40 Best Taper Fade Hairstyles For Men’s Face Shape

The taper fade haircut is one of the most stylish and universally flattering cuts a man can get. It’s clean, modern, and works with everything from professional looks to laid-back streetwear. But what really makes it shine? The ability to match taper fade styles to your unique face shape.

Whether you’ve got a square jaw, a long oval face, or something in between, this guide breaks down 40 of the best taper fade hairstyles for men’s face shape. We’ll help you find the fade that makes your features stand out and your confidence soar.

What Is a Taper Fade?

Before we jump into styles, let’s get the basics right.

A taper fade is a type of haircut where the hair gradually shortens from the top down to the neckline and around the ears. It creates a smooth transition cleaner than a regular taper, but not as dramatic as a full skin fade.

It’s the perfect balance of sharp and subtle, which is why it works for men of all ages, professions, and personal styles.

Matching Taper Fades to Face Shapes

Face ShapeFade Focus
OvalMost styles work focus on texture and personal flair
RoundHigh taper fades with volume on top to elongate the face
SquareBalanced fades (mid or low) to complement the strong jawline
DiamondLow tapers with soft edges to offset cheekbone prominence
HeartSide-part taper fades with volume at the crown for balance
Oblong/LongTapers with horizontal styling (fringe or side sweep) to reduce face length

40 Best Taper Fade Hairstyles For Men

Taper Fades for Oval Faces

Oval is the most versatile shape almost every style works here.

1. Classic Taper Fade with Side Part

A go-to style for men with oval faces, the Classic Taper Fade with Side Part delivers clean lines and timeless charm. The defined part gives structure, while the taper keeps the sides sharp and balanced.

Key Features:

  • Subtle taper at sideburns and neckline
  • Defined side part with 2–3″ length on top
  • Works best with straight or wavy hair
  • Ideal for both casual and formal settings
  • Flatters the natural symmetry of oval faces

Styling Tips:

  • Use light-hold pomade or cream for a polished finish
  • Comb the part sharply for structure
  • Maintain the taper every 2–3 weeks
  • Optional: ask for a hard part for added definition

Vibe:
Professional, refined, and effortless. This cut suits guys who want versatility without sacrificing style.


2. Curly Top with Low Taper

The Curly Top with Low Taper celebrates natural texture while keeping your face open and defined. The taper stays low, cleaning up the edges without removing too much volume perfect for oval faces that can carry length and texture up top.

Key Features:

  • Low taper fade along neckline and sides
  • 2–3″ curly top left full and defined
  • Highlights natural curls without bulk
  • Balanced silhouette for oval face shapes
  • Works best with 3A–4B curls

Styling Tips:

  • Use curl cream or leave-in conditioner daily
  • Finger coil or sponge for extra definition
  • Trim curls regularly to avoid frizz
  • Refresh the taper every 2–3 weeks

Vibe:
Textured, modern, and face-framing. This cut is perfect for low-maintenance curl definition that complements natural symmetry.


3. Wavy Brush Back with Taper

Simple yet sophisticated, the Wavy Brush Back with Taper gives medium-length waves direction and polish. The taper adds neatness without undercutting volume, while the brush-back keeps the oval face length elongated and refined.

Key Features:

  • Soft taper on the sides and neckline
  • 3–4″ wavy top brushed back for flow
  • Enhances natural waves with a controlled shape
  • Elongates and flatters the balanced oval face
  • Great for medium to thick wavy hair

Styling Tips:

  • Blow-dry back using a round brush for volume
  • Apply light styling cream or mousse
  • Keep the neckline and temples trimmed for shape
  • Use sea salt spray for added wave definition

Vibe:
Polished, masculine, and relaxed. This style walks the line between laid-back and elevated.


4. Mid Taper Fade with Textured Fringe

The Mid Taper Fade with Textured Fringe brings edgy texture to a very wearable look. The fringe softens the forehead area, while the taper keeps the lower half neat perfect for oval faces that thrive on balance and proportion.

Key Features:

  • Mid taper at sideburns and nape
  • Choppy fringe cut over the forehead
  • 2–3″ layered texture on top
  • Adds youthful dimension to oval faces
  • Works well with straight or wavy textures

Styling Tips:

  • Use matte clay or wax for flexible hold
  • Scrunch or finger-style for natural separation
  • Ask your barber to point-cut the fringe for texture
  • Maintain taper and fringe every few weeks

Vibe:
Trendy, low-key, and balanced. A great choice for guys who want something modern but not too bold.


