75 Stylish Mid-Taper Fade Haircut Ideas to Try

If you are looking for a fresh and stylish haircut that is not too extreme, the mid-taper fade might be just what you need.

I have always liked haircuts that are easy to maintain but still look sharp, and the mid-taper fade haircut fits perfectly.

It is a great way to keep your sides neat while giving the top some room to play with different styles.

Whether you have straight hair or something a bit more textured, this cut can work really well. For example, the mid-taper fade straight hair look gives a clean and classic vibe that suits many occasions.

Over time, I have noticed how this fade balances between too high and too low, making it a popular choice for lots of people.

If you want a haircut that feels modern but still simple, the mid-taper fade is a great option to consider.

Understanding the Mid-Taper Fade

A mid-taper fade is a haircut where the hair on the sides and back gradually gets shorter from the middle of the head down to the neckline.

The fade usually starts around the middle of the head, which makes it different from other fades. This style keeps some length on the sides but still gives a clean and neat look.

One key feature is how the hair blends smoothly from longer to shorter without sharp lines.

There are three main types of taper fades: low, mid, and high. A low taper fade starts just above the ears and stays close to the skin at the bottom.

The mid-taper fade starts higher, around the middle of the head, and blends softly.

The high taper fade begins near the top of the head and is the most dramatic, with a strong contrast between the top and sides.

Mid-Taper Fade Ideas to Inspire Your Next Look

A mid-taper fade is a clean, balanced haircut that works with many styles. Here are some fresh ideas to help you find your next look.

1. Classic Mid-Taper Fade with Short Top

This style is simple and clean. The sides fade smoothly from the middle, and the top is cut short but long enough to style a bit.

It’s easy to maintain and looks sharp for any occasion. You can run your fingers through the top or use a little gel to keep it neat.

It works well for school, work, or casual hangouts. If you want a no-fuss haircut that still looks cool, this classic mid-taper fade with a short top is a great choice.

2. Mid-Taper Fade with Textured Crop

The textured crop is a popular choice for guys who want some style without too much effort. The fade starts in the middle, and the top has short layers that give it a messy, textured look.

It looks natural and adds some volume. You can use a bit of styling cream or matte paste to highlight the texture.

This haircut works especially well if you have straight or slightly wavy hair. It’s a fresh way to wear a mid-taper fade that feels modern and relaxed.

3. Mid-Taper Fade with Slicked Back Hair

If you want a polished look, try the mid-taper fade with slicked-back hair. The sides fade around the middle of your head, while the top hair is longer and slicked back with gel or pomade.

It gives a classic, sharp style that fits formal events or everyday wear. This haircut is great for straight hair because the slicked-back style holds well.

It’s a stylish option for anyone who likes a neat, put-together appearance but still wants the clean fade on the sides.

4. Mid-Taper Fade with Side Part

The mid-taper fade with a side part is a smart and timeless look. The fade blends from the middle of your head down, and the top hair is parted clearly to one side.

This makes the haircut look organized and tidy. It works well for school, work, or any place you want to look neat.

Using a comb and some styling gel can help keep the side part in place all day. This style suits many hair types and face shapes, making it a popular choice.

5. Mid-Taper Fade with Curly Top

If you have curly hair, the mid-taper fade with a curly top can look amazing. The sides fade neatly from the middle, and the curls on top stay longer to show off their natural shape.

This style is fun and fresh because it highlights your curls while keeping your haircut sharp and clean.

Using curl cream or light mousse helps keep curls defined without weighing them down. This cut is perfect if you want to embrace your curls but still want a tidy fade on the sides.

6. Mid-Taper Fade with Comb Over

The mid-taper fade with a comb-over is a classic style with a modern twist. The fade starts mid-head and blends down cleanly, while the top hair is longer and combed neatly to one side.

It looks polished but is easy to style with some pomade or gel. This haircut works best on straight or slightly wavy hair.

It’s a perfect option if you want a neat, professional look without losing the cool fade on the sides.

7. Mid-Taper Fade with Pompadour

The pompadour is a bold style that pairs well with a mid-taper fade. The sides fade from the middle of your head, and the top is left long and lifted high with volume.

Using a blow dryer and some styling product helps create that raised look. It’s a stylish cut that works for special events or when you want to stand out.

