25 Mid Taper Fade Haircut Ideas For Modern Men

Mens haircuts mid taper fade offers you a lot of versatility in terms of styling while requiring little to zero maintenance. It pairs perfectly with the majority of types hairstyles on top, be it a buzz cut or a pompadour. So, you can easily match your hair look to the ambiance it needs to suit. To help you choose the perfect mid fade taper that meets your needs, we have prepared this essential guide. Feel free to explore it carefully to get your dose of inspiration.

Quick Summary

A mid taper fade is a clean, modern haircut where the hair gradually shortens midway between the temples and ears, creating a balanced blend between length on top and tightness on the sides. It’s versatile, low-maintenance, and suits nearly every hair type and face shape.

What Is a Mid Taper Fade?

A mid taper fade is a haircut where the tapering process starts halfway up the sides of the head, producing a noticeable but smooth transition between longer hair on top and shorter hair near the neckline and around the ears. Unlike low tapers, it sits higher and gives stronger definition; unlike high tapers, it retains more fullness on the sides for a balanced shape.

Key Characteristics:

• Taper begins at mid-level above the ear

• Visible but seamless transition

• Works with short, medium, or long tops

• Clean outline around the ears and neckline

How to Choose the Right Mid Taper Fade

Choosing the best version of a mid taper fade depends on your hair type, face shape, and daily styling habits.

Based on Hair Type:

• Straight hair: Go for comb-overs, slick backs, or layered tops.

• Wavy hair: Choose fluffy tops, waves, or surfer-inspired lengths.

• Curly hair: Mid taper + curls or curly pompadours work best.

• Thick hair: Opt for textured styles to reduce bulk.

• Thin hair: Keep the top slightly longer for volume.

Based on Face Shape:

• Round: Side parts, comb-overs, and volume on top.

• Square: Longer tops with soft texture for balance.

• Oval: Most mid taper variations work flawlessly.

• Diamond: Add width with curls or side-swept looks.

• Oblong: Medium length tops with minimal height.

Based on Lifestyle:

• Need low maintenance? → Buzz cut + mid taper.

• Need professional styling? → Slick back or classic comb-over.

• Want trendy texture? → Curly or wavy mid taper variations.

Mid Taper Fade Haircut

A clean, balanced fade that starts midway up the sides, giving structure without removing too much length. It’s one of the most versatile modern men’s cuts.

Key Features:

• Seamless mid-level transition

• Works with short, medium, or long tops

• Clean outline around ears and neckline

• Professional and casual at the same time

Best For:

• All hair types

• Oval, round, and square faces

• Men wanting a low-maintenance modern look

Styling Tips:

• Use matte paste for a natural, defined top.

• Dry with a brush or fingers for volume.

• Maintain the taper every 2–3 weeks.

Ask an expert: To your mind, who will mid taper fade suit best?

Tino Vo

Expertise: Barber, Creator Sid Sottung Academy

A low taper is suitable for someone who wants to keep as much hair length as possible. Also someone who has a distorted head shape . A client who has a rectangle face shape , a low taper will balance him out.

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Mid Taper Mullet

A modern mullet combined with a mid taper adds sharpness while keeping the signature length in the back. It’s edgy but wearable.

Key Features:

• Tapered sides for cleaner shape

• Longer back with textured layers

• High contrast top-to-back silhouette

• Trendy, youth-focused style

Best For:

• Wavy or straight medium hair

• Heart, oval, and diamond faces

• Men wanting a bold, fashion-forward look

Styling Tips:

• Add sea-salt spray for messy texture.

• Use a blow-dryer to lift the front.

• Trim the taper to prevent bottom heaviness.

Mid Taper Curly Hair

A mid taper reduces bulk on the sides while keeping curls defined and elevated on top. Do not skimp on a texturizing hair styling product if you want to make the most out of your curly taper.

Key Features:

• Mid fade that frames curls

• More height and shape on top

• Easier styling and reduced frizz

• Natural but polished outline

Best For:

• Curly and coily hair

• Oval and diamond face shapes

• Men preferring textured, low-effort styles

Styling Tips:

• Use curl cream on damp hair.

• Diffuse for definition and lift.

• Keep sides trimmed for clean structure.