5. Slicked Back Taper with Beard Fade

For men with facial hair, the Slicked Back Taper with Beard Fade creates a perfectly structured silhouette. The taper fades seamlessly into the beard, while the slicked back top elongates the face, making it an ideal match for oval features.

Key Features:

  • Medium taper fading into a well-shaped beard
  • Top is 3–4″ and slicked back neatly
  • Best for medium to thick straight hair
  • Sharp contrast highlights jawline and cheekbones
  • Enhances the length of an oval face

Styling Tips:

  • Apply water-based pomade for a clean slick finish
  • Blow-dry the top back for volume and control
  • Use beard oil to soften and maintain facial hair
  • Shape up beard and taper line every 2 weeks

Vibe:
Sleek, confident, and masculine. This look is built for strong face shape framing and modern sophistication.

6. Short Taper Crop with Razor Line

The Short Taper Crop with Razor Line gives minimalist vibes with a modern edge. Short on top and tightly tapered on the sides, this cut works especially well with oval faces by maintaining proportion without excess bulk.

Key Features:

  • Clean taper on neckline and temples
  • 1.5–2″ crop with blunt or textured fringe
  • Razor line detail for bold contrast
  • Ideal for straight or slightly wavy hair
  • Keeps oval face in natural balance

Styling Tips:

  • Use matte paste or dry texture powder
  • Apply lightly and finger-style for separation
  • Maintain the razor line weekly for sharpness
  • Refresh crop and taper every 2–3 weeks

Vibe:
Urban, bold, and minimal. A great everyday cut that keeps things sharp and easy to manage.

7. Taper with Defined Curls and Temple Fade

The Taper with Defined Curls and Temple Fade is tailored for guys who want to highlight curls while keeping a clean frame. The temple fade opens the face, and the taper gives structure making it perfect for oval-shaped faces.

Key Features:

  • Low taper combined with sharp temple fade
  • Top features defined curls or coils (2–3″)
  • Keeps curl volume controlled but natural
  • Suitable for Type 3 and Type 4 curls
  • Accentuates cheekbones and jawline on oval faces

Styling Tips:

  • Use curl cream or custard for bounce and moisture
  • Shape the hairline and temple fade regularly
  • Refresh curls with water and leave-in between washes
  • Keep the taper and beard (if any) tidy

Vibe:
Defined, natural, and sculpted. This style celebrates texture while keeping facial proportions balanced and clean.

Taper Fades for Round Faces

Go for styles that add height and angle avoid horizontal volume.

8. High Taper with Pompadour

The High Taper with Pompadour is a winning combo for round faces. The taper keeps the sides clean, while the voluminous pomp adds vertical height creating the illusion of a longer, more structured face.

Key Features:

  • High taper fade around the ears and back
  • 3–4″ hair on top styled into a pompadour
  • Works well with thick, straight, or wavy hair
  • Sharpens soft facial curves with upward volume
  • Ideal for round, wide, or short face shapes

Styling Tips:

  • Use volumizing mousse before blow-drying
  • Shape with a round brush and set with matte pomade
  • Refresh taper every 2–3 weeks
  • Optional: add a razor part for extra definition

Vibe:
Polished, bold, and face-flattering. Great for men who want a classy style with visual lift.


9. Textured Quiff Taper Fade

The Textured Quiff Taper Fade adds a cool, casual edge while subtly elongating a round face. The height in the front draws attention upward, while the taper cleans up the sides to sharpen your profile.

Key Features:

  • Medium taper fade with 2–3″ quiff on top
  • Choppy, textured layers for natural movement
  • Suitable for thick, straight, or slightly wavy hair
  • Slims round faces by focusing volume vertically
  • Works in both casual and semi-formal settings

Styling Tips:

  • Blow-dry front upward with heat protectant
  • Use clay or paste for matte texture
  • Finger-style for a messy, effortless finish
  • Maintain side taper and neckline regularly

Vibe:
Effortless and structured. A strong choice for guys who want to add personality and edge without overstyling.


