The high taper fade is one of the most popular and stylish haircuts for men, known for its clean and sharp look.
It’s a variation of the classic fade, distinguished by a gradual transition in length starting high up on the sides and back of the head.
Whether you’re looking for something sharp and sleek or a more relaxed style, the high taper fade is a versatile cut that works for different hair textures and styles.
What Is a High Taper Fade?
A taper fade is a haircut where the hair gradually shortens in length as it moves down the sides and back of the head. The “high” in high taper fade refers to where the fade begins.
Unlike the low or mid taper fades that start closer to the ears, a high taper fade starts significantly higher, usually around the temples or the top of the ear. The result is a clean, bold, and defined look with sharp lines that stand out.
The high fade typically begins at a higher point, fading into a much shorter length as it nears the hairline, with the top section of hair being left longer. This cut allows for various styling options on top, from textured, spiked looks to classic pompadours or comb-overs.
Why Choose a High Taper Fade?
Bold & Defined Look: One of the biggest draws of a high taper fade is its sharp and defined appearance. The fade accentuates the contrast between the longer hair on top and the shorter sides, creating a clean, high-contrast look that works well with different facial shapes.
Versatility: The high taper fade pairs well with a wide variety of styles. Whether you’re sporting a buzz cut, a quiff, a pompadour, or even leaving the top longer for a more relaxed style, the high taper fade can adapt to different looks. This versatility is perfect for someone who likes to experiment with their hair.
Easy Maintenance: While the high taper fade requires regular trims to maintain the sharp fade, the fade itself is relatively low-maintenance once it’s set. The shorter length on the sides and back means less styling and fewer products, making it an excellent option for men on the go.
Flattering for Different Face Shapes: The high taper fade works well for a variety of face shapes, as the fade can help balance out proportions. For example, the high fade can add structure to round faces or soften angular features, offering a customized look that works for most individuals.
Attention-Grabbing: The high taper fade is a bold haircut that naturally attracts attention. The contrast of the fade and the longer top draws the eye upward and creates a modern, fashionable style that stands out.
How to Style the High Taper Fade?
Styling the high fade largely depends on the length and texture of the hair on top. Here are some popular options:
Pompadour: A classic and timeless look, the pompadour on top of a high fade gives a lot of height and volume. To achieve this style, you’ll need a stronghold pomade or wax to add structure and lift to the hair on top.
Textured Crop: For a more casual look, a textured crop on top of the fade can add a lot of character. A little bit of sea salt spray or texturizing product can give the hair extra volume and a natural, tousled look.
Quiff: Similar to the pompadour but with a slightly more relaxed vibe, a quiff can be styled with some styling cream or gel for added texture and lift.
Buzz Cut with High Fade: For those who prefer a low-maintenance style, a buzz cut paired with a high fade creates a simple, clean look that is easy to maintain.
Comb-Over: A side part with a comb-over works well with a high fade, giving a sophisticated and professional appearance that’s still trendy.
Who Should Get a High Taper Fade?
While the high taper fade works well for many people, it’s especially ideal for those who want a bold, edgy look. It’s also a great option for individuals who have a lot of hair on top and want a clean contrast with shorter sides.
This style is particularly flattering for men with oval, square, or heart-shaped faces, as the fade can soften strong jawlines or add structure to softer features. It’s also a great haircut for people with thick or wavy hair, as it can make the most of natural volume and texture.
51 Top And Best High Taper Fade Hairstyle:
Whether you’re after a bold, edgy look or a more polished, refined style, the high fade offers versatility and sharpness. The key element of this fade is that it starts high up on the sides and gradually tapers down to a shorter length, creating contrast and structure. Here’s how each style works in detail:
1. High Taper Fade with Pompadour:
A classic and timeless style, the pompadour involves voluminous hair on top, styled backward and upward. The high fade enhances the sharp contrast between the volume on top and the tapered sides, creating a refined and dashing appearance.
2. Textured High Taper Fade:
If you like a more natural, tousled look, a textured high fade works wonders. The top is cut in layers, allowing for volume and texture, while the high fade ensures clean, sharp sides. Ideal for wavy or curly hair.
3. High Taper Fade with a Quiff:
A quiff adds volume to the front of your hair, which is styled upward and backward. Paired with a high fade, this style is sophisticated but still modern, creating balance between the fuller hair on top and the sleek, faded sides.
4. Buzz Cut with High Taper Fade:
For those who prefer a low-maintenance and neat style, the buzz cut with a high fade is a great choice. The sides are shaved close to the scalp, while the top is kept short and uniform, making it easy to maintain.
5. High Taper Fade with Side Part:
A high taper fade with a side part exudes classic style. The side part allows you to add structure, while the fade keeps the sides clean and neat. This style is perfect for men who prefer a polished and professional look.
