Barber Tips
The Taper Fade: The Fade That Suits Almost Everyone
If you ask a barber for one fade that works on almost anyone, this is the one they will name. The taper fade is the all-rounder of the fade world. It flatters most faces, pairs with nearly any top, and you can make it as quiet or as bold as you like by changing one thing. Here is how it works and how to ask for the version you want.
What a taper fade is
A taper fade gradually shortens the hair on the sides and back as it moves down the head, blending from longer near the top of the sides to very short at the edges. The gradual blend is what makes it a fade. What makes it a taper is that it keeps some length and shape rather than dropping straight to skin everywhere. That gives you a clean finish that still looks natural.
Low, mid, or high
The one thing that changes a taper fade is where it starts on the head, and that gives you three versions. A low taper begins just above the ears and is the most subtle, which is why it suits the office so well. See our full low taper fade guide for that one. A mid taper starts around the temples for a balanced middle ground. A high taper starts near the top of the sides for the boldest, highest-contrast look.
Who it suits
Nearly everyone, which is the whole appeal. It works with every hair type and face shape, suits a short crop or a longer textured top, and can be softened or sharpened to taste. If you are not sure what to get, a mid taper is a safe, flattering default that sits between subtle and bold.
What to pair it with
The taper fade goes with almost any top. A textured crop keeps it easy, a middle part uses the clean sides to frame the top, and a quiff or pompadour uses the contrast for height. If you want to compare it with other fades, our fade vs taper guide explains the terms.
How to ask your barber
Say you want a taper fade and pick the height: low, mid, or high. Tell the barber how much to keep on top and whether you want it taken down to skin at the very edges. Because the height changes the whole look, a photo is the easiest way to get it right. Our guide on how to ask your barber covers the rest.
Get it done at home
A taper fade stands on the quality of the blend, and a rushed one shows. Maison Cut brings an experienced barber to your door across Dubai and Abu Dhabi to get a clean, even fade, from AED 150.
FAQ
What is a taper fade?
A gradual blend on the sides and back, from longer at the top of the sides to very short at the edges.
Low, mid, or high?
It depends where the fade starts: low above the ears (subtle), mid at the temples (balanced), high near the top (bold).
Who does it suit?
Almost everyone. Every hair type and face shape, with short or longer tops.
How do I ask for it?
"A taper fade, low/mid/high, with this much length on top." Bring a photo for the height.