40 Taper Fade Haircuts – All Trendy Styles in A Single Guide

A taper fade haircut involves a gradual transition from longer hair on top to shorter hair on the sides and back, eventually fading into the skin or a very short length. It differs from a regular fade in that a regular fade usually refers to a more abrupt and noticeable transition, while a Taper Haircut fade is smoother and more blended. A simple taper usually involves shortening the hair gradually, but may not necessarily involve skin fading.

The taper hairstyle fade popularity stems from its versatility. It can be adapted to various hair lengths and styles, offering a clean, modern look suitable for men of all ages and ethnicities. It’s a popular choice because it’s a relatively low-maintenance style that can be easily customized.

The specific lengths and blending techniques used in a tapered fade can vary widely. Barbers often use different clipper guards and techniques to achieve the desired fade. A low taper hair fade starts the tapering low on the sides and back, while a mid taper fade begins the taper higher up. A high tapered fade, as the name suggests, starts the taper even higher, creating a more dramatic look.

The skin fade, also known as a zero fade, involves fading the hair completely to the skin, often around the temple and neckline areas. The type of fade chosen often depends on personal preference and the overall hairstyle.

40 Most Famous List of Taper Fade Variations

The tapered haircut fade haircut is a popular and timeless style known for its clean and polished look. This haircut gradually shortens the hair on the sides and back, creating a smooth transition that blends into the skin or a slightly longer length. Suitable for various hair types and face shapes, the tapered hairstyle fade is favored by both men and women who want a sharp, stylish, and low-maintenance haircut. It is widely requested in barbershops and can cost anywhere between $20 to $60, depending on location and stylist expertise.

1. Low Taper Fade

A low taper fade starts just above the ears and neckline, creating a subtle and professional appearance. It suits oval, round, and square face shapes, as it frames the face without harsh contrasts. This style is ideal for straight, wavy, and curly hair types, making it a versatile option for many. The low taper haircut fade is highly popular among men seeking a refined yet stylish look. Women with short hairstyles also appreciate its clean aesthetic. The cost of this haircut ranges from $20 to $50, depending on the barber’s expertise and location.

2. Mid Taper fade

The mid taper fade begins midway up the sides and back, offering a balance between the low and high tapered fades hairstyles. This haircut suits most face shapes, including round, square, and heart-shaped faces, by providing structure without excessive contrast. It works well with straight, wavy, and curly hair, offering a versatile look suitable for casual and professional settings. The mid taper haircut fade is widely favored by men and some women who prefer a structured yet natural hairstyle. The price for a mid tapered fade typically falls between $25 and $55, depending on the barber and region.

3. High 

A high taper fade starts near the temples, giving a bold and edgy look. It is best suited for oval and angular face shapes, as it accentuates facial features. This fade pairs well with straight, wavy, and curly hair, making it a go-to choice for those who want a sharp, modern style. Popular among younger men and fashion-forward individuals, the high taper fade is commonly requested at barbershops. Women who prefer bold, short hairstyles also opt for this fade. The cost ranges from $30 to $60, depending on the stylist’s skill level.

4. Blowout 

The blowout taper fade features curly or voluminous hair on top with a tapered fade on the sides. This haircut is ideal for individuals with curly or thick hair, as it enhances texture and volume. Suitable for oval, square, and round face shapes, it creates a stylish and bold appearance. This variation is highly popular among men who want a trendy and high-volume look. Women with naturally curly hair also favor this style for its chic aesthetic. The price for a blowout taper hairstyle fade typically ranges from $30 to $65, depending on the barber and styling involved.

5. Low Taper Skin Fade

The low taper skin fade blends down to the skin, creating a sharp and modern contrast. It works best with oval, square, and diamond face shapes, as it highlights facial features. Suitable for straight, wavy, and curly hair, this fade offers a sleek and professional look. Highly popular among men seeking a fresh and clean haircut, this fade is also an excellent choice for women with short hair. The cost of a low taper skin fade ranges from $25 to $60, depending on the expertise of the barber.

