fade isn’t just stylish; it’s practical. It works well for all hair types and lengths, can adapt to different face shapes, and suits both formal and casual occasions. Plus, it’s a low-maintenance option that keeps you looking fresh between cuts.
Top 25 Taper Fade Haircut For Men
Unsure about which style to go for? Worry not! As we have selected the best 25 taper fade haircut that would not only give you a variety but also help you in finding the best match. So let’s get started.
- Classic Low Taper Fade
- Business Taper Fade with Side Part
- Temple Taper Fade
- High Taper Fade with Short Pompadour
- Low Skin Taper with Slick Back
- Taper Fade with Short Beard
- Mid Taper Fade with Full Beard
- High Taper Fade with Goatee
- Low Taper Fade with Stubble
- Taper Fade with Van Dyke Beard
- Textured Taper Fade with Fringe
- Curly Taper Fade
- Messy Taper Fade with Layers
- Wavy Taper Fade
- Disconnected Taper Fade
- Low Taper Fade with Buzz Cut
- High Taper Fade with Crew Cut
- Mid Taper Fade with Faux Hawk
- Taper Fade with Caesar Cut
- Skin Taper with Spiky Top
- Low Taper Fade with Long Top
- Mid Taper Fade with Braids
- High Taper Fade with Bun
- Taper Fade with Shoulder-Length Waves
- Taper Fade with Long Slick Back
Classic Taper Fades for Professional Settings
Classic Low Taper Fade
The Classic Low Taper Fade is a go-to haircut if you want something clean but not too flashy. The fade starts low around the ears and gradually blends up, keeping more length on top. This way, you get a nice, natural-looking transition without the sides looking too sharp or extreme. It’s a look that fits right in at work, formal events, and even on a regular day out.
- How to Achieve: Gradual fade starting low near the ears, keeping more length on top.
- Hair Type: All types
- Face Shape: Oval, round, square
- Hair Length: Short to medium
- Occasion: Work, formal events, everyday
Business Taper Fade with Side Part
The Business Taper Fade with Side Part is a polished look that balances a clean fade with a touch of classic style. This cut keeps the sides and back neatly tapered while adding a defined side part on top, giving a structured look that’s perfect for professional settings.
- How to Achieve: Taper fade on sides and back, distinct side part on top.
- Hair Type: Straight, wavy
- Face Shape: Round, oval
- Hair Length: Medium
- Occasion: Work, formal settings
Temple Taper Fade
The Temple Taper Fade is a stylish choice that focuses on a subtle, clean look around the temples. With a gentle taper and minimal fade on the sides, this haircut gives you a sleek finish without being overly dramatic. It’s perfect for anyone looking to keep it sharp yet relaxed.
- How to Achieve: Subtle taper near the temples; minimal fade on the sides.
- Hair Type: Straight, curly
- Face Shape: Square, round
- Hair Length: Medium to long
- Occasion: Work, casual settings
High Taper Fade with Short Pompadour
The High Taper Fade with Short Pompadour is a bold hairstyle that combines a sharp fade with a bit of flair. This cut features a high fade on the sides, allowing for a voluminous pompadour on top that adds height and character to your look. It’s an eye-catching style that’s perfect for making a statement.
- How to Achieve: High fade with voluminous hair styled in a short pompadour.
- Hair Type: Straight, wavy
- Face Shape: Square, round
- Hair Length: Short to medium
- Occasion: Work, night out
Low Skin Taper with Slick Back
The Low Skin Taper with Slick Back is a sharp and sophisticated hairstyle that combines a clean, low fade with a polished slicked-back style. The fade gradually tapers down to the skin near the ears, creating a seamless look that accentuates the longer hair on top.
- How to Achieve: Low taper fading into the skin, styled slick back.
- Hair Type: Straight, wavy
- Face Shape: Oval, square
- Hair Length: Medium to long
- Occasion: Formal events, business
Taper Fade Haircut with Beard Styles
Taper Fade with Short Beard
The Taper Fade with Short Beard is a versatile and stylish look that perfectly combines a fresh haircut with a well-groomed beard. This style features a low to mid fade on the sides that blends seamlessly into a trimmed beard, creating a cohesive appearance that enhances your facial features.
- How to Achieve: Low to mid fade on sides, seamlessly blending into a trimmed beard.