Taper With Long Hair

Long hair paired with a mid taper creates a cleaner silhouette without sacrificing length. This style highlights flow and movement on top while keeping the sides structured.

Key Features:

• Medium fade on the sides

• Long, layered top and back

• More definition around the ears and neckline

• Suitable for natural or styled long hair looks

Best For:

• Straight or wavy long hair

• Men who want a low-maintenance yet polished look

• Oblong, oval, and heart-shaped faces

Styling Tips:

• Use lightweight styling cream to control frizz.

• Brush hair backward or part in the middle depending on face shape.

• Maintain the taper to avoid the “overgrown” effect.

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Curly Hair Pompadour

This version of the pompadour enhances natural curls while the mid taper creates a balanced, sculpted outline. It allows curls to hold shape without overwhelming the face. Embrace your curls with a pompadour that amplifies texture. As well-known stylist  Andrew Kozak suggests:

If you’ve got some natural texture, work with it! That bend, wave, and even the cowlick are actually pretty rad! Let your hair move— we don’t have to fight it, just define the shape it can take through a decent haircut.

Key Features:

• Natural curl volume concentrated at the front

• Clean taper that reduces bulk and weight

• Defined silhouette that keeps curls controlled

• Works well with medium hair length

Best For:

• Curly and wavy hair

• Diamond, oval, and oblong face shapes

• Men wanting a bold, textured style

Styling Tips:

• Apply curl cream to damp hair for definition.

• Blow-dry using a diffuser to build shape.

• Touch up the taper regularly to keep the pompadour structured.

Slick Back Taper

A mid taper paired with slicked-back hair creates a clean, structured, and masculine profile that works well in professional settings.

Key Features:

• Polished, combed-back top

• Mid-level taper for controlled sides

• Strong and structured silhouette

• Good for medium-length hair

Best For:

• Straight or wavy medium hair

• Square or oval face shapes

• Men who prefer classic, refined looks

Styling Tips:

• Apply lightweight pomade or gel.

• Comb straight back for a sleek finish.

• Use a hairdryer for extra hold.

Tapered Crew Cut

A crew cut with a mid taper gives a sharper, more dimensional shape than the classic version. For a tapered crew cut like this, expertly sculpted by mens hair stylist and educator Horatiu Tolan, maintaining the crispness is key.

Key Features:

• Short top with clean taper

• Strong, athletic outline

• Easy maintenance and daily styling

• Works even with thinning hair

Best For:

• Straight and fine hair

• Active lifestyles

• Round and square face shapes

Styling Tips:

• Use a pea-sized amount of matte clay.

• Push the top slightly forward for texture.

• Maintain every 2–3 weeks.

Mid Taper Black Male

A mid taper enhances natural texture while creating a clean, sculpted frame around the hairline.

Key Features:

• Sharp temple taper

• Defined curls or coils on top

• Enhanced line-up and outline

• Perfect blend of structure + texture

Best For:

• Coily and curly hair (Type 3–4)

• Oval, square, and heart faces

• Men who prefer sharp, defined cuts

Styling Tips:

• Apply moisturizing cream for definition.

• Use a sponge brush to shape coils.

• Maintain the line-up weekly for crispness.

Middle Part Taper Fade

A curtain-style middle part with a mid taper offers softness on top and a sharp outline on the sides.

Key Features:

• Center-parted top

• Balanced taper around ears

• Soft, flowy movement

• Trendy eBoy-inspired silhouette

Best For:

• Straight or wavy hair

• Heart, diamond, and oval faces

• Men who like soft, youthful styles

Styling Tips:

• Blow dry the top away from the face.

• Add lightweight mousse for flow.

• Keep the taper tight to avoid bulk.

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Side Parted Hair

A side part paired with a mid taper creates a clean, structured, and business-friendly appearance. Side parted hair is all about texture and a touch of edge, as Las Vegas barber Johnny Snips masterfully demonstrates. He says:

Texture and some disconnection. Keep the blend low, with just a hint of taper at the back for that subtle disconnection."

Key Features:

• Defined natural part

• Medium taper for controlled volume

• Sleek or textured top

• Professional and timeless look

Best For:

• Straight, wavy, or fine hair

• Square or oval faces

• Men who prefer classic styling

Styling Tips:

• Use a comb to define the part.