6. Low Taper Burst Fade

The low taper burst fade features a rounded, blended fade around the ears and neckline, creating a soft and seamless look. It suits oval and round face shapes, as it maintains balance and proportion. This fade is ideal for curly and wavy hair types, enhancing natural texture. The low taper burst fade is highly requested among men looking for a stylish yet subtle fade. Women with short, curly hairstyles also opt for this variation. The price typically ranges from $25 to $55, depending on the barber’s expertise.

7. Low with Textured Fringe

This variation features a longer, textured fringe on top, combined with a low taper fade on the sides. It suits oval and heart-shaped faces, as the fringe adds dimension. Best for straight and wavy hair, this style creates a modern and trendy appearance. It is particularly popular among younger men who prefer stylish, fashion-forward haircuts. Women who enjoy a textured, tousled look also appreciate this style. The price ranges from $30 to $65, depending on the barber’s skill and styling requirements.

8. Low Mullet

The low taper fade mullet combines short, tapered sides with longer hair at the back, creating a retro-meets-modern vibe. This style is suitable for oval, round, and square face shapes, as it elongates the appearance of the face. Ideal for straight and wavy hair, the mullet fade is making a strong comeback in modern hairstyling. Popular among men who enjoy bold and unique hairstyles, some women also rock this look with confidence. The cost for a low tapered fade mullet ranges from $35 to $70, depending on the complexity and length.

9. With Middle Part

This variation features a middle part on top, with neatly tapered sides. It works well for oval and diamond-shaped faces, as the middle part adds balance. Suitable for straight and slightly wavy hair, this haircut offers a polished and sophisticated appearance. Popular among men looking for a refined yet stylish look, women with medium-length hair also appreciate its sleek appeal. The price ranges from $25 to $55, depending on the barber’s expertise and location.

10. Curly Hair

This version of the taper haircut fade maintains curly hair on top while gradually fading the sides. It enhances natural volume and definition, making it ideal for curly and coily hair types. This style suits round, oval, and square face shapes, as it adds structure and balance. The low tapered fade for curly hair is highly popular among men who want a clean yet textured look. Women with naturally curly short hair also embrace this style for its effortless and defined appeal. The price for this haircut typically falls between $30 and $60, depending on the barber’s expertise.

11. For Straight Hair

For individuals with straight hair, the low taper fade offers a sleek and sharp appearance. This style is particularly suitable for those with oval or elongated face shapes, as it provides a balanced look. The clean lines of the this haircut accentuate the straightness of the hair, resulting in a polished and professional aesthetic. This haircut is popular among both men and women who prefer a low-maintenance yet stylish option. The cost of this haircut varies depending on the barber’s experience and location, typically ranging from $20 to $50.

12. For Wavy Hair

Enhancing the natural waves, the low taper fade for wavy hair creates a casual and stylish look. This haircut suits individuals with oval or round face shapes, as the tapering can add structure and definition. The gradual fade emphasizes the texture of wavy hair, offering a relaxed yet refined appearance. This style is favored by those seeking a balance between a laid-back and fashionable look. Pricing for this haircut generally falls between $20 and $50, depending on the barber’s expertise and geographical location.

13. For Black Men

Tailored for textured hair, the low taper fade for Black men includes variations like fluffy hair tapered fades. This style complements square or round face shapes by providing a sharp and defined outline. This haircut enhances the natural curl pattern, resulting in a clean and contemporary look. This haircut is highly popular among men who appreciate a stylish yet manageable option. The cost typically ranges from $20 to $50, varying with the barber’s experience and location.

14. For Hispanic/Mexican Men

Designed for thicker, coarser hair, the low tapered fade for Hispanic/Mexican men is often paired with designs or hard parts to add a unique touch. This style suits individuals with oval or heart-shaped faces, as it provides a balanced and structured appearance. The incorporation of designs or hard parts adds a personalized element, making the haircut stand out. This style is popular among those seeking a distinctive and fashionable look. Pricing varies between $20 and $50, depending on the barber’s skill level and location.

