20 Mid Taper Fade Haircuts | Rush

The mid-taper fade is a clean, versatile hairstyle that has become a modern favourite. It features a subtle fade starting midway down the head and tapering into the neckline for a balanced look that works for almost any occasion.

It is an Ideal look for those who want a sharp yet low-maintenance style. Additionally, the mid-taper fade also adapts well to all hair types, whether straight, wavy, curly, or coily, and complements both professional and casual looks.

At Rush, our expert stylists personalise every cut to suit your hair texture, face shape, and lifestyle, ensuring the perfect finish.

What Is a Mid-Taper Fade?

A mid-taper fade is a haircut where the fade begins midway down the sides and back of the head, blending gradually into the neckline. Unlike a skin fade, this style doesn’t take the hair down to bare skin, making it less dramatic but still crisp and stylish.

One of the mid-taper fade’s biggest strengths is its versatility. The mid-taper fade works with almost any top style, from textured crops and quiffs to curls, pompadours, and afros, giving you plenty of flexibility to customise your look. Whether you prefer sharp and striking or more of a relaxed look, there are plenty of options to choose from. 

Key Considerations for a Mid-Taper Fade

Hair Type

The mid-taper fade can complement all hair textures. At Rush, our stylists adapt every taper to your natural growth pattern and density, so your cut looks fresh and tailored. For example:

• Straight hair delivers clean, sharp lines for a refined finish.
• Wavy hair offers natural movement for an effortless, stylish look.
• Curly or coily textures bring extra volume and dimension for a striking look.

Face Shape

The mid-taper fade is all about proportion; your Rush stylist will help you pick the right balance to perfectly complement your features.

• Round faces benefit from more volume on top, creating elongation and balance.
• Square or angular faces pair well with slightly softer sides for a harmonious silhouette.

Lifestyle and Maintenance

If you prefer low upkeep, go for shorter top styles like crops or buzzed lengths.

If you like to experiment with styling, styles such as quiffs, textured fringes, or curls on top will give you plenty of flexibility to do this. 

For best results, book a touch-up every 2–3 weeks to keep the fade looking sharp and fresh. 

Top 20 Mid Taper Fade Styles

1. Short Hair with Mid Fade

Short hair with a mid fade combines shorter hair on top, usually 1–2 inches, with a clean mid-taper fade that begins halfway down the sides and blends into the neckline. Its simplicity makes it a good option for anyone looking for a low-maintenance yet polished style that can work for different occasions. Seen on celebrities such as Ryan Reynolds.

Suitable Hair Types: Straight to wavy hair that has a medium thickness.

Styling Tips: Apply a matte clay for texture or a light cream for a softer finish. Use a quick blow-dry on low heat for added shape.

2. Side Part with Mid Fade

The side part paired with a mid-taper fade is a timeless variation of the style. It features a defined parting with longer length on top and tapered sides for a clean contrast. This refined style works perfectly for both formal and casual looks, offering structure without appearing overly strict. Seen on celebrities such as Justin Timberlake. 

Suitable Hair Types: Straight or slightly wavy hair that holds shape easily.

Styling Tips: Use pomade or cream-based product for a sleek finish and set with a light hold hairspray for all-day control. Blow-dry in the direction of the part for added definition.

3. Spiky Hair with Mid Taper Fade

Spiky hair with a mid-taper fade is an edgier option of the style and adds some fun and personality to the look. The top remains short but textured, while the taper provides balance and clean edges. Seen on celebrities such as Zac Efron.

Suitable Hair Types: Straight to wavy hair, with a medium thickness.

Styling Tips: Apply a texturising paste to damp hair, use fingers for a tousled finish, and spritz with sea salt spray for volume.

4. Quiff with Mid Taper Fade

The quiff is a great option for adding height and character to your style. Paired with a mid-taper fade, this look creates the perfect balance between structured and relaxed. The longer top allows you to style upward and backwards, creating volume without harsh contrasts. Ideal for someone who wants a polished yet modern look. Seen on celebrities such as Zayn Malik. 

Suitable Hair Types: Straight to wavy hair, that is medium to thick in density.

Styling Tips: Apply volumising mousse before blow-drying with a round brush, then set with matte pomade for a natural lift.

5. Disconnected Pompadour with Mid Taper

A striking variation of the style that combines a retro vibe with modern precision. The disconnected pompadour features a contrast between the long, voluminous top and the faded sides, creating a silhouette. The mid-taper fade ensures the look remains sharp but softer than a skin fade, making it suitable for work and evening events. Seen on celebrities such as Bruno Mars.

