A low taper fade is one of the most stylish and versatile haircuts for men, blending seamlessly from short to longer hair while maintaining a clean, polished look. Unlike a high taper fade, this style offers a subtle, gradual fade that works well for all face shapes and hair types. Whether you prefer a modern haircut or a classic barber style, the low taper fade adapts effortlessly. Its low-maintenance appeal and timeless elegance make it a top choice for men’s grooming. In this guide, we’ll explore the best variations, styling tips, and maintenance hacks for a perfect fade.
Understanding the Low Taper Fade
The low taper fade is a clean, gradual transition from longer hair to shorter sides, starting just above the ears. Unlike a high taper fade, which creates a sharp contrast, the low taper offers a softer, more natural look. It works well for all hair types—straight, curly, or wavy—and suits different face shapes, making it a go-to choice for stylish men. Whether you prefer a modern haircut or a classic barber style, this fade is versatile, easy to maintain, and enhances any hairstyle effortlessly.
35 Stylish Low Taper Fade Variations
There are many ways to customize a low taper fade to match your personal style. Here are 35 of the best variations:
1. Classic Low Taper Fade
The classic low taper fade is a timeless, versatile haircut that suits all face shapes. It features a gradual fade along the sides, blending smoothly into the top. This style is ideal for those who want a clean, polished look without too much maintenance.
- Best for: Straight, wavy, or curly hair.
- Styling tip: Use a lightweight pomade or gel for a sleek finish, or a matte styling cream for a natural, textured look.
2. Curly Low Taper Fade
The curly low taper fade enhances natural curls while keeping the sides neat and sharp. The fade allows curls to stand out, adding definition and structure to the hairstyle. This look is great for men who want volume with a clean finish.
- Best for: Naturally curly or coily hair.
- Styling tip: Use curl cream or leave-in conditioner to define curls and prevent frizz. Regular trims keep the fade fresh and maintain the style’s sharpness.
3. Textured Crop with Low Taper Fade
The textured crop with a low taper fade is a trendy, modern style that adds volume while keeping the sides clean. The fade creates a smooth transition, while the textured top adds movement and depth.
- Best for: Straight or slightly wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Use a matte styling clay to enhance texture without stiffness. Blow-dry with a round brush for extra volume, making it an ideal style for men with finer hair.
4. Skin Low Taper Fade
The skin low taper fade creates a high-contrast look by blending the fade down to the skin. This edgy and clean haircut works well for those who prefer a sharp, attention-grabbing appearance.
- Best for: Any hair type, especially short styles.
- Styling tip: Use a strong-hold gel or styling powder for added texture. Regular barber visits every two weeks will keep the fade looking crisp and fresh.
5. Wavy Low Taper Fade
The wavy low taper fade enhances natural waves while keeping the sides neat. This style blends seamlessly into the top, making it a relaxed yet stylish haircut.
- Best for: Naturally wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Use sea salt spray or light-hold mousse to define waves and create a natural, tousled look. Regular trims will keep the fade sharp and ensure a polished finish.
6. Low Taper Fade with Slick Back
The low taper fade with a slick back offers a refined, polished look that suits formal and casual settings. The fade keeps the sides neat, while the slicked-back top adds sophistication.
- Best for: Medium to long hair.
- Styling tip: Use a strong-hold pomade or gel to slick the hair back smoothly. A fine-tooth comb helps achieve a sleek finish. Blow-drying with a round brush can add volume for a more structured appearance.
7. Low Taper Fade with Side Part
The low taper fade with a side part blends classic and modern styles. The sharp fade enhances the contrast, making the part more defined.
- Best for: Straight or slightly wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Use a comb and light pomade to create a clean, defined part. A fade touch-up every two to three weeks keeps the style looking sharp. This look is perfect for professionals and those who prefer a polished yet stylish haircut.
8. Afro Low Taper Fade
The Afro low taper fade keeps the natural Afro shape intact while adding a subtle fade for a cleaner look. This style enhances volume and texture while maintaining sharp edges.
- Best for: Coily or tightly curled hair.
- Styling tip: Use a moisturizing cream or hair sponge to enhance curl definition. Regular edge-ups will keep the fade fresh and the overall look polished. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a sharp yet natural finish.
