37 Modern Low Taper Fade Haircuts for Men – Sleek and Easy to Style

A low taper fade haircut is one of the most stylish and versatile cuts for men. It’s clean, modern, and works with all hair types and face shapes. The gradual fade at the sides and back gives a sharp, polished look without being too bold.

Low taper fades are perfect if you want a haircut that looks neat but is easy to maintain. They blend well with different styles like buzz cuts, textured crops, and even longer tops. You can keep it classic or add a modern twist with a part or design.

This list of 37 low taper fade haircuts for men includes styles for every vibe — from sharp and professional to relaxed and edgy. Whether you like a subtle fade or something more defined, you’ll find the perfect look to match your style.

What is a Low Taper Fade?

A low taper fade is a haircut where the hair gradually shortens down the sides and back, starting just above the ears. It creates a smooth transition from longer hair at the top to shorter hair at the neckline, giving a clean and polished look. Unlike high or mid fades, the low taper fade starts lower, making it more subtle and natural.

The fade blends into the natural hairline, creating a soft, smooth finish that works with different styles like buzz cuts, comb-overs, and textured crops. It also pairs well with beards, creating a seamless connection between the haircut and facial hair. Its versatility and low-maintenance style make it one of the most popular cuts for men.

Why Low Taper Fades Are Popular

Low taper fades are popular because they offer a clean, modern look that works with any hairstyle and hair type. The subtle fade at the sides and back creates a sharp yet natural finish, making it suitable for both casual and professional settings. Its versatility, low maintenance, and ability to blend well with facial hair make it a go-to choice for men.

Also read: 12 Men’s Wolf Cut Haircuts to Rock This Year

37 Best Low Taper Fade Haircuts for Men

Finding the right haircut can change your whole look. These 37 low taper fade styles offer a clean, modern finish that works with any hair type or vibe. From classic to edgy, there’s a cut for everyone.

Classic Low Taper Fade Styles

Sometimes, sticking with the classics is the way to go. These low taper fades are timeless, easy to maintain, and always stylish. Perfect for any occasion, they’ll keep you looking sharp without the fuss.

1. Low Taper with Buzz Cut

Minimalist yet impactful, the low taper with a buzz cut is perfect for guys who prefer a clean, structured look without the hassle. The fade starts just above the ears and blends seamlessly into the neckline, giving your buzzed top a professional, fresh-out-the-chair finish.

Drake often sports this combo, proving that even the simplest cuts can look sleek and intentional. It works on all hair types and needs zero styling—just regular touch-ups to maintain that crisp taper. If you want low effort with high payoff, this is your go-to.

2. Low Taper with Crew Cut

The classic crew cut becomes even more refined when paired with a low taper. With short length on top and neatly faded edges, it adds subtle shape while keeping things clean and versatile. It’s the kind of style that suits any face shape and works just as well in a suit or sweatshirt.

Chris Evans has made this cut part of his signature look—strong, sharp, and timeless. A little matte pomade or cream adds texture without shine. It’s a great option for men who like traditional styles with a modern twist.

3. Low Taper with Side Part

Combining a low taper with a side part brings together tradition and edge in one sleek package. The side part adds definition and structure, while the taper keeps the cut looking tidy and current without going full skin fade.

This look channels Ryan Gosling’s signature grooming—elegant, understated, and effortlessly cool. It’s perfect for straight or slightly wavy hair and requires just a bit of pomade or cream to hold the part. Whether you’re heading to the office or a night out, it always delivers.

4. Low Taper with Comb Over

The comb over gets a modern upgrade with a low taper fade. It allows you to keep volume on top while keeping the sides clean and subtle. The taper enhances the contour of your haircut without taking away from the full, flowing top.

David Beckham frequently rocks this combo, proving it’s a cut that blends classic and contemporary style. Ideal for medium-length hair, this look thrives with a light styling product and a fine-tooth comb. It’s polished, versatile, and effortlessly sophisticated.

Modern and Textured Low Taper Fades

Give your haircut a fresh edge with modern textures and sleek fades. These styles combine clean lines with added volume and movement, creating a trendy, effortless look.

