11 Popular Taper Haircut For Men That You Should Try

If you’re looking to refresh your style without making a huge change, a taper haircut is a smart choice. It’s neat, stylish, and works well with almost all face shapes. Unlike a full fade or a buzz cut, taper styles give you the flexibility to keep some length and texture while maintaining a clean, sharp appearance.

The best part? A taper haircut instantly adds a cool and modern vibe. It’s easy to manage, low-maintenance, and gives you a polished edge. Whether you’re heading into a work meeting, going out on a date, or hanging with friends, this haircut keeps you looking sharp and confident.

What is a Taper Haircut?

Before picking your perfect taper style, it’s important to know exactly what a taper haircut is.

In this cut, the hair gradually becomes shorter from the top of your head down to the sides and back.

The outcome is a soft, blended look that feels natural and fresh. It gives you that tidy finish without trimming everything off.

Many people mix up tapers with fades. The key difference is that fades usually go all the way down to bare skin, while tapers leave more length. That’s why you’ll hear terms like low taper, taper fade haircut, or low fade haircut.

1. Classic Low Taper Haircut

A timeless option for men, the low taper haircut starts near the base of your hairline and blends smoothly up the sides and back.

How to Get It:

• Ask your barber to begin tapering just above your ears for a natural blend.
• Keep the top slightly longer (around 1–2 inches) for flow and movement.
• Style lightly with pomade or gel.

2. Taper Fade Haircut

This cut gives a smooth shift from short hair to skin. It begins like a taper but ends with a fade down to bare skin, usually around the neckline and ears.

How to Get It:

• Use clippers with guard #2 on the sides and fade down to #0.
• Use a trimmer for a clean skin finish at the base.
• Style the top by adding texture or combing it neatly.
• A great choice for barbers who want to practice fading techniques.

3. Low Fade Haircut with Textured Top

This look mixes a neat low fade with a styled top for extra contrast.

How to Get It:

• Choose a low fade that begins slightly above the ears.
• Keep the top longer (3–4 inches).
• Use sea salt spray or texture powder for a messy, natural look.
• Perfect for younger, casual styles.

4. Side Part with Low Taper

Side part hairstyle is clean and professional option, ideal for work settings.

How to Get It:

• Ask for a subtle taper at the back and sides.
• Add a natural or hard side part line.
• Style with pomade for a smooth finish.
• Blow-dry with a round brush to hold shape all day.

5. Curly Taper Fade

For men with natural curls, this cut keeps your curls on top while taming the sides.

How to Get It:

• Fade the sides starting from guard #3 down to #0.
• Apply curl cream or leave-in conditioner to moisturize.
• Shape the neckline and edges for neatness.
• Define curls with finger coils or a pick comb.

6. Low Taper with Beard Line-Up

Pairing a taper with a clean beard line creates a sharp and complete look.

How to Get It:

• Blend the low taper smoothly into your beard.
• Shape beard lines with a trimmer or razor.
• Keep your beard hydrated and trimmed.
• Best for men who want a groomed, stylish finish.

7. Low Fade Buzz Cut

Minimal yet bold, this style combines a buzz cut top with faded sides.

How to Get It:

• Ask for a buzz cut using guard #2 or #1 on top.
• Fade the sides and back down to #0.
• Clean the cut with a razor or trimmer.
• Trim every 2 weeks to keep it sharp.

8. Comb Over with Low Taper

A mix of classic and modern, this style is neat yet versatile.

How to Get It:

• Get a low taper near the ears and neckline.
• Leave the top longer (3–5 inches).
• Sweep hair to the side with a comb and light gel.
• Use a blow dryer for added volume.

9. Taper Fade with Designs

For a bold, standout look, add patterns or lines into your taper fade.

How to Get It:

• Ask for a low taper fade at the back and sides.
• Create lines, shapes, or zig-zag designs with a razor.
• Style the top according to your hair type.
• Great for men who love creative styles.

10. Afro Taper Fade

Perfect for afro-textured hair, this cut shows off natural curls while keeping the sides neat.

How to Get It:

• Maintain a full afro shape on top.
• Fade the sides for a sharp outline.
• Use a sponge brush and hair oil to style.
• A good cut to highlight afro texture.

11. Mullet-Inspired Taper

A throwback with a twist, this style tapers the sides but leaves length at the back.

How to Get It:

• Ask for soft tapering on the sides.
• Keep the top mid-length and the back longer.
• Style with mousse or wax for added texture.
• Bold and unique—best for men who like to stand out.

Ready to Master These Cuts?

Whether you’re studying hairstyling or simply into grooming, now is a great time to learn. Skills like clipper blending, beard shaping, and modern styling can take your craft to the next level.

At Orane’s Hair Stylist course, you’ll get professional training in:

• Men’s haircuts and fades
• Beard shaping and shaving
• Styling and product use

You’ll also learn about client care, salon hygiene, and trending techniques. With these courses, you’re prepared for a successful career in hairdressing.

Final Thoughts

Taper haircuts—including low taper and taper fade styles—are more than just fashion. They combine style, neatness, and personality. From clean business looks to edgy street cuts, there’s a taper style for every man.

Even better? You don’t only have to wear them—you can master them too.

At Orane academies, our advanced beauty courses cover everything from cutting and fading to beard work and styling. You’ll gain hands-on practice and confidence to work in salons or even launch your own grooming setup.

So, why just admire good haircuts when you can create them yourself? Take the step today and be the stylist who sets new trends.

A taper doesn’t just change your haircut—it boosts your attitude, your confidence, and your overall vibe. It’s no wonder so many celebrities love it.

Celebrities Who Love the Taper Cut

Famous actors and performers across Hollywood and Bollywood often wear taper haircuts:

• Ryan Gosling: The Hollywood star has sported the classic taper many times, perfectly matching his effortless style.
• Chris Evans: Known for low-fade haircuts in several movies, including The Avengers.
• Ayushmann Khurrana: Often pairs his beard with faded hairstyles for a stylish finish.

These stars show how a taper cut instantly levels up a look. And now, after reading this guide, you know how it can transform your style too.