9. Low Taper Fade with Waves (360 Waves)
The low taper fade with 360 waves enhances wave definition while keeping the sides sharp and clean. This style is sleek and requires consistent maintenance for deep waves.
- Best for: Short, textured hair.
- Styling tip: Use a wave brush and pomade daily to maintain waves. Wearing a durag at night helps keep waves in place. Regular trims ensure the fade stays sharp and blends naturally into the waves.
10. Messy Low Taper Fade
The messy low taper fade is a relaxed, effortless look with a structured fade on the sides. It’s ideal for those who want a stylish yet low-maintenance haircut.
- Best for: Medium-length, textured hair.
- Styling tip: Apply a light-hold styling wax or sea salt spray to enhance natural movement. Scrunching the hair adds volume, giving it a more lived-in feel. The fade keeps the cut polished while allowing the top to remain casual and tousled.
11. Low Taper Fade with Spiky Hair
The low taper fade with spiky hair adds texture and volume, creating a bold, youthful look. The fade keeps the sides neat while the spiked top brings an edgy style.
- Best for: Straight or slightly wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Use a matte pomade or hair wax for a natural, textured appearance. Blow-dry the hair upwards for added lift. Regular trims will maintain the fade’s clean-cut effect, making it a stylish yet manageable choice.
12. Low Taper Fade with Pompadour
The low taper fade with a pompadour blends vintage and modern styles, offering volume on top with a clean fade. It’s perfect for men who want a sharp, sophisticated look.
- Best for: Medium to thick hair.
- Styling tip: Apply a strong-hold pomade and blow-dry the hair backward for extra height. Using a round brush helps create lift and shape. Regular touch-ups keep the fade crisp and maintain the pompadour’s structure.
13. Low Taper Fade with Crew Cut
The low taper fade with a crew cut is a short, clean, and professional haircut. The fade sharpens the look, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance styling.
- Best for: Short, straight hair.
- Styling tip: Use a lightweight hair gel for a polished finish or a texturizing cream for a relaxed look. Regular trims ensure the fade remains sharp and the cut stays fresh. It’s a perfect option for those who prefer a classic, no-fuss style.
14. Low Taper Fade with Buzz Cut
The low taper fade with a buzz cut is a simple yet stylish haircut that keeps things neat and easy to manage. The fade adds a touch of sharpness to the overall look.
- Best for: Any hair type, especially short styles.
- Styling tip: No daily styling is required, but moisturizing the scalp helps maintain a healthy look. Regular trims every two weeks keep the fade defined and prevent the haircut from looking overgrown.
15. Low Taper Fade with Faux Hawk
The low taper fade with a faux hawk delivers a bold and edgy look with a structured fade on the sides. It’s a great alternative to a full mohawk.
- Best for: Thick or wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Use a medium-hold pomade to keep the faux hawk in place while allowing flexibility. Blow-dry the top upwards for added volume. A slight taper at the nape enhances the overall contrast, keeping the style modern and fresh.
16. Low Taper Fade with Quiff
The low taper fade with a quiff adds volume on top while keeping the sides sleek and modern. This stylish look is great for both casual and professional settings.
- Best for: Medium-length, straight, or wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Apply a volumizing mousse and blow-dry the front upward for height. Use a matte clay or pomade for a natural hold. Regular trims ensure the fade remains sharp and the quiff keeps its structure.
17. Low Taper Fade with French Crop
The low taper fade with a French crop is a stylish, low-maintenance cut featuring a short fringe with a clean fade. It offers a modern, edgy vibe.
- Best for: Straight or slightly wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Use a texturizing powder or matte paste to add definition. Blow-dry forward for extra texture. This cut requires minimal effort while maintaining a bold, structured appearance, making it ideal for those who prefer easy upkeep.
18. Low Taper Fade with Hard Part
The low taper fade with a hard part adds sharp contrast by incorporating a defined, shaved part line. This polished look enhances facial features and structure.
- Best for: Straight or wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Use a strong-hold pomade for a sleek finish. A fine-tooth comb helps keep the part defined. Visit the barber every two weeks to maintain the sharpness of the part and fade for a consistently fresh appearance.
