A high taper fade starts above the temple, high on the sides of the head, and fades down to the sideburns and neckline. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, how to ask your barber for it and how to style it.
High taper fade at a glance
- Top: Usually medium to long, to balance the short temples
- Sides and back: Tapered from above the temple down to the hairline
- Maintenance: Medium to high
- Trim every: About every 2 weeks
What makes it different
It's the boldest taper: more scalp shows around the temples and the top stands out more. It still keeps more hair on the sides than a high fade, because the back and lower sides are blended instead of taken short all the way around.
Who it suits
Round and wide faces, since short temples make the face look longer and slimmer. Go lower if your face is long or narrow.
Not sure about your face shape? Find it with the free face shape detector, or read our guide to men's face shapes.
How to ask your barber for a high taper fade
- Ask for a high taper starting above the temple.
- Say whether you want skin at the sideburns and nape.
- Ask to keep length and weight on top for contrast.
- Bring a photo. Barbers use these names differently, and a picture removes the guesswork.
How to style it
Works best with volume on top: a quiff, curls, a blowout or a textured fringe. Blow dry upward and finish with a matte product.
Variations
- High taper with curls: tall curly top, very clean temples.
- High taper blowout: top blown out for volume.
- High taper with a line up: crisp temple and forehead edges.
Try it before you cut
A haircut takes weeks to grow out. Upload a selfie to the AI hairstyle changer and see the high taper fade on your own face, next to up to three other styles.
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FAQ
What is a high taper fade?
A high taper fade starts above the temple, high on the sides of the head, and fades down to the sideburns and neckline.
Who suits a high taper fade?
Round and wide faces, since short temples make the face look longer and slimmer. Go lower if your face is long or narrow.
How often does it need a trim?
About every 2 weeks.
