The taper fade is a timeless haircut that has stood the test of time in the world of men’s grooming, particularly within the Black community. Its versatility, sharpness, and clean lines make it a popular choice for those seeking a stylish yet manageable look. Whether you’re looking to enhance your natural curls, rock a classic buzz cut, or experiment with modern designs, the taper fade offers endless possibilities. In this article, we’ll explore 15 of the best taper fade styles for Black men with short hair, complete with tips on how to maintain each look.
15 Best Taper Fade Black Male Short Hair
1. The Classic Taper Fade
What is a Classic Taper Fade?
The classic taper fade is a simple yet sophisticated style where the hair gradually shortens from the top down to the sides and back. It’s a go-to look for men who prefer a clean, professional appearance without too much fuss.
How to Achieve the Look
To achieve this look, the hair on top is usually left about 1 to 2 inches long, while the sides and back are faded down to the skin. A skilled barber will ensure a smooth transition, maintaining a natural flow from top to bottom.
Maintenance Tips
Regular visits to the barber are essential to keep the fade sharp. Use a light pomade or gel to style the top, and a moisturizing shampoo to keep your scalp healthy.
2. The Low Taper Fade
What is a Low Taper Fade?
The low taper fade starts the fade near the ears, making it a more subtle option compared to higher fades. This style is ideal for those who want a fresh look without too much exposure of the scalp.
How to Achieve the Look
The fade begins about an inch above the ears and gradually blends into the longer hair on top. This style works well with both curly and straight hair textures.
Maintenance Tips
To maintain the low taper fade, regular trims every two to three weeks are recommended. A good leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair soft and manageable.
3. The High Taper Fade
What is a High Taper Fade?
The high taper fade is a bolder version of the taper fade, with the fade starting higher up on the head. It’s perfect for those who want a striking, edgy look.
How to Achieve the Look
In this style, the fade begins around the temples and quickly transitions to the skin. The top is usually styled with more volume to balance the high fade.
Maintenance Tips
To keep the high taper fade looking fresh, frequent touch-ups are necessary. Use a hair sponge or curl enhancer to add texture to the top.
4. The Mid Taper Fade
What is a Mid Taper Fade?
The mid taper fade strikes a balance between the low and high fades. It’s a versatile option that works well with various hair textures and styles.
How to Achieve the Look
The fade starts midway between the ears and temples, offering a balanced look. The top can be styled in a variety of ways, from short curls to a neat buzz cut.
Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance is key to keeping the mid taper fade sharp. A light moisturizer can help maintain the hair’s natural shine and health.
5. The Skin Taper Fade
What is a Skin Taper Fade?
The skin taper fade, also known as a bald fade, takes the fade down to the skin. It’s a clean, sharp look that adds a modern twist to the traditional taper fade.
How to Achieve the Look
This style requires a close shave around the sides and back, with the fade gradually blending into the longer hair on top. It’s a bold choice for those who want a dramatic contrast between the top and sides.
Maintenance Tips
Due to its close shave, the skin taper fade requires regular upkeep. Shaving every few days and moisturizing the scalp will help maintain the look.
6. The Temp Taper Fade
What is a Temp Taper Fade?
The temp taper fade, or temple fade, focuses on fading the hair around the temples. It’s a stylish option that frames the face and adds a sharp edge to any hairstyle.
How to Achieve the Look
The fade begins at the temples and gradually blends into the longer hair on top. It’s a versatile look that pairs well with various hairstyles, from short afros to buzz cuts.
Maintenance Tips
Regular edge-ups are crucial to keeping the temp taper fade looking fresh. A good edge control product can help maintain the sharpness of the hairline.
7. The Taper Fade with Waves
What is a Taper Fade with Waves?
Waves are a popular style among Black men, and combining them with a taper fade creates a polished, textured look. The waves add depth to the hair, while the taper fade keeps the sides clean and sharp.
How to Achieve the Look
To achieve this look, the hair is brushed and styled into waves, with a taper fade on the sides and back. A wave brush and pomade are essential tools for creating and maintaining the waves.
Maintenance Tips
Brushing your hair regularly and wearing a durag at night will help maintain the waves. Regular visits to the barber will keep the taper fade sharp and clean.
8. The Curly Taper Fade
What is a Curly Taper Fade?
The curly taper fade is perfect for men with natural curls. This style highlights the texture of the curls while keeping the sides and back neatly faded.
How to Achieve the Look
The top is left with enough length to showcase the curls, while the sides and back are faded. A curl-enhancing product can help define the curls and add shine.
