What Is a High Taper Fade?
The high taper fade is a sharp, modern haircut where the fade begins above the temples, creating bold contrast between the longer top and faded sides. This structured style tapers cleanly down the back and neckline, offering a polished, clean-cut finish. Suitable for straight, curly, wavy, or coily hair, the high taper fade supports versatile styling whether you prefer a pompadour, crop, or comb over, making it a go-to choice for today’s stylish, confident man.
Explore top High Taper fade haircuts that redefine what a modern fade can do for your confidence and personal style.
Top High Taper Fade Haircuts for Men
High Taper Fade Black Male

The High Taper Fade Black Male cut strikes the perfect balance between edge and expression. Tightly coiled curls burst with volume and movement, while the high taper fade delivers a flawless blend into the skin. Finger-shape curls using Styling Cream to define texture, then finish with Argan Oil for a healthy sheen. This bold, modern style works best for oval and square faces looking to lead, not follow.
High Taper Fade Curly Hair
High Taper Fade Curly Hair brings bold height and sharp edges together. The curls stay full and round on top while the high taper fade cleans up the sides and neckline for a fresh, modern contrast. Use Curl Enhancing Cream to define and soften curls, then shape with your fingers while blow-drying on low heat. This cut works especially well for oval and diamond face shapes.
High Taper Fade Straight Hair
The High Taper Fade Straight Hair is a sleek, high-volume look that blends a sharp fade with naturally straight texture. The sides taper cleanly above the ear, while the top is left long, brushed back with strong lift and smooth flow. Use Texture Clay for volume and Styling Cream for control, blow-dry with a round brush to shape. Best suited for square or oval face shapes.
Short High Taper Fade
The Short High Taper Fade is a clean, sharp style that keeps things low-maintenance while delivering major impact. With short, even length on top and a high taper that fades tightly above the ears and neckline, this look gives off a bold, fresh vibe. Style it with Styling Cream for light control or Molding Paste for a textured edge. Ideal for round or diamond-shaped faces.
High Taper Fade Haircut
The High Taper Fade Haircut is a bold, sharp style that blends a high fade into thick, textured top layers for a clean and edgy finish. The blunt fringe adds attitude while the fade keeps it neat and modern. Use Texture Clay to enhance definition or Molding Paste for controlled styling. Perfect for oval or round face shapes looking for a standout, low-effort cut.
High Taper Fade Dreads
The High Taper Fade Dreads is a bold fusion of clean edges and long, textured locks. This look features a sharp high taper around the temples and neckline, with the dreads left full and flowing for maximum style impact. Keep the fade crisp and the dreads fresh using Hydrating Argan Oil and Texture Clay. Best for oval, diamond, and square face shapes.
Textured High Taper Fade
The Textured High Taper Fade blends sharp edges with tousled volume for a modern, low-maintenance look. With its tight high taper around the ears and neckline and defined textured top, this cut delivers youthful energy and movement. Style it with Texture Powder for volume and Styling Cream to shape curls easily using your fingers. Works best on oval, round, or diamond face shapes.
High Taper Fade Afro
The High Taper Fade Afro brings bold volume and clean edges together in one standout style. This look features a high taper fade that sharply blends into a full, round afro packed with texture and movement. Use Curl Enhancing Cream to define curls and Molding Paste to shape the sides. Best suited for oval, round, or heart-shaped faces, it’s a true head-turner.
High Taper Fade Mullet
The High Taper Fade Mullet blends sharp contrast with bold flow, creating a hairstyle that screams individuality. The high taper fade keeps the sides tight and fresh, while the back cascades into a voluminous mullet full of texture. Style it using Texture Clay for hold and definition, then finger-shape for a natural finish. Perfect for oval or diamond-shaped faces looking to stand out.
High Taper Fade Buzz Cut
The High Taper Fade Buzz Cut delivers clean lines with a sharp, high-contrast finish. The sides taper seamlessly into skin while the top stays short and uniform for easy styling. This low-maintenance cut pops with added definition using Molding Paste, perfect for light control and natural texture. Ideal for square or oval face shapes, it’s a go-to style for confident, active guys.
