High Taper Fade – The Ultimate Guide to This Stylish Haircut
Shoumya Chowdhury
Key Takeaways
Essential insights to remember
Dramatic and Bold Styling: The high taper fade starts closer to the crown of the head, creating a more striking contrast between the longer top and faded sides compared to low or mid fades. This makes it ideal for those wanting a sharp, edgy appearance that commands attention.
Universal Compatibility with Hair Textures: The cut works exceptionally well with all hair types—straight, curly, wavy, or coily—and pairs beautifully with various top styles including curls, dreads, waves, braids, and afros, making it one of the most versatile fade options.
Face Shape Enhancement: The high taper fade is particularly flattering for oval, square, and round face shapes. It adds structure to round faces, enhances jawlines on square faces, and complements the natural proportions of oval faces.
Professional Execution Required: Due to the precision needed for proper blending and edge work, this cut should be done by a skilled barber rather than attempted at home. Clear communication with reference photos ensures the best results.
Regular Maintenance Essential: To maintain the sharp, clean appearance, touch-ups are needed every 2-3 weeks. While daily styling is minimal, consistent professional upkeep is crucial for keeping the fade looking fresh and properly blended.
What Is a High Taper Fade?
Defining the Style
The high taper fade is a clean, modern haircut where the hair gradually shortens from the top down to the neckline, with the fade starting high up on the head. It’s known for its sharp, sleek appearance and has become a staple in men’s grooming.
How It Differs From Other Fades
You’ve probably heard of low and mid fades too, right? The difference lies in where the fade begins. A high taper fade starts closer to the crown of your head, giving a more dramatic contrast between the longer top and the faded sides.
Why the High Taper Fade Is So Popular
Versatility Across Hair Types
Whether you’ve got straight, curly, wavy, or coily hair, the high taper fade works beautifully. It’s a universal cut that flatters almost everyone, especially when paired with the right style on top.
Low Maintenance, High Impact
Despite its stylish look, the high taper fade doesn’t require daily upkeep. Just keep it trimmed every 2–3 weeks, and you're good to go. It’s a “wake-up-and-go” kind of haircut—easy and effective.
High Taper Fade vs Low Taper Fade
Key Differences
A low taper fade starts fading near the ears and neckline, giving a subtle, more conservative look. A high taper fade, on the other hand, begins higher on the head and provides a bolder, edgier appearance.
Which One Should You Choose?
Go for the high taper if you like contrast and sharp edges. If you prefer something more subdued and traditional, the low taper might be more your speed.
Best Face Shapes for a High Taper Fade
Oval, Square, Round—What Works Best?
- Oval faces are the lucky winners—it suits them all.
- Square faces benefit from the sharp lines that enhance the jawline.
- Round faces get some structure from the high taper, making them look longer and more defined.
Hairstyles That Pair Well With a High Taper Fade
High Taper Fade with Curls
Show off your natural texture with defined curls on top. The fade makes the curls pop and keeps the sides clean.
High Taper Fade with Dreads
Short or medium dreadlocks look incredible with a high taper fade. It brings balance and structure to the free-flowing locks.
High Taper Fade with Waves
Got 360 waves? This fade will highlight your pattern and make the waves stand out like ocean ripples.
High Taper Fade with Braids
Braids + taper fade = pure fire. This combo is both trendy and cultural, offering a fresh look that doesn’t go out of style.
High Taper Fade Afro
Rocking an Afro? Add a high taper to give it shape and dimension while still keeping volume up top.
How to Ask Your Barber for a High Taper Fade
What to Say
Don’t just say “fade”—be specific. Say: "I’d like a high taper fade with [insert top style here], and keep the edge up sharp."
Show Examples
Nothing beats a visual. Pull up a few pictures from Instagram or Pinterest to help guide your barber. This ensures you both see the same vision.
Step-by-Step Guide: How the Cut Is Done
Clipper Numbers Explained
- #0 to #1: Super close to the skin—used at the bottom.
- #2 to #3: Blending area.
- #4 and up: Used on top (if not styling long).
The Blending Process
The key to a high taper fade is seamless blending. The barber will gradually adjust clipper guards, creating a smooth transition from short to long hair.
How to Maintain a High Taper Fade
At-Home Grooming Tips
- Brush or comb daily depending on your hair texture.
- Use pomade, curl cream, or leave-in conditioner.
- Edge up your hairline with a trimmer if you’re confident.
How Often to Get a Touch-Up
To keep that fresh-out-the-barbershop look, visit your barber every 2 to 3 weeks. Don’t let the fade lose its shape!
Pros and Cons of the High Taper Fade
Pros:
- Sharp and stylish
- Works with most hairstyles
- Great for hot weather
Cons:
- Needs regular maintenance
- Might not fit every workplace
- Takes a skilled barber to do right
Who Should Avoid a High Taper Fade?
If you have very thin or patchy hair on the sides, the taper may highlight these areas. Also, those in ultra-conservative professions might want something more traditional.
Celebrities Rocking the High Taper Fade
From Michael B. Jordan to Drake, and even athletes like LeBron James, this haircut has taken over Hollywood and sports arenas. If it’s good enough for them, it’s probably good enough for you too.
DIY or Barber? What’s the Better Option?
Unless you're really good with clippers, leave it to the pros. A high taper fade requires precision, especially when it comes to blending and lining up edges. You can clean up between visits, but don’t try to DIY the full fade if you're new to cutting hair.
Final Thoughts
The high taper fade isn’t just a haircut—it’s a statement. Clean, cool, and totally customizable, it fits a wide range of hair types and personal styles. Whether you’re rocking curls, waves, or dreads, this fade helps you stand out while keeping things neat. Just make sure you maintain it, go to a good barber, and own your look.
