The taper with mid fade haircut is a popular choice for men seeking a clean, modern, and versatile look. Its popularity stems from its adaptability—it can be styled in numerous ways to suit different hair types and personal preferences, from a classic, clean-cut appearance to a more textured, edgy style. This guide dives deep into understanding this haircut, exploring its variations, styling tips, and how to best communicate your vision to your barber.
Understanding the Taper and Mid Fade
Before we delve into specifics, let's define the key elements:
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Taper: A taper is a gradual shortening of the hair length, typically on the sides and back of the head. It creates a smooth transition from longer hair on top to shorter hair at the bottom, offering a refined and natural look. The length of the taper can vary significantly, influencing the overall style.
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Mid Fade: A mid fade refers to the point where the hair transitions from the longer hair on top to the faded, shorter hair on the sides. The "mid" designation indicates that the fade begins around the midpoint of the head's side, sitting somewhere between a high and low fade. This placement offers a balanced look, not too extreme yet still stylish.
Variations of the Taper With Mid Fade
The beauty of this haircut lies in its customizability. Several factors influence the final look:
1. Hair on Top:
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Length: The hair on top can be styled in various lengths, from short and textured to longer and styled with a comb-over, quiff, or even slicked back. This allows for a personalized touch to suit your face shape and style.
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Texture: The texture of the hair on top plays a crucial role. Those with thicker hair might opt for a shorter top to manage volume, while those with finer hair might prefer a longer top to add body and texture.
2. Fade Type:
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Sharpness: The fade can be sharp and defined, creating a stark contrast between the faded sides and the longer top, or it can be a softer, more blended fade for a more subtle effect.
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Skin Fade vs. High Skin Fade: A skin fade takes the fade all the way down to the skin, whereas a high skin fade starts higher up the head, creating a more dramatic look. This is a variation you can discuss with your barber.
3. Parting:
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Side Part: A side part adds a classic and sophisticated touch to the taper with mid fade.
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No Part: A clean, unparted look provides a more modern and minimalist style.
Styling Your Taper With Mid Fade
Maintaining and styling this haircut is relatively straightforward:
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Washing: Wash your hair regularly with a good quality shampoo and conditioner suited for your hair type.
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Drying: Allow your hair to air dry or use a hairdryer to style it according to your preference. Using a hairdryer and styling products allows for more control over the final look.
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Product: Depending on your hair type and desired style, you might use pomade, wax, clay, or gel to add texture, hold, and shine.
Communicating With Your Barber
To ensure you get the exact look you desire, it’s crucial to effectively communicate your vision to your barber. Consider:
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Bring Pictures: Show your barber pictures of the style you like, focusing on the fade height, hair length on top, and overall texture.
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Use Clear Language: Don't hesitate to use terms like "mid fade," "taper," "sharp fade," "textured top," and specify the desired length for the hair on top.
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Be Open to Suggestions: A skilled barber can offer valuable insights based on your hair type and face shape.
Conclusion
The taper with mid fade is a versatile and stylish haircut that caters to various preferences and hair types. By understanding its elements, variations, and styling techniques, you can confidently achieve a look that enhances your personal style. Remember, clear communication with your barber is key to getting the perfect cut.