This haircut is great if you have straight or thick hair and want a look that’s both trendy and classic.

8. Mid-Taper Fade with Quiff

The quiff is a fun, lively hairstyle that looks great with a mid-taper fade. The sides fade nicely from the middle, and the hair on top is brushed upwards and slightly back to add height and texture.

It’s easy to style with a little wax or gel. The quiff suits many hair types, especially straight and wavy hair.

This haircut gives you a fresh, youthful look that works for both casual and formal settings.

9. Mid-Taper Fade with Long Top

This haircut keeps the fade clean and starts mid-head, while the top hair is left long for more styling options.

You can wear the top hair slicked back, messy, or even in a small ponytail. It’s perfect if you want a fade but don’t want to cut off too much length on top.

This look works well with straight or wavy hair and gives you a lot of freedom to change your style whenever you want.

10. Mid-Taper Fade with Buzz Cut Top

If you like very short hair, the buzz cut top with a mid-taper fade is a great pick. The fade starts in the middle of the sides, and the top is buzzed short, giving a neat, military-style look.

It’s super low maintenance and keeps you cool, especially in warm weather. This cut works well for straight or slightly curly hair.

If you want a simple, clean look with the fade’s style, this is a smart choice.

11. Mid-Taper Fade with Fringe

Adding a fringe to your mid-taper fade haircut gives a fresh, youthful style. The fade begins mid-head and blends into longer hair that falls forward across your forehead.

You can keep the fringe straight or slightly messy. It’s a great way to change things up if you want a soft, casual look but still want the clean fade on the sides.

This style suits straight or wavy hair best and adds character to the classic fade.

12. Mid-Taper Fade with Spiky Hair

Spiky hair with a mid-taper fade is a fun and edgy look. The fade starts in the middle of the sides, and the top hair is cut to a medium length and styled upwards in spikes.

You can use gel or wax to make the spikes stand up all day. This style works best with straight or slightly thick hair and gives you a bold, youthful appearance.

It’s perfect for casual outings or when you want to show some personality.

13. Mid-Taper Fade with Messy Top

If you like a relaxed look, try a messy top with your mid-taper fade. The sides are faded starting in the middle, while the top hair is left longer and styled messily with your fingers or light product.

It looks natural and easygoing. This haircut suits many hair types and is perfect if you want something low-maintenance but still stylish.

It’s great for everyday wear and gives off a cool, carefree vibe.

14. Mid-Taper Fade with Straight Hair

The mid-taper fade works especially well if you have straight hair. The fade starts mid-head and blends smoothly down, while the top is styled simply to show off your natural hair.

You can wear it slicked back, combed over, or just natural. Straight hair helps the fade stand out cleanly, making the haircut look sharp and neat.

It is a classic, easy-to-wear style for any age or occasion.

15. Mid-Taper Fade with Wavy Hair

If your hair is wavy, the mid-taper fade haircut can help you control the shape while showing off your natural waves.

The fade starts in the middle, keeping the sides neat, while the top is left longer to let the waves form. Using a light styling cream can help define the waves without weighing them down.

This look is casual but polished, perfect for those who want a fresh haircut that highlights their natural hair texture.

16. Mid-Taper Fade with Beard Fade

Pairing a mid-taper fade haircut with a beard fade creates a smooth, connected look.

The hair fades on the sides starting mid-head, and the beard is trimmed to match the fade’s length and style. It makes your whole face look well-groomed and balanced.

This style works well with short or medium beards and adds an extra sharp edge to your overall appearance.

17. Mid-Taper Fade with Clean Shave

Sometimes, simple is best. The mid-taper fade with a clean-shaven face puts all the attention on your haircut. The fade starts mid-head and blends perfectly, giving a crisp and sharp look.

This style is easy to maintain and looks good on almost everyone.

It’s perfect if you want a neat, fresh look without any extra facial hair to think about.

18. Mid-Taper Fade with Design Lines

If you want to stand out, adding design lines to your mid-taper fade can do the trick.

The fade starts in the middle of your head, and the barber shaves creative patterns or lines into the fade area. These designs can be simple or bold, depending on what you like.