10. Taper with Angular Fringe

The Taper with Angular Fringe breaks up the roundness of your face with asymmetrical lines. The fringe slants across the forehead, while the taper fade adds sharpness along the jawline and temples.

Key Features:

  • Subtle or mid taper on the sides
  • Diagonally cut fringe (2–2.5″) adds angles
  • Works best with straight or wavy textures
  • Contrasts round features with geometric lines
  • Great for younger or style-forward men

Styling Tips:

  • Use light wax or paste to define the fringe
  • Keep fringe just above or across the eyebrow
  • Ask your barber to point-cut for soft texture
  • Maintain fade and fringe monthly

Vibe:
Creative, modern, and sculpting. Perfect for those who want to give a round face more edge and personality.


11. Side Swept Top + Taper Fade

The Side Swept Top + Taper Fade draws the eye diagonally, helping to elongate and slim round faces. The top has volume and movement, while the taper keeps the lower half clean and structured.

Key Features:

  • Medium taper on the sides and neckline
  • Top left 2–3″ and swept to one side
  • Ideal for thick or medium-density hair
  • Diagonal motion helps elongate round cheeks
  • Pairs well with a trimmed beard or stubble

Styling Tips:

  • Blow-dry top sideways with a vented brush
  • Use lightweight cream or mousse for movement
  • Add sea salt spray for texture if wavy
  • Shape up taper and neckline bi-weekly

Vibe:
Casual but calculated. A laid-back style with subtle facial sculpting benefits.


12. Mohawk-Inspired Taper Fade

Bold meets balanced in the Mohawk-Inspired Taper Fade. The height in the center lifts the face visually, while the tight taper around the temples sculpts the outer silhouette. It’s daring but still wearable.

Key Features:

  • Taper fade around the ears and neckline
  • Central ridge of 2–3″ hair for subtle mohawk effect
  • Great for curly, coiled, or thick straight hair
  • Visually lengthens round or wider faces
  • High-contrast and expressive

Styling Tips:

  • Use curl sponge or molding gel for definition
  • Keep the sides and temple area faded clean
  • Blow-dry and shape with fingers or a diffuser
  • Trim weekly to maintain the bold lines

Vibe:
Edgy, artistic, and contour-friendly. This style is made for those who like their cut with a little attitude.


13. Taper Fade with Faux Hawk

The Taper Fade with Faux Hawk delivers structure and edge all in one. With controlled chaos through the center and clean tapered sides, it sharpens soft features and adds height where it matters most.

Key Features:

  • Temple taper or mid fade
  • Faux hawk strip with 2–3″ choppy top
  • Great for straight or thick textured hair
  • Accentuates jawline and adds vertical shape
  • Ideal for youthful or trend-driven looks

Styling Tips:

  • Blow-dry hair upward using a diffuser or fingers
  • Apply matte clay or cream for definition
  • Keep temple and neck areas trimmed
  • Optional: blend into a beard fade for cohesion

Vibe:
Sharp, controlled, and youthful. A modern haircut that gives round faces edge without being too aggressive.


14. Brush-Up with Low Taper

Subtle yet stylish, the Brush-Up with Low Taper keeps things clean around the edges while lifting the top to visually elongate your face. It’s ideal for guys who prefer low-key cuts with shape.

Key Features:

  • Low taper around neckline and sideburns
  • 2–3″ top brushed upward and slightly back
  • Great for straight or wavy medium-density hair
  • Light lift elongates round faces naturally
  • Pairs well with minimal facial hair

Styling Tips:

  • Use volumizing powder or sea salt spray
  • Blow-dry top upward with fingers or brush
  • Apply matte paste to lock in loose shape
  • Maintain taper every 2–3 weeks

Vibe:
Casual, clean, and flattering. Great for everyday wear with subtle face-framing benefits.

Taper Fades for Square Faces

You’ve already got a strong jawline now soften it with smooth fades and clean volume.

15. Low Taper with Middle Part

The Low Taper with Middle Part is ideal for square faces because it softens the jawline and brings symmetry to angular features. The low taper keeps the edges neat, while the center part divides and balances the top for a cleaner silhouette.