15. For Asian Men

The low taper fade works well with straight or thick hair commonly found among Asian men. Often styled with a fringe or textured top, this haircut suits individuals with square or oval face shapes, providing a harmonious and modern appearance. The addition of a fringe or textured top adds volume and dimension, enhancing the overall look. This style is favored by those aiming for a contemporary and versatile haircut. The cost typically ranges from $20 to $50, depending on the barber’s expertise and location.

16. For White Men

Versatile for straight or wavy hair, the low taper fade is popular among White men and is often styled with middle parts or messy tops. This haircut suits various face shapes, including oval and heart-shaped faces, offering a flexible and modern look. The adaptability of this style allows for personalization, whether aiming for a neat or tousled appearance. This haircut is popular among those seeking a contemporary and adaptable style. Pricing generally falls between $20 and $50, depending on the barber’s experience and location.

17. With Fringe

Featuring a longer fringe left at the front, the low taper fade with fringe provides a youthful and trendy appearance. This style suits individuals with oval or elongated face shapes, as the fringe can add balance and soften facial features. The combination of this fade haircut with a fringe creates a dynamic and fashionable look. This haircut is favored by those seeking a modern and edgy style. The cost typically ranges from $20 to $50, varying with the barber’s expertise and location.

18. For Long Hair

Combining long hair on top with tapered sides and back, the low taper fade for long hair offers a modern, layered look. This style suits individuals with oval or heart-shaped faces, providing a balanced and elongated appearance. The contrast between the long top and tapered sides creates a striking and contemporary aesthetic. This haircut is popular among those seeking a bold and stylish look. Pricing varies between $20 and $50, depending on the barber’s experience and location.

19. For Short Hair

Featuring a short, cropped top with a taper fade, this style offers a clean and low-maintenance option. It suits individuals with square or round face shapes, providing a neat and structured appearance. The simplicity of this haircut makes it easy to maintain while still offering a sharp and polished look. This style is favored by those seeking a straightforward and professional appearance. The cost typically ranges from $20 to $50, depending on the barber’s expertise and location.

20. With Designs

Adding designs or patterns to the tapered sides, the low taper fade with designs offers a creative and unique look. This style suits individuals with various face shapes, as the designs can be customized to complement individual features. The incorporation of artistic elements into the taper hairstyle fade allows for personal expression and a standout appearance. This haircut is popular among those seeking a distinctive and personalized style. Pricing varies between $20 and $50, depending on the complexity of the design, the barber’s skill level, and location.

21. With Hard Part

The low tapered haircut fade with a hard part features a sharp, defined line shaved into the hair, adding a distinct separation between sections. This style suits individuals with oval or square face shapes, as the hard part adds structure and definition. It’s ideal for straight or slightly wavy hair, where the part can be clearly defined. This classic and clean look is popular among men seeking a sharp and polished appearance. The cost of this haircut varies depending on the barber’s experience and location, typically ranging from $30 to $60.

22. For Black Boys

For Black boys, the taper hair cut fade is a popular choice due to its clean and manageable nature. This style often features shorter sides with a curly or fluffy top, embracing the natural hair texture. It’s suitable for round or oval face shapes, providing a balanced and youthful look. The haircut is favored by parents and children alike for its stylish yet age-appropriate appearance. Prices generally range from $20 to $40, depending on the barber and region.

23. For Teens

The low tapered fade is a trendy and youthful option for teenagers. Often incorporating textured tops or fringes, this style suits various face shapes, including oval and rectangular. It’s adaptable to different hair types, from straight to wavy, allowing for personal expression. This haircut is popular among teens seeking a modern and fashionable look. The cost typically ranges from $25 to $50, depending on the barber’s expertise and location.

