22 Low Taper Fade Curly Hair Styles That Keep Your Curls Clean and Fresh

Think of your hair like a wild garden—full of life, texture, and personality. But even the best gardens need a little shape to truly shine.

That’s exactly what a low taper fade curly hair style does. It trims the edges just enough to give your curls a clean, defined frame—like a well-kept path through those curls. The sides fade smoothly, starting low, while the top stays soft, fluffy, and full of bounce.

It’s the perfect balance between polished and playful. You don’t lose your natural volume—you just shape it in a way that works with your curls, not against them.

In this post, you’ll find 22 low taper fade curly hair styles that bring structure to the sides and freedom to the top. These cuts work like magic for tight coils, soft waves, or thick spirals. So if your hair feels more jungle than style right now, don’t worry. We’re about to show you how to turn all that curl into confidence.

How to Style and Maintain a Low Taper Fade with Curls

Styling a low taper fade with curls isn’t hard, but getting it to look sharp every day takes the right steps. The goal? Keep the curls defined on top and the taper clean on the sides.

Start with moisture. Curls love hydration. Use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to keep them soft and bouncy. Dry curls tend to frizz and lose shape, so this step matters most.

Apply your product while your hair is damp. This helps your curls hold their shape and keeps them from puffing out. Use your fingers to style or a curl sponge if you want more texture and definition.

Let it air-dry or use a diffuser. Avoid rough towel drying—it ruins your curl pattern. Air-drying keeps the curls natural, while diffusing gives more volume without frizz.

Touch up your fade every 2–3 weeks. The low taper grows out quickly around your neckline and ears. A quick trim keeps everything sharp without needing a full cut.

Bonus tip: Sleep on a satin pillowcase or wear a durag to protect your curls overnight. It helps you wake up with fewer tangles and frizz.

Stick to this routine, and your curls will stay fresh, defined, and ready to go every single day.

Also read: Taper vs Fade Haircuts Explained: Which One Should You Get?

22 Low Taper Fade Curly Hair Styles to Try

Ready to turn heads and let your curls breathe? These 22 styles combine soft volume with clean edges, giving you the perfect balance of shape and texture. Let’s find your next cut.

1. Classic Curly Taper with Rounded Top

This is a no-fail choice if you want your curls to look clean without losing their shape. The top is left full and rounded, giving your curls a soft, natural look. Meanwhile, the low taper fade around the ears and neckline keeps the edges sharp.

It’s a style that works for all curl types—tight coils, loose spirals, or something in between. The rounded shape gives your hair structure without making it look stiff, and the taper stops it from puffing out on the sides.

Just keep your curls hydrated with a light cream or leave-in conditioner, and let them do their thing. It’s low-maintenance, fresh-looking, and easy to wear daily—no overthinking required.

Also read: 27 Short Curly Haircuts Men Can Rock for Easy Style and Texture

2. Tight Coils with Low Temple Fade

If you’ve got tight coils and want to keep them looking bold without the bulk, this one’s a win. The low temple fade keeps the sides sharp and tight right around your temples while your natural texture sits strong on top. It’s clean without losing that edge.

Use a curl cream to keep your coils soft and defined. This cut works great if you want low effort but maximum style.

3. Medium-Length Curls with Clean Edges

Medium-length curls give you that laid-back, full look, but when you add a low taper fade, everything snaps into shape. This style gives you volume up top and clean edges around the sides and neck, which keeps the whole thing from looking too grown-out.

It’s a solid everyday cut that works for casual days and nights out. Just finger-style it with some leave-in conditioner, and you’re set.

Also read: 21 Modern Mid-Taper Fade Haircuts for Men

4. Fluffy Curly Afro with Tapered Sides

This one’s for the guys who like to let their curls do the talking. The top stays big and fluffy, giving you height and personality, while the sides are tapered to keep everything shaped and fresh.

It works especially well if your curls tend to grow out wide. The taper keeps it neat without killing the volume. Use a pick to fluff it out, and let the taper do the rest.

5. Curly Fade with Defined Hairline

This cut is all about contrast—defined curls on top, clean fade on the sides, and a sharp, lined-up hairline. It gives you that crisp, barbershop-fresh look with just the right amount of curl.

If you like structure but still want to show off your texture, this is your go-to. Keep your edges lined up regularly, and the fade will keep your curls looking intentional—not wild.

Also read: 27 Modern Mid Fade Haircuts for Men That Turn Heads Instantly

6. Low Taper with Loose, Natural Curls

If your curls are on the looser side, this cut gives you room to keep things natural while adding shape where it matters. The low taper adds a clean fade near the neckline and sides so your curls can hang freely on top without looking messy.

It’s a chill, no-fuss look that works best with a little curl cream and some air-drying. Perfect for guys who like soft, touchable texture with a neat finish.

7. Tapered Twist-Out with Volume

This one brings some serious shape. You keep your twist-out full and defined on top, while the taper fade handles the sides and back. It gives your hair structure and lets the texture shine.

Twist-outs add stretch and style to tight curls, and pairing them with a taper keeps the whole thing looking sharp. Just twist it up, let it set, and go. This one’s bold, clean, and always stands out.