High Top Taper Fade
The High Top Taper Fade blends bold height with a clean taper for a fresh, structured silhouette. The sides fade tightly into the skin, while the top stands tall with thick, natural texture. Shape the top with a blow-dryer and control frizz using the Texture Clay for a firm hold and matte finish. Best suited for oval, square, or round face shapes seeking standout definition.
High Taper Fade Long Hair
The High Taper Fade Long Hair look fuses clean precision with bold length, making it perfect for confident trendsetters. The high taper keeps the sides crisp and fresh, while the long top adds flow, volume, and movement. Tie it into a man bun or wear it loose with control using Styling Cream to enhance shine and reduce frizz. Best for oval or diamond face shapes.
High Taper Fade with Textured Fringe
The High Taper Fade with Textured Fringe blends a clean, high-contrast fade with messy texture up top for an edgy, youthful look. Defined fringe adds bold character, while the sides taper sharply for a fresh finish. Use Texture Clay to sculpt separation and enhance movement, then finger-style for a casual, tousled vibe. Ideal for oval or square faces, this cut is all about a standout attitude with modern polish.
High Taper Fade Edgar
The High Taper Fade Edgar delivers bold definition with sharp edges and a thick, blunt fringe. This edgy cut combines high faded sides with a textured top that adds attitude and clean structure. Use Texture Clay for control and separation, then finger-style for natural lift. The style works best on oval and round face shapes, giving teens a fearless, trend-forward upgrade with serious streetwear influence.
High Taper Fade Waves
The High Taper Fade Waves blend clean tapering with smooth, laid-back waves for a look that’s polished yet full of personality. This style features tight, glossy waves on top with a high fade that sharpens the temple and neckline. Maintain wave depth and shine using the Styling Cream, then brush daily and durag overnight to lock in pattern. Best for oval and square face shapes, this style defines modern cool.
High Taper Fade Slick Back
The High Taper Fade Slick Back delivers sharp contrast and effortless flow, merging modern taper precision with classic slick-back volume. Hair is brushed smoothly toward the crown, while the high taper fade sculpts the sides and neckline clean. Use the Styling Cream for control, then finish with Texture Clay for hold and natural shine. This style flatters oval, diamond, and rectangular faces with sleek, statement-making appeal.
High Taper Fade Comb Over
The High Taper Fade Comb Over blends timeless class with bold edge, featuring a crisp side part, voluminous top, and high taper fade that sharpens the silhouette. Hair is combed diagonally with blow-dried lift and clean separation. Use Styling Cream for structure and finish with Texture Powder to boost volume and hold. This style works best on oval, square, and heart-shaped faces for a polished yet trendy finish.
High Taper Fade Fringe
The High Taper Fade Fringe delivers a bold attitude, blending a clean high taper around the sides with a thick, tousled fringe that frames the face effortlessly. This style thrives on natural volume and layered movement. Blow-dry forward using Texture Clay to define the fringe and lock shape, then finish with Texture Powder for airy lift. Best suited for round, oval, and diamond face shapes.
High Taper Fade Fluffy Hair
The High Taper Fade Fluffy Hair blends sharp tapering with soft, voluminous curls for a standout yet approachable style. This look features defined texture up top and a clean fade that enhances the overall shape. Blow-dry while finger-shaping for volume, then apply Texture Clay to control the fluff without weighing it down. Finish with Texture Powder for extra lift. Ideal for round, heart, or square face shapes.
High Taper Fade with Design
The High Taper Fade with Design is the ultimate bold statement for guys who want to stand out. This cut combines clean faded edges with custom razor designs that create sharp contrast and movement. The top stays full and soft for styling flexibility, use Styling Cream to define texture without stiffness. Blow-dry with a diffuser to enhance volume. Perfect for oval or diamond face shapes wanting artistic flair and youthful energy.
High Taper Fade Asian
The High Taper Fade for Asian men look brings bold contrast and movement with a textured top and crisp, tapered sides. This cut highlights natural volume while enhancing sharpness around the temples. Style it with Texture Clay to add grip and separation without weighing the hair down. Blow-dry using finger-shaping for a windswept effect. Ideal for oval and heart-shaped faces.