19. Low Taper Fade with Dreads
The low taper fade with dreads keeps the top styled in locs while the faded sides add a clean, sharp contrast. This style is both trendy and cultural.
- Best for: Naturally curly or coily hair.
- Styling tip: Moisturize dreads regularly to prevent dryness. Keep the fade fresh with biweekly trims. The contrast between the structured fade and textured locs creates a unique, stylish, and well-groomed look.
20. Low Taper Fade with Long Hair
The low taper fade with long hair provides a sleek contrast between the short sides and flowing top, creating a trendy, modern appearance.
- Best for: Medium to long hair.
- Styling tip: Use a lightweight styling cream to maintain movement and avoid heaviness. Regular trims keep the fade defined, while layered cuts enhance the long hair’s natural flow. This style works well for men who want a bold yet refined look.
21. Low Taper Fade with Curly Hair
The low taper fade with curly hair enhances natural curls while keeping the sides neat. This style adds structure while allowing curls to shine.
- Best for: Naturally curly or wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Use a curl-enhancing cream or leave-in conditioner to define curls. A diffuser attachment on a blow dryer can help add volume. Regular trims keep the fade sharp and prevent the curls from looking unkempt.
22. Low Taper Fade with Ivy League Cut
The low taper fade with an Ivy League cut is a sophisticated and professional look featuring a slightly longer top with a clean fade.
- Best for: Straight or wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Apply a light pomade or mousse for a polished finish. Comb the hair to the side or back for a neat appearance. This cut is ideal for professionals who want a stylish yet easy-to-maintain hairstyle.
23. Low Taper Fade with Caesar Cut
The low taper fade with a Caesar cut is a timeless, short hairstyle with a straight fringe. The fade modernizes this classic look.
- Best for: Short, straight, or slightly wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Use a matte clay for a natural finish. Keep the fringe slightly textured for a contemporary twist. This style is perfect for those who prefer a low-maintenance yet trendy haircut.
24. Low Taper Fade with Mohawk
The low taper fade with a mohawk delivers a bold, rebellious look by keeping the sides faded while the top is styled upwards.
- Best for: Thick or textured hair.
- Styling tip: Use a strong-hold gel or wax to keep the mohawk lifted. Blow-dry upwards for extra volume. A fresh fade every two weeks keeps the contrast sharp and enhances the overall edgy aesthetic.
25. Low Taper Fade with Bowl Cut
The low taper fade with a bowl cut combines vintage and modern styles, offering a clean, structured look.
- Best for: Straight or slightly wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Keep the fringe textured with a light-hold pomade. A well-blended fade prevents the haircut from looking too rigid, making it a stylish, contemporary choice.
26. Low Taper Fade with Side Part
The low taper fade with a side part is a sleek, professional haircut that blends classic and modern styles. The fade adds sharpness, while the side part provides structure.
- Best for: Straight or wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Use a fine-tooth comb and a strong-hold pomade for a clean finish. Regular trims keep the part well-defined and the fade fresh, making this style ideal for both formal and casual occasions.
27. Low Taper Fade with Messy Hair
The low taper fade with messy hair offers a relaxed, effortless style while keeping the sides neat and structured.
- Best for: Medium-length, wavy, or straight hair.
- Styling tip: Use a light-hold styling cream or sea salt spray for a natural, tousled look. Blow-drying with your fingers adds volume and texture. This style is great for those who prefer a casual, modern aesthetic.
28. Low Taper Fade with Comb Over
The low taper fade with a comb over is a stylish, polished cut that works well for both professional and casual settings.
- Best for: Straight or wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Apply a strong-hold pomade and comb the hair to the side for a sleek look. Blow-drying helps add volume and definition. This haircut is perfect for men looking for a versatile, refined style.
29. Low Taper Fade with Slicked-Back Hair
The low taper fade with slicked-back hair gives a smooth, sophisticated appearance. The fade keeps the look fresh and modern.
- Best for: Medium to long, straight hair.
- Styling tip: Use a water-based pomade for a sleek, non-greasy finish. A fine-tooth comb creates a clean, structured look. Regular trims maintain the fade’s sharpness and keep the top looking polished.