8. Short Curls with Sharp Line-up and Fade

Want something fresh and tight? This look keeps your curls short and sharp, pairing them with a clean low taper fade and a razor-sharp line-up. It’s bold, defined, and super easy to maintain—ideal for guys who want low effort with high impact.

The contrast between your textured curls and the crisp edges gives it a sharp, structured vibe. This version of a low taper fade curly hair cut works especially well if your curls are tight and naturally stay close to your head.

Just keep the shape clean with regular trims, and use a small amount of curl cream to define the top. The line-up adds extra precision, making the whole cut look on-point even when you roll out of bed.

9. Curly Mohawk with Low Taper Fade

This style brings the attitude. The curly mohawk keeps your texture full through the center, while the low taper fade blends the sides down smoothly. It’s edgy without going extreme—and it keeps the curls as the main feature.

A low taper fade curly hair mohawk gives you height, shape, and clean edges. You don’t have to shave the sides completely—just taper them low so the curls take center stage.

Twist your curls or fluff them out, depending on the vibe you’re going for. With a little edge control around the hairline, this cut goes from weekend-casual to night-out-ready real quick.

10. Brushed-Out Curls with Clean Neckline

If you’ve got thick, springy curls and like a little volume, this one’s a solid pick. The curls stay big and brushed out on top, while the low taper fade cleans up the neckline and sides.

This low taper fade curly haircut is great for showing off natural shape and fullness without letting things get too wild. The clean neckline keeps the back sharp, while the fluff up top adds personality.

Use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to style it upward and outward. Skip the gel—light cream or leave-in conditioner keeps the curls soft and touchable.

11. Finger Coils with Tapered Sides

Looking to define every curl? Finger coils are the move. This style gives you tight, springy coils on top and faded sides for that perfect shape. The low taper fade curly hair combo here keeps the style from getting bulky and makes the coils pop even more.

It works best if your hair is medium to long on top and tightly textured. The taper adds that barbershop polish, so it’s clean all around without losing volume.

Apply a curl-defining cream, twist small sections with your fingers, and let them set. It’s a little extra effort, but the results speak for themselves.

12. Curly Crop with Low Taper Back

Short, textured, and clean—the curly crop is a go-to for a reason. You keep the top trimmed and shaped, while the back fades low for that polished look. It’s a sharp take on the classic crop, tailored for curls.

This low taper fade curly hair look is perfect for guys who want something simple and neat but still full of texture. You don’t need to do much in the morning—just a little moisture and go.

It works well with tighter curls and even wavy textures. The low taper at the back keeps your neck clean without taking away the natural volume on top.

13. Grown-Out Curls with Subtle Fade

Letting your curls grow out? You don’t have to let them get wild. This look keeps the top long and natural, while a low taper fade adds structure around the ears and neckline.

This low taper fade curly haircut helps you enjoy your length without looking unkempt. It’s perfect if you like a relaxed style that still feels intentional.

Let your curls fall where they want, use a leave-in to keep them soft, and trim the fade every few weeks to keep the shape looking fresh.

14. Taper Fade with Curly Side Part

Here’s one for the guys who like a little style with their shape. This cut uses a soft side part to give your curls direction, while the low taper fade keeps everything around the sides and back looking clean and tight.

This low taper fade curly hairstyle adds just enough polish to your curls without making it feel too formal. The side part gives it structure, while the curls bring movement and texture.

Use a curl cream and part your hair while it’s damp. Let it dry naturally or diffuse it for extra volume. It’s simple, stylish, and works for all kinds of curls.

15. Frohawk with Low Taper Detail

If you want a bold style that still keeps it clean, the frohawk is the way to go. It’s all curls through the center, shaped like a mohawk, but with a soft, low taper fade on the sides for structure.

This low taper fade curly haircut lets your texture take the spotlight while keeping everything sharp around the edges. It’s a great choice if you’re not afraid of a little height and attitude.

Keep your curls defined and moisturized, and visit your barber regularly to keep the taper lines neat. This look always stands out—in the best way.

16. Layered Curly Top with Low Fade Frame

Want volume without bulk? This cut adds layers to the top to bring out your curls’ natural shape, while the low taper fade gives the sides a clean, tight outline. The layers add height and texture, but the fade keeps it controlled.

This low taper fade curly hairstyle is perfect if your curls are medium to thick and you want a cut that frames your face without looking too heavy.

Finger-style with curl cream, and you’re good to go. It’s polished, easy, and full of shape.

17. Long Curls Tapered Around Ears

Rocking longer curls? You don’t need to chop them off to stay fresh. This style keeps the length on top and through the back, while the low taper fade around the ears keeps the silhouette clean and sharp.

It’s a great low taper fade curly hair option if you like movement and natural flow but still want a neat frame. The fade helps reduce bulk and gives your curls a more structured shape.

Keep your curls healthy with regular deep conditioning and trim the taper every few weeks to maintain balance.

18. Low Drop Taper with Natural Curl Definition

The low drop taper sits just a bit lower and curves along your head’s natural shape, giving your curls a soft fade that looks smooth and intentional. This style is all about enhancing your curls while keeping the edges fresh.