Maintenance Tips
Regular trims and deep conditioning treatments are essential to keep the curls healthy and bouncy. A curl sponge can also be used to add definition.
9. The Taper Fade with a Part
What is a Taper Fade with a Part?
Adding a part to the taper fade creates a sleek, modern look. The part can be a simple line or a more intricate design, depending on personal preference.
How to Achieve the Look
The part is usually shaved into the hair on one side, creating a distinct separation between the top and sides. The taper fade on the sides enhances the sharpness of the part.
Maintenance Tips
To keep the part looking sharp, regular touch-ups are necessary. Use a styling gel or pomade to keep the hair in place and maintain the clean lines of the part.
SEE ALSO: 22 Best Haircuts for Long Curly Hair Men
10. The Taper Fade with a Beard
What is a Taper Fade with a Beard?
Pairing a taper fade with a well-groomed beard creates a balanced, masculine look. The fade seamlessly transitions into the beard, creating a cohesive appearance.
How to Achieve the Look
The hair on the top is kept short, while the sides and back are faded into the beard. A skilled barber will ensure a smooth transition between the fade and beard.
Maintenance Tips
Regular grooming of both the beard and fade is essential to maintain this look. A good beard oil will keep the beard soft, while a trimmer can be used to maintain the fade.
11. The Taper Fade with Dreads
What is a Taper Fade with Dreads?
Combining dreads with a taper fade creates a striking contrast between the long, textured dreads and the clean, faded sides. This style is perfect for those who want to showcase their dreads while keeping a neat appearance.
How to Achieve the Look
The dreads are usually left long on top, while the sides and back are faded. The taper fade adds a modern twist to the traditional dreadlocks.
Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance of the dreads and fade is essential. Use a moisturizing spray to keep the dreads hydrated and visit the barber regularly to maintain the fade.
12. The Taper Fade with a Flat Top
What is a Taper Fade with a Flat Top?
The flat top is a classic hairstyle that became popular in the 1980s. Combining it with a taper fade gives it a modern update while retaining its retro appeal.
How to Achieve the Look
The hair on top is styled into a flat, level surface, while the sides and back are faded. This style requires precision and a skilled barber to achieve the perfect flat top.
Maintenance Tips
Regular trims are essential to maintain the shape of the flat top. A good hair gel will help keep the hair in place and maintain the flat surface.
13. The Taper Fade with a Mohawk
What is a Taper Fade with a Mohawk?
The taper fade with a mohawk is a bold, edgy style that combines the clean lines of a taper fade with the dramatic height of a mohawk. It’s a great choice for those who want to make a statement.
How to Achieve the Look
The hair on top is styled into a mohawk, with the sides and back faded. The height of the mohawk can vary depending on personal preference.
Maintenance Tips
Regular trims and styling are necessary to keep the mohawk looking sharp. A strong-hold gel or mousse can help maintain the height and shape of the mohawk.
14. The Taper Fade with a Faux Hawk
What is a Taper Fade with a Faux Hawk?
The faux hawk is a more subtle version of the mohawk, with the hair on top styled into a point without shaving the sides completely. It’s a versatile style that works well with a taper fade.
How to Achieve the Look
The hair on top is styled into a slight peak, while the sides and back are faded. This style is great for those who want a modern, edgy look without going too extreme.
Maintenance Tips
Regular trims and styling are necessary to maintain the faux hawk. A lightweight gel or wax can help keep the hair in place without weighing it down.
15. The Taper Fade with Short Curls
What is a Taper Fade with Short Curls?
The taper fade with short curls is perfect for men who want to embrace their natural texture while keeping a clean, neat appearance. The fade adds a modern twist to the classic curly hairstyle.
How to Achieve the Look
The curls are kept short on top, with the sides and back faded. A curl-enhancing product can help define the curls and add shine.
Maintenance Tips
Regular trims and conditioning treatments are essential to keep the curls healthy and bouncy. A curl sponge can also be used to add definition to the curls.
Conclusion
The taper fade is a versatile and stylish haircut that offers endless possibilities for Black men with short hair. Whether you prefer a classic look or want to experiment with modern styles, there’s a taper fade out there that’s perfect for you. By choosing the right style and maintaining it with regular grooming, you can ensure that your taper fade always looks fresh and sharp. Remember, the key to a great taper fade is finding a skilled barber who understands your hair texture and personal style. So, go ahead and try out one of these 15 best taper fade styles—you’re sure to turn heads wherever you go.