24. For Professionals

For a polished workplace appearance, the low taper fade offers a clean and sophisticated look. Often paired with a middle part or slicked-back top, this style suits individuals with oval or square face shapes. It’s ideal for straight or wavy hair types, providing a neat and professional aesthetic. This haircut is favored by professionals aiming for a sharp and refined image. Prices generally range from $30 to $60, depending on the barber’s experience and location.

25. For Casual Wear

For a relaxed and everyday style, the low taper haircut fade with a messy or textured top offers a laid-back vibe. This haircut suits various face shapes and is adaptable to different hair types, including straight, wavy, and curly hair. It’s popular among individuals seeking a low-maintenance yet stylish appearance. The cost typically ranges from $20 to $50, depending on the barber and region.

26. With Beard

Pairing a low tapered haircut fade with a beard creates a balanced and sharp look. This style suits individuals with oval or rectangular face shapes, as the beard adds definition and complements the haircut. It’s suitable for various hair types and is popular among men seeking a rugged yet polished appearance. Prices generally range from $30 to $70, depending on the complexity of the beard work and the barber’s expertise.

27. With Line-Up

The low taper fade with a line-up features sharp edges and lines around the hairline for a clean finish. This style is popular among Black and Hispanic men and suits various face shapes, providing a structured and defined look. It’s ideal for curly or coarser hair types, enhancing natural textures. The cost typically ranges from $25 to $50, depending on the barber’s experience and location.

28. With Waves

Combining a low tapered fade with 360 waves on top creates a stylish and unique appearance. This haircut suits individuals with oval or round face shapes and is ideal for those with curly or coily hair textures. It’s popular among men seeking a distinctive and well-groomed look. Prices generally range from $30 to $60, depending on the barber’s expertise and region.

29. With Afro

The low taper hairstyling fade cut with an Afro features a full, rounded top with tapered sides, offering a bold and cultural statement. This style suits individuals with oval or square face shapes and is ideal for those with naturally curly or coily hair. It’s popular among men embracing their natural hair texture and seeking a stylish appearance. The cost typically ranges from $25 to $50, depending on the barber and location.

30. With Dreadlocks

Pairing dreadlocks with a low tapered fade creates a sleek and edgy look. This style suits various face shapes and is ideal for individuals with coarser hair types. It’s popular among those seeking a unique and modern appearance. Prices generally range from $40 to $80, depending on the complexity of the dreadlocks and the barber’s expertise.

31. With Braids

This style combines a braided top with tapered sides, offering a stylish and protective option. It’s particularly popular among men and women looking for low-maintenance yet fashionable hairstyles. Suitable face types include oval, round, and square, as the braids can be styled to complement various face shapes. This style works well with medium to thick hair, providing enough length and volume for braiding. Prices for this style vary widely depending on the braiding complexity and the barber’s rates, ranging from $50 to $150 or more.

32. With Highlights

Adding highlights to a low taper fade creates a trendy and eye-catching look. The highlights can accentuate the texture and definition of the fade. This style is popular among men and women who want to add a touch of color and personality to their hair. Suitable face types include oval, square, and heart-shaped. It works best on medium to thick hair that can handle the highlighting process without damage. The price of this haircut will depend on the highlighting technique and the salon’s pricing, generally falling between $40 and $100.

33. For a Receding Hairline

A low taper fade can be a great option for those experiencing a receding hairline. The fade helps to create a clean and structured look, while the longer hair on top can be styled to add volume and camouflage thinning areas. This style is popular among men. Suitable face types include square and round, as the fade can help to create a more balanced appearance. It works well with various hair types, but consultation with a barber is recommended to determine the best approach. The price is similar to a standard low taper fade, typically ranging from $20 to $50.

34. For Round Faces

A low taper fade can help to elongate a round face, creating a more balanced and defined look. The fade draws the eye downward, visually lengthening the face. This style is popular among men. It often works well when paired with a slightly higher fade to further enhance the elongating effect. Suitable hair types include medium to thick. The price is generally in the standard low taper fade range of $20-$50.

