What Is a Taper Haircut? Everything you need to know
The taper haircut is a versatile, timeless style that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re heading to a business meeting, a casual hangout, or a formal event, the taper haircut effortlessly fits the bill.
So, what exactly is a taper haircut, and why is it so popular? At its core, a taper haircut involves gradually shortening the hair from the top of your head to the neckline, creating a smooth, blended look.
This gradual transition is what sets the taper apart from other styles like tapers and fades, where the fade starts more abruptly. The result is a clean, polished appearance that’s both stylish and practical.
In this blog post, you will get all the details you need to know about the taper haircut. We’ll explore the different variations, discuss the benefits, and provide tips on how to get and maintain this classic style.
What Is a Taper Haircut?
When it comes to hairstyles, the taper haircut stands out for its versatility and timeless appeal. But what exactly is a taper haircut, and why is it so popular? Let’s break it down.
A taper haircut is all about the gradual shortening of hair length from the top of your head down to the neckline. This seamless transition creates a neat and polished look, making it a go-to choice for many.
Key Features
The hallmark of a taper haircut is how the hair gradually decreases in length. The top remains longer, while the sides and back slowly shorten as they reach the neckline. This creates a clean, blended look that’s both stylish and easy to maintain.
Difference from Other Styles
You might wonder how a taper differs from other popular styles like fades and undercuts. Well, a fade starts with a more drastic transition, where the hair quickly goes from longer to very short or even down to the skin, creating a more pronounced contrast.
A taper, on the other hand, offers a smoother, more gradual blend. Meanwhile, an undercut involves shaving the sides and back very short, with a stark contrast to the longer hair on top.
Types of Taper Haircuts
Now that we know what a taper haircut is, let’s dive into its different variations. Each type has its unique characteristics, so you can choose one that best suits your style.
Classic Taper
The classic taper is the epitome of timeless elegance. It features a gradual reduction in hair length, maintaining a conservative and polished look. Think of it as the perfect balance—not too bold, not too subtle.
Low Taper
In a low taper, the tapering effect starts closer to the ears. This style offers a more subtle look compared to other types, making it ideal for those who want to keep things low-key but stylish.
High Taper
A high taper begins its gradient higher on the head, usually around the temples. This creates a more noticeable contrast and can add a modern edge to your overall look.
Taper Fade
The taper fade is a blend between a taper and a fade. It combines the smooth gradient of a taper with the sharp transition of a fade. This style is perfect for those who want the best of both worlds—a polished look with a touch of boldness.
Why Choose a Taper Haircut?
You might be asking, why should I choose a taper haircut? Here’s why:
Versatility
One of the greatest advantages of a taper haircut is its versatility. It’s suitable for various hair types and personal styles. Whether you have curly, straight, thick, or thin hair, a taper can be tailored to enhance your natural look.
Low Maintenance
If you don’t want to spend hours styling your hair every morning, the taper haircut is a lifesaver. Compared to other styles, a taper is easier to maintain. Regular trims every few weeks will keep it looking sharp without much effort.
Professional and Casual
The beauty of a taper is that it’s appropriate for both professional settings and casual occasions. Whether you’re in the office or out with friends, a taper haircut strikes the perfect balance between formal and relaxed.
How to Get a Taper Haircut
Getting a taper haircut is an exciting change, but it's essential to know how to achieve the perfect look. Here’s how you can ensure you get the best taper for you.
First things first, talk to your barber or stylist. Communication is key. Bring photos of the sort of taper you want. Explain your daily routine and how much time you’re willing to spend on maintenance. Ask questions like:
What taper suits my face shape?
How often should I come in for a trim?
Can you show me different variations?
Tools and Techniques
Barbers use specific tools to create a taper, including clippers, scissors, and combs. Clippers are primarily used to achieve that smooth gradient where the hair gradually gets shorter. Scissors and combs help refine the look. Some barbers might use razors for a sharper finish.
Customization
Your taper should be customized to fit your face shape and personal style. For example, if you have a round face, a high fade might add some length to your look, making your face appear more oval. If you prefer a more conservative style, a low taper might be better suited for you.
2 Popular Taper Haircut Styles
Celebrity Inspirations
Celebrities like Zayn Malik and Brad Pitt have sported various taper styles. Zayn often goes for a taper fade, which gives him a trendy and edgy look. Brad Pitt, on the other hand, has been seen with a classic taper that complements his versatile roles.
Trendy Variations
Current trends include the skin fade, where the fade starts very close to the skin, giving a sharp, clean look. Another trend is combining the taper with a buzz cut on top, offering a low-maintenance yet stylish appearance.
Personally, I tried the skin fade once. It was a bold change, and while I enjoyed the sharp look, I eventually went back to my mid-taper fade for a softer finish.
Plan for Your New Look
If you’re thinking about getting a taper, go for it! It’s a versatile style that can be tailored to fit your personal look and lifestyle. Experiment with different variations until you find the one that feels just right.
Switching to a taper haircut is one of the best style decisions. It’s easy to maintain, looks great, and suits any occasion. Give it a try and see how it transforms your look!
Visit Heartbreaker Salon Today
Are you looking for the best hair care in Vancouver? At Heartbreaker Salon, we don't just fix damaged hair. We restore it. Since 2011, we've been rated one of the best hair salons in Vancouver and have a high-quality hair care team to back it up. So what are you waiting for? Visit us today!