Table of Contents
Introduction
What is a mid-taper fade?
Online search trends for mid-taper fades
Perfecting the mid-taper fade: Step-by-step cutting guide
How to maintain a mid-taper fade at home
3 cool ways to style a mid-taper fade
Textured messy crop
Curly fade
Classic slick back
Final thoughts
Introduction
The mid-taper fade is a versatile men’s haircut that offers a polished and modern edge. It can be styled for a professional appearance or given a more relaxed and textured style that can be worn for all types of occasions. Mid-taper fades complement various hair textures and face shapes, but it’s important to know exactly how to style them to achieve a flawless look.
Keep reading to discover more about this timeless cut and how to perfect it at the barber’s or even at home.
What is a mid-taper fade?
A mid-taper fade is one of the most popular men’s haircuts. A high-taper fade starts closer to the temples, and a low fade starts near the ears, but a mid-taper fade offers a complete balance between both. This haircut shortens the sides and back, starting from the middle of the head and gradually fading as it descends down the neckline.
This haircut is suitable for most hair types and face shapes, and when styled correctly, it offers a polished appearance. It can also be mixed with other styles of haircuts to create something completely unique. In short, the mid-taper fade is a fantastic choice for men looking for a modern and stylish look.
Online search trends for the mid-taper fade
According to Google Ads, “mid-taper fade” received an average monthly search volume of 673,000 in 2024. Searches remained consistent between January and April, with slight dips coming between April and December, when they only reached 550,000 searches.
The mid-taper fade is a versatile hairstyle, and its popularity is only growing on platforms such as Pinterest and TikTok. Searches show that people are looking for ways to style the mid-taper fade with modern lines and easy styling. Unique styles of the mid-taper fade, such as the mid-taper with dreads or the buzz cut mid-taper, are starting to appear more in online searches.
Perfecting the mid-taper fade: Step-by-step cutting guide
The right styling routine can make a big difference when trying to perfect the mid-taper fade. This versatile haircut can be worn in many different ways, but it all depends on the personal preference of the individual.
Tools needed:
Comb or brush
Trimmer
Hair clippers
Styling products
Hair dryer
Razor
Mirror
Hairspray
Step 1: Hair preparation
Make sure the hair is washed using a good quality shampoo and conditioner. This will remove buildup and soften the hair strands. Towel dry the hair or use a hairdryer.
Step 2: Guidelines
If needed, use a #4 guard to trim the hair on top of the head. Make sure to leave enough length for styling later. Define the mid fade line, starting around the ears and working around the head.
Step 3: Start to create the fade
Using a #3 guard on the trimmer, trim the hair below the fade line. Next, use a #2 guard to go lower and blend the hair into the previous length. Change to a #1 guard at the bottom of the hair, making sure to taper near the neckline. Finally, remove the guard for an effective skin fade at the bottom of the hairline.
Step 4: Blend the taper cut
Use a #1.5 guard on the trimmer to soften the hard lines around the ears and neckline for a polished finish.
Step 5: Add some detail
Using a razor or a trimmer, sharpen the hairline and nape, as well as any sideburns. Finish by using a comb to line up the transition and cut it to precision.
Step 6: Style and set
Use a hair dryer to add volume and direction, as well as a comb to create the perfect shape. Apply the chosen hair products evenly through the top of the mid-taper fade cut and finish the look off with hairspray for extra hold.
How to maintain a mid-taper fade at home
The main focus when trying to maintain a mid-taper fade at home should be clean edges and sharp style. Use clippers or trimmers with a guard to tidy around the ears, sideburns, and neckline, carefully following the natural fade. A handheld mirror can be helpful when trying to see the sides and back clearly.
Lightweight hair care products such as mousse, pomade, and styling cream will help to keep the top styled. Which product is used will depend on the individual’s hair type and texture. It’s also important to use a brush or comb daily to keep the mid drop fade looking sharp, and the use of dry shampoo can be helpful to add volume or absorb oil.
As with all hairstyles, regular washing and conditioning of the hair is essential for people who want to maintain a healthy hairstyle and a clean look.
3 cool ways to style a mid-taper fade
There are countless ways to style a mid-taper fade, which is why it’s such a popular choice with men of all ages. Read on to find out which styles of the mid-taper fade are in high demand in 2025.
Textured messy crop
The textured, messy crop is an effortless way to combine tousled hair with a clean fade. This hairstyle works best with hair wax or matte clay to add movement and volume while keeping the sides neat. This is a great look for a casual but stylish appearance, and it’s easy to maintain as well.
Curly fade
The curly mid-taper fade uses natural curls while maintaining a sharp look along the back and sides. This popular haircut uses styling products to define and control curls, but at the same time it keeps them voluminous and soft. People looking for a fresh appearance love how structured the curly mid-taper fade looks, as well as its low-maintenance nature.
Classic slick back
A timeless mid-taper fade look that’s very popular among businessmen is the classic slick back. It combines a controlled top with a sharp fade to create a polished hairstyle that’s easy to maintain and that provides a modern edge. The hair is combed back using products such as gel or high-shine pomade to give the hair a smooth look. It’s one of those hairstyles that exudes sophistication.
Final thoughts
The mid-taper fade is a stylish haircut that can be worn both professionally and casually, depending on the finish. The modern foundation of the mid-taper fade can be adapted to suit anyone’s style, and it’s not restricted to specific hair types or different lengths either. By using the right tools and techniques, achieving the perfect mid-taper fade for clients couldn’t be more straightforward.
