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What is a Mid Taper Fade?
A Mid Taper Fade is a clean, modern haircut where the fade starts around the middle of the temples and neckline, keeping weight around the crown while the sides blend smoothly into the skin. It's the perfect balance between a subtle low taper and an aggressive high fade—versatile enough for the office yet sharp enough for a night out.
The Mid Taper Fade is characterized by its precise gradient that typically begins at the midpoint of the temple and the occipital bone (the back of the head). Unlike a full fade which might take the short length all the way up, a taper specifically focuses on the sideburns and neckline, leaving a distinct arc of hair behind the ear. This preserves the natural hairline shape while providing that clean, blurred transition that modern styles demand. The 'mid' placement offers the best of both worlds: it provides high contrast without exposing too much scalp, making it the most universally flattering variation of the taper fade family.
History & Origins of the Taper Fade
The roots of the taper fade can be traced back to the invention of electric clippers in the early 20th century, which allowed barbers to achieve precise, close-cut gradients that were previously impossible with scissors alone. While 'fades' became synonymous with military grooming standards in the 1940s and 50s due to their low-maintenance nature, the 'taper' evolved as a civilian refinement—a way to look sharp without looking enlisted.
In the 1980s and 90s, the taper fade exploded in popularity within African American barbershops and hip-hop culture, serving as the foundation for iconic styles like the high-top fade. As barbering techniques crossed cultural lines in the 2000s and 2010s, the Mid Taper Fade emerged as a global standard. It bridged the gap between classic gentleman's cuts and modern urban styles, becoming the go-to choice for men seeking a haircut that is both timeless and trendy.
Mid Taper Fade examples
Browse real examples to find the perfect variation for your style. Tap any image to enlarge.
These mid taper fade examples showcase different variations including straight hair, curly hair, and wavy textures. Each style demonstrates how the fade can be customized for different face shapes and hair types. Save your favorite to show your barber!
Try Mid Taper Fade on yourself
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Formats
PNG or JPG (≤5MB)
Resolution
200px–4090px each side
Face
Keep face clear & ~10%+ of frame
Angle
Front-facing, within ~30° turn
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Realistic Preview
See the haircut on your actual face before visiting the barber.
Who does a Mid Taper Fade suit?
Use this as a quick checklist before committing to the cut.
Best for oval, square and diamond face shapes
Can slim down round faces when combined with more length on top
Ideal for medium to thick hair density
Works with straight, wavy and curly textures
Good for people who want a sharp look without daily heavy styling
Barber maintenance every 2–4 weeks keeps the taper fresh
Medium difficulty to cut – your barber needs clipper control and clean blending
Easy day-to-day styling with a light matte product or curl cream
How to ask your barber for a Mid Taper Fade
Walking into the barbershop with the right terminology makes all the difference. Here's exactly what to say to get the mid taper fade you want.
Key phrases to use
- 1Ask for the fade to start "at the temples" or "mid-ear level"
- 2Specify the guard length: "Start with a 2 guard and blend down to skin"
- 3Mention how much length you want on top (e.g., "2-3 inches on top")
- 4Show them a reference photo—use the AI preview from this tool!
- 5Ask for a "clean blend" or "seamless transition" if you want it smooth
- 6Request "skin fade at the bottom" or "leave a shadow" based on preference
"I'd like a mid taper fade. Start the fade around the temples, blend from a 2 guard down to skin. Keep about 2-3 inches on top with some texture. Clean up the neckline and around the ears."
💡 Pro tips for the best result
- • Show a photo – Use your AI preview from this page! It's worth a thousand words.
- • Speak up during the cut – If something looks off, it's easier to fix mid-cut than after.
- • Build a relationship – Same barber = better results over time.
- • Tip well – 15-20% for good service keeps your barber motivated.
How to Style a Mid Taper Fade
Master the look with our step-by-step styling guide
Step-by-Step Routine
Start with damp hair
After showering, towel dry your hair until it is damp but not dripping. This is crucial for product absorption and volume control.
Pre-style with a blow dryer
If you want volume or a specific direction, use a blow dryer. Direct the air (and your hair) in the style you want—usually forward for a crop or back for a flow. This "sets" the foundation.
Apply product
Take a dime-sized amount of matte clay or pomade. Rub it between your palms until it warms up and disappears. Work it thoroughly from roots to tips, focusing on the longer hair on top.
Define the taper
Use a small amount of leftover product to smooth down the transition areas if you have flyaways, but generally, keep the faded sides product-free to highlight the clean gradient.
- For straight hair, use a texture powder to add grit and volume without weight.
- For curly hair, use a leave-in conditioner mixed with a light curl cream to define coils without the crunch.
- Visit your barber every 2-3 weeks specifically for a "taper refresh" instead of a full cut to save money while staying sharp.
How to maintain a Mid Taper Fade
A simple routine to keep your mid taper fade looking sharp between barber visits.
- 1Book a clean-up or taper refresh every 2–3 weeks to keep the fade sharp.
- 2Use a sulfate-free shampoo and avoid over-washing to prevent dryness.
- 3Blow-dry or air-dry hair in the direction you want it to sit before using product.
- 4Use a light matte clay, paste or curl cream depending on your hair type.
Mid Taper Fade: common questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about this haircut.
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