The Fohawk Taper Fade: A Stylish Cut That Combines Edge and Versatility

The fohawk taper fade is a modern twist on the classic mohawk that blends bold style with clean tapering. This hairstyle is popular among men of all hair types—black, curly, straight, and more—due to its adaptability and edgy appeal. Whether you’re looking for a low taper fade fohawk, a bold fohawk high fade taper, or a creative version like the fohawk taper fade with tail, this haircut suits different preferences and lifestyles. This blog breaks down what the fohawk taper fade is, how it’s styled, and real-world versions for different hair textures and face shapes. It also explains how to do a taper fade fohawk with tips for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

What Is a Fohawk Taper Fade?

A fohawk taper fade (also known as a faux hawk with taper fade) is a haircut that combines two main elements:

1. Fohawk: Short for “faux hawk,” the fohawk mimics the look of a mohawk but is more wearable in daily settings. Instead of shaved sides, the fohawk keeps some length on the sides and gradually tapers from the top.
2. Taper Fade: The taper fade element means the hair on the sides and back gradually fades from longer to shorter, typically blending into the skin around the neckline and ears.

This combination creates a sharp, attention-grabbing look without being too extreme. It’s a great choice for those who want to experiment with edgy styles while still keeping their haircut suitable for work or school.

Benefits of the Fohawk Taper Fade

• Versatile Styling: Works for curly, straight, and kinky hair.
• Customizable Height & Fade: You can go for a low, mid, or high taper depending on how bold you want the look.
• Professional Yet Trendy: Clean enough for formal settings but stylish enough for parties and weekends.
• Low Maintenance: Easier to maintain than full mohawks or high-volume hairstyles.

Different Types of Fohawk Taper Fades

Let’s look at the most common variations of this hairstyle. These variations are based on how high the fade starts and how the fohawk is shaped.

1. Low Taper Fade Fohawk

In a low taper fade fohawk, the fade begins just above the ear and gradually blends into longer hair on top. This look is subtle but still edgy. It’s best for men who want a modern style without going too far.

• Great for office-friendly looks.
• Pairs well with neatly styled fohawks.
• Ideal for straight or slightly wavy hair.

2. Mid Taper Fade Fohawk

A mid taper fade fohawk starts the fade around the temples, offering a balanced look. It creates a stronger contrast between the top and sides while still being manageable.

• Works well for most face shapes.
• Good middle ground between subtle and bold.
• Excellent for curly hair or medium-textured hair.

3. Fohawk High Fade Taper

This is the boldest version. The fohawk high fade taper removes a lot of side volume, emphasizing the strip of hair running from the front to the back.

• Strong, dramatic appearance.
• Best for young men or teens who want attention-grabbing styles.
• Ideal for thick hair or black hair textures.

Creative Variations: Tail, Back Designs, and More

Let’s explore some bold and creative twists that take the classic fohawk taper fade to the next level.

Fohawk Taper Fade with Tail

This version adds a tail at the end of the fohawk—usually at the nape of the neck. The tail can be shaped like a point, line, or custom design.

• Common among urban street styles and Afro-centric trends.
• Often combined with shaved patterns or parts.
• Suitable for black men and edgy streetwear fashion.

Fohawk Taper Fade Back Styles

Many barbers get creative with the taper fade in the back. Some may add a curved finish, V-shaped design, or sharp outline.

• Enhances the full silhouette of the fohawk.
• Adds uniqueness from every angle.
• Best done by professional barbers.

Fohawk Taper Fade for Different Hair Types

Here’s how the fohawk taper fade adapts to various hair textures, giving each a unique and stylish finish.

Fohawk Taper Fade Black Man

This version celebrates natural textures. For a black man, the fohawk taper fade often involves sponge curls, twists, or coils on top, with clean faded sides and back.

• Enhances natural curls or 4C texture.
• Can be shaped using styling tools or curl sponges.
• Common in hip-hop, sports, and streetwear circles.

Fohawk Taper Fade Curly Hair

Men with curly hair naturally get a lot of volume and texture on top, making the fohawk pop without much styling. The fade complements the curls by keeping the sides neat.

• Use curl creams or mousse for control.
• Fade can help manage bulk around the ears and neckline.
• Works best with a mid taper fade or low taper fade.

Fohawk Taper Fade Straight Hair

For men with straight hair, styling products like pomade, gel, or wax are key. The hair on top can be brushed upward or spiked slightly to mimic a mohawk.

• Great for a polished or edgy style.
• Can be slicked back for versatility.
• A fohawk high fade taper makes the style look more defined.

How to Do a Taper Fade Fohawk

Whether you’re a barber or someone doing it at home, here’s a step-by-step guide:

Tools You Need:

• Clippers with guard attachments
• Trimmer or edger
• Scissors
• Comb
• Styling product (gel, pomade, wax)
• Mirror (if DIY)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Start with Clean, Dry Hair: Wash and dry the hair thoroughly.
2. Section the Top: Clip or comb the top section to separate it from the sides.
3. Fade the Sides: Use clippers to begin the taper fade. For low taper, start above the ear. For high taper, begin near the temple.
   Gradually reduce the guard size as you move downward.
4. Blend the Fade: Use a fading or blending technique to soften the transition between clipper lengths.
5. Trim the Top: Use scissors or clippers (with guards) to shape the fohawk. Leave enough length to style.
6. Shape the Back: Taper the nape area or add a tail or design for a custom look.
7. Style the Top: Apply product and comb or spike the hair into the desired fohawk shape.

Maintenance Tips

• Haircuts Every 2–3 Weeks: To keep the fade and top clean.
• Daily Styling: Use product suited to your hair type (pomade for straight, curl cream for curly).
• Moisturize: Especially important for curly and kinky hair types.
• Brush or Comb Regularly: To maintain shape and volume on top.

Who Should Wear the Fohawk Taper Fade?

The fohawk taper fade works well for:

• Teenagers and young men looking for trendy, fresh haircuts.
• Professionals who want an edgy but manageable look.
• Athletes and performers who want a distinctive appearance.
• Anyone with curly, straight, or Afro-textured hair looking for a stylish, low-maintenance cut.

Final Thoughts

The fohawk taper fade is more than just a haircut—it’s a flexible style that allows you to be bold without crossing into unprofessional territory. From low taper fade fohawk styles that suit casual and office looks, to fohawk taper fade with tail for trendsetters, this haircut offers something for everyone.

With real-world styling options for different hair types—black men, curly hair, straight hair—and easy-to-maintain routines, it continues to gain popularity across generations and cultures.

So, whether you’re hitting the barbershop or trying it yourself, the fohawk taper fade is a go-to choice that combines style, structure, and attitude.

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