It adds a cool and unique touch to a classic fade, making your haircut truly one of a kind.

19. Mid-Taper Fade with Hard Part

A hard part is a shaved line that clearly separates the top hair from the faded sides.

In the mid-taper fade with a hard part, the fade starts mid-head, and the hard part adds a sharp division. This look is very clean and modern, giving your haircut extra style.

It works great with straight or slightly wavy hair and helps the fade stand out more.

20. Mid-Taper Fade with Temple Fade

The temple fade focuses the fade around the temples and sides, starting mid-head for a smooth look.

The hair on top is kept longer, while the fade blends into the skin around your temples.

This style works well if you want a neat fade but want to keep some length near the top and sides. It’s a popular look that feels fresh and sharp.

21. Mid-Taper Fade with Afro Top

If you have thick, curly hair, the mid-taper fade with an afro top is a great choice. The sides fade from the middle, and the afro on top is left full and natural.

This cut shows off your curls while keeping the sides neat and sharp.

It’s a bold style that works well for anyone with natural curls who wants a clean but eye-catching look.

22. Mid-Taper Fade with High Volume Top

The mid-taper fade with a high volume top means the fade starts mid-head, and the hair on top is kept long and styled upward to add height.

Using a blow dryer and some styling product can help you create this lifted look. It’s a cool, modern haircut that works best with straight or thick hair.

This style is great if you want to add some extra drama to your fade.

23. Mid-Taper Fade with Side Swept Hair

Side-swept hair with a mid-taper fade is a relaxed and stylish look. The fade blends from the middle of your head, while the top hair is combed or brushed to one side.

It looks neat but not too formal. You can use a light styling cream or pomade to keep the hair in place.

This haircut suits many face shapes and works well with straight or wavy hair.

24. Mid-Taper Fade with Fade Into Mustache

This haircut pairs a mid-taper fade on the sides with a mustache that blends into the fade. The smooth transition between the hair and facial hair gives a polished look.

It is a great choice if you want to keep some facial hair while still achieving a sharp and clean haircut.

It works well with straight or wavy hair and adds character to your style.

25. Mid-Taper Fade with Slick Side Part

This is a neat and formal hairstyle. The fade starts in the middle of the sides, and the hair on top is slicked to one side with a clear part line.

It’s easy to style with gel or pomade and looks great for work or special events.

This haircut suits straight hair best and gives you a sharp, classic appearance.

26. Mid-Taper Fade with Sideburn Fade

The mid-taper fade with sideburn fade means the hair on the sides and around your sideburns fades smoothly starting at the middle of your head.

This creates a clean, blended look from the top of your head down to your neck.

It’s a tidy style that works well for those who want a polished, well-groomed haircut.

27. Mid-Taper Fade with Razor Sharp Edges

This haircut combines the clean fade starting from the middle of the head with very sharp and defined edges around the hairline and sides.

The fade blends smoothly, but the barber cuts the edges with a razor or trimmer to make them look extra crisp and bold.

This creates a strong, eye-catching frame for your face and gives your haircut a polished, fresh look. It’s a great choice if you like your style to be noticeable and very neat.

28. Mid-Taper Fade with Low Fade on Neck

In this haircut, the fade begins in the middle of your head and gradually gets shorter as it reaches the neckline, ending in a soft, low fade near the neck.

This smooth transition makes the fade look natural with no harsh or sudden lines near the back. You can style the top hair however you want, from messy to neat, and it will still look good with this classic fade.

This style is simple, easy to maintain, and perfect if you want a clean look without too much sharpness near the neck.

29. Mid-Taper Fade with Mohawk Style

The fade starts in the middle of your head on the sides, but instead of fading all the way to the top, it leaves a strip of longer hair running down the center from the front to the back.

You can style this longer strip by spiking it up or brushing it back for an edgy look. This haircut stands out because it mixes a clean fade with a rebellious top.

It’s perfect if you want something different but still neat around the sides.

30. Mid-Taper Fade with Faux Hawk

The faux hawk is a softer, less dramatic version of the mohawk. The fade starts in the middle of your head, and the hair on top is styled to form a gentle ridge that points toward the center.

Unlike a full mohawk, the sides are faded but not shaved completely, giving a balanced, stylish look. This haircut is trendy yet easy to manage.