5. Low Taper with Textured Crop

The textured crop is all about short, choppy layers and movement on top. Paired with a low taper, it brings structure to the sides while letting the messy texture take the spotlight. It’s a stylish option for guys who want a little edge without going overboard.

This look has been seen on stars like Cillian Murphy—especially in Peaky Blinders—and it works best with straight to wavy hair. Style it with matte clay or sea salt spray to enhance the texture. It’s modern, cool, and easy to maintain with regular trims.

6. Low Taper with Curly Top

The low taper with a curly top is the perfect blend of sharp and natural. It lets your curls do the talking up top while keeping the neckline and sides clean and fresh. The contrast in shape makes this style visually interesting and super flattering.

Think of Michael B. Jordan’s go-to cut—it embraces natural curls while staying sharp. Keep curls hydrated with leave-in conditioner or curl cream, and define them with a bit of scrunching. It’s low-fade precision with high-texture flair.

7. Low Taper with Spiky Hair

Spikes are back—but they’ve evolved. The low taper gives this throwback style a clean, contemporary edge. With short, defined spikes on top and a soft fade around the ears and neck, this look adds energy without feeling too ’90s.

Nick Jonas has pulled off this combo flawlessly. Style it with a strong-hold matte product and use your fingers to create natural-looking spikes with some separation. It’s youthful, bold, and full of personality—great for straight or thick hair types.

8. Low Taper with Faux Hawk

A faux hawk paired with a low taper lets you rock a bold, lifted look without going full mohawk. The gradual fade on the sides keeps it sleek and wearable, while the styled center adds attitude and volume.

Zac Efron has worn this look on red carpets with a slightly tousled finish. Use a strong-hold wax or pomade to push the top upward or toward the center. It’s playful but polished, making it a great choice for guys who like statement styles with everyday appeal.

Low Taper Fades with Waves and Curls

Let your natural texture shine! These low taper fades enhance curls and waves while keeping the sides clean and sharp. The result? A balanced, polished style that feels effortless.

9. Low Taper with 360 Waves

The low taper fade paired with 360 waves is a crisp, polished look that always stands out. The fade hugs the neckline and sideburns while the waves ripple cleanly across the scalp, offering a balanced blend of texture and precision.

LeBron James has rocked this look with serious swagger. Keep your waves fresh by brushing daily, wearing a durag overnight, and applying wave pomade regularly. With routine care and clean edges, this style delivers unbeatable smoothness.

10. Low Taper with Loose Curls

Loose curls add natural volume and bounce, and a low taper brings contrast that elevates the whole style. The curls on top stay wild and free, while the subtle fade keeps the neckline and sides looking clean.

This look is ideal for guys with wavy-to-curly hair—like Timothée Chalamet’s signature texture. Use a curl-enhancing cream and let your hair air dry to maintain softness. It’s low-key, stylish, and perfect for embracing your natural flow.

11. Low Taper with Tight Curls

Tight curls bring texture and volume, and a low taper fade sharpens the outline without taking away from your curl pattern. This combo gives your haircut a fresh shape while celebrating natural coils.

Jaden Smith often rocks this type of cut, mixing artistic flair with structured edges. Use a leave-in conditioner and curl cream to keep curls moisturized and defined. It’s bold, low-maintenance, and full of personality.

12. Low Taper with Afro Top

The afro top and low taper fade is a classic-with-a-twist combo. The taper adds a clean finish around the ears and nape, while the afro adds height and presence. Together, they create a perfectly balanced silhouette.

Think Kendrick Lamar’s low-key afro looks—neat, expressive, and rooted in culture. Keep the shape trimmed and moisturize your curls with oil or cream. It’s timeless, stylish, and perfect for showing off natural texture with a modern edge.

Edgy and Creative Low Taper Fades

Want to stand out? These edgy fades feature bold designs, sharp lines, and creative cuts that turn heads. It’s a mix of style and personality in one cut.

13. Low Taper with Hard Part

Add instant sharpness to your low taper fade with a hard part. This razor-defined line creates a bold separation between the top and sides, adding structure and attitude. Paired with the subtle taper, the result is a clean and confident look.

