What Does a Mid-Taper Fade Look Like? Styles for Men
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 Mid taper 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 medium taper fade
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.
The Slick Back
For guys who want something polished, the slick back pairs beautifully with a mid taper fade. We leave a bit more length on top so it can be combed straight back with a strong-hold pomade or gel, giving you a sleek, finished look. The mid fade taper underneath keeps the sides clean so all the attention stays on that glassy, swept-back top - great for the office or a night out.
The Side Part
A classic side part is one of the most versatile pairings for a medium taper fade. We cut a defined part into the top, then style the longer side back and over for a sharp, put-together finish. It's timeless, it photographs well, and it works for everything from job interviews to weddings.
The Quiff
If you want some height and movement, the quiff is the move. We keep more length toward the front of the top, which gets pushed up and slightly back for volume. With a mid taper fade haircut underneath, the sides stay neat so the quiff has room to be the statement piece. A little texturizing spray helps it hold shape through the day.
The Faux Hawk
For guys who want an edgier vibe without committing to a full mohawk, the faux hawk is a great option. We taper the sides down into the fade and leave a strip of longer hair down the center, which you can style upward for a bold look or keep more relaxed for everyday wear. It's a fun way to make a mid taper fade feel a little more daring.
The Buzz Cut Top
If low-maintenance is the priority, you can pair your mid taper fade with a short, even buzz on top instead of leaving length. This is about as wash-and-go as it gets - no styling product required - while the taper still gives you that clean, intentional finish on the sides instead of an all-over uniform buzz.
How to Maintain Your Mid Taper Fade Haircut
A mid taper fade haircut holds its shape longer than a high fade, but it still needs regular upkeep to stay sharp. Here's how to keep it looking fresh between visits:
Get it trimmed every 2-3 weeks. The fade grows out fastest at the blend line, so regular touch-ups keep the contrast crisp.
Use a light styling product on top. Matte clay, powder, or a light pomade keeps texture without weighing hair down.
Brush or comb daily. This trains the hair on top and keeps the transition into the faded sides looking intentional, not grown-out.
Ask your barber to "tighten the fade" if you're stretching out visits. A quick clean-up on the sides can extend the life of the cut even if the top doesn't need a trim yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A Mid Taper Fade Haircut?
A mid taper fade is a haircut where the fade or blend starts at temple height - roughly the midpoint between the crown and the neckline - gradually shortening down to skin or stubble at the sides and back, while length is preserved on top.
How Is A Medium Taper Fade Different From A High Or Low Fade?
A medium taper fade starts at the temples or just above the ear - higher than a low fade (which starts near the ears and neckline) and lower than a high fade (which starts up near the temple and crown). It's the balanced middle-ground option.
How Often Should I Get A Mid Taper Haircut Touched Up?
Most clients come in every 2-3 weeks to keep the blend sharp. If your hair grows quickly or you prefer a crisper line, every 2 weeks works well.
Can I Get A Mid Taper Fade Haircut With Curly Hair?
Absolutely. The mid taper fade pairs especially well with curly or coily hair - the cleaned-up sides and back let your curls or fringe stand out on top without looking unkempt.
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!
Ready to see what a mid taper fade looks like on you? Book a chair at Frank's Gentlemen's Salon and let's find the version that fits your face shape, hair type, and lifestyle.
Lisa Franz
Lisa Franz is the founder and owner of Frank’s Gentlemen’s Salon, a premier men’s salon and barbershop in Denver. With a background in theatre and a deep passion for community-building, she created Frank’s to merge high-end grooming services with a warm, inclusive space.
