We get to see on a daily basis in our barber shop in Denver, CO people come into the chair, pull out their phones, and pick out a picture of some sort of celebrity with a clean haircut that they want. Chances are, they are getting some form of taper. There is no question that it probably ranks as one of the most sought-after cuts that we offer at Frank’s Gentlemen’s Salon. It works well with all types and shapes.

However, there can be confusion with regard to terminology. A client may be requesting a "fade" but end up meaning a "taper," or they may be confused about where the "mid" fade actually is on the head. We want to eliminate that confusion so you will know exactly what you are asking for at your next visit.

Creating a Mid-Taper Fade Haircut

What does a mid-taper fade look like? To grasp what a mid taper fade is, one needs to differentiate two concepts. A taper would usually pertain to maintaining some length on top and thin it down progressively as it goes at the back and sides. A fade would be an extension of that idea but all the way up to the skin or stubble.

What is a mid taper fade? A mid taper fade is exactly what it sounds like - it falls exactly in the middle. It doesn’t start up high, like a high fade, where it would be near your temple and crown area. Nor does it start near your ears and neck, like a low fade.

Instead, it usually begins at about the same height as your temples or just above your ear. That’s the optimal spot. It’s not too extreme, but it does provide that clean, sleek look that guys want. As we cut this look, we want it to be smooth and accent your features without overwhelming it.

Who Should Get This Cut?

We would highly recommend the mid-taper fade to anyone as it can be adapted so well. It works outstandingly well on people with a slightly rounder facial feature, as it will help reduce volume on the sides, thereby making your face appear more elongated. It will be perfect for people with more unmanageable hair, as it will make it easy to control and will still allow you to have some length on top. All in all, it will prove to be an excellent canvas for anyone who needs either an office look or an artistic look.

Common Styles That Will Go with It

Because mid-taper fades are all about sides and back, your personality will be brought out from your styling of your top.

The Textured Crop

A low-maintenance look for guys would be our mid-taper with a textured crop. It works by cutting your hair on top short and then texturizing it with scissors. You can wake up, put some matte clay or powder on it, mess it up, and leave. It’s easy.

The Modern Pompadour

A more traditional and gentlemanly look would be offered with a pompadour. We would leave more length on top, which would then be blown back for added volume. The taper in the middle, with a slightly disconnected look on the sides, adds to the volume on top, giving a modern spin on a traditional classic.

The Curly Fringe

Curly-haired guys will have no problem finding a haircut solution. A mid-taper fade haircut will clean up your lines and allow your curls to flow as they should. A drop-fringe haircut will allow your fringe to hang down and will look very fashionable at the moment.

Book Your Next Appointment

A better appreciation for the mechanics involved with a haircut will improve your communication with your barber. The mid-taper fade haircut is a tried and true favorite that works well with almost every man who enters our shop. When you are ready for a facelift on your look, a clear understanding of what your haircut will include will make sure that you leave Frank’s Gentlemen’s Salon with confidence. We are here for you as a resource to help pick out a haircut that suits your hair and your lifestyle!