Key Features:

  • Low taper at the neckline and sideburns
  • Top is 3–4″ and parted evenly down the middle
  • Complements straight, wavy, or fine hair
  • Balances the squareness of the forehead and jaw
  • Excellent for modern, clean styles

Styling Tips:

  • Use a lightweight cream or serum to maintain flow
  • Blow-dry with a center part for natural lift
  • Add sea salt spray for slight wave if needed
  • Maintain taper line every 2–3 weeks

Vibe:
Refined, stylish, and symmetrical. Perfect for those seeking a middle-ground between structure and softness.


16. Tapered Afro with Rounded Shape

The Tapered Afro with Rounded Shape highlights natural texture while rounding out sharp facial angles. The clean taper fade along the edges enhances your jawline, while the fuller crown softens the upper half of your face.

Key Features:

  • Rounded medium-length afro on top
  • Low or mid taper fade at the sides and nape
  • Best for 4A–4C hair textures
  • Smooths out strong jawlines and broad foreheads
  • Celebrates natural curls with shape and control

Styling Tips:

  • Use leave-in conditioner and curl sponge for definition
  • Moisturize daily to keep curls healthy
  • Keep fade lines and afro shape fresh every 2–3 weeks
  • Optional: add a line-up for extra sharpness

Vibe:
Cultural, bold, and balanced. This style bridges structure with natural flow for a confident, stylish appearance.


17. Short Layers with Side Taper Fade

Short, feathered layers combined with a side taper fade create movement that softens square face lines. This cut gives a lighter, more modern feel ideal for men who want edge without harshness.

Key Features:

  • Short, textured layers on top (2–3″)
  • Side taper fade that blends smoothly into the temple
  • Ideal for thick, straight, or slightly wavy hair
  • Reduces visual bulk on angular faces
  • Easy to maintain and style daily

Styling Tips:

  • Use matte clay or dry paste to define layers
  • Blow-dry to lift the roots and add natural texture
  • Refresh taper regularly for a clean outline
  • Optional: sweep layers diagonally to soften forehead

Vibe:
Light, fresh, and fashionable. Perfect for guys with a square face looking for soft structure and easy styling.


18. Taper Fade with Crew Cut Top

The Taper Fade with Crew Cut Top is structured and classic making it an ideal choice to emphasize masculinity without overwhelming square facial features. The top stays tight, and the taper brings balance to the sides.

Key Features:

  • Crew cut with about 1″ of length on top
  • Taper fade around ears and neckline
  • Best for straight or coarse hair
  • Highlights a strong jawline and cheekbones
  • Ideal for business, military, or clean-cut style

Styling Tips:

  • Keep hairline crisp with a regular line-up
  • Apply matte styling cream for a dry finish
  • Refresh the fade every 2 weeks
  • Optional: blend into a short beard for added structure

Vibe:
Strong, minimal, and commanding. A traditional favorite for square-faced men who value clean aesthetics.


19. Buzz Cut with Tapered Beard Fade

The Buzz Cut with Tapered Beard Fade is all about clean lines and a powerful silhouette. The taper fade flows seamlessly into a well-shaped beard, highlighting the natural structure of a square face without extra bulk.

Key Features:

  • #1 to #3 clipper buzz cut
  • Taper fade that blends into beard
  • Perfect for all hair types
  • Defines jawline, temples, and cheekbones
  • Great for men who want a rugged yet polished look

Styling Tips:

  • Use beard oil and a trimmer to keep facial hair crisp
  • Maintain taper every 1–2 weeks for sharpness
  • Moisturize scalp for a healthy finish
  • Keep beard length proportional to face

Vibe:
Minimalist, masculine, and defined. Ideal for square-faced men who want sharp grooming with no fuss.


20. Brushed Forward Fringe + Mid Taper

The Brushed Forward Fringe with Mid Taper tones down a wide forehead while sharpening the sides. The fringe draws the eye down, adding balance to square face shapes, while the taper keeps the overall look neat.

Key Features:

  • Fringe (1.5–2″) styled forward across the forehead
  • Mid taper around ears and neckline
  • Great for straight or slightly textured hair
  • Visually shortens and softens angular upper face
  • Low-maintenance yet bold in shape

Styling Tips:

  • Apply light pomade or styling cream
  • Comb fringe forward daily with slight texture
  • Keep fade lines tidy for clean contrast
  • Optional: taper into light stubble for balance

Vibe:
Youthful, artistic, and structured. A style that blends modern attitude with face-flattering design.