High Taper Fade with Beard
The High Taper Fade with Beard delivers bold definition with sharp contrast between a precise, low-texture crop and a full, shaped beard. This style emphasizes clean lines and symmetry, ideal for oval and diamond face shapes. Use Styling Cream to keep the top smooth and controlled, then finish with a Molding Paste to define edges. Blow-dry with a round brush for volume and a razor-sharp finish that radiates confidence.
High Taper Fade Blowout
The High Taper Fade Blowout turns heads with its bold curls, sharp fade, and gravity-defying volume. This look thrives on controlled chaos, tight, springy curls at the top explode with movement, while the high taper around the ears and neckline keeps things crisp. Use Texturizing Clay for hold and shape, then blow-dry with a diffuser to enhance bounce. Best suited for oval and round faces.
High Taper Fade Blonde
The High Taper Fade Blonde brings bold personality and high contrast to the spotlight. This cut blends a soft, textured blonde top with a skin-tight taper around the ears and neckline for clean, modern definition. Style it using Molding Paste to define movement and retain a natural finish, then blow-dry with fingers for lifted texture. Best suited for oval and square face shapes.
High Taper Fade with Braids
The High Taper Fade with Braids delivers bold precision and street-savvy attitude in one unified look. Crisp braids on top add structure and flow, while the high taper fade sharpens the sides with clean, skin-tight gradients. This style works best with hydrated, defined strands. Use Hydrating Argan Oil to keep braids healthy and Texture Clay for neat edges. Ideal for square and oval face shapes.
High Taper Fade vs Other Taper Fades: Key Differences
High Taper Fade vs Low Taper Fade
When comparing a High Taper Fade vs Low Taper Fade, the difference lies in the blend’s height and boldness. The high taper fade carves sharply around the temples and neckline for a striking, modern edge, while the low taper fade keeps the transition subtle near the ears for a softer, classic vibe. Use Texture Clay for controlled volume or Styling Cream to enhance movement, depending on how bold or natural you want the finish.
High Taper Fade vs Mid Taper Fade
When comparing a High Taper Fade vs Mid Taper Fade, the high taper starts higher on the head for a bold, defined contrast perfect for sharp curls and volume control. Meanwhile, the mid taper fade strikes a clean balance, tapering midway for a smooth, blended finish. For sculpted curls and shape control, apply Curl Defining Cream, then lock it in with Molding Paste to maintain height and texture.
How to Choose the Right High Taper Fade For You
To look your best with a high taper fade, match the fade height and top length to your face shape and hair texture.
Hair Type
Picking the best high taper fade depends on your natural texture.
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For thick hair, go for a high taper fade that removes bulk from the sides while keeping the top controlled and structured.
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For curly or coily hair, choose a high taper that tapers tightly around the temples and neckline to frame your curls while allowing volume on top.
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For straight or fine hair, use lightweight styling products to create lift and movement without flattening the top.
The right taper height should match your hair’s density and natural flow for a clean, balanced look.
Face Shape
Your face shape plays a big role in how well a high taper fade suits you.
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A round face benefits from a high taper fade that adds vertical height and sharp angles to make the face appear longer and more defined.
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Square or heart-shaped faces look better with blended fades that soften strong jawlines and balance wider cheekbones.
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If you have an oval face, you’re in luck, most high taper fade styles will suit you thanks to your naturally balanced proportions.
Keep fade placement and top hair length in harmony with your facial features to enhance symmetry and bring out your strongest angles.
How to Ask Your Barber for a High Taper Fade
When asking your barber for a high taper fade, start by showing a clear reference photo to avoid miscommunication. Let them know you want the fade to begin high just above the temples and mention your preferred clipper guard length, such as a #1 or #2 on the sides. Be specific about how you want the top styled, whether short and textured or longer with volume.
Use direct language like: “I’d like a high taper fade with a #2 on the sides and about 3 inches on top, styled with volume.” This makes your expectations clear and helps your barber deliver a precise cut.
How to Style a High Taper Fade
Styling a high taper fade starts with the right prep, tools, and product routine. Follow these simple steps to get a sharp, lasting look.
Prep Your Hair
Start by washing and towel-drying your hair to remove any product buildup. While it’s still damp, apply a sea salt spray to add grip, volume, and texture. This creates the ideal base for styling your high taper fade.
