Before diving into styling tips, it’s essential to understand what a taper fade is. The taper fade is a hairstyle where the hair gradