Ever run your fingers through your hair in the mirror and wish you could keep the length on top but clean up the sides without looking too severe? If you want a haircut that’s versatile, low-maintenance, and effortlessly stylish for work and weekends, the long taper fade might be exactly what you’re imagining. In this guide I’ll walk you through why the long taper fade for men is trending, how to ask your barber for it, styling tips, outfit combos, and real-world maintenance advice.
What is a long taper fade?
A long taper fade blends longer hair on top into shorter sides and a gradual taper at the nape. Unlike high fades or skin fades, the long taper fade keeps more length above the ears and offers a softer, more wearable shape. Think: a tailored silhouette that still lets you show off texture, volume, or a laid-back fringe.
Why men love this cut
- Versatility — works with textured tops, pompadours, quiffs, and comb-overs.
- Professional yet modern — great for office environments and creative fields.
- Face-shaping — a subtle taper can elongate the face or emphasize cheekbones.
- Easy maintenance — regular trims keep the fade sharp without losing top length.
How to ask for a long taper fade at the barber
Clear communication is everything. Use these practical cues when booking or sitting in the chair:
- Say: “Long on top, tapered sides with a gradual fade — not a skin or high fade.”
- Specify lengths: top length (e.g., 3–4 inches) and side clipper guards (start with a #3 or #4 and blend down to a #1 or #2 depending on desired contrast).
- Mention the taper start: “Start the taper around the temple or mid-side” if you want a low or mid taper respectively.
- Ask for a scissor-over-comb blend if you want a softer transition between top and sides.
Styling the long taper fade: products & routines
How you style the top defines the whole look. Below are simple routines for different textures.
For straight or wavy hair
- Daily: use a lightweight matte clay or fiber for texture. Warm a pea-sized amount between palms, work through the roots, and style with fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
- For volume: blow-dry while lifting hair at the roots with a round brush or your fingers; finish with a blast of cold air to set.
For thick or curly hair
- Use a moisturizing cream or sea salt spray to define curls without adding weight.
- Consider a diffuser when blow-drying to keep the natural curl pattern intact.
For a polished look
Slick back with a medium-hold pomade or use a lightweight gel for shine before heading into a meeting or date night.
Beard pairing and face shapes
The long taper fade pairs beautifully with facial hair. A short boxed beard or stubble complements the clean sides and preserves a masculine frame. If you have a round face, add height with a textured pompadour; for square faces, keep the top neat and let the taper soften the jawline.
Outfit combinations to match your cut
Your hair sets the tone for outfits — here are real-world combinations that match the long taper fade vibe.
Casual weekend
Textured top + tapered sides → pair with slim-fit jeans, a white tee, and a bomber jacket. Add low-top sneakers for an effortless laid-back look.
Smart casual
Comb-over or neatly styled top → try chinos, an Oxford shirt, and a lightweight blazer. Leather loafers or Chelsea boots finish the outfit.
Business professional
Polished, slicked-back top → classic suit, crisp dress shirt, and minimal accessories. The long taper fade keeps you modern without being distracting in conservative environments.
Maintenance: how often to get trims
Most men keep the long taper fade looking fresh with trims every 3–6 weeks. If you prefer softer blending and less frequent visits, ask your barber to leave longer on the sides so you can stretch between appointments. Regular trims preserve shape, prevent bulky growth, and maintain the clean taper around the neckline.
Long taper fade men: styling tips summary
- Tell your barber you want a long taper fade with specific guard numbers and taper start points.
- Use the right products for your hair type — matte clay for texture, pomade for shine, sea salt spray for a lived-in look.
- Blow-dry for volume and control, especially if you want a quiff or pompadour.
- Coordinate your hairstyle with outfits: textured + casual, slick + formal.
- Book trims every 3–6 weeks to keep the fade crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to grow a long taper fade?
It depends on your starting length. If you’re growing from a short fade, expect 2–4 months of growth to achieve a noticeably longer top. Hair grows about half an inch per month on average, so plan accordingly and communicate with your barber to maintain shape during the transition.
2. Can men with curly hair get a long taper fade?
Absolutely. Curly hair looks great with a long taper because the contrast between textured top and neat sides creates dimension. Use hydrating products and a diffuser to control frizz and preserve curl definition.
3. What’s the difference between a long taper fade and a skin fade?
A long taper fade keeps more length on the sides and transitions gradually into the neck, without shaving down to the skin. A skin fade (or bald fade) goes down to the skin for a more dramatic contrast. Choose the long taper if you want a softer, more versatile look that fits both casual and professional settings.
Conclusion — Ready to try the long taper fade men love?
If you want a haircut that balances length and clean lines, the long taper fade is one of the most adaptable choices for modern men. Whether you’re aiming for textured volume, a slicked-back professional look, or something in between, this cut delivers. Book a consult with your barber, try a few products, and experiment with outfits to see what complements your new style best. For more hairstyle inspiration and outfit pairing tips, check out our hairstyle guide and men’s outfit suggestions.
Take action: Save a photo of your favorite long taper fade, show it to your barber at your next appointment, and tag us in your transformation! For deeper grooming tips, visit our grooming products and men’s style guides.