Think of Paul Walker’s iconic cut—clean, classic, and cool. A bit of pomade or gel keeps the top in place, while the hard part does all the talking. Visit your barber regularly to keep the line sharp and fresh.

14. Low Taper with Design Lines

Turn your low taper into a statement with creative design lines shaved into the fade. From simple curves to geometric patterns, adding a design takes this cut from everyday to standout.

Odell Beckham Jr. often rocks custom cuts with etched-in lines. The key is precision—so find a skilled barber. Style the top as usual, and let the sides show your personality. It’s bold, edgy, and full of character.

15. Low Taper with Mohawk

A mohawk with a low taper is a striking blend of rebellion and refinement. The taper keeps the neckline and sides neat, while the longer center strip channels full-on attitude and edge.

Jason Derulo has pulled off versions of this style with volume and texture. Use a strong-hold gel or wax to shape the mohawk up or toward the middle. It’s perfect if you want to stand out without going full punk.

16. Low Taper with Blonde Highlights

Adding blonde highlights to a low taper fade brings brightness and contrast to your look. The subtle taper keeps things grounded while the lightened tips give the haircut dimension and style.

Zayn Malik has experimented with this combo, proving it works with everything from buzz cuts to longer tops. Ask your stylist for hand-painted or foil highlights depending on your texture. A little styling cream enhances definition and makes the blonde pop.

Low Taper Fades with Longer Hairstyles

Longer hair doesn’t mean messy. These low taper fades let you keep the length while adding structure and definition to the sides. It’s the perfect blend of relaxed and refined.

17. Low Taper with Long Fringe

A long fringe paired with a low taper gives you a cool, fashion-forward silhouette that’s edgy but wearable. The taper around the ears and neckline adds subtle structure, letting the longer fringe fall forward for a laid-back, textured vibe.

Think of Harry Styles’ early signature look—effortless but full of character. This style works well with wavy or straight hair. Use a light styling cream or sea salt spray to keep the fringe flowing and soft without weighing it down.

18. Low Taper with Slick Back

The slick back with a low taper is all about sleek confidence. Brushing the hair away from your face opens up your features, while the tapered edges add refinement without a harsh fade.

Brad Pitt has worn variations of this look—especially during red carpet seasons. Ideal for straight to wavy hair, use a high-hold gel or pomade and a comb to get that glossy, controlled finish. It’s a sharp look that transitions easily from day to night.

19. Low Taper with Quiff

The quiff brings volume and shape to the front, and the low taper makes the whole cut feel cleaner and more modern. The fade subtly blends the sides and neckline, keeping attention on the lifted top.

David Beckham frequently pairs his signature quiff with a taper for a polished, athletic vibe. Use a blow dryer and volume powder or mousse to build lift, then finish with a styling paste. It’s a bold look that never tries too hard.

20. Low Taper with Long Layers

Long layers add movement and a natural flow, and the low taper creates a clean contrast at the edges. This combo is great for guys growing their hair out who still want a defined finish around the neckline and ears.

Think of Keanu Reeves’ longer cuts—chill yet controlled. Let the layers fall freely or tuck them behind the ears for a neater profile. Just add a lightweight leave-in conditioner or styling cream to keep things smooth and frizz-free.

Low Taper Fades for Thick and Thin Hair

Whether you’re working with thick or thin hair, these low taper fades offer the perfect solution. They create balance, add texture, and make styling easier every day.

21. Low Taper with Thick Hair

Thick hair can be tough to manage, but a low taper fade brings balance and structure. By reducing bulk around the neckline and ears, the taper keeps the overall shape clean while letting the natural volume shine up top.

Henry Cavill often wears cuts that embrace his dense hair while staying sharp and polished. To keep things in check, use a lightweight matte clay or paste that offers hold without adding heaviness. This combo works especially well with textured styles, messy crops, or medium-length tops.

22. Low Taper with Thin Hair

For guys with finer strands, a low taper adds shape without sacrificing fullness. The gradual fade makes the hair appear thicker by focusing volume at the crown and minimizing contrast on the sides.