- Hair Type: All types
- Face Shape: Square, oval
- Hair Length: Short to medium
- Occasion: Casual, everyday
Mid Taper Fade with Full Beard
The Mid Taper Fade with Full Beard strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and rugged charm. This style features a mid fade that gradually tapers from the sides into a full, well-groomed beard, creating a striking and cohesive look that adds character to your appearance.
- How to Achieve: Mid fade that tapers into a full, well-groomed beard.
- Hair Type: Straight, wavy
- Face Shape: Round, oval
- Hair Length: Medium
- Occasion: Casual, date night
High Taper Fade with Goatee
The High Taper Fade with Goatee is a bold and stylish look that combines a sharp fade with a defined goatee. This haircut features a high fade on the sides, drawing attention to the goatee, which adds character and a touch of sophistication to your overall appearance.
- How to Achieve: High fade on the sides, paired with a sharp goatee.
- Hair Type: All types
- Face Shape: Oval, heart
- Hair Length: Short
- Occasion: Casual, weekend outings
Low Taper Fade with Stubble
The Low Taper Fade with Stubble is a rugged yet refined hairstyle that strikes the perfect balance between casual and polished. This look features a low fade on the sides, complemented by light stubble, giving off an effortlessly cool vibe.
- How to Achieve: Low fade with light stubble for a rugged look.
- Hair Type: All types
- Face Shape: Oval, square
- Hair Length: Short
- Occasion: Everyday, business casual
Taper Fade with Van Dyke Beard
The Taper Fade with Van Dyke Beard is a striking combination that merges a sharp haircut with a classic beard style. This look features a clean taper fade that seamlessly blends into a distinct Van Dyke beard, which consists of a goatee and a mustache, creating a bold and sophisticated appearance.
- How to Achieve: Sharp taper that blends with a distinct Van Dyke beard style.
- Hair Type: All types
- Face Shape: Square, heart
- Hair Length: Short to medium
- Occasion: Formal, casual
Taper Fade Haircut Textured Hairstyles
Textured Taper Fade with Fringe
The Textured Taper Fade with Fringe is a fun and modern hairstyle that adds personality to your look. This cut features a taper fade on the sides, while the hair on top is styled into a textured fringe that falls forward, creating a relaxed and youthful vibe.
- How to Achieve: Taper fade on the sides with textured fringe styled forward on top.
- Hair Type: Wavy, straight
- Face Shape: Oval, round
- Hair Length: Medium
- Occasion: Casual, social events
Curly Taper Fade
The Curly Taper Fade is a stylish option that highlights natural curls while keeping the sides neat and tidy. This look features defined curls on top, paired with a low to mid taper fade on the sides, offering a balanced appearance that’s both trendy and easy to manage.
- How to Achieve: Defined curls on top with a low to mid taper fade on the sides.
- Hair Type: Curly
- Face Shape: Oval, heart
- Hair Length: Short to medium
- Occasion: Everyday, night out
Messy Taper Fade with Layers
The Messy Taper Fade with Layers is a laid-back hairstyle that combines effortless style with a touch of edge. This look features layered, tousled hair on top, giving it a carefree vibe, while a low taper fade on the sides adds dimension and keeps the overall look polished.
- How to Achieve: Layered, tousled hair on top with a low fade to add dimension.
- Hair Type: Wavy, straight
- Face Shape: Round, square
- Hair Length: Medium
- Occasion: Casual, beach or outdoor activities
Wavy Taper Fade
The Wavy Taper Fade is a stylish and modern haircut that embraces your natural waves while maintaining a clean and professional appearance. This look features soft, defined waves on top, paired with a subtle taper fade on the sides that accentuates the texture and keeps everything looking sharp.
- How to Achieve: Natural waves on top with a subtle taper fade to highlight texture.
- Hair Type: Wavy
- Face Shape: Oval, rectangular
- Hair Length: Medium
- Occasion: Everyday, work
Disconnected Taper Fade
The Disconnected Taper Fade is a bold and fashion-forward hairstyle that makes a statement. This look features a sharp taper fade that distinctly disconnects the sides from the longer hair on top, creating a striking contrast that’s both edgy and stylish.
- How to Achieve: Distinctive fade disconnecting the sides from the longer hair on top.
- Hair Type: Straight, wavy
- Face Shape: Oval, square
- Hair Length: Medium to long
- Occasion: Fashion-forward events, parties
Sporty Taper Fades for Active Men
Low Taper Fade with Buzz Cut
The Low Taper Fade with Buzz Cut is the epitome of a clean and low-maintenance hairstyle. This look features a minimalist buzz cut paired with a low taper fade, resulting in a sharp, polished appearance that requires minimal styling.
