Taper Fade vs Taper: Which Haircut is Right for You?

A common debate surrounding men’s haircuts is the taper fade vs taper. Both styles are fashionable, clean, and versatile, but they appeal to different preferences and purposes. Learning the differences between a taper fade vs taper may help you choose the best style for your hair type, face shape, and lifestyle. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the two hairstyles, their definitions, the differences, the benefits of getting each, and ultimately help you decide which haircut is best for you.

What is a taper?

A taper is a haircut where there is gradually lessened length as it gets closer to the sides and back of the head. The top length will remain consistent, and the length on the sides will be cut down but will seamlessly join. The taper is a natural and subtle hairstyle, without sharp lines or significant fading. This haircut is great for anyone who wants or needs a more conservative look and a minimally maintained style.

taper

What Is A Taper Fade?

A taper fade is the same as a taper fade vs taper but with a more aggressive change in length from long to short. The hair is tapered from the top of the head down to the neckline with a clear fade in sections. The fade can be low, medium, or high, depending on how you would like it. A taper fade vs taper is more versatile compared to a taper, and it tends to be unique fashion-wise, and it is generally more stylish and edgy compared to a taper.

Taper Fade

taper fade vs taper: Differences

1. Transition style

  • Taper: Has a gradual change in length from the top to the sides and to the back. The transition is natural.
  • Taper Fade: Has a contrasting fade and features a clear faded transition from longer to shorter hair. The fade is more distinct.

2. Level of fade

  • Taper: There is no fade involved; it simply is cut shorter towards the bottom.
  • Taper Fade: The fade can be low, medium, or high, which would create a much bolder and more defined line.

3. Maintenance

  • Taper: Generally a low-maintenance style, your hair grows gradually, so you’ll trim less frequently.
  • Taper Fade: Requires more maintenance, especially if you want that sharp fade and you have a high fade style.

4. Style Versatility

  • Taper: Provides a polished and professional look and can be appropriate for formal scenarios.
  • Taper Fade: Provides a more trendy and fashionable look, making it perfect for a modern and edgy style.

5. Best for taper fade vs taper

  • Taper: Best for people with thicker hair or anyone looking for a conservative yet stylish haircut.
  • Taper Fade: Best for people looking for a high-fashion style and a bold look with an abundance of styling options.

Things to note for making your decision between a taper fade vs taper

When it comes to making a decision on a taper fade vs taper, there are a few more considerations to make that can ultimately help you decide on where you feel most compatible with your lifestyle, personality style, and overall aesthetic.

1. Hair Density

Taper: If you have thick, dense hair, the taper haircut is a great option. The gradual fade works really well with thicker strands, keeping the shape more orderly than a chunkier look while not adding a lot of weight. For finer hair, the use of a taper will provide some volume and shape without it looking too thin.

Taper Fade: If you have straight or wavy hair, the taper fade vs taper will create a sharp, sleek, and contrasting look with depth and definition to the hair. With curly hair, a taper fade allows you to have a more voluminous shape because the fade actually gives the hair more texture and shape.

2. Age

  • Taper: The taper is perfect for anyone who is looking for a classic and timeless look, so this is suitable for all ages. Older gentlemen want a neat and sophisticated look without looking too modern and trendy.
  • Taper Fade: The taper fade is a more modern, youth-inspired, versatile haircut for any age group. If you are looking for a modern, trendy, sharp, and edgy feel, the taper fade is probably best.

3. Styling Options

  • Taper: The taper is very versatile in terms of styling. It can be styled with all types of hairstyles, including a pompadour, side part, or a clean brush-back. They are easy to maintain hairstyles and can be molded with styling products like pomades or gels.
  • Taper Fade: The taper fade gives you even more options in terms of styling and wearability due to the definition in the sides of the style. The taper fade is capable of being worn with many modern hairstyles like a quiff, comb-over, or buzz cut. So feel free to explore creative options with your hairstyle. The fade also provides a statement look no matter what the style is or where you go.

4. Business and Casual Style

  • Taper: The taper is perfect for you if you want an adaptable hairstyle fit for both professional environments and casual get-togethers. It is clean and conservative, which is an excellent balance for work when you want to showcase a polished but simple hairstyle.
  • Taper Fade: In comparison to the taper fade vs taper can be argued to be a bolder hairstyle and more fashion-forward for going out and casual environments. The taper fade is perfect for social settings, casual hangouts, and individuals who want to promote themselves and their hair.

For more details on choosing the perfect fade haircut, check out our comprehensive guide: Fade Haircut vs Taper: Which Haircut Is Right for You?.

FAQs

Q1. Which haircut is easier to maintain, taper fade vs taper?

A: The taper is less maintenance because it involves less frequent trims and is a more gradual transition. A taper fade needs to be touched up regularly to keep it looking fresh with a sharp fade.

Q2. Can I style a taper fade like a taper?

A: Yes, you can style a taper fade with the same hairstyles as a taper; however, because of the fade, it has a sharper and more distinct outline in which the haircut enhances the overall look.

Q3. What face shapes do taper fade vs taper cuts look the best on?

A: Both haircuts look good on most face shapes; however, taper fade tends to favor square and round face shapes more, while taper generally favors longer or oval faces more.

Q4. Is a taper fade good for all types of hair?

A: A taper fade can be cut based on any type of hair but tends to work best on straight and wavy hair; it can be adapted to curly hair, but the fade can be challenging to maintain based on the extent of the curl of the hair.

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