30. Low Taper Fade with Brushed-Up Hair
The low taper fade with brushed-up hair creates a voluminous, stylish look that adds height and structure.
- Best for: Medium-length, straight, or slightly wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Apply a volumizing mousse and blow-dry the hair upward for maximum lift. Use a medium-hold pomade or wax to maintain the shape. This haircut is perfect for those who want a bold yet effortless style.
31. Low Taper Fade with Afro
The low taper fade with an Afro blends natural texture with a structured fade, creating a clean yet voluminous look.
- Best for: Naturally curly or coily hair.
- Styling tip: Keep the Afro well-moisturized with leave-in conditioner. A pick comb can enhance volume and shape. Regular trims keep the fade defined and the overall look fresh.
32. Low Taper Fade with Waves
The low taper fade with waves is a stylish, well-groomed haircut that highlights natural wave patterns. The fade adds sharp contrast for a clean-cut finish.
- Best for: Coarse or wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Use a wave pomade and a durag overnight to maintain deep, defined waves. Brush regularly to enhance the pattern while keeping the fade sharp with frequent trims.
33. Low Taper Fade with Asian Hair
The low taper fade with Asian hair offers a sleek and modern look that enhances thick, straight strands. The fade creates contrast while keeping the overall style sharp.
- Best for: Straight, thick hair.
- Styling tip: Use a matte clay or wax for natural hold and texture. Blow-dry in the desired direction for volume. Regular barber visits help maintain the crisp fade.
34. Low Taper Fade with Undercut
The low taper fade with an undercut delivers a high-contrast, modern look by keeping the top long and the sides sharply faded.
- Best for: Thick, straight, or wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Apply a strong-hold styling product for a structured finish or leave it natural for a relaxed vibe. This haircut is a bold, stylish choice that works well for various occasions.
35. Low Taper Fade with Middle Part
The low taper fade with a middle part creates a trendy, symmetrical look that frames the face. The fade keeps the style neat while the middle part adds a fashionable touch.
- Best for: Medium to long, straight or wavy hair.
- Styling tip: Use a lightweight styling cream to keep hair smooth and controlled. Blow-drying with a round brush adds volume and shape. This style is ideal for those who prefer a modern, refined appearance.
How to Ask for a Low Taper Fade at a Barber
When visiting a barbershop, it’s important to communicate clearly to get the perfect low taper fade.
- Use Barber Terminology: Mention you want a low taper fade, not a mid or high fade.
- Be Specific About Length: Specify how short you want the sides and top.
- Show a Reference Photo: This helps avoid miscommunication.
- Ask for Styling Advice: A barber can recommend products for your hair type and texture.
Avoid common mistakes like not specifying the fade height or expecting a different fade style without explaining it properly.
Best Styling and Maintenance Tips
To keep your low taper fade looking fresh, follow these grooming tips:
- Use the Right Products: Pomades, waxes, and clays help maintain style.
- Trim Regularly: Visit the barber every 2-3 weeks to maintain the fade.
- Wash and Condition: Keep hair healthy with quality shampoos and conditioners.
For different hair textures, use styling techniques that enhance the natural look of your fade.
Celebrities Rocking the Low Taper Fade
Many athletes, actors, and music artists love the low taper fade for its stylish appeal. Some of the most famous names include:
- Drake: Often seen with a clean low taper fade.
- Chris Hemsworth: Prefers a modern, textured look.
- LeBron James: Keeps it sharp and professional.
These celebrity styles can serve as inspiration for your next haircut.
FAQs About Low Taper Fade Haircuts
Does a low taper fade work for all hair types?
Yes! Whether you have straight, curly, or coarse hair, a barber can adjust the fade to match your texture.
How long does a low taper fade last?
Typically 2-3 weeks before needing a touch-up.
Can I combine a low taper fade with other styles?
Absolutely! It works well with undercuts, mohawks, and textured tops.
Conclusion
The low taper fade is a versatile, stylish, and easy-to-maintain haircut that suits all hair types and face shapes. Whether you want a classic barber cut or a modern twist, this style offers endless possibilities. Try out different variations, keep up with maintenance, and don’t be afraid to experiment with styling.
Ready for your next haircut? Visit your barber and ask for a low taper fade to upgrade your look today!