- How to Achieve: Minimalist buzz cut with a low fade for a clean, low-maintenance look.
- Hair Type: All types
- Face Shape: Oval, square
- Hair Length: Very short
- Occasion: Everyday, athletic events
High Taper Fade with Crew Cut
The High Taper Fade with Crew Cut is a classic hairstyle that combines a clean look with a touch of modern flair. This style features a high taper fade on the sides, complemented by a traditional crew cut on top, resulting in a sharp and polished appearance.
- How to Achieve: High fade paired with a classic crew cut on top.
- Hair Type: Straight, wavy
- Face Shape: Square, oval
- Hair Length: Short
- Occasion: Work, sports activities
Mid Taper Fade with Faux Hawk
The Mid Taper Fade with Faux Hawk is a daring and stylish hairstyle that adds a fun twist to a classic cut. This look features tapered sides with a voluminous faux hawk on top, creating a striking contrast that is sure to turn heads.
- How to Achieve: Tapered sides with a voluminous faux hawk at the top.
- Hair Type: Straight, wavy
- Face Shape: Heart, oval
- Hair Length: Medium
- Occasion: Casual, night out
Taper Fade with Caesar Cut
The Taper Fade with Caesar Cut is a clean and classic hairstyle that exudes a sharp and confident vibe. This look features a short, evenly cut fringe combined with a mid taper fade on the sides, offering a neat appearance that’s easy to maintain.
- How to Achieve: Short, evenly cut fringe with a mid taper fade.
- Hair Type: All types
- Face Shape: Oval, round
- Hair Length: Short
- Occasion: Everyday, outdoor events
Skin Taper with Spiky Top
The Skin Taper with Spiky Top is a bold and energetic hairstyle that combines a sharp skin fade with short, textured spikes on top. This look is perfect for those looking to make a statement while keeping things fresh and modern.
- How to Achieve: Skin fade on sides with short, spiky hair on top.
- Hair Type: Straight, wavy
- Face Shape: Square, oval
- Hair Length: Short
- Occasion: Casual, evening gatherings
Taper Fades for Long Hairstyles
Low Taper Fade with Long Top
The Low Taper Fade with Long Top is a versatile and sophisticated style that combines a clean, tapered look on the sides with the freedom of longer hair on top. This hairstyle allows for multiple styling options, from slicked-back to a textured look, making it a great choice for those who enjoy versatility.
- How to Achieve: Low taper on the sides, keeping long hair on top for versatility.
- Hair Type: All types
- Face Shape: Oval, rectangular
- Hair Length: Long
- Occasion: Formal, special events
Mid Taper Fade with Braids
The Mid Taper Fade with Braids is a bold and distinctive hairstyle that combines the sleekness of a mid taper fade with the individuality of braids. This style creates a striking contrast between the tightly faded sides and the intricate braids on top, adding both texture and dimension.
- How to Achieve: Mid taper fade with braided top for a bold look.
- Hair Type: Coarse, curly
- Face Shape: Oval, heart
- Hair Length: Long
- Occasion: Casual, fashion-forward events
High Taper Fade with Bun
The High Taper Fade with Bun is a trendy and practical hairstyle that combines a high fade with a man bun, giving a modern twist to long hair. This look is great for those who want the convenience of tying their hair back while adding structure with a bold fade on the sides.
- How to Achieve: High taper fade paired with a man bun.
- Hair Type: Straight, wavy
- Face Shape: Oval, square
- Hair Length: Long
- Occasion: Casual, music festivals
Taper Fade with Shoulder-Length Waves
The Taper Fade with Shoulder-Length Waves is an effortlessly stylish look that combines a subtle taper fade with naturally wavy or curly shoulder-length hair. This style balances structure and flow, making it perfect for those who want to keep their hair long while adding a modern edge.
- How to Achieve: Taper fade on the sides, leaving shoulder-length waves on top.
- Hair Type: Wavy, curly
- Face Shape: Oval, rectangular
- Hair Length: Long
- Occasion: Fashion events, beach outings
Taper Fade with Long Slick Back
The Taper Fade with Long Slick Back combines a sleek, sophisticated style with a modern taper fade, making it perfect for formal and business settings. The long, slicked-back hair on top pairs elegantly with the tapered sides, creating a sharp and polished appearance.