6. High Taper Fade with Caesar Cut:
The Caesar cut features a short fringe across the forehead. Combined with a high fade, this style offers a modern, clean-cut look with a bit of edge, perfect for men with shorter hair or those wanting a minimalist style.
7. Faux Hawk with High Taper Fade:
A faux hawk gives you that rebellious, edgy look, and when paired with a high fade, it creates a sharp contrast and highlights the boldness of the style. This works well with medium to thick hair and adds height to the look.
8. High Taper Fade with Mohawk:
For a daring, statement-making hairstyle, a mohawk with a high taper fade is perfect. The mohawk stands tall and is contrasted by the clean, faded sides, giving the hairstyle a fierce, bold presence.
9. High Taper Fade with Curly Hair:
Curly hair looks fantastic with a high fade. The fade ensures your sides are sharp and defined while allowing the curls on top to have plenty of volume and texture. It’s the perfect way to manage curly hair with style.
10. High Taper Fade with Low Volume:
For a sleek, minimalist look, you can pair a high fade with a top that has low volume. This style is perfect for those who want a sharp fade without drawing too much attention to the top of the head.
11. High Taper Fade with Hard Part:
A hard part adds a distinctive line to your hairstyle, creating more definition and structure. When paired with a high fade, this look is bold and precise, drawing attention to the contrast between the fade and the clean part.
12. High Taper Fade with Waves:
If you have naturally wavy hair, the high fade can help control your waves while emphasizing their natural movement. The fade adds structure, and the waves on top give you a stylish, textured look.
13. High Taper Fade with Long Textured Top:
For a bold and voluminous style, the high fade works great with a long, textured top. The sides are faded high, while the top remains long and voluminous, allowing you to experiment with different textures or styles.
14. High Taper Fade with Slicked-Back Hair:
A slicked-back hairstyle is a timeless classic. When paired with a high fade, the clean lines of the fade make the sleek back top stand out, offering a polished and sophisticated appearance.
15. High Taper Fade with Flat Top:
The flat top adds a geometric edge to your hairstyle, and when combined with a high taper fade, it delivers a bold, structured look. This retro-inspired style is perfect for someone who likes a sharp, clean, and unique look.
16. High Taper Fade with Spiky Hair:
If you prefer a more youthful, energetic style, spiky hair paired with a high taper fade is a great option. The fade adds sharpness, while the spikes on top add texture and movement.
17. High Taper Fade with Comb-Over:
A classic comb-over is always in style, and when paired with a high taper fade, it looks fresh and modern. The comb-over adds elegance, while the fade keeps the sides neat and sharp.
18. High Taper Fade with Natural Afro:
For men with a natural afro, the high taper fade offers a clean contrast. The faded sides allow the afro to stand out and have more volume, creating a bold, stylish look.
19. High Taper Fade with Messy Waves:
If you’re looking for something relaxed, messy waves on top combined with a high taper fade create a laid-back but stylish look. This look is perfect for those who don’t want to spend too much time styling their hair but still want to look fashionable.
20. High Taper Fade with French Crop:
The French crop offers a short fringe with clean, sharp lines. Paired with a high taper fade, this creates a tidy, modern style with a bit of flair.
21. High Taper Fade with Undercut:
An undercut combined with a high taper fade is a sharp and edgy look. The contrast between the short sides and the longer hair on top makes the hairstyle stand out and adds an extra layer of sophistication.
22. High Taper Fade with Clean Shaved Sides:
For a more minimalist look, shave the sides completely while keeping the fade high on the temples. This creates a very clean, sharp look that contrasts well with the longer top.
23. High Taper Fade with High Volume:
Add some volume to the top for a bold, dynamic look. The high fade keeps the sides tight and neat, allowing the voluminous top to be the focal point of the hairstyle.
24. High Taper Fade with Crew Cut:
The crew cut is one of the most popular short hairstyles. When paired with a high fade, it creates a professional, clean look that’s perfect for a business environment or for men who want a no-fuss haircut.
25. High Taper Fade with Messy Pompadour:
A messy pompadour adds volume to the top with a slightly tousled, carefree look. The high fade keeps the sides clean and neat, balancing the volume of the pompadour.
26. High Taper Fade with Low Fade on Sides:
For a unique twist, add a low fade beneath your high taper fade to create a smooth transition. This brings a fresh, creative edge to your look while maintaining clean lines.
27. High Taper Fade with Sideburns:
Keeping your sideburns defined while the fade starts high adds a rugged touch to your look. This balances sharpness and masculinity, perfect for a bold style.
28. High Taper Fade with Shaved Lines:
Shaving lines or patterns into the fade adds extra detail and a unique edge to your high taper fade. This is a great way to make your hairstyle truly stand out.
29. High Taper Fade with Tapered Beard:
For those with facial hair, pairing a high taper fade with a tapered beard is a great option. The fade contrasts with the beard, giving a strong and well-balanced look.