Suitable Hair Types: Straight to wavy hair.

Styling Tips: Use stronghold pomade for structure and blow-dry upward for maximum height. Finish with a gloss spray for extra shine.

6. Mid Taper Fade with Textured Crop

The textured crop paired with a mid-taper fade is a very popular style. It features a choppy, layered top that adds movement and depth, while the taper keeps the overall shape neat. It’s perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look with minimal daily effort. Seen on celebrities such as Cillian Murphy.

Suitable Hair Types: Straight or slightly wavy hair.

Styling Tips: Use a matte clay for a natural finish and scrunch lightly for texture.

7. Mid Taper Fade with Line Design

A mid-taper fade with line design is a creative twist on the classic taper. This style includes a shaved line or design etched into the fade for a tailored and personalised look. It is a great choice for anyone looking for a striking style while keeping it professional enough for everyday wear. Seen on celebrities such as Paul Pogba.

Suitable Hair Types: Works across most hair textures, particularly effective on straight or short curly hair for a defined contrast.

Styling Tips: Maintain sharpness by visiting your stylist every 2 weeks for a trim. Pair with a matte pomade for a clean top style.

8. Mid Taper Fade with Drop Fade

The mid-taper fade with drop fade combines two fades. This style sees the mid taper fade drop lower at the back, following the natural curve of the head for a stylish contour. It gives more dimension and adds a unique twist to a classic look. Seen on celebrities such as Brad Pitt.

Suitable Hair Types: Ideal for short to medium hair, works well with straight or wavy textures.

Styling Tips: Keep the top neat with a matte paste or elevate with volume using a sea salt spray before styling.

9. Long Textured Fringe with Mid Fade

A long textured fringe with a mid fade is a relaxed yet stylish option where the mid-taper fade keeps the sides tidy while the top is left long, with a fringe styled forward for a casual vibe. It is a great choice for those looking for lots of natural movement and personality in their haircut. Seen on celebrities such as Timothée Chalamet.

Suitable Hair Types: Works best with wavy or straight hair, medium to thick density.

Styling Tips: Use sea salt spray for natural texture, finish with a lightweight styling cream for flexibility.

10. Twisted Curls with Mid Fade

This style blends the sharpness of a mid-taper fade with the texture of defined twists or curls on top, striking the perfect balance between neat and expressive. It celebrates natural curl patterns while keeping the overall look polished. Seen on celebrities such as Michael B. Jordan.

Suitable Hair Types: A great choice for curly and coily hair types.

Styling Tips: Keep curls hydrated with a curl cream or leave-in conditioner. Add a touch of styling gel for hold and definition.

11. Curly Mid Taper

A curly mid-taper fade embraces natural curls while keeping the sides clean with a mid fade. The fade starts midway for a neat contour, while the top allows curls to add volume and texture. A great option for someone who wants a structured yet natural style. Seen on celebrities such as Kit Harington.

Suitable Hair Types: Ideal for curly and wavy hair types.

Styling Tips: Use curl-defining cream and a diffuser attachment when blow-drying to keep curls bouncy and frizz-free.

12. Modern Afro Mid Taper Fade

A modern afro with a mid-taper fade is a stylish option that pairs an Afro top with a clean mid-taper fade. This look keeps length and volume up top while tapering the sides for a sharp outline. It’s bold yet easy to maintain. Seen on celebrities such as Childish Gambino.

Suitable Hair Types: Best for coily or curly textures.

Styling Tips: keep the hair hydrated and moisturised with a leave-in conditioner.

13. Low Afro with Mid Taper Fade

The low afro with the mid-taper fade is similar to the modern Afro, but with a slightly lower profile for an understated, versatile look. The mid-taper adds structure without taking away natural texture. Seen on celebrities such as Chris Paul.

Suitable Hair Types: Perfect for tight curls and coily textures.

Styling Tips: Keep it shaped with a sponge twist or curl sponge and use light styling cream for definition.

14. Afro Hawk with Mid Taper

The afro hawk with a mid-taper is a more daring option and combines a mohawk-inspired top with natural afro texture and a mid-taper fade for clean edges. It’s expressive, unique, and a great choice for anyone looking for a strong style that stands out. Seen on celebrities such as Jaden Smith.

Suitable Hair Types: Works best for coily or curly textured hair types.

Styling Tips: Define the style with curl cream and keep the sides tapered with regular maintenance.

15. Medium Mid Taper

A medium mid-taper is a balanced look with medium-length hair on top, offering versatility for slicked-back, side-parted, or textured styles. The mid-taper fade keeps the sides neat without going too short. Seen on celebrities such as Ryan Gosling.

Suitable Hair Types: Straight or wavy hair, medium thickness.

Styling Tips: For a polished finish, use light pomade or styling cream with a comb. For texture, use matte clay and finger-style.

16. Long Mid Taper

A long mid-taper is a great choice for men with longer hair who want to keep things sharp on the sides without losing length on top. Perfect for tying back or leaving loose. Seen on celebrities such as Chris Hemsworth.

Suitable Hair Types: Ideal for straight or wavy hair, thick density.

Styling Tips: Use leave-in conditioner and lightweight styling cream to prevent frizz and maintain flow.

17. Box Braids with Mid Taper Fade

Box braids with a mid-taper fade combine traditional box braids with a neat mid-taper fade for a modern twist. The fade adds sharpness and contrast while the braids offer both style and versatility. Seen on celebrities such as Travis Scott.

Suitable Hair Types: Perfect for coily and curly textured hair.

Styling Tips: Keep the scalp moisturised with light oil and refresh braids regularly to maintain neatness.

18. Man Bun with Mid Taper Fade

The man bun with the mid taper fade look pairs long hair tied into a bun with a subtle mid taper fade for a modern, tidy finish. Great for professionals who want a mix of sharp and casual. Seen on celebrities such as Jake Gyllenhaal.

Suitable Hair Types: Ideal for straight or wavy long hair.

Styling Tips: Use a smoothing cream and serum to keep hair sleek. Secure with a strong hair tie for hold.

19. Dreadlock Bun with Mid Taper Fade

A  dreadlock bun with a mid-taper fade is a versatile and stylish look where dreadlocks are tied up into a bun, complemented by a mid-taper fade for sharp edges. Perfect for showcasing loc styles while keeping a clean silhouette. Seen on celebrities such as Lenny Kravitz.

Suitable Hair Types: Perfect for coily and curly textured hair.

Styling Tips: Maintain loc health with lightweight oils and ensure regular maintenance for the fade and hairline.

20. Sponge Twist with Mid Taper Fade

The sponge twist with a mid-taper fade highlights sponge twists on top for definition and texture, paired with a neat mid-taper fade for structure. A stylish option for men embracing their natural texture. Seen on celebrities such as Meek Mill.

Suitable Hair Types: Ideal for curly and coily hair types.

Styling Tips: Use a curl sponge with twist cream for defined curls. Keep scalp moisturised to maintain health.

What Should I Ask My Barber For?

Bringing clear photo references is key. Visuals help to understand your vision exactly and the look you want to achieve.

Be sure to discuss your preferred taper height mid Mid-taper fades sit between low and high fades, but you can tailor the exact point where the fade starts. Also, clarify whether you want a skin-tight finish for a sharper look or a softer fade with a bit more length left near the skin.

It’s equally important to talk about how the fade will work with your natural hair texture and lifestyle. Your barber can advise on what style will complement your curls, waves, or straight hair and fit your daily routine, whether that’s low maintenance or something more styled.

Finally, ask for maintenance tips, like how to keep the fade sharp between visits and how to style the top so it always looks fresh.

Styling Your Mid-Taper Fade

One of the features of a mid-taper fade is how versatile it is with a wide range of styles. Whether you have curly, wavy or straight hair, a mid-taper fade can enhance your overall look.

For a polished, sleek finish, try a pomade or low-shine gel. These help keep hair in place without looking greasy or stiff.

If you want texture and natural movement, a sea salt spray or a matte clay can add a relaxed, effortless vibe.

For curls and coils, a curl cream or hydrating mousse are great options to boost definition and moisture. 

Tips for Maintaining a Mid-Taper Fade

Regular Trims

To keep your mid-taper fade looking sharp and clean, schedule trims every 2–3 weeks. This helps maintain crisp lines and smooth taper transitions. 

Hair Care Routine

Use a sulphate-free shampoo and a lightweight conditioner to keep your scalp healthy and your hair manageable without stripping natural oils. Depending on your hair type, opt for curl-enhancing products or volumising formulas to bring out your hair’s best texture. 

Keeping Your Fade Fresh

Between visits, you can maintain your fade with a trimmer for quick edge-ups or pop into Rush for a touch-up. Sleeping on a satin pillowcase helps reduce frizz and keeps your fade’s shape intact overnight. For those with curls, regular deep-conditioning treatments are essential to maintain softness, shine, and bounce.

Book Your Mid-Taper Fade Appointment at Rush

Ready for your fresh mid-taper fade? Book your appointment at your nearest Rush salon today for a sharp, stylish new look.