TAPER FADE - What is it? Why are taper fades taking over?

If you've ever scrolled through Instagram or walked past a barbershop and noticed a sleek, clean haircut with the hair gradually getting shorter down the sides and back, you've likely seen a taper fade. The most asked mens haircut in Windsor at the moment.

What Is A Taper Fade Haircut?

A popular mens haircut where the hair gradually shortens from the top of the head down to the neckline, with a clean, blended look on the sides and back. Its in the title - a combination of a taper and a fade. A taper with a fade allows barbers to neatly transition from hair of a significant length, right down to a skin fade with, quite literally, razor-sharp precision.

Key features of a taper fade:

Hair gets shorter gradually (tapers) around the sideburns and neckline.

Clean finish, sharp edges around the ears and neckline.

Versatile: Works with most hairstyles - curly, straight, long on top, short and textured.

Benefits of our Taper Fade

Clean, Professional Look

A taper fade gives you a fresh, well-groomed appearance that works for any setting from the office to nights out.

Low Maintenance

Because the fade blends gradually, it grows out more naturally than harsh cuts, meaning you can go longer between trims without it looking messy.

Versatile with Any Style

It pairs well with almost any hairstyle quiffs, pompadours, curls, textured crops, or even longer styles on top. It’s a great foundation cut.

Customisable

From low to high, skin to scissor fades, your barber can tailor the taper to suit your head shape, style, and lifestyle.

Enhances Facial Features

A well-executed taper fade draws attention to your facial structure, especially the jawline and cheekbones giving a cleaner, more defined profile.

Suits All Hair Types

Whether your hair is straight, curly, thick, or thin a taper fade works across the board and helps control bulk while maintaining shape.

Timeless and Trend Proof

It’s a classic style that never really goes out of fashion, but always looks modern the best of both worlds.

Best Products for a Taper Fade

1. Matte Clay or Paste

Best for: Most hair types, especially short to medium-length. Adds texture and hold without shine, keeping the fade clean and natural-looking

We Recommend STMNT Matte Paste for a Strong hold, dry finish.

2. Styling Powder

Best for: Fine or limp hair needing volume

The powder gives a lightweight, natural lift without greasiness

We Recommend STMNT Grooming Powder, this Boosts volume and provides a matte finish.

3. Pomade (Water-Based)

Best for: Sleek, classic looks like a side part or pompadour.

The pomade gives control and shine without buildup

We recommend STMNT Shine Pomade and a Sleek finish.

4. Sea Salt Spray

Best for: Wavy or textured styles

The spray enhances natural texture, adds volume and grit

We recommend STMNT Salt Spray, it’s great pre-styler for added control.

5. Lightweight Gel or Cream

Best for: Tight control with flexibility. This keeps flyaways down and holds shape with minimal crunch

We recommend STMNT Styling Gel for Controlled hold and no stiffness.

Who invented the taper?

The taper fade is a collaborative evolution, born from traditional barbering, military cuts, and urban culture, with no single inventor, just decades of skill passed through chairs and clippers.

Book your men's Haircut in our Windsor branch by appointment via fresha or call 01753 856888 to claim your taper fade today!

See you in the chair!