Justin Timberlake has made the most of his finer hair with tapered styles that look fresh and full. Use a volumizing mousse or light styling cream to boost body up top. It’s a smart, subtle way to make thin hair look its best.

Low Taper Fades for Different Hair Textures

From straight to kinky, these low taper fades are designed to complement your natural hair texture. They highlight what makes your hair unique while keeping it clean and stylish.

23. Low Taper with Wavy Hair

Wavy hair and a low taper make a naturally stylish combination. The waves add texture and volume, while the taper keeps the neckline and sides neat—creating a balanced, effortless finish. It’s ideal for medium-length cuts that let your waves move freely.

Think of Dev Patel’s signature look—polished but never too rigid. A bit of sea salt spray or curl cream will define the waves without stiffening them. This style works well whether you wear your hair loose, pushed back, or with a relaxed side part.

24. Low Taper with Kinky Curls

Kinky curls are full of personality, and the low taper lets them shine while keeping the shape clean. The taper blends smoothly at the edges, defining your hairline without taking away from the natural texture up top.

Donald Glover often wears his curls with a tapered finish, showing how well this combo frames the face. Keep your curls moisturized with a leave-in conditioner and shape them with a curl sponge or fingers. It’s bold, fresh, and full of individuality.

Low Taper Fades with Beard Combinations

Pair your fade with a beard for a sharp, masculine finish. These styles blend the hair and beard seamlessly, giving you a clean yet rugged look.

25. Low Taper with Full Beard

A low taper fade paired with a full beard is the perfect balance of rugged and refined. The clean taper frames the ears and neckline, while the beard adds weight and masculinity to the jawline. Together, they create a strong, structured profile that’s hard to ignore.

Jason Momoa often rocks a variation of this combo—long, natural hair on top with a bold beard below. Keep the taper sharp and the beard well-shaped for a cohesive look. Use beard oil and a trimmer to maintain definition, and ask your barber to blend the fade into your beard for seamless flow.

26. Low Taper with Stubble

If you’re not into a full beard, pairing a low taper with stubble gives you just the right amount of edge. The soft fade around the sides complements the subtle facial hair, keeping everything looking intentional and sharp without going over the top.

Think of Chris Hemsworth’s casual off-duty look—clean haircut, minimal beard, maximum charm. Use a trimmer to keep the stubble even, and shape the neckline to match the fade. It’s low-effort grooming that still looks polished and confident.

Low Taper Fades for Straight Hair

Straight hair doesn’t have to be boring. These low taper fades add definition and contrast, giving your hair more shape and style without overcomplicating it.

27. Low Taper with Straight Fringe

This style keeps the fringe clean and blunt across the forehead, giving off a modern, runway-ready vibe. The low taper fade adds subtle structure on the sides and back, balancing the bold front with clean edges. It’s perfect for guys who want a sharp, youthful haircut with a little fashion-forward edge.

Think of Timothée Chalamet’s occasional red-carpet cuts — stylish without looking overdone. Best for straight hair and oval or long face shapes, this cut requires regular trims to keep the fringe sharp. Use a bit of styling paste to keep it in place without stiffness.

28. Low Taper with Slicked Back Undercut

This cut pairs the smooth polish of a slicked-back top with the structure of a low taper and disconnected undercut. It’s sleek, stylish, and full of boss energy. The taper fades into a sharp contrast, while the top is left long and slicked straight back.

Think Brad Pitt in Fury or Zayn Malik’s polished red-carpet looks. Perfect for straight to wavy hair. You’ll need a blow dryer and strong-hold pomade to keep the slickback in place. Ideal for formal settings or whenever you want to command attention.

Low Taper Fades with Skin Fade Touches

A skin fade brings an extra level of sharpness to the classic low taper. It’s clean, modern, and perfect for guys who like a crisp, defined finish.

29. Low Taper with Skin Fade

A skin fade takes the taper one level cleaner. The fade starts low and blends down to the skin at the neckline, giving your haircut a crisp, barbershop-fresh finish. Paired with a low taper on top, it creates contrast without being too aggressive.

Great for men who want something bold but not extreme. It suits all hair types and pairs well with line-ups or short textured tops. Think of Michael B. Jordan’s tidy fades — sharp, masculine, and easy to maintain with biweekly trims.