35. For Oval Faces

Oval faces are considered versatile and can suit a variety of hairstyles, including the low taper fade. This cut complements the balanced proportions of an oval face. It works well with low, mid, or high fades, offering flexibility in styling. This style is popular among men. Suitable hair types range from fine to thick. The price for this cut is typically $20-$50.

36. For Square Faces

A low taper fade can soften the angular features of a square face, creating a more balanced and less harsh appearance. Pairing it with a textured top can further enhance this softening effect. This cut is popular among men. Suitable hair types include medium to thick. The price is typically in the $20-$50 range.

37. For Heart-Shaped Faces

For heart-shaped faces, a low taper fade can help to balance a wider forehead. It works well with a fringe or a slightly longer top, which can help to create a more proportionate look. This style is popular among men. Suitable hair types range from medium to thick. The price is usually $20-$50.

38. For Thin Hair

A low taper fade can add volume and texture to thin hair, making it appear fuller. Styling the top with a messy or spiked look can further enhance this effect. This style is popular among men. It is suitable for fine to medium hair textures. The price generally falls within the $20-$50 range.

39. For Thick Hair

Thick hair can be tamed with a low taper fade, creating a clean and defined look. The fade removes bulk and weight, making the hair more manageable. This cut is popular among men. It’s ideal for medium to thick hair types. The price is typically $20-$50.

40. With Side Part

Combining a classic side part with a low taper fade creates a polished and professional look. The side part adds structure and definition, while the fade keeps the style modern and clean. This style is popular among men. Suitable hair types range from medium to thick. The price is usually in the $20-$50 range.

Taper Fade for Different Face Shapes

Choosing the right tapered haircut fade haircut involves considering your face shape to achieve a balanced and flattering look. Different face shapes—such as oval, round, square, heart, and diamond—benefit from specific tapered fade styles that enhance their natural contours. For instance, this haircut can complement round faces by adding structure, while a high tapered fade may accentuate the angles of a square face. Understanding these nuances ensures that the haircut not only suits your personal style but also harmonizes with your facial features.

• Low Taper Fade for Round Faces
• High Taper Fade for Square Faces
• Mid Taper Fade for Oval Faces
• Low Taper Fade for Heart-Shaped Faces
• High Taper Fade for Diamond Faces

How to Ask for a Taper Fade at the Barbershop? 

When requesting a taper fade, clear communication with your barber is essential. Familiarize yourself with key terms such as “low taper,” “skin fade,” or “blowout taper” to specify the style you desire. Bringing reference photos can provide visual guidance, ensuring both you and your barber have a mutual understanding of the expected outcome. Discuss the desired length on top and how you prefer the sides and back to blend. For instance, you might say, “I’d like the haircut with about two inches left on top, blended smoothly into the sides.” This approach helps achieve a haircut tailored to your preferences.

Maintenance and Styling Tips

To keep your taper fade looking sharp, schedule touch-ups with your barber every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on hair growth and desired maintenance. For styling, products like pomade, gel, or wax can help achieve various looks, from sleek to textured finishes. At home, maintain the fade by regularly washing your hair with quality shampoo and conditioner to keep it healthy. Using a trimmer can help clean up the neckline and around the ears between barber visits, preserving the crispness of the fade. Consistent care ensures your tapered fade remains polished and well-defined.

Inspiration Celebrities and Influencers

The taper fade has been embraced by numerous celebrities and influencers, showcasing its versatility and appeal. Figures like Brad Pitt have sported taper hairstyle fades, highlighting the style’s mainstream popularity. On social media platforms, influencers often display unique variations of tapered fades, providing inspiration for personalized adaptations. Exploring these examples can offer ideas on how to tailor the tapered fade to suit your individual style and preferences.

Top 10 Most Famous Celebrities

The taper fade haircut has been a popular choice among many celebrities, each adding their unique flair to the style. Here’s a look at some notable figures who have sported the tapered fade:

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan is renowned for his sharp low taper fades paired with a clean beard, enhancing his chiseled features. He has been seen with this hairstyle at various events, including the 2018 premiere of “Black Panther.” Public reception of his haircut has been overwhelmingly positive, with many fans and fashion critics praising its sleek and polished appearance.