• Apply pomade or cream depending on shine preference.

• Blow-dry along the part line for clean shape.

Ivy League Haircut

A smart, polished Ivy League becomes more modern and dynamic with a mid taper.

Key Features:

• Short sides with taper

• Longer top styled to the side

• Preppy, clean silhouette

• Easy everyday styling

Best For:

• Straight or fine hair

• Men wanting a professional style

• Oval, round, and square faces

Styling Tips:

• Use light pomade for shine.

• Brush hair to the side with slight lift.

• Maintain the taper frequently for a neat finish.

Mid Taper Edgar

Sharp, bold, and highly defined — the mid taper Edgar cut emphasizes texture on top with a crisp outline. It is one of short hair taper cuts that can be worn on all types of hair, so you can rest assured that it is going to work for you. Maintenance is hassle free as well.

Key Features:

• Short, choppy textured top

• Square, defined hairline

• Mid taper creating strong contrast

• Statement-making silhouette

Best For:

• Straight and thick hair

• Round or oval faces

• Men wanting a bold, structured look

Styling Tips:

• Use matte clay to enhance texture.

• Keep the fringe straight and defined.

• Maintain the line-up every 1–2 weeks.

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Short Fluffy Mid Taper Haircut

A short fluffy mid taper gives volume on top while keeping the sides clean and structured. It’s a lightweight, low-effort look that works especially well on wavy or slightly textured hair. The short fluffy tapered haircut, crafted by barber and hair expert Dorian Purnell, is all about texture and clean fades.

Key Features:

• Mid taper that removes bulk around the ears

• Soft, airy texture on top

• Natural movement without heavy styling

• Clean neckline and outline for a sharper finish

Best For:

• Wavy, thick or medium-density hair

• Men who want a casual but polished style

• Round and oval face shapes

Styling Tips:

• Use a matte paste or lightweight cream to lift the top.

• Blow-dry with fingers to keep volume natural.

• Refresh the taper every 3–4 weeks.

Mid Taper Buzz Cut

A buzz cut paired with a mid taper adds shape, contrast, and sharp visual structure to an otherwise minimal haircut.

Key Features:

• Very short top

• Clean mid taper reduces bulk

• Strong and defined silhouette

• Extremely low-maintenance

Best For:

• All hair types

• Men with active routines

• Round and oval face shapes

Styling Tips:

• Keep the taper sharp every 2 weeks.

• Moisturize the scalp for a clean finish.

• Use a tiny amount of matte balm for definition.

Taper Blowout

A blowout combined with a mid taper gives height, movement, and a fresh, youthful edge.

Key Features:

• High volume top

• Clean taper for contrast

• Textured, airy movement

• Fashion-forward profile

Best For:

• Wavy or straight hair

• Oval and square faces

• Men who like high-volume styles

Styling Tips:

• Blow-dry upright with a round brush.

• Use volumizing spray or mousse.

• Finish with light hold hairspray.

Short Waves

Short waves gain more definition and shape when paired with a mid taper that controls the sides and outlines the top. Short cut by mens hair stylist and educator Josh Connolly epitomize the harmonious balance between texture and form.

Key Features:

• Natural wave pattern on top

• Taper removes bulk and weight

• Clean outline for freshness

• Works with fine or thick wavy hair

Best For:

• Wavy or slightly curly hair

• Oval or square faces

• Men who want texture with low styling effort

Styling Tips:

• Use sea-salt spray to enhance waves.

• Scrunch hair while drying.

• Maintain taper regularly.

Swept Back Bald Taper

A mid bald taper with a swept-back top gives a strong, polished, high-contrast shape perfect for men wanting a bold but clean style.

Key Features:

• Skin-level taper

• Medium-length top brushed back

• High contrast fade

• Defined, masculine outline

Best For:

• Straight or wavy hair

• Square and oval faces

• Men wanting a sharp, standout style

Styling Tips:

• Use gel or pomade for hold.

• Blow-dry backwards for volume.

• Maintain the skin taper frequently.

Side Taper

A basic side mid taper focuses on a clean profile and natural top without dramatic contrasts.

Key Features:

• Gentle taper on both sides

• Minimal weight removal

• Works with any top length

• Clean and understated

Best For:

• All hair types

• Men preferring subtle, soft cuts

• Professional or school settings

Styling Tips:

• Brush hair naturally.