21. Caesar Cut with Sharp Taper

The Caesar Cut with Sharp Taper is a timeless choice that’s perfect for square faces. The short fringe adds symmetry, and the taper fade adds clean contrast. It’s bold, neat, and always in style.

Key Features:

  • 1–1.5″ top with short horizontal fringe
  • Sharp taper at the sideburns and back
  • Best for straight to slightly coarse hair
  • Reduces width on the sides of a square face
  • Works well with or without facial hair

Styling Tips:

  • Use a touch of pomade for a sleek finish
  • Keep fringe trimmed at brow level
  • Refresh taper and hairline regularly
  • Ask barber for a clean line-up across the forehead

Vibe:
Confident, tidy, and timeless. Great for guys who want a no-nonsense cut that enhances bold features.


🔹 Taper Fades for Diamond Faces

Focus on low taper fades and wider tops to balance cheekbones.

22. Tapered Side Part with Beard Blend

The Tapered Side Part with Beard Blend works wonders for diamond faces by balancing narrow jawlines and drawing attention toward the chin. The clean part adds structure up top, while the beard blend fills out the lower half for visual harmony.

Key Features:

  • Defined side part with subtle taper fade
  • Beard seamlessly blended into sideburns
  • Ideal for straight or wavy hair types
  • Adds width to the lower third of the face
  • Great for business and formal aesthetics

Styling Tips:

  • Use a fine-tooth comb to set the part
  • Apply matte styling cream for a soft hold
  • Trim beard to match jawline width
  • Keep taper clean for sharp contrast

Vibe:
Balanced, sleek, and masculine. This cut adds proportion while emphasizing facial features with precision.


23. Drop Taper Fade with Fringe

The Drop Taper Fade with Fringe offsets the width of high cheekbones by adding soft volume up top and controlled length near the temples. The fringe visually shortens the face while the fade contours the sides gently.

Key Features:

  • Fringe styled forward with layered texture
  • Drop taper curves behind the ear for definition
  • Ideal for medium-density or slightly wavy hair
  • Helps frame and narrow upper cheekbones
  • Works well with subtle facial hair or stubble

Styling Tips:

  • Apply light mousse or paste to style fringe
  • Blow-dry fringe forward for a natural fall
  • Trim fringe monthly to maintain shape
  • Shape taper to follow natural head contour

Vibe:
Casual, face-framing, and flattering. Great for men who want to balance a broader upper face with softness and symmetry.


24. Layered Wavy Top + Neck Taper

The Layered Wavy Top with Neck Taper embraces texture and movement without narrowing the sides too aggressively. It creates a soft silhouette that balances out a pointed chin and high cheekbones.

Key Features:

  • Medium-length wavy top with light layering
  • Subtle taper focused at the neckline
  • Ideal for naturally wavy or loose-curled hair
  • Keeps volume where diamond faces need it most at the crown
  • Great for creative, fashion-forward men

Styling Tips:

  • Use curl cream or sea salt spray to boost definition
  • Diffuse dry for enhanced movement
  • Ask for scissor-cut layers to maintain a rounded profile
  • Clean up neckline taper every 3–4 weeks

Vibe:
Effortless, artsy, and soft-contoured. Ideal for those who prefer a relaxed cut that doesn’t overly sculpt the sides.


25. Low Taper with Twists or Short Locs

The Low Taper with Twists or Short Locs retains volume and individuality while softening the angles of a diamond-shaped face. The taper keeps the perimeter sharp, while the textured top adds fullness and structure.

Key Features:

  • Twists or starter locs styled 2–4″ on top
  • Low taper at the sideburns and nape
  • Best for coiled or highly textured hair
  • Frames the face without compressing it
  • Pairs well with a chin-strap beard or clean-shaven look

Styling Tips:

  • Maintain locs or twists with twisting gel or sponge
  • Use leave-in conditioner for scalp health
  • Taper line-ups should be refreshed bi-weekly
  • Sleep with a durag or bonnet to preserve shape

Vibe:
Cultural, confident, and balanced. Great for guys who want a bold look that still flatters face structure.


26. Taper Fade with Side-Swept Bangs

The Taper Fade with Side-Swept Bangs draws attention across the forehead ideal for balancing the widest point on a diamond face (the cheekbones). The soft taper keeps edges crisp without harshness.

