Tapered and faded haircuts are two of the most popular styles for men right now. They’re versatile, adaptable, and can be tailored to fit almost any personal style.
But what’s the difference between a taper and a fade? And how do you know which one is right for you?
This article will clearly define and differentiate between these two popular men’s haircuts. Understanding the nuances of a haircut taper vs fade will help you communicate more effectively with your barber, ensuring you get the exact style you’re after.
We’ll cover:
- Definitions of taper and fade haircuts
- Key differences between the two
- Similarities they share
- How to choose the right cut for your hair type and style
- What to expect during a consultation
What are tapers and fades?
Let’s dig into what these two terms mean in the world of hairstyling.
What is a fade?
A fade is a haircut in which your hair gradually shortens from the top of your head down to your neck and ears. The transition from longer to shorter hair happens fairly quickly, giving the style a sleek, modern look.
Fades are generally categorized by where the fade begins: low, mid, or high. A “drop fade” follows the natural curve of the head, dropping lower behind the ear.
What is a taper?
Like a fade, a taper involves shortening the hair from the top down. The difference is that the change in hair length is more gradual with a taper. The hair also remains longer overall than it would with a fade.
Classic tapers are common, as are tapered undercuts and temple tapers, which focus on the hair around the temples.
Taper vs. fade: Key differences explained
While both tapers and fades involve a gradual shortening of hair on the sides and back of the head, there are some important differences.
Hair length
Fades usually involve shorter hair on the sides and back than tapers do. A fade often goes all the way down to the skin, especially around the ears and neckline.
Tapers, on the other hand, tend to maintain a bit more length, creating a subtler transition from longer to shorter hair. The hair never gets quite as short as it does with a fade.
Blending techniques
Fades rely on very close blending to make the transition between hair lengths look seamless. Barbers use clippers with different guard lengths to achieve a smooth gradient, so the hair appears to “fade” from one length to another.
Tapers also involve blending, but the effect is more gradual and subtle. Layering and texturizing techniques are often used to soften the transition between the different hair lengths, which can create a more natural look.
Placement and shape
Fades can be low, mid, or high, and that placement affects the overall shape of the cut. A low fade starts near the ear and neckline, while a high fade begins higher up on the head. The barber will help you decide which fade height is best for you.
The shape of a taper can also be customized to flatter your face shape and hair type. A skilled barber can adjust the angle and length of the taper to complement your features.
Exploring the Spectrum: Types of Fades and Tapers
Both fades and tapers come in a wide variety of styles and degrees. Here’s a look at some of the most popular options.
Types of Fades
- Low Fade: A low fade is a subtle, conservative transition that starts just above the ear and gets shorter as it nears the hairline. This is a great option for more professional settings.
- Mid Fade: The mid fade starts about halfway up the sides of the head. It’s more noticeable than a low fade, but still versatile and easy to style.
- High Fade: For a bolder, more modern look, try a high fade. This style starts high up on the head, creating a dramatic transition.
- Drop Fade: A drop fade follows the natural curve of the head, dropping lower behind the ear. This gives you a unique and stylish look.
Types of Tapers
- Classic Taper: The classic taper is a timeless look that gradually shortens the hair around the ears and neckline. It works well with many different hair types and face shapes.
- Tapered Undercut: This style combines a longer length on top with a short, tapered back and sides for a modern and edgy look.
- Temple Taper (or Edge Up): A temple taper is a subtle taper that focuses on cleaning up the hairline around the temples. It’s a great way to maintain a neat and polished appearance between haircuts.
Taper Fades: The Best of Both Worlds?
Think of a taper fade as a mashup of the classic taper and the bolder fade. It gives you the gradual change of a taper, but with a bit more of the defined look you get from a fade.
Like fades, taper fades come in a few varieties, mainly based on how high the fade goes on your head:
- Low taper fade: The fade starts low, around the ears and neckline.
- Mid taper fade: The fade begins in the middle of the sides and back of your head.
- High taper fade: The fade kicks off higher up, closer to the top of your head.
- Skin taper fade: This is a high taper fade that goes all the way down to the skin.
Taper fades are super versatile. They can work with almost any hair type and fit a lot of different styles, depending on how you want to wear your hair.
Choosing the Right Cut: Considering Your Individual Factors
So, taper or fade? Ultimately, the right cut for you depends on a few things, and it’s worth taking some time to think about them before you head to the barber.
Personal Style Preferences
What kind of vibe are you going for? A taper is a classic, subtle look, while a fade tends to be a bit more modern and edgy. Think about your overall style. Do you lean towards timeless and understated, or are you more into making a statement?
Face Shape and Head Shape Considerations
Different haircuts can complement different face shapes. For example, if you have a round face, a style with some height on top can help elongate it. If you have a strong jawline, a softer taper can help balance it out. A skilled barber can assess your face shape and recommend a cut that enhances your best features.
Lifestyle Factors (e.g., Ease of Maintenance)
How much time do you want to spend styling your hair each day? Fades generally require more frequent trips to the barber to keep them looking sharp. Tapers are a bit more forgiving and can grow out more gracefully. Consider how much effort you’re willing to put into maintaining your cut.
Maintaining Your Style: Care and Upkeep
Whether you choose a taper or a fade, you’ll need to get regular trims to keep the cut looking sharp. I usually tell people to come in every 2-3 weeks, especially if they’re sporting a fade. With fades, even a little bit of growth can throw off the whole look.
You can also do a few things at home to keep your hair looking its best. First, find the right hair products. If you want more texture, try a sea salt spray or a matte clay. For extra hold, a strong-hold pomade or gel will do the trick. Don’t forget to invest in a good shampoo and conditioner, too. Healthy hair always looks better, no matter the style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can most barbers do a taper?
Yes, most barbers are trained in the art of the taper. It’s a foundational skill in barbering. However, like any skill, some barbers are more experienced and adept at creating specific types of tapers than others. If you’re looking for something very specific, it’s always best to check their portfolio or ask about their experience.
How to ask a barber for a taper
The best way to ask for a taper is to be as clear as possible. Start by specifying that you want a taper. Then, describe where you want the taper to start (high, mid, or low) and how tight or gradual you want the transition to be. Bringing pictures of styles you like is always a great idea. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and clarify any confusion. Your barber wants to give you the best cut possible!
Which is better, a taper or fade?
There’s no objectively “better” haircut; it all comes down to personal preference and what suits your hair type and style. A taper is generally more subtle and conservative, while a fade is bolder and more noticeable. Think about the overall look you’re going for and consider what will complement your face shape and lifestyle. When in doubt, chat with your barber – they can offer personalized recommendations!
In Conclusion
The taper and the fade are both classic, stylish haircuts, but they differ in important ways. A taper gradually shortens the hair, while a fade blends the hair down to the skin for a more dramatic effect.
If you’re thinking about getting a taper or fade, clear communication with your barber is key. Bringing in pictures of the style you want can help your barber understand your vision and ensure you get the look you’re hoping for.
When deciding between a taper and a fade, consider your personal style, face shape, and lifestyle. A taper is a versatile option that works well for many people, while a fade can be a bolder choice. Ultimately, talking with a skilled barber is the best way to get personalized advice and find the perfect haircut for you.