It works well for casual days or when you want to look a bit more fashionable without going too bold. It suits many hair types and face shapes.

31. Mid-Taper Fade with Defined Hairline

This style focuses on creating a very clean and sharp hairline at the front while keeping the fade starting from the middle of the head.

The barber carefully shapes the hairline with a razor or trimmer to make it straight, crisp, and well-defined.

This adds a polished touch to the haircut and makes your face stand out more. It’s a popular style for those who want to look extra neat and put together.

32. Mid-Taper Fade with Shadow Fade

The mid-taper fade with a shadow fade is a softer, more natural-looking haircut. This makes the fade look smooth and subtle, not too sharp or dramatic.

The fade starts in the middle of your head and blends nicely into the longer hair on top.

This style works well if you want a clean look but prefer something gentle and easy on the eyes. It suits many hair types and face shapes.

33. Mid-Taper Fade with Curly Fringe

The mid-taper fade with curly fringe is a cool haircut that mixes short sides with curly hair at the front.

The fade starts in the middle of your head and blends down to the skin, while the curls on top are left longer and styled forward as a fringe.

This style shows off natural curls and gives a fresh, trendy look. It works best if you have curly or wavy hair and want to keep some volume on top without too much length on the sides.

More Fresh Mid-Taper Fade Haircut Ideas

If you are still looking for fresh styles, here are more mid-taper fade haircut ideas to help you find the perfect look that fits your vibe.

34. Mid-Taper Fade with Textured Top: This style pairs a mid-taper fade with a messy, textured top for a relaxed yet stylish look. It’s great for adding volume and movement.

35. Mid-Taper Fade with Side Part: A clean side part adds structure to the mid-taper fade, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions. It gives a classic vibe with a modern twist.

36. Mid-Taper Fade with Slick Back: The mid-taper fade blends smoothly while the top hair is slicked back for a sleek, polished finish. This look suits straight hair best.

37. Mid-Taper Fade with Spiky Hair: Add some edge by styling the top hair spiky with a mid-taper fade on the sides. It’s youthful and easy to maintain.

38. Mid-Taper Fade with Beard Fade: The mid-taper fade blends seamlessly into a beard fade for a sharp, coordinated look. Great if you want a full grooming style.

39. Mid-Taper Fade with Quiff: The mid-taper fade supports a voluminous quiff on top, adding height and style. It’s trendy and works well with straight or wavy hair.

40. Mid-Taper Fade with Afro: Pair a mid-taper fade with a natural afro top for a stylish contrast between short sides and textured curls.

41. Mid-Taper Fade with Messy Curls: Keep your curls messy and natural on top with a clean mid-taper fade on the sides for a balanced, modern look.

42. Mid-Taper Fade with Layered Hair: Layers on top with a mid-taper fade create dimension and movement, ideal for those wanting a fuller hairstyle.

43. Mid-Taper Fade with Angular Fringe: An angular fringe styled forward contrasts nicely with the clean mid-taper fade, adding a sharp, contemporary edge.

44. Mid-Taper Fade with Long Hair on Top: Keep length on top while the sides fade mid-way for a bold, versatile look that allows many styling options.

45. Mid-Taper Fade with Highlights: Add highlights to the top hair to give extra depth and style, making the mid-taper fade stand out even more.

46. Mid-Taper Fade with Curly Top: A mid-taper fade paired with tight curls on top offers a fresh and natural hairstyle with clean sides.

47. Mid-Taper Fade with Faux Hawk and Beard: The mid-taper fade combined with a faux hawk and matching beard fade creates a tough, stylish look.

48. Mid-Taper Fade with Side Swept Hair: Sweep your longer top hair to one side with a mid-taper fade for a clean yet stylish appearance.

49. Mid-Taper Fade with Tapered Beard: The fade smoothly connects with a tapered beard for a neat, balanced finish to your look.

50. Mid-Taper Fade with Pompadour: The mid-taper fade supports a classic pompadour on top, blending old-school style with modern edges.

51. Mid-Taper Fade with Short Curls: Short curls on top with a mid-taper fade give a neat and youthful hairstyle that’s easy to care for.