Key Features:

  • 2–3″ top with side-swept fringe
  • Mid to low taper fade around the ears
  • Best for straight or fine hair textures
  • Adds visual width to the upper face
  • Great for mature or fashion-forward men

Styling Tips:

  • Apply light mousse or cream to style fringe
  • Use fingers to sweep bangs diagonally
  • Trim fringe regularly to prevent heaviness
  • Clean taper every 2–3 weeks for sharpness

Vibe:
Stylish, balanced, and face-enhancing. A modern choice for guys with sharp cheekbones and narrow foreheads.


27. Razor Part Crop + Temple Taper

The Razor Part Crop with Temple Taper adds bold style and definition to a diamond face without overwhelming its features. The hard part adds sharpness, while the temple taper sculpts the sides with restraint.

Key Features:

  • Textured crop top (1.5–2″) with etched side part
  • Tapered temples, sideburns, and neckline
  • Ideal for straight or slightly coarse hair
  • Creates angles without adding bulk
  • Enhances sharp jawlines with clean detail

Styling Tips:

  • Use matte clay for grip and shape
  • Keep part defined with biweekly trims
  • Ask for scissor-cut texture on top
  • Use beard fade to balance lower face

Vibe:
Edgy, urban, and intentional. Designed for men who want to express style with sculpted precision.


28. Sponge Curls with Low Taper Fade

Sponge Curls with Low Taper Fade offer dimensional texture up top while softening the sides and neckline. The volume counters the sharp points of a diamond-shaped face and brings a cool, natural vibe.

Key Features:

  • 2–3″ coiled curls created with a sponge brush
  • Low taper around ears and nape
  • Works well with 4A–4C textures
  • Balances the narrow chin and pointed jawline
  • Ideal for natural hair lovers

Styling Tips:

  • Use curl sponge in small circular motions
  • Apply curl activator or leave-in conditioner daily
  • Maintain taper every 2 weeks
  • Sleep with satin headwear to retain curl pattern

Vibe:
Fresh, textured, and natural. The perfect balance of sharp fade and soft top for diamond-shaped faces.

Taper Fades for Heart-Shaped Faces

Keep volume on top, but avoid tightening the crown too much.

29. Blowout Taper Fade with Soft Line-Up

The Blowout Taper Fade with Soft Line-Up gives volume to the crown without tightening the sides too much perfect for offsetting a broader forehead. The gentle taper and subtle line-up add structure while keeping the top airy and free-flowing.

Key Features:

  • Blow-dried volume on top (3–4″)
  • Low taper fade at neckline and sideburns
  • Soft, rounded line-up around the forehead
  • Ideal for straight, fine, or wavy hair
  • Balances wide forehead with lightweight top

Styling Tips:

  • Blow-dry hair with a round brush for lift
  • Use a volumizing mousse or light cream
  • Avoid heavy product to maintain bounce
  • Line-up should stay soft, not overly squared

Vibe:
Effortless, light, and clean. Perfect for guys with heart-shaped faces who want subtle structure without stiffness.


30. Side-Swept Layered Top with Taper Fade

The Side-Swept Layered Top with Taper Fade shifts focus diagonally, helping to soften a pointed chin while minimizing the upper face’s width. Layers add movement and help the hair fall more naturally along the sides.

Key Features:

  • Medium top (3–5″) styled to one side
  • Taper fade at the sides and back
  • Layered texture for natural motion
  • Complements thick, straight, or wavy hair
  • Draws visual balance across the face

Styling Tips:

  • Use a light styling cream or matte paste
  • Blow-dry diagonally across the forehead
  • Apply texture spray to enhance flow
  • Maintain taper fade every 2–3 weeks

Vibe:
Smart, soft, and flattering. A great fit for guys who want a cut that balances the sharp angles of their lower face with smooth motion on top.


31. Low Taper Fade + Curly Fringe

The Low Taper Fade with Curly Fringe is excellent for heart-shaped faces, as it adds a soft visual barrier across the forehead and brings attention downward. The curls create dimension while the taper keeps the look clean.

