When it comes to men’s hairstyles, few options offer the same blend of versatility, style, and sophistication as the high taper fade. This haircut has grown increasingly popular among men across different backgrounds and hair types due to its sharp, clean aesthetic and ability to adapt to various styles. Whether you’re looking to update your current haircut or considering a bold new look, the high taper fade is an option well worth exploring.
What is a High Taper Fade?
The high taper fade is a modern, edgy haircut where the hair progressively shortens from the top down the sides and back, fading close to the skin or tapering to a short length near the neckline. The “high” in high taper fade refers to where the fade starts on the head—closer to the temples for a more dramatic effect compared to low fades, which begin near the ears. This high-contrast taper creates a bold, well-defined look, highlighting the longer hair on top and the sharp, clean fade along the sides.
High Taper Fade for Different Hair Types
One of the biggest appeals of the high taper fade is its versatility. This style complements a wide variety of hair textures, allowing you to enhance your natural look whether your hair is curly, straight, wavy, or tightly coiled. A high taper fade provides a structured, modern edge while preserving the polished appearance that makes it suitable for both casual and professional environments.
1. High Taper Fade for Black Hair
The high taper fade has become especially popular within Black communities, given its compatibility with textured hair and the variety of styles it can support. This cut enhances the definition and shape of hairstyles like afros, waves, and twists. A high taper fade for Black men offers a sophisticated yet bold look, with the fade starting high on the head to create a striking contrast with the textured hair on top.
Also Read: The Modern Black Man’s Taper Fade
2. High Taper Fade with Curly Hair
For those with curly hair, the high taper fade offers an ideal way to showcase natural curls while maintaining a sleek look. This haircut keeps the sides and back neat and controlled, allowing the curls on top to shine without looking unruly. The contrast between the curly top and closely faded sides adds a dynamic edge to the hairstyle, making it perfect for those who want to highlight their natural curls without excessive maintenance.
Also Read: Curly Taper Fade – The Stylish Haircut Perfect for Curls
3. High Taper Fade with Afro
Pairing an afro with a high taper fade is a statement-making choice. This combination retains the volume and character of an afro while adding a modern twist with sharply tapered sides, creating a clean contrast that is both bold and stylish. This look celebrates natural hair while introducing a refined element, ideal for those looking to blend classic afro styling with a contemporary flair.
4. Short High Taper Fade
If you prefer a more minimalist look, the short high taper fade is a great option. This style keeps the hair on top relatively short while maintaining a pronounced taper on the sides, achieving a clean, understated appearance. It’s a low-maintenance cut that still brings out the high taper fade’s signature sharpness, making it a great choice for those who appreciate simplicity and elegance.
5. High Taper Fade with Textured Fringe
Adding a textured fringe to a high taper fade introduces an edgy, unique element to the look. This variation adds dimension to the style, providing more options for styling and creating a statement. The high taper fade with a textured fringe is perfect for those wanting a modern, daring haircut that is still easy to manage.
6. Combining Low and High Taper Fades
For those interested in a softer look, consider blending a low and high taper fade. Known as the low-high taper fade, this variation starts the taper lower on the head, creating a gentler transition between the longer top and the shorter sides. This style maintains the sharp contrast characteristic of a high taper fade but with a more gradual, polished effect.
Why Choose a High Taper Fade?
The high taper fade is a popular choice among men for several reasons:
- Versatility: This style can be tailored to suit different hair types and personal tastes, whether you have straight, curly, or afro-textured hair. The high taper fade works well with various lengths and styling preferences.
- Clean and Polished Appearance: The contrast between the longer top and the short, faded sides gives a sharp, professional look that easily transitions from formal to casual settings.
- Low Maintenance: With shorter sides and back, the high taper fade reduces daily styling requirements, making it a practical choice for individuals with active or busy lifestyles.
How to Maintain a High Taper Fade
Maintaining a high taper fade requires minimal effort, but regular upkeep is essential to keep it looking fresh. Here are some maintenance tips:
- Regular Trims: To maintain the fade’s sharpness, schedule regular trims with your barber every two to three weeks, depending on your hair growth rate.
- Moisturizing: Keeping the hair on top moisturized is especially important if you have curly or afro-textured hair. Moisturizing prevents dryness and keeps the curls or coils looking healthy and defined.
- Use of Styling Products: To enhance your style, consider using products such as pomades, gels, or curl creams based on your hair texture and the look you’re going for.
Final Thoughts!
The high taper fade is a versatile, timeless hairstyle with options to suit any hair type and style preference. Whether you’re aiming for a sharp, professional look or something more relaxed and edgy, this cut offers countless styling possibilities. From the high taper fade for Black men to the high taper fade with a textured fringe or curly top, there’s a version of this style for everyone.
FAQs:
1. What is a high taper fade?
A high taper fade is a haircut where the hair gradually tapers down from the top of the head to a very short length around the sides and back, starting higher up on the head. This creates a bold, edgy look, with the fade usually beginning around the temples or even higher, offering a clean, sharp style that works well with various hair types and textures.
2. Is a low taper or high taper better?
Choosing between a low taper and a high taper comes down to personal preference and face shape. A low taper is subtler and starts closer to the ears, making it ideal for a more conservative, classic look.
On the other hand, a high taper gives a more modern, daring appearance, suiting those who want an edgier style that emphasizes their hair on top. A high taper can also add height and shape, beneficial for those with rounder face shapes.
3. Does a high fade look good?
Yes, a high fade can look very good, especially if you’re aiming for a sharp, modern, and clean style. It creates a striking contrast between the long hair on top and the faded sides, giving a fresh, defined appearance that suits a variety of hairstyles, from buzz cuts to pompadours.
4. What do I tell the barber for a high fade?
To get a high fade, tell your barber you’d like a “high fade,” specifying how short you want the sides (such as skin fade, zero fade, or 1 fade). Mention any preferred length or style for the top, like leaving it longer for styling or cutting it short for a low-maintenance look. Adding photos or reference images can also help ensure you get the exact style you want.