52. Mid-Taper Fade with Mohawk Fade: A mohawk-style strip runs down the center with a mid-taper fade on the sides for a bold, trendy haircut.

53. Mid-Taper Fade with Natural Waves: Natural waves on top pair beautifully with the mid-taper fade to create a relaxed yet polished look.

54. Mid-Taper Fade with Razor Part: A sharp razor part adds a clean division in your hairstyle, complementing the smooth mid-taper fade.

55. Mid-Taper Fade with Sideburn Fade: This style fades the sideburns into the mid-taper fade for a more cohesive and tidy look.

56. Mid-Taper Fade with Crew Cut: Pair a classic crew cut on top with a mid-taper fade for a sharp and simple style.

57. Mid-Taper Fade with Curly Top and Beard: Keep curls on top while blending the mid-taper fade into a full beard for a bold, masculine style.

58. Mid-Taper Fade with Undercut: The undercut on the sides blends with the mid-taper fade for a stylish contrast with longer top hair.

59. Mid-Taper Fade with Fringe and Beard: A forward fringe combined with a mid-taper fade and beard makes for a balanced, fashionable look.

60. Mid-Taper Fade with Low Taper: This fade starts mid-head and gradually tapers lower near the neck for a soft and natural finish.

61. Mid-Taper Fade with High Volume Top: Add lots of volume on top to contrast with the neat mid-taper fade for a bold style statement.

62. Mid-Taper Fade with Temple Fade: A temple fade blends the hair near the temples smoothly into the mid-taper fade for a polished look.

63. Mid-Taper Fade with Side Fringe: Sweep the top hair to the side as a fringe with the mid-taper fade for a modern, trendy style.

64. Mid-Taper Fade with Messy Pompadour: The messy pompadour on top mixed with the mid-taper fade gives a cool, casual vibe.

65. Mid-Taper Fade with Textured Crop: Short textured hair on top pairs with a mid-taper fade for a fresh and easy-to-style haircut.

66. Mid-Taper Fade with Slick Side Part: A slicked-back side part looks sharp when combined with the clean lines of a mid-taper fade.

67. Mid-Taper Fade with Wavy Top: Natural waves on top with a mid-taper fade create a relaxed yet stylish appearance.

68. Mid-Taper Fade with Hard Part: A hard part shaved into the fade adds a striking line for a sharp, modern haircut.

69. Mid-Taper Fade with Tapered Neckline: The neckline fades softly from mid-head down for a clean finish that looks well-groomed.

70. Mid-Taper Fade with Brush Up: Brush your hair up on top to add height and style that pairs perfectly with a mid-taper fade.

71. Mid-Taper Fade with Buzz Cut Top: Combine a short buzz cut on top with a mid-taper fade on the sides for an ultra-clean, low-maintenance look.

72. Mid-Taper Fade with Long Fringe: Leave a long fringe on top styled forward while the sides have a neat mid-taper fade.

73. Mid-Taper Fade with Short Pompadour: A short pompadour works well with a mid-taper fade for a classic yet modern hairstyle.

74. Mid-Taper Fade with Beard Outline: The fade smoothly blends into a well-shaped beard outline for a tidy, masculine look.

75. Mid-Taper Fade with Curly Undercut: Curly hair on top with an undercut and mid-taper fade on the sides gives a trendy, textured style.

Maintenance Tips for Mid-Taper Fades

Keeping your mid-taper fade looking fresh and sharp takes some care. Here are easy tips to help you maintain the style and keep it looking great every day.

Get regular trims: Visit your barber every 2 to 3 weeks to keep the fade clean and sharp. This prevents the sides from growing out unevenly.
Use light hair products: Use pomade, wax, or styling cream to control the top hair without making it heavy or greasy.
Keep hair moisturized: Apply a light leave-in conditioner or hair oil, especially if you have curly or dry hair.
Use a quality comb or brush: A fine-tooth comb helps style straight hair, while a wide-tooth comb is best for curls.
Avoid washing hair daily: Washing 2-3 times a week helps keep natural oils that protect your scalp and hair.
Use a trimmer at home: To maintain the edges between barber visits, carefully trim around the hairline if you feel confident.
Protect your hair at night: Use a satin or silk pillowcase or a hair wrap to reduce frizz and breakage.