LeBron James

LeBron James frequently sports a mid or high taper fade, often incorporating a bald fade on the sides. He showcased this look during the 2020 NBA All-Star Game. The style complements his athletic build and has been well-received by fans, further cementing his status as a global sports and fashion icon.

Drake

Drake often opts for low taper fades, achieving a sleek and polished look. He debuted this hairstyle during the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards. The public has lauded his grooming choices, noting that the taper haircut fade enhances his suave and sophisticated image.

Chris Brown

Chris Brown is known for his trendy low taper fades, often paired with curly or textured hair on top. He sported this style at the 2015 BET Awards. Fans appreciate his dynamic and fashion-forward approach to hairstyles, considering him a trendsetter in the music industry.

Zayn Malik

Zayn Malik has been seen with edgy high taper fades and longer hair on top, notably during the 2016 Met Gala. His bold hairstyle choices have garnered attention from fashion enthusiasts, solidifying his reputation as a global fashion and music icon.

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart frequently sports a low taper fade, presenting a clean and professional look. He showcased this hairstyle during the 2019 Academy Awards. The public views his grooming style as polished and fitting for his comedic and acting roles.

Will Smith

Will Smith is known for his timeless low taper fades, a style he has maintained over the years. He was seen with this haircut at the 2022 Oscars. Fans appreciate his consistent and classic grooming choices, aligning with his enduring appeal in the entertainment industry.

Donald Glover (Childish Gambino)

Donald Glover often rocks low taper fades with a natural, curly top, as seen during the 2018 Grammy Awards. His distinctive hairstyle complements his artistic persona, earning praise from fans and fashion critics alike.

Odell Beckham Jr.

Odell Beckham Jr. is frequently seen with trendy low taper fades and bold designs, notably during the 2019 Met Gala. His adventurous hairstyle choices have made him a fashion-forward figure in the NFL, with the public admiring his boldness and creativity.

Travis Scott

Travis Scott is known for his edgy high taper fades with unique designs, showcased during the 2019 Super Bowl Halftime Show. His innovative hairstyles have influenced many, reinforcing his status as a trendsetting rapper and cultural influencer

Have you seen ninja with a low taper fade? 

If Ninja, the famous streamer and gamer, got a low taper fade, it would give him a sleek yet edgy transformation. The fade would create a clean and gradual transition from the sides to the longer top, allowing him to maintain his signature vibrant-dyed hair while adding a more refined look. This style would enhance his sharp facial features, making it perfect for both casual and professional appearances. Fans would likely react with excitement, as the combination of Ninja’s colorful personality and the sharp tapered fade could set a new trend in the gaming and streaming community.

Conclusion

The taper fade haircut stands as a testament to its enduring appeal and adaptability. From its subtle variations like the low taper to the more dramatic skin fade, this style offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a professional, casual, or trendy look, the taper haircut fade can be customized to suit your individual preferences and face shape. Its versatility extends across different hair types and ethnicities, making it a truly universal choice. 

By understanding the nuances of each variation and communicating effectively with your barber, you can achieve a perfectly tailored taper hairstyle fade that enhances your features and reflects your personal style. The continued popularity of this classic cut, as seen on celebrities and influencers, ensures its place as a staple in men’s grooming for years to come.

FAQs

Desclaimer 

The information provided in this guide is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute professional barbering advice. While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the content, the results of a taper fade haircut can vary depending on individual hair type, growth patterns, barber skill, and personal preferences.

The pricing information provided is also an estimate and may vary significantly depending on location, barber experience, and additional services requested. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified and experienced barber to determine the most suitable tapered fade style for your specific needs and to discuss any specific concerns or requirements you may have.

We do not endorse any specific barbers or products mentioned in this guide, and any references to celebrities or influencers are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement.