Alright, let’s chat about the mid taper fade. It’s one of those haircuts you see everywhere but maybe haven’t thought much about. Honestly, it’s pretty solid—something I cut a ton in the shop. Not flashy, but not boring either.
So, What’s a Mid Taper Fade Anyway?
If you’re not deep into barber talk, this might sound kinda weird. The “mid” part means the fade starts somewhere in the middle of your head’s side. Not too high, not too low. It’s that sweet spot where the hair starts getting shorter and blends down nice and smooth.
If you’re leaning toward something even more subtle, the low fade haircut keeps things neat with minimal skin exposure.
A “taper” means it’s gradual. Hair gets shorter toward the edges—around the ears, the back of the neck. It’s a clean way to look polished without going full skin fade or high fade.
Why Is This Cut So Common?
Simple. It fits almost everyone. Straight hair, curly hair, thick, thin—it’s all good. And it works with different styles on top. You can wear it messy, slicked back, or just natural. It’s kinda the “safe but stylish” haircut.
Plus, it doesn’t need constant trimming like some other fades. Two or three weeks between cuts is usually okay. So, if you’re not about spending every weekend in the barber’s chair, this one’s your buddy.
From the Barber’s Point of View
Doing a mid taper fade isn’t rocket science but it needs a good eye. We start clipping the fade somewhere mid-level on the side, between the temple and crown usually. The idea is a smooth transition from longer hair on top to the short sides.
We use different clipper guards, fading down to the skin or just very short near the ears. The taper part means making sure the change isn’t harsh or abrupt but flows naturally. Sometimes I add a hard part or line-up, but that’s up to you.
Low, Mid, or High Fade? What’s the Difference?
People get confused a lot. Here’s the quick rundown:
- Low fade starts right at the bottom, near the ears. It’s subtle, neat.
- High fade is way up near the temples, looks sharper, more dramatic.
- Mid taper fade? Right in the middle. Balanced. Not too subtle, not too loud.
It’s a safe middle ground that suits most guys.
Prefer volume and a bit more texture? The blowout taper delivers a clean finish without sacrificing height and personality.
Styling Tips
Styling the top with a mid taper fade is where you can really get creative.
- For a clean look, pomade or matte clay with a comb works well.
- Wanna keep it casual? Finger-style it with a light cream or leave-in conditioner.
- Curly hair? Just some curl cream or moisturizer keeps the bounce going.
The clean sides mean the focus stays on whatever you do on top.
Taking Care of It
People often think fades are tough to maintain but the mid taper fade is chill. Keeping the edges tidy is key. Maybe a touch-up or line-up every couple of weeks if you want it sharp.
Use shampoo and conditioner that suit your hair type, and if your hair’s curly or dry on top, throw in some moisturizing products. You don’t have to overdo it. And if you don’t want to fuss with clippers at home, just hit your barber for quick trims.
FAQ
- Can I get a mid taper fade with curly hair?
Yeah, totally. It actually looks great because the curls stay up top and sides stay neat. - How often do I need to get it cut?
Usually every 2-3 weeks if you want it crisp. But you can wait longer if you don’t mind some length. - Will it suit my face shape?
Most likely. It’s a pretty flexible cut. - Is this good for work or formal stuff?
Definitely. It looks clean but not boring. - Can I style the top any way I want?
Yup, whatever you like—from slick backs to messy or curly.
Kamran Shahzad is a passionate hair fashion enthusiast and experienced writer specializing in modern hairstyles and grooming trends. From classic cuts to bold fades, he brings expert tips and fresh inspiration to help you stay sharp and stylish every day.