Apply a Styling Product
Choose a lightweight styling product with a matte finish, such as texture clay or molding paste. Work it evenly through the top using your fingers to define the shape and hold without stiffness.
Use a Blow Dryer
Blow-dry your hair using a vent brush or your hands to lift the roots. Focus on directing volume upward and back to build height and structure into the style.
Finish the Style
Lock in the look by applying texture powder or a light clay for added hold and separation. This final step keeps your high taper fade looking sharp, voluminous, and effortlessly styled all day.
How to Maintain a High Taper Fade
A great high taper fade needs the right care. From regular barber visits to smart product use, here’s how to keep it looking its best.
Regular Trims
Keep your high taper fade sharp and clean with barber trims every 2-3 weeks. Consistent upkeep prevents uneven growth and preserves your fade’s crisp, professional finish.
Hair Products
Use styling products like pomade or matte cream for definition, and apply a scalp moisturizer and clarifying shampoo to support healthy hair texture and fade longevity.
Recommended Hair Products for High Taper Fades
Maintain your high taper fade effortlessly using these top-rated grooming products that deliver hold, moisture, and texture for a polished, modern look.
Texture Clay
Texture Clay delivers high hold and matte finish, sculpting sharp high taper fade hairstyles with lasting definition, volume, and all-day control.
Molding Paste
Molding Paste creates flexible hold and soft separation, allowing restyle able high taper fade looks with natural texture and controlled movement.
Styling Cream
Styling Cream smooths frizz and defines texture, perfect for taming top layers in high taper fades with a lightweight, natural finish.
Texture Powder
Texture Powder boosts root lift and separation instantly, making high taper fades appear fuller with added texture and effortless shape control.
Sea Salt Spray
Sea Salt Spray adds light grit and volume, prepping hair with natural texture and hold ideal for styling loose, layered taper fades.
Pomade
Pomade offers strong hold and mirror shine, perfect for sleek high taper fades, comb overs, or side parts that demand refined structure.
Hydrating Argan Oil
Argan Oil deeply hydrates and softens dry hair, preserving shine and smoothness for high taper fade styles with healthy, touchable texture.
Clarifying Shampoo
Clarifying Shampoo detoxifies hair by removing product buildup, allowing clean, weightless high taper fade styles that start from a refreshed scalp.
Hydrating Conditioner
Hydrating Conditioner restores moisture and softness, maintaining healthy hair texture and manageability for polished high taper fade styling.
FAQs: High Taper Fade Haircut for Men
What is a high taper fade haircut?
A high taper fade haircut starts above the temples, creating sharp contrast and clean edges for a bold, modern look that suits most men.
What are the main fade variations for men?
The main fade variations include low, mid, high, and skin fades, each offering different levels of contrast and customization based on face shape.
How does a taper differ from a fade?
A taper gradually shortens the hair near the neckline and sideburns, while a fade blends the hair more dramatically into the skin.
Is a high taper fade suitable for formal settings?
Yes, a high taper fade offers a clean, structured look that fits both professional environments and casual styles, making it versatile and workplace-appropriate.
Can a high taper fade help with a receding hairline?
A high taper fade can visually reduce the appearance of a receding hairline by creating clean edges and redirecting focus upward for balance.
What fade works best for men with thin hair?
A low or mid fade with added texture on top helps thin hair appear fuller by removing bulk on the sides and focusing volume upward.
How often should I maintain my fade haircut?
Maintain your fade haircut every 2-3 weeks to keep the blend sharp, especially if you prefer clean, defined lines and consistent shape.
What face shapes suit a high taper fade best?
Square, round, and diamond face shapes suit a high taper fade well, as it adds vertical height and sharpens the jawline for balance.
Can I combine a high taper fade with longer styles on top?
Yes, a high taper fade pairs well with pompadours, fringes, or curls, giving you stylish contrast and flexible options for personal expression.
How do I explain my desired fade to a barber?
Tell your barber the fade level (high, mid, low), how short you want the sides, and your preferred length and texture on top.
What styling products work best with fade haircuts?
Use matte clay for texture, pomade for shine, or sea salt spray for volume, each enhances the structure of your fade haircut effortlessly.
Is it possible to style a fade at home?
You can style your fade at home by blow-drying for volume, then using lightweight products to define the top and keep the sides neat.