- How to Achieve: Taper fade on the sides, with long hair slicked back for a sharp look.
- Hair Type: Straight, wavy
- Face Shape: Square, oval
- Hair Length: Long
- Occasion: Formal, business
Hair Care Tips for Maintaining a Taper Fade Haircut
Keeping your taper fade looking fresh and sharp requires a bit of maintenance and the right products. Here’s a quick guide to help you maintain your fade and keep it looking clean between barber visits.
Essential Products for Taper Fades
- Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner: Choose products that nourish without weighing hair down, especially for fades where scalp visibility matters.
- Hair Wax or Pomade: These add texture and hold to your style. Pomade is ideal for slicked-back looks, while wax gives a matte finish for a more natural effect.
- Edge Control Cream: Helps keep the faded edges defined and sharp.
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Lightweight Oil or Serum: A small amount can add shine and control frizz for longer styles.
Frequency of Trims for Maintenance
- Regular Trims: Visit your barber every 2-3 weeks to keep the fade fresh. This helps maintain the fade line and prevent the sides from looking overgrown.
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Clean-Up Cuts: If you’re between cuts, a quick trim around the edges or the neckline can extend the style's life.
Styling Tips for a Lasting Look
- Brush or Comb Daily: Keep hair tangle-free and in place by gently brushing or combing. For longer top styles, comb it into shape with a bit of product.
- Hydrate Regularly: Use a leave-in conditioner or light oil to keep hair healthy and prevent dryness, especially for curly or coarse hair types.
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Set with Light Hold Spray: For events, set your style with a light-hold hairspray to lock the look in place without stiffness.
With these tips, you can keep your taper fade looking crisp and ready for any occasion!
Face Shape Guide: Choosing the Right Taper Fade
Here is a concise guide to help you select the best taper fade according to your face shape
|
Face Shape |
Best Taper Fade Styles |
Style Guidance |
Example |
|
Oval |
Classic Low Taper, Taper Fade with Long Slick Back, Temple Taper Fade |
Most styles work well; opt for fades that add structure to avoid overly soft lines. |
Saif Ali Khan - Slick Back |
|
Square |
High Taper Fade with Short Pompadour, Taper Fade with Short Beard |
Emphasize jawline by adding volume on top. Avoid cuts that add bulk at the sides. |
Ranbir Kapoor - Man Bun |
|
Round |
High Taper Fade with Goatee, Textured Taper Fade with Fringe |
Choose styles that add height on top, creating the illusion of a more angular face. |
Hrithik Roshan - Spiky Top |
|
Rectangular |
Low Taper Fade with Shoulder-Length Waves, Mid Taper Fade with Side Part |
Softer taper with longer top works well to balance length and add dimension to the face. |
Shahid Kapoor - Long Top |
|
Heart |
Mid Taper Fade with Faux Hawk, Taper Fade with Caesar Cut |
Add width at the sides or volume on top for balance. Avoid styles that overly taper the jawline area. |
Farhan Akhtar - Braids |
Quick Summary:
- Oval Faces: Balanced and versatile; try fades with some height or slicked-back looks.
- Square Faces: Define the jawline and add volume on top; avoid bulk on the sides.
- Round Faces: Opt for height and angles to create a leaner appearance.
- Rectangular Faces: Softer fades with longer tops help soften face length.
- Heart-Shaped Faces: Balance out the forehead width with width on the sides or top volume.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Taper Fades
- Over-Fading: Going too high with the fade can disrupt the gradual taper and make it look more like a full shave. To avoid this, be clear with your barber about the level and definition you want.
- Under-Maintenance: Taper fades lose their sharpness quickly if not trimmed often. Plan for a touch-up every 2-3 weeks to keep the fade looking crisp, especially around the edges.
- Choosing the Wrong Fade Level: Different face shapes suit different fade levels. For example, round faces may benefit from higher fades, while oval faces may suit low fades. Also, consider lifestyle needs, a subtle taper might be more fitting in professional settings.
- Using Heavy Products: Thick gels or waxes can weigh down the hair on top, disrupting the clean fade look. Instead, opt for lightweight pomades or sprays that keep hair looking fresh without added weight.
- Neglecting Natural Texture: For curly or wavy hair, using products that flatten natural texture can make the style look forced. Instead, enhance your natural texture with a light styling cream and keep the top groomed with regular brushing.