• Use light cream for control.

• Trim sides every 3–4 weeks.

Mid Fade With Design

A mid fade with a design adds personality and edge through shaved lines, patterns, or creative engraving.

Key Features:

• Clean mid fade

• Artistic or geometric hair design

• High-contrast sides

• Modern and expressive

Best For:

• Thick, dark hair

• Men wanting a bolder statement

• Round, oval, or heart faces

Styling Tips:

• Keep designs sharp with weekly touch-ups.

• Use matte product to highlight top texture.

• Choose simple lines if trying this style first time.

Mid Skin Fade

A mid skin fade creates a sharp, impactful contrast by taking the fade down to bare skin at mid level.

Key Features:

• High-contrast fade

• Clean skin exposure

• Polished and bold profile

• Works well with textured tops

Best For:

• Straight, wavy, or curly hair

• Men wanting a dramatic fade

• Oval and square faces

Styling Tips:

• Maintain every 1–2 weeks.

• Use styling cream for the top.

• Avoid heavy gels to keep the blend smooth.

Brushed Back Waves

Wavy hair brushed back with a mid taper creates a soft yet masculine look with natural movement.

Key Features:

• Medium length top

• Visible waves brushed backward

• Clean mid taper

• Natural but defined style

Best For:

• Wavy or textured hair

• Oval and diamond faces

• Men wanting relaxed, modern styling

Styling Tips:

• Use texture cream on damp hair.

• Brush back while blow-drying.

• Add sea-salt spray for more wave.

Mid Taper Fade Straight Hair

A mid haircut on straight hair gives a sleek and refined silhouette with no bulk at the sides.

Key Features:

• Smooth taper transition

• Straight, controlled top

• Clean, polished outline

• Works for short or medium lengths

Best For:

• Straight hair

• Square, oval, or heart faces

• Men who prefer clean, neat aesthetics

Styling Tips:

• Use pomade for shine.

• Comb top neatly for definition.

• Trim every 2–3 weeks.

Mid Burst Fade

A burst-style mid fade curves around the ears, creating a round, dynamic shape with a modern twist.

Key Features:

• Rounded fade around ear

• High contrast sides

• Works with curls, waves, or straight tops

• Trendy, bold outline

Best For:

• Men wanting a standout fade

• Curly or wavy hair

• Heart and round face shapes

Styling Tips:

• Use matte clay for textured tops.

• Maintain fade often for shape.

• Add a design for extra impact.

Tapered Undercut

A tapered undercut blends the traditional long-top undercut with a cleaner, gradual mid taper.

Key Features:

• Long top + tapered sides

• More natural transition than classic undercut

• Sleek and masculine profile

• Versatile for styling

Best For:

• Straight or wavy hair

• Oval and square faces

• Men liking longer tops

Styling Tips:

• Use pomade for slick looks.

• Blow-dry up for volume.

• Maintain sides regularly.

Curly Bang

Curly bangs with a mid taper create a soft, expressive look while keeping the sides neat and tidy.

Key Features:

• Curly fringe with bounce

• Tapered sides for balance

• Youthful and stylish

• Works with medium top length

Best For:

• Curly or wavy hair

• Oval and heart faces

• Men wanting trendy, textured looks

Styling Tips:

• Use curl-defining cream.

• Air dry or diffuse for shape.

• Keep fringe trimmed to avoid heaviness.

Styling & Maintenance Guide

Daily Styling:

• Use a matte paste or cream for natural looks.

• Blow-dry with fingers for volume, or use a diffuser for curls.

• Add sea-salt spray to boost texture on wavy hair.

• Pomade works best for slick or polished styles.

Maintenance:

• Refresh the taper every 2–4 weeks depending on hair growth.

• Trim the neckline for a cleaner silhouette between barber visits.

• Use moisturizing products if your hair is curly or coarse.

• Avoid heavy gels — they make taper transitions look harsh.

Pro Tip: A mid taper fade looks best when the transition remains sharp. Even a slight overgrowth around the ears changes the silhouette, so regular upkeep matters.

FAQs: Mid Tape Fade Haircut

• Mid Taper Fade Haircuts for Modern Gentlemen. Source