Top 25 Best Mid Taper Fade Haircuts for Men

The mid taper fade haircut has quickly become one of the most popular men’s hairstyles, thanks to its perfect balance of sharpness and versatility. Unlike the dramatic high fade or the subtle low fade, the mid taper sits right in the middle — tapering cleanly around the temples and ears for a smooth, structured look.

What makes this cut timeless is how adaptable it is. Whether you’ve got curly hair, wavy hair, or straight hair, the mid taper fade works with your natural texture instead of against it. It looks just as good in the office as it does on the weekend, and it’s no surprise that barbers everywhere call it one of the most requested hairstyles. From NBA athletes to Hollywood actors and musicians, men across the world rock the taper fade because it’s stylish, low-maintenance, and universally flattering.

At FadeCuts360, we’ve rounded up the most in-demand versions of the Mid taper fade haircut. Below, you’ll find inspiration for different face shapes, styling tips to maintain your fade between cuts, and the exact terms you should use when asking your barber for the perfect mid taper fade.

Trending Mid Taper Fade Styles for Men

Mid Taper Fade for Black Men

The mid taper fade Black male haircut has become a cultural staple. It highlights natural textures like curls, twists, and waves while keeping the edges crisp and professional. The fade lands between the temples and neckline, giving just enough contrast to frame the face while letting the top shine.

Barbers often suggest this look if you want a clean cut that’s versatile enough for both work and casual wear. Using products like shea-based curl creams or lightweight pomades helps keep definition without making hair heavy. This style pairs especially well with oval and round face shapes, as the taper creates sharpness that elongates facial features. Just look at athletes like Jayson Tatum or artists rocking taper fades with waves, and you’ll see why this haircut has long-lasting appeal.

Mid Taper Fade for Curly Hair

If you’ve got naturally curly hair, a mid taper fade curly haircut gives you the best of both worlds: structure on the sides and freedom up top. The fade gradually blends into your curl length, keeping the cut balanced without making it look bulky.

To maintain the style, ask your barber to keep the taper smooth so it grows evenly. A diffuser plus a small amount of curl enhancer or leave-in conditioner will keep curls defined and frizz-free. This style looks great on almost all face shapes, but it especially flatters square and oval faces by softening edges while keeping the fade sharp. Celebrities like Timothée Chalamet have proven that curly taper fades can be both polished and effortlessly cool.

Mid Taper Fade for Straight Hair

Straight hair makes the mid taper fade look extra sharp. The clean fade around the temples and neckline contrasts beautifully with the sleekness of straight strands on top. Whether you prefer to slick your hair back for a professional vibe or brush it forward for a more laid-back style, this variation is super versatile.

It’s also low-maintenance — straight hair naturally emphasizes the sharp fade without needing much product. A matte pomade or light styling cream is usually all it takes to finish the look.

Mid Taper Fade with Fringe

Adding a fringe (bangs) to your taper fade gives the hairstyle a modern and youthful twist. The fringe draws attention to the forehead, while the fade keeps everything else neat and balanced.

This style is especially popular among younger guys who follow fashion trends, but it can also work in creative or casual work settings. Whether you choose a choppy fringe, textured bangs, or a slightly longer fringe, it blends perfectly with the mid taper because the clean sides make the fringe the main focal point.

Mid Taper Fade Blowout

If you want a bold and attention-grabbing haircut, the mid taper fade blowout is the way to go. The top is styled upward and outward, creating volume and height, while the sides stay structured with the fade.

It’s a statement-making style often seen on trendsetters who aren’t afraid to stand out. To nail the look, you’ll need a blow dryer and a strong-hold product that keeps the airy, lifted effect intact all day.

Mid Taper Fade with Textured Fringe

For men who prefer a more relaxed, messy look, the mid taper fade with textured fringe is ideal. Unlike the sleek fringe version, this style embraces natural movement and adds a softer, laid-back vibe.

It works especially well on guys with thick or wavy hair, since texture adds depth and dimension to the hairstyle. A little salt spray or lightweight wax is all you need to enhance the tousled finish without making it stiff.

Mid Taper Fade Short Hair

For men who want a low-maintenance hairstyle that still looks sharp, the mid taper fade with short hair is unbeatable. The fade keeps the sides clean and structured, while the short top ensures the cut stays tidy with almost no effort. This version is ideal for guys who lead busy lifestyles — whether you’re working in a corporate office, hitting the gym, or just want a haircut that always looks fresh. Even without heavy styling products, the short mid taper fade delivers a crisp, modern finish every time.

Mid Taper Fade Buzz Cut

The buzz cut with a mid taper fade is the ultimate clean and minimal men’s haircut. While a regular buzz can sometimes appear flat, tapering the sides and neckline adds depth, giving the cut a modern, stylish edge. This variation is perfect for men who value practicality but don’t want to compromise on style. It also emphasizes strong facial features like a defined jawline or cheekbones, making it one of the most masculine and timeless taper fade styles.

Mid Taper Fade for Asian Hair

Men with thick, straight Asian hair will find the mid taper fade especially flattering. The density of Asian hair creates a strong contrast between the faded sides and the fuller top, which can be styled in countless ways: sleek side parts, voluminous pompadours, textured messy looks, or even a casual push-back. This cut also reduces heaviness on the sides while keeping plenty of volume where it matters most. For styling, a lightweight powder or matte clay works wonders for adding lift and movement without stiffness.

Mid Taper Fade for Wavy Hair

If you’ve got naturally wavy hair, the mid taper fade helps highlight your texture while keeping the cut controlled and stylish. The fade trims bulk from the sides, allowing the waves on top to flow naturally for a relaxed yet fashionable vibe. The key is enhancing your natural movement instead of fighting it — a touch of sea salt spray or curl-enhancing cream brings out definition while maintaining a soft, effortless look. This variation is perfect for guys who want a haircut that looks good even when styled casually.

Mid Taper Fade Mullet

The mullet has made a bold comeback, and pairing it with a mid taper fade gives it a polished, modern twist. The taper around the temples and sides balances the longer length at the back, preventing it from looking overly retro. Today’s version of the mullet is more intentional, almost editorial, rather than old-fashioned. Popular among younger men and trendsetters, the mid taper mullet is daring yet versatile enough to wear in everyday settings.

Mid Taper Fade Blonde Hair

Blonde hair, whether naturally light or bleached platinum, pops with a mid taper fade haircut. The contrast between the light shade on top and the faded sides creates a striking, high-definition effect. A textured or messy top enhances the carefree, surfer-inspired aesthetic, while a slicker finish can make the look professional and polished. With celebrities and influencers embracing platinum blondes, this style has become one of the boldest yet versatile mid taper fade variations.

Mid Taper Fade with Hair Design

If you want your haircut to be a personal statement, the mid taper fade with design is the perfect choice. Barbers can carve in sharp lines, geometric patterns, or freestyle artwork directly into the faded sides, creating a haircut that doubles as wearable art. Because the taper sits near the temples, it provides the perfect canvas for these designs without overwhelming the entire haircut. This look screams confidence and individuality, making it a standout option for men who love to express themselves.

Mid Taper Fade Afro Style

The mid taper fade with Afro-textured hair blends structure with natural fullness. Instead of taming curls or coils, this style celebrates them, keeping the top voluminous while the taper sharpens the edges around the hairline. It’s a versatile cut that works for both casual and formal settings. Many Black men favor this style because it highlights natural texture while maintaining a neat and professional outline. With the right grooming cream or curl sponge, the shape stays defined and stylish all day.

Mid Taper Fade Long Hair

For men who prefer length, the mid taper fade long hair style strikes the perfect balance. The fade keeps the sides clean and modern, while the top is left long enough for man buns, ponytails, or simply letting it flow naturally. This prevents long hair from looking unkempt or overgrown, ensuring the overall look remains intentional and stylish. Whether your hair is straight or wavy, this variation offers the best of both worlds: versatility with a structured finish.

Mid Taper Fade Edgar Cut

The Edgar haircut — known for its bold, straight-across fringe and short textured top — has gone viral in recent years. Adding a mid taper fade makes the cut more wearable by softening its harsh, boxy edges. It’s especially popular among younger men on TikTok and Instagram, who want a haircut that’s trendy and eye-catching. The mid taper Edgar is edgy, fresh, and one of the most talked-about haircut trends right now.

Mid Taper Fade Slick Back

For men who want a classic, professional hairstyle, the slick back with a mid taper fade is a timeless choice. The taper removes bulk from the sides while the longer top is styled neatly backward with pomade or gel, creating a sleek and refined look. Perfect for business professionals, weddings, or formal occasions, this cut channels old-school Hollywood charm but with the sharpness of a modern fade.

Mid Taper Drop Fade

The mid taper drop fade is one of the most dynamic fade variations. The drop fade curves lower around the ears and neckline, adding depth and contour, while the mid taper ensures a smooth and balanced transition. This style works especially well with textured tops, waves, or curls, creating a haircut that’s sharp, unique, and visually striking without being too extreme.

Mid Taper Fade with Dreads

Dreadlocks and taper fades are a natural pairing, and the mid taper fade with dreads is one of the freshest variations out there. The fade keeps the sides neat while allowing dreads on top to shine — whether worn loose, tied back, or styled into creative designs. This cut is popular among athletes, artists, and men who want a balance between cultural expression and modern sharpness.

Mid Taper Fade Fluffy Hair

Fluffy hair is trending among younger guys, and pairing it with a mid taper fade makes it stylish instead of messy. The fade cleans up the sides so the top’s airy volume becomes the focal point. This look works great with blow-dried or naturally thick hair, creating a carefree but intentional style that resembles the modern boy-band aesthetic with a sharper edge.

Mid Taper Fade Low Cut

A low cut with a mid taper fade is one of the cleanest, most universally flattering men’s hairstyles. The short, uniform top keeps grooming simple, while the taper at the temples and neckline ensures a polished, modern outline. This version is especially appealing for men in professional environments or anyone who wants a cut that requires almost no daily styling yet still looks sharp.

Mid Taper Fade Comb Over

The comb over hairstyle has been a men’s classic for decades, and adding a mid taper fade gives it a fresh update. The fade prevents the sides from looking too bulky, while the comb over creates a structured and polished look on top. This versatile haircut transitions seamlessly from the office to formal events, and when paired with a neat side part, it exudes timeless elegance with a modern twist.

Mid Taper Fade with Beard

Few hairstyles are as masculine and powerful as pairing a mid taper fade with a beard. The taper not only cleans up the sides but also creates a smooth, seamless transition into facial hair, giving your overall look more definition. Whether you prefer a full beard, a sharp goatee, or even light stubble, the mid taper fade enhances your facial structure by highlighting your jawline and cheekbones.

This combination is especially popular among men who want a haircut that communicates both confidence and attention to detail. The fade ensures that the beard never looks disconnected from the haircut, resulting in a well-blended, balanced finish that works for both casual and professional environments.

Mid Taper Fade Perm Style

For men with perms or naturally curly textures, the mid taper fade perm style has become one of the hottest hair trends. The taper keeps the sides neat while allowing permed curls or waves to shine on top, creating contrast and volume without overwhelming the face.

This style has been heavily popularized by K-pop idols and TikTok creators, making it a favorite among younger men who want a trendy, fashion-forward haircut. With the right styling cream or curl enhancer, this look is easy to maintain and always stands out in a crowd.

Mid Taper Fade Explained

So, what exactly is the mid taper fade haircut? Think of it as the perfect balance between sharpness and subtlety. Unlike a high fade, which climbs aggressively up the sides, or a low fade, which stays closer to the neckline, the mid taper fade begins around the midpoint of your head. From there, it gradually blends down to the neckline, creating a polished outline that frames your hairstyle on top without stealing the spotlight.

Compared to a regular taper fade, the mid taper offers more definition and structure, making it the ideal choice if you want a haircut that shows off detail but still looks natural and effortless. Whether you pair it with a textured crop, a slick professional cut, or modern styles like the blowout or mullet, the mid taper adapts beautifully.

Why the Mid Taper Fade Works for All Ages & Styles

The beauty of the mid taper fade is its adaptability. Younger men gravitate toward it because it pairs perfectly with trendy tops like fringes, perms, and fluffy layers. Professionals choose it because it keeps their hairline neat, polished, and workplace-appropriate. Even older men appreciate it since the taper softens edges, reduces heaviness on the sides, and creates the illusion of a fuller, more refined hairline.

At its core, this haircut works because it enhances your hairstyle without overpowering it. Whether you’re walking into a classroom, stepping into a boardroom, or heading out for a night on the town, the mid taper fade adapts seamlessly to your lifestyle.

Mid Taper Fade vs Other Popular Fades

Choosing the right fade comes down to your personal style, how much contrast you want, and what works best for your face shape. Here’s how the mid taper fade compares to other common variations:

Mid Taper Fade vs Low Taper Fade

The low taper fade sits very close to the ears and neckline, offering a subtle, understated finish. It’s great if you want just a touch of fade without too much contrast. The mid taper fade, on the other hand, rises slightly higher, giving it a sharper outline and more noticeable definition.