30. High Taper Fade with Fringed Bangs:
Add a modern twist with fringed bangs on top of your high taper fade. The fringes add some texture and softness, while the high fade keeps the sides sharp and structured.
31. High Taper Fade with Pompadour and Beard:
Combining a pompadour with a beard adds a level of sophistication and masculinity. The high taper fade enhances this look, making it clean and sharp. The pompadour adds a unique, contemporary edge to the traditional pompadour, while the high taper fade gives the hairstyle a fresh, well-defined look.
32. High Taper Fade with Textured Curls:
If you have textured or curly hair, the high taper fade gives your curls more structure while highlighting their natural shape and volume.
33. High Taper Fade with Side-Swept Hair:
Side-swept hair paired with a high taper fade creates a cool, effortless vibe. The high fade keeps the sides clean, allowing the swept-back top to flow naturally.
34. High Taper Fade with Classic Slicked Back:
For a polished, professional look, a classic slicked-back style works well with the sharp contrast of a high taper fade. This combination is timeless and sophisticated.
35. High Taper Fade with Loose Wave:
Loose waves on top combined with a high taper fade create a laid-back yet stylish look. This is great for those who want a natural appearance without sacrificing style.
36. High Taper Fade with Short, Textured Top:
For a sharp, neat style, combine the high taper fade with a short, textured top. This style works best for guys who want something low-maintenance but still trendy.
37. High Taper Fade with Line-Up:
A line-up sharpens your hairline, giving a defined shape to your fade. When paired with a high taper fade, it creates an even sharper contrast, making the hairstyle stand out.
38. High Taper Fade with Mid Fade Transition:
A high fade with a smooth mid-fade transition offers a modern and unique look that blends both high and mid fades for a well-balanced hairstyle.
39. High Taper Fade with Scissor Cut:
A scissor cut adds an artistic touch to your hair, with the high fade creating a clean and structured base. This style works well for men who want a modern yet creative look.
40. High Taper Fade with Slick Sides:
Keep the sides sleek and smooth while leaving some volume at the top. The high taper fade ensures the contrast, and the slick sides add a clean finish.
41. High Taper Fade with Comb-Over and Pompadour:
A combo of both a pompadour and a comb-over gives you the best of both worlds. The high fade ensures a fresh, clean finish with lots of volume and texture on top. The pompadour involves sweeping the hair backward from the front, creating height and volume at the crown.
42. High Taper Fade with Afro Curls:
For natural texture, combine the high fade with defined afro curls. The fade sharpens the sides, letting the curls stand out and adding balance to the overall style.
43. High Taper Fade with Disconnected Undercut:
A disconnected undercut creates a striking visual contrast when paired with a high taper fade. The disconnect adds modernity, while the fade keeps it fresh.
44. High Taper Fade with Long Flowing Hair:
For a dramatic contrast, combine a high taper fade with longer, flowing hair on top. The sharp fade gives the longer hair a more structured look.
45. High Taper Fade with Loose Curls:
Loose curls atop a high taper fade offer a carefree yet fashionable style. The fade keeps the sides sharp while letting the curls breathe and define themselves.
46. High Taper Fade with Tapered Beard and Mustache:
If you like facial hair, combine a high taper fade with a tapered beard and mustache for a rugged but stylish appearance.
47. High Taper Fade with Zigzag Part:
A zigzag part adds a unique flair to your hairstyle. Combined with a high fade, it creates a sharp and modern contrast.
48. High Taper Fade with Textured Sideburns:
Textured sideburns enhance the edgy look of a high taper fade, adding dimension and definition to your face shape. This hairstyle is a modern take on the classic pompadour, which was historically associated with Elvis Presley but has been reinvented in recent years with a sleeker, flatter finish.
49. High Taper Fade with Long Fringe:
Adding a long fringe to the front gives a playful twist to the high fade. This works especially well with men who want a youthful look.
50. High Taper Fade with Flat Pompadour:
The High Taper Fade with Flat Pompadour is a stylish and bold combination that offers a sharp contrast between the voluminous top and the clean, faded sides. The flat pompadour, paired with a high fade, offers a sharp and vintage-inspired look with clean edges and volume on top.
51. High Taper Fade with Undercut and Hard Part:
A disconnected undercut paired with a high taper fade and a hard part creates a bold, modern, and structured hairstyle with an extra edge.
These 51 styles show just how versatile and adaptable the high taper fade can be, making it an excellent choice for any man looking to elevate his look.
Conclusion:
The high taper fade is a versatile and stylish haircut that has stood the test of time. With its sharp lines and clean look, it offers both boldness and flexibility, making it perfect for a range of personal styles and hair textures.
Whether you’re looking for a sharp and modern cut or a casual everyday style, the high taper fade provides an effortlessly cool look that is sure to turn heads.
So, if you’re considering a fresh cut that balances style and simplicity, the high taper fade is a timeless choice that won’t disappoint.