What is a taper fade? The taper fade has become an iconic men’s hairstyle. It offers a clean, versatile look that suits many styles and preferences. But, finding the perfect taper fade depends on several factors. These include your hair type and face shape.
Today, the popular men’s hairstyle is often called a temple fade. It is known for being versatile and low maintenance. This guide will help you navigate the world of taper fades and learn about the best taper fade for your hair type and face shape. It will help you match the right style to your unique features.
What’s Your Definition Of A “Fade” Vs. A “Taper Fade”
A fade and a taper fade are both haircuts. They gradually transition from longer hair to shorter hair. But they differ in their contrast.
- A fade is a dramatic cut. The hair shortens, merging with the skin at the neckline boundary. This creates a sharp, defined look.
- A taper fade is a modest variation. In it, the hair length decreases gradually. This creates a softer, less dramatic transition.
A fade typically covers the whole head. However, a taper fade focuses on the sides and back. It leaves the top hair longer. A taper fade is a softened version of a traditional fade.
Finding The Perfect Fade For Your Face Shape
- Best for short hair: High Taper Fade
- Best for Afro hair: Afro Taper
- Most modern: Taper with Natural Flow
- Best Low Maintenance: Low Taper Fade
Low Fade
A low taper fade is an ideal choice for those who prefer a modern, understated haircut. The tapering begins low on the head. It gradually blends the short hair at the nape and sides with the longer hair on top. The key to a successful low taper lies in the “blend point,” where the sideburns meet the longer hair. It is typically above the ear. It sets the appearance of the fade.
For a balanced style, it’s crucial to match the taper on the sides with the taper at the back of the head. Avoiding a squared-off neckline is essential for a natural, longer-lasting look. The low taper is versatile. It complements many hairstyles, from side parts to textured cuts. Best of all, it requires a little styling. This makes it an easy choice for a clean, polished look.
Key characteristics of a low taper fade:
- Hair Length: The hair length shifts smoothly from short to long. This creates a natural-looking appearance.
- Modern Cut: This style works with many hairstyles. These range from classic side parts to modern, textured cuts.
- Low Maintenance: With minimal styling required, it’s ideal for busy lifestyles.
- Safe option: Less dramatic than higher fades, it’s a good choice if you’re unsure about a bolder look.
Afro Taper
This is perfect for curly hair; it combines the volume of an afro with the clean lines of a fade. An afro taper haircut is excellent for people with high cheekbones. It highlights their facial features. This style showcases hair with curls that twist closely together. It has long hair on top and comes with numerous fade options.
An afro fade offers a relaxed look. It’s good for workplaces with flexible rules on hairstyles. Here are the things to remember when it comes to afro hair taper.
- Hair texture: Afro hair has tight curls, requiring expert barbering techniques.
- Fade Styles: Choose between a low or high fade based on your preference.
- Top Longer: Leave the top hair longer. This allows for many styling options, like afros, twists, or dreadlocks (hairstyles made of rope-like strands of hair).
Mid-Taper Fade
The mid-taper fade offers a balanced look, starting the fade around the middle of the head. It begins about an inch above the ears, rising to the eye line. It works for different types of hair and face shapes. It gives a clean and modern look. The mid-taper fade offers flexibility in styling the top hair. It allows for different lengths and textures.
It requires regular trims to maintain the fade’s shape and prevent an overgrown look. The mid-taper haircut is a more stylish version of the low-effort cut. But, it is still neat and classy enough for all formal settings.
Key characteristics of a low taper fade:
- Gradual Fade: Hair length transitions smoothly from top to side and back.
- Top Hair: Longer hair on top allows for various styling options.
- Clean Line: A defined separation between the top and shorter side hairs.
High Taper Fade
This style is bold and modern, suitable for those who want a more dramatic appearance. High-fade style is the opposite of low-fade style. The high tapered fade begins approximately two inches from the hairline. It tapers downward on the sides and the back. If you have a dark high, a high fade allows you to show great contrast.
High tapered fade is among the most popular tapered fade style variations. This haircut has three main features. It has a high fade. It requires regular upkeep. And, it has a sharp line. A high-fade haircut is less advisable for men working in conservative workplaces. Many people view it as unprofessional and unofficial.
- High Fade Point: It begins high on the head, near the temple or ear.
- Defined Line: Clear separation between short and long hair.
- Maintenance: Frequent trims are needed to maintain its shape.
Burst Taper Haircut Style
It’s a dramatic and edgy style. It’s best for those with thick hair and a strong jawline. This is the most extreme type of taper haircut. The burst taper is unlike other fade haircuts. It’s unique and dramatic. Burst taper means tapering the hairline behind the ear. The stylist leaves the hair longer at the back of the head. This creates a burst effect.
Key features of a burst fade include the burst effect and regular maintenance or upkeep. The burst effect implies cutting the hair short around the neck and ear to create the burst effect. Hair maintenance involves consistent care and attention. It’s essential to ensure that it remains in good condition.
- Burst Effect: Shortened hair around the ears and neck creates a dramatic look.
- Regular Upkeep: Frequent trims are needed due to uneven hair growth.
These are general guidelines. The best way to find the perfect taper fade is to experiment and consult with a skilled barber.
Popular Taper Face Variations
Taper Face With Beard
The haircut has tapered edges. The beard, carefully shaped, matches the appearance. This look exudes masculinity. The taper merges with the beard, introducing complexity and visual interest.
Taper Face With Curly Hair
Curly hair adds texture and volume to the tapered face style. A low or mid-tapered cut works well to control the curls. It also has a stylish look.
Taper Face With Straight Hair
Straight hair enhances the clean lines of a tapered face haircut. Both high and low tapers can create a sleek, polished look that’s easy to manage.
Taper Face With Wavy Hair
Wavy hair offers a natural, effortless look when paired with a tapered face haircut. A mid-level taper complements the waves and adds a modern touch.
Tips For Styling Your Taper Fade
- Use a high-quality hair product to enhance your desired look.
- Experiment with different hairstyles on top to create some variety.
- Regular trims are essential to maintain the fade’s shape.
- Consider adding a beard to complement your taper fade.
To find the perfect taper fade, consider your hair type and face shape. The aim is to create a style that complements your features. You may prefer the classic low fade, the bold high fade, or the versatile mid fade. There’s a taper fade for everyone. Remember, regular maintenance is key to preserving your chosen style. You can understand many fade types.
Try out different lengths and textures on top. You make a bold choice with a taper fade that elevates your style. The ideal taper fade boosts your self-assurance and sense of style.