If you prefer minimalist grooming, stick with the low taper. If you want something with more edge but still not too bold, the mid taper is the perfect middle ground.

Mid Taper Fade vs High Taper Fade

The high taper fade begins around the upper temples, creating a bolder and more dramatic contrast between the top and sides. It’s ideal if you have thick or textured hair that you want to highlight. However, for men with softer features, it can sometimes look a little too sharp.

The mid taper fade offers balance. It’s less aggressive than the high taper but sharper than the low taper, making it a great option if you want a style that feels modern but not overly intense.

Mid Taper Fade vs Mid Fade (Key Difference)

The terms “mid taper fade” and “mid fade” are often confused, but they aren’t the same thing.

• A mid fade involves shaving the sides down much shorter, creating a stronger contrast between the top and the sides.
  
• A mid taper fade blends more gradually and doesn’t go as short near the ears, resulting in a cleaner, more refined look.
  

In short:

• Mid fade = bold and high-contrast
  
• Mid taper fade = subtle and refined

Choosing the Right Mid Taper Fade

Finding the best mid taper fade haircut comes down to two main factors: your hair type and your face shape. When both are considered, the fade looks natural, flattering, and perfectly tailored to your style.

Best Mid Taper Fade Based on Hair Type

• Straight Hair
  A mid-taper fade gives straight hair a polished, professional look. It’s especially effective when paired with slick backs, side-part comb overs, or cropped tops. The fade adds sharpness and prevents straight hair from looking flat.
  
• Curly Hair
  For curly textures, the taper balances out volume while highlighting natural curls. It keeps the look structured without letting curls appear unruly. Perfect for both short curls and longer natural coils.
  
• Wavy Hair
  Wavy hair and taper fades are a match made in heaven. The fade defines the natural flow of waves while keeping edges neat, making this one of the most stylish yet low-maintenance combinations.
  
• Afro-Textured Hair
  A mid taper fade with Afro hair adds structure around the temples while maintaining fullness on top. It pairs beautifully with twists, locs, or natural curls, preventing bulk while keeping your hairline sharp.
  

Best Mid Taper Fade Based on Face Shape

• Round Face – Opt for a taper with volume on top to elongate the face.
  
• Oval Face – The most versatile shape — nearly every variation works.
  
• Square Face – The fade softens strong jawlines while keeping sides crisp.
  
• Diamond Face – Balance sharp cheekbones with width on top using fringes or fluffy layers.
  

How to Ask Your Barber for a Mid Taper Fade

Clear communication is key to getting the haircut you want. Barbers appreciate specific terminology, so use words like “mid taper fade,” “clean neckline,” and “blended sideburns.”

Sample Script to Use at the Barbershop:
“I’d like a mid taper fade that starts around the middle of my temple and blends into the neckline. Keep the sideburns tapered, not fully faded out, and leave enough length on top so I can style it.”

Pro Tip: Always bring a reference photo. Even if you describe it perfectly, visuals help your barber deliver exactly what you want.

How to Style a Mid Taper Fade

Prepping the Hair

Start with clean, towel-dried hair. For wavy or curly textures, apply a leave-in conditioner or sea salt spray to enhance definition before styling.

Best Styling Products

• For texture & volume → Matte clay, texturizing powder, or molding paste.
  
• For sleek, professional looks → Pomade or light styling cream.
  
• For natural movement → Sea salt spray or a lightweight cream for a soft finish.
  

Styling Techniques

• Use a blow dryer on medium heat to shape the hair in your desired direction.
  
• Finish with a small amount of product to define texture and keep edges sharp.
  
• For longer tops, comb or brush into place while blow-drying for extra control.
  

Maintaining a Mid Taper Fade

The mid taper fade haircut looks best when it’s fresh and crisp, which means regular upkeep is key.

• Trims → Every 2–3 weeks to keep the fade clean.
  
• At-home touch-ups → Use a trimmer to maintain your neckline and sideburns between barber visits.
  
• Daily refresh → A sea salt spray or light styling cream helps revive volume and texture without buildup.
  

Best Hair Products for Mid Taper Fades

Instead of cluttering your shelf with too many products, focus on three essentials:

1. For Hold & Texture → Matte clay, styling powder, or molding paste.
   
2. For Sleek Styles → Pomade or soft styling cream for a polished finish.
   

For Hair Health → Argan oil for hydration + a clarifying shampoo and conditioner to prevent product buildup.

FAQ