Key Features:

  • 2–3″ curly fringe styled forward
  • Low taper at sideburns and nape
  • Best for naturally curly or coiled hair
  • Distracts from a wider forehead
  • Emphasizes eyes and cheekbones

Styling Tips:

  • Use curl cream or leave-in conditioner
  • Diffuse dry for natural bounce
  • Trim fringe to brow level for balance
  • Keep taper sharp with biweekly touch-ups

Vibe:
Textured, modern, and face-framing. Great for curly-haired men who want to soften angular features and highlight their curls.


32. Flat Top with Low Taper

The Flat Top with Low Taper is a retro-inspired option that works surprisingly well for heart-shaped faces. The squared-off crown creates a visual counterbalance to a pointed chin, adding structure and symmetry.

Key Features:

  • Crown is clippered flat and even (2–3″)
  • Low taper on the sides and neckline
  • Best for coarse or tightly coiled hair
  • Squared shape offsets triangular jawline
  • Adds bold, graphic style to the overall look

Styling Tips:

  • Use styling sponge or hard brush to shape flat top
  • Maintain clean lines with a regular line-up
  • Keep taper blended naturally into the sides
  • Optional: add part or design for extra edge

Vibe:
Bold, structured, and standout. Ideal for men who want to square out their silhouette and embrace a style-forward look.


33. Brush Back Taper with Beard

The Brush Back Taper with Beard is all about harmony. The brushed-back top adds sleekness and elongation to the forehead, while the beard brings balance and fullness to the jaw, evening out a typical heart-shaped profile.

Key Features:

  • Medium-length top (3–4″) styled back
  • Taper fade transitions into facial hair
  • Works best with straight or slightly wavy hair
  • Complements wide foreheads and pointed chins
  • Suitable for both formal and everyday wear

Styling Tips:

  • Use water-based pomade or styling cream
  • Blow-dry hair back for volume and hold
  • Shape beard to match jawline width
  • Trim taper and beard biweekly for crisp lines

Vibe:
Masculine, polished, and balanced. A perfect option for those who want a connected look that complements both ends of the face.


34. Textured Crop with Temple Taper

The Textured Crop with Temple Taper delivers controlled texture while leaving the sides soft and clean. The choppy crown adds edge without exaggerating face width, and the taper helps slim down the temples.

Key Features:

  • Cropped, point-cut top with messy texture
  • Tapered temples and natural neckline fade
  • Ideal for straight or coarse hair types
  • Lightens forehead while keeping everything sharp
  • Low-maintenance but trendy

Styling Tips:

  • Style with matte clay or texturizing powder
  • Push hair slightly forward or upward for lift
  • Shape taper weekly to maintain crispness
  • Avoid heavy fringe that clutters the forehead

Vibe:
Trendy, textured, and flattering. A go-to for heart-shaped faces that want edge and simplicity in one.


Taper Fades for Long/Oblong Faces

Reduce height, add width, and avoid super short sides.

35. Curtain Taper with Mid-Length Top

The Curtain Taper with Mid-Length Top adds soft width to a longer face. By parting the hair horizontally down the middle or slightly off-center, it breaks vertical lines and gives a relaxed, symmetrical vibe.

Key Features:

  • 3–5″ top with center or off-center curtain bangs
  • Mid taper fade at the sides and back
  • Ideal for straight or wavy textures
  • Frames both sides of the face for added width
  • Reduces the appearance of face length

Styling Tips:

  • Blow-dry bangs away from the face using a round brush
  • Use light styling cream for flow and hold
  • Trim regularly to keep the curtain shape clean
  • Avoid too much volume at the crown

Vibe:
Balanced, soft, and trendy. A K-pop-inspired look that works beautifully on longer face shapes.


36. Fringe with Low Taper Fade

The Fringe with Low Taper Fade shifts visual focus downward, covering part of the forehead and reducing vertical emphasis. It’s a go-to style for guys with oblong faces who want a modern and wearable cut.

Key Features:

  • Textured fringe that rests above the brows
  • Low taper on the sideburns and nape
  • Ideal for straight or slightly wavy hair
  • Adds dimension to the top without height
  • Breaks up the upper third of the face

Styling Tips:

  • Use matte clay to define the fringe
  • Finger-comb for a natural, tousled look
  • Keep fringe trimmed to avoid covering eyes
  • Ask barber to blend the fringe softly into sides

Vibe:
Youthful, stylish, and face-framing. A perfect cut to shorten the visual length of a tall forehead.