If you’re after a more sculpted, low taper fade curly haircut that works with your natural texture, this one hits the mark. The drop taper adds subtle shape without stealing attention from your curls.

Use curl-defining cream or gel to bring out the texture, and let the fade handle the cleanup.

19. Wet-Look Curls with Faded Sides

Want your curls to look sleek and styled all day? The wet-look finish gives your curls definition and shine, while the low taper fade keeps the sides crisp.

This low taper fade curly hairstyle has that fresh-out-the-shower vibe but stays neat and tight thanks to the taper. It’s a cool contrast between glossy texture and clean fades.

Use a gel or curl activator that gives hold and shine, and keep the sides shaped up for that smooth finish.

20. Short Curly Caesar Cut with Taper

Short, clean, and to the point—this Caesar cut keeps the curls cropped close with a short fringe in the front and a smooth, low taper fade in the back and sides. It’s a tidy, no-fuss option with texture on top.

This low taper fade curly hairstyle works great if you want something low-maintenance that still shows off your natural curl pattern.

Use a light styling cream or sponge to add definition, and you’re good to go. Easy to wear and even easier to maintain.

21. Curly High-Top with Tapered Bottom

Bring some throwback style into the mix with a curly high-top. The volume sits tall, giving you height and attitude, while the low taper fade keeps the sides clean and shaped.

This low taper fade curly hair look combines retro edge with modern polish. It works well if your curls have density and can hold their shape.

Blow-dry the top upward or use a sponge to shape it. Keep the taper low and the lines clean for that barbershop-fresh finish.

22. Defined Spiral Curls with Edge-Up and Taper

If your curls are naturally tight or spiral-shaped, this cut is all about definition. You keep the curls springy and well-formed on top, while the low taper fade frames the sides, and the edge-up sharpens the hairline.

This low taper fade curly hairstyle puts the focus on your curl pattern, but the edge-up and taper make it look intentional and polished—not wild.

Apply a curl cream to keep the spirals bouncy, and get touch-ups every couple of weeks to keep those lines crisp and clean.

How to Ask Your Barber for a Low Taper Fade with Curly Hair

Walking into the barbershop without a plan? That’s how you end up with a cut you didn’t want. If you’re after a low taper fade with curly hair, here’s how to ask for it the right way.

Start with the basics. Say, “I’d like a low taper fade, but keep the top full and natural.” This lets your barber know you want the fade to start low—just above the ears and neckline—while keeping your curls on top untouched.

Mention your curl type. Whether your curls are tight, coiled, or loose, it helps your barber know how much length to leave and how to shape it. You can say something like, “My curls are pretty tight, so I want to keep the shape but clean up the sides.”

Ask for a clean line-up if you want that sharp finish. It adds structure and really frames your curls.

Bring a photo. This is your best move—barbers love visuals. Find a style from this list and show it to them. No guesswork. Just results.

With the right ask, your barber will know exactly how to shape your curls and fade the sides—and you’ll walk out looking fresh, not frustrated.

FAQs

1. Is a low taper fade good for curly hair?

Yes—it’s one of the best cuts for curly hair. A low taper fade starts near your neckline and gradually blends into longer curls on top. It gives your hair shape without taking away volume. You still get all your texture and bounce, but with a clean, sharp frame that makes your curls stand out even more. It works for all curl types, from loose waves to tight coils.

2. Will a taper fade make my curls less visible?

Not at all! A taper fade only affects the lower sides and back of your head, not the top where most of your curls are. In fact, it can highlight your curls by making them look more defined. With less bulk on the sides, the curls on top pop more. It’s a great way to let your texture shine while keeping the rest tidy.

3. How often should I get my taper fade touched up?

To keep it looking sharp, try to get your fade touched up every 2 to 3 weeks. The sides and neckline grow out fast, and when they do, the clean look fades away. You don’t always need a full haircut—just ask your barber to clean up the fade area. This will help keep your haircut looking fresh and well-groomed.

4. Can I style my taper fade curls without using heavy products?

Absolutely. You don’t need heavy gels or waxes to style curly hair with a taper. Lighter products like curl creams, leave-in conditioners, or even a touch of mousse can work wonders. These help define curls without weighing them down. For extra volume, use a diffuser when blow-drying. The goal is soft and natural—not stiff or crunchy.

5. What curl types work best with a low taper fade?

The beauty of this style is that it works for all curl types. If you have tight coils, a low taper helps frame them with a clean outline. If your curls are looser or wavier, it brings structure and contrast to your shape. Even thick, fluffy curls look great with this cut. It’s a flexible style that adapts to your texture, not the other way around.

Conclusion

Your curls are already full of personality—all they need is the right shape to really shine. That’s where the low taper fade curly haircut comes in. It gives you clean edges, easy styling, and all the volume right where it matters most.

Whether your curls are tight, loose, soft, or bold, there’s a style here that fits your vibe. From neat and defined to wild and free, these 22 looks prove that you don’t have to choose between style and texture—you can have both.

Next time you’re in the barber’s chair, bring one of these cuts with you. Show off your curls, keep your fade fresh, and wear your look with confidence. Your hair’s got the energy—now it has the shape to match.