30. Low Taper with Drop Fade

The drop fade version curves around the ear and dips lower in the back, blending naturally with your head’s shape. Combine that with a low taper and you’ve got a cut that’s modern, balanced, and great from every angle. It adds a little edge to an otherwise classic fade.

This style works well with curls, waves, or thick straight hair. Think Odell Beckham Jr. — when he’s not rocking color, his fades always look tailored. Add texture on top for volume, or keep it simple with a crop.

Low Taper Fades for Special Occasions

Need a haircut that works for weddings, parties, or formal events? These low taper fades offer a refined, polished look that’s perfect for any big moment.

31. Low Taper with Pompadour

The pompadour gets a clean update with a low taper. The sides fade neatly into the skin while the top is left long, styled upward and back to create volume. It’s old-school cool with a modern finish.

Think of Bruno Mars or David Beckham’s iconic pompadours — bold, confident, and well-groomed. Works best with straight or slightly wavy hair. A blow dryer and strong-hold pomade will keep it standing tall all day.

32. Low Taper with Side Swept Bangs

Side-swept bangs soften the face and bring a touch of movement to your look. When combined with a low taper fade, the contrast between the airy fringe and sharp sides gives your haircut serious balance.

Harry Styles is a great reference — his bangs fall casually to one side while the rest of his cut stays clean and refined. Use a light styling cream for hold and keep the sides tight for best results.

Low Taper Fades for Everyday Wear

Low maintenance, high impact — these everyday low taper fades give you a clean, stylish look without the extra effort. Perfect for guys on the go.

33. Low Taper with Brushed Back Hair

Brushed back styles are effortlessly cool, especially with a neat taper on the sides. This cut allows the top to remain medium in length and brushed back with finger-combed volume.

It gives you a more relaxed version of the slick back — think Chris Hemsworth during press tours, wind-swept but sharp. Great for wavy or thick hair, and easy to manage with a bit of styling mousse or matte clay.

34. Low Taper with Tousled Top

Messy meets tailored in this casual-yet-clean look. The low taper keeps the edges neat while the top stays wild with natural texture. Tousled styles are ideal for guys who don’t want to fuss with perfect hair but still want to look put-together.

Shawn Mendes often leans into this look — a little volume, a little mess, and a whole lot of charm. Best with thick or wavy hair. Just scrunch in some texturizing cream and you’re done.

Low Taper Fades for Bold Styles

Make a statement with these bold taper fades. Vibrant colors, creative designs, and unique shapes take your haircut to the next level.

35. Low Taper with Colored Top

Add some edge by pairing a clean taper with a bold splash of color on top. Whether you go platinum blonde, silver, or something electric like blue or red — it’s a great way to express yourself without touching the fade.

Machine Gun Kelly rocks this vibe hard — fade clean, color loud. Works with all textures, but keep the color well-maintained with toners or touch-ups. Just make sure your cut is sharp to balance the bold top.

36. Low Taper with Two-Tone Hair

Two-tone styles bring contrast and dimension. This look pairs a dark base (usually near the roots) with lighter tips, giving the haircut depth and visual interest. Combine it with a low taper fade and you’ve got a head-turning combo.

Think Jaden Smith’s early two-tone looks — youthful, edgy, and full of personality. Great for curly or wavy hair with volume on top. Keep the taper clean to avoid it looking too chaotic.

37. Low Taper with Shaved Patterns

Nothing personalizes a taper fade quite like a custom design. Shaved patterns — from lines to waves or geometric shapes — add bold detail to the low taper. You can go subtle with a single line or intricate with full-side designs.

This cut is pure creativity. It works best with short to medium hair on top and a barber who knows their way around a razor. Think of athletes like Neymar, who constantly switch up patterns for an attention-grabbing finish.

Conclusion

A low taper fade haircut is a versatile and stylish choice for men. Whether you prefer a classic buzz cut, a textured crop, or a bold design, the low taper fade adds a clean, polished finish to any style. Its subtle fade works with all hair types and face shapes, making it easy to maintain while looking sharp. Try out different variations to find the one that suits your vibe!