37. Disconnected Taper Fade with Side Bangs

The Disconnected Taper Fade with Side Bangs uses strong separation between the top and sides to create volume and width. The angled side bangs break up vertical flow, helping to balance longer face shapes.

Key Features:

  • Disconnected top with 3–4″ length
  • Side-swept bangs with razor or point-cut texture
  • Sharp taper around the ears and nape
  • Works best on thick, straight, or slightly wavy hair
  • Great for high-fashion or statement looks

Styling Tips:

  • Use matte paste for texture and control
  • Sweep bangs diagonally across the forehead
  • Clean up the taper every 2–3 weeks
  • Optional: pair with a subtle beard to widen the jaw

Vibe:
Edgy, artistic, and face-aware. Ideal for guys who want something visually striking without elongating the face further.


38. Flat Layers with Neck Taper

The Flat Layers with Neck Taper offers the illusion of width without adding height. It’s great for thicker hair types, especially those trying to avoid anything that adds bulk at the crown.

Key Features:

  • Flattened top with soft, scissor-cut layering
  • Neatly tapered neckline for clean edges
  • Perfect for dense, straight, or coarse hair
  • Minimizes crown volume while enhancing sides
  • Balances long or narrow face shapes

Styling Tips:

  • Use lightweight styling powder or texturizing cream
  • Blow-dry flat using a paddle brush
  • Avoid spiking or brushing up the top
  • Maintain taper monthly for sharp detail

Vibe:
Controlled, clean, and practical. An understated style that makes thick hair work in favor of a longer face.


39. Mullet-Inspired Taper

The Mullet-Inspired Taper modernizes a retro look by tapering cleanly around the ears while leaving length at the back. The front stays sleek and close to the head, helping to maintain facial proportions.

Key Features:

  • Medium-length top and back (4–5″)
  • Soft taper around ears and neckline
  • Best for straight or wavy textures
  • Flatters oblong faces by reducing height in the front
  • Great for men with bold style taste

Styling Tips:

  • Use sea salt spray or lightweight gel to shape back layers
  • Comb top down or to the side avoid volume up front
  • Trim the back monthly to avoid mullet overgrowth
  • Keep sides neatly faded for contrast

Vibe:
Cool, creative, and face-conscious. A confident cut that adds style without adding height.


40. Afro Mullet with Taper Fade

The Afro Mullet with Taper Fade brings a shape-forward approach to natural hair, maintaining length at the back and roundness at the crown. It emphasizes width and structure perfect for offsetting a long, narrow face.

Key Features:

  • Rounded afro top with extended back length
  • Tapered fade at temples and nape
  • Best for 4A–4C hair textures
  • Visually balances height and width
  • Modern twist on a classic silhouette

Styling Tips:

  • Use curl sponge or pick to shape volume evenly
  • Apply curl butter or styling gel for definition
  • Fade should be maintained every 2–3 weeks
  • Trim ends to keep back shape in check

Vibe:
Bold, fresh, and confident. A standout look for men with natural hair who want both edge and face-friendly structure.

Best Products for Taper Fade Styles

ProductUseBest For
Matte ClayNatural texture, medium holdCrops, quiffs, fringes
Fiber PomadeStrong hold with flexibilitySlick backs, side parts
Sea Salt SprayBoosts wave and volumeWavy/curly tops
Curl CreamDefines curls without frizzTapered curls or sponge styles
Beard BalmSoftens and shapes facial hairTaper fade with beard blends

FAQs About Taper Fade Haircuts

A taper fade gradually fades only the sideburns and neckline, while a regular fade usually blends up the entire sides and back of the head.

To maintain a clean look, get a taper touch-up every 2–3 weeks.

Yes! Taper fades work with straight, curly, coily, and wavy hair, making them one of the most versatile cuts available.

Definitely. Taper fades are polished yet modern, making them perfect for both casual and professional environments.

Keep the fade clean by moisturizing daily, using a boar-bristle brush or sponge, and applying light styling product to control the top.

Final Thoughts

No matter your face shape, hair type, or personal style, there’s a taper fade haircut that can enhance your look and boost your confidence. With 40 style variations to choose from, you’re no longer limited to the basic barber chair cut.

Bring in a reference, ask for the right taper length, and let the blend do the talking. For more sharp and stylish ideas, explore our complete guide on Fade Haircuts for Men.

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