The taper fade haircut is a versatile and stylish option that has become increasingly popular among men of all ages. It gradually blends the hair from short to longer, offering a sleek and sophisticated look. This comprehensive guide explores the top 10 taper fade haircuts, delves into the differences between fades and tapers, and provides tips on maintaining these stylish cuts.
What is a Taper Fade?
A taper fade is a hybrid haircut that combines elements of both the taper and the fade. It involves gradually shortening the hair from the top of the head to the sides and back, creating a smooth transition from longer to shorter lengths. This style is perfect for those wanting a clean, polished look without sacrificing length. The versatility of the taper allows for a wide range of variations, making it suitable for different hair types and personal styles.
Differences Between Tapers and Fades
Before diving into the top taper fade haircuts, it’s essential to understand the critical differences between tapers and fades. While both styles involve gradually shortening the hair, they differ in their execution and overall look.
Taper: A taper involves gradually reducing the hair length around the head’s sides and back. The transition is usually subtle, with the hair at the top remaining significantly longer than at the bottom. Tapers are typically less dramatic than fades and provide a more conservative and professional appearance.
Fade: A fade also involves gradually shortening the hair, but the transition is usually more abrupt. Fades often start with very short or even shaved hair at the bottom and quickly blend into longer lengths as you move up the head. This creates a more striking and edgy look compared to tapers.
Top 10 Taper Fade Haircuts
Now that we understand what a taper fade is and how it differs from other styles, let’s explore the top 10 taper haircuts for men.
Classic Taper Fade
The classic taper fade is a timeless option that suits almost any occasion. This style gradually reduces hair length from the top of the head to the sides and back, creating a clean and polished look. The classic taper is versatile enough to be paired with various hairstyles on top, such as a slick back, pompadour, or even a simple side part.
Low Taper Fade
The low taper fade is perfect for those who prefer a more subtle and understated look. This style starts the taper lower on the head, closer to the ears, and gradually blends into longer hair as it moves up. It is ideal for maintaining a professional appearance while incorporating a modern touch.
High Taper Fade
The high taper fade is an excellent choice for a bolder, more dramatic look. This style starts the taper higher on the head, around the temples, and quickly transitions to longer hair. The high taper works well with various hairstyles, including faux hawks, quiffs, and textured crops.
Mid-Taper Fade
The mid-taper fade strikes a balance between the low and high taper. It starts the taper around the midpoint of the head, offering a versatile and balanced look. This style is excellent for those who want a noticeable fade without going too extreme. The mid-taper complements many hairstyles, from messy textured looks to more structured styles.
Taper Fade with Curly Hair
Men with curly hair can also rock a taper fade with style. The taper helps manage the volume and texture of curly hair while maintaining a clean and neat appearance. This style involves gradually blending the curls into shorter lengths around the sides and back, allowing the natural curls on top to stand out. It’s a great way to showcase your curls while keeping the overall look refined.
Taper Fade with Waves
Waves add a unique and stylish element to the taper, which is particularly popular among men with coarse hair textures. The taper with waves, which involves creating defined wave patterns on top while gradually tapering the sides and back. This look requires regular brushing and maintenance to keep the waves intact, resulting in a sophisticated and eye-catching hairstyle.
Taper Fade with a Beard
Pairing a taper fade with a beard creates a striking contrast that enhances facial features. The key to this style is achieving a seamless transition between the hair on the head and beard hair. This involves carefully tapering the hair around the sides and back while maintaining a well-groomed beard. The taper and beard combination offers a rugged yet polished look that suits various face shapes and styles.
Skin Taper Fade
The skin taper, a bald taper, is a bold and edgy option. This style involves tapering the hair down to the skin at the sides and back, creating a sharp contrast with the longer hair on top. The skin taper works well with various hairstyles, including crew cuts, buzz cuts, and high-top fades. It’s a high-maintenance style requiring regular touch-ups to keep the fade sharp.
Taper Fade with a Side Part
The taper fades with a side part that combines classic and modern elements for a sophisticated look. This style involves creating a defined side part while gradually tapering the hair on the sides and back. The side part adds structure and definition to the hairstyle, making it suitable for casual and formal settings. The taper with a side part that works well with straight, wavy, or curly hair textures.
Taper Fade with a Pompadour
The pompadour is a classic hairstyle that pairs exceptionally well with a taper. This style creates volume and height on top while gradually tapering the sides and back. The taper with a pompadour, offering a retro yet modern look that exudes confidence and style. Regular styling and maintenance are required to keep the pompadour looking its best, but the result is a head-turning hairstyle that stands out.
How to Maintain a Taper Fade
Maintaining a taper requires regular grooming and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you keep your taper fade looking sharp:
1. Regular Trims: Regular trims are essential to maintain a taper clean and polished look. Depending on your hair growth rate, visit your barber every two to three weeks for touch-ups.
2. Proper Washing and Conditioning: Use quality hair products to keep your hair healthy. Shampoo and condition your hair regularly to prevent buildup and maintain the overall health of your scalp.
3. Styling Products: Invest in good styling products such as pomades, gels, or waxes to help shape and hold your desired hairstyle. Choose products that suit your hair type and the specific look you’re aiming for.
4. Brushing and Combing: Regular brushing and combing help keep your hair in place and maintain the desired shape. Use a brush or comb that works well with your hair texture to achieve the best results.
5. Beard Maintenance: If you pair your taper with a beard, ensure it is well-groomed and trimmed. Use beard oils and balms to keep it soft and manageable.
Conclusion
The taper fade is a versatile and stylish haircut that offers endless possibilities for customization. Whether you prefer a subtle low taper, or a bold high taper, there’s a style that suits your personality and preferences. Understanding the differences between tapers and fades helps you decide the best haircut. Following the maintenance tips, you can keep your taper looking sharp and stylish. Explore the top 10 tapers fade haircuts and find the one that best suits your look, enhancing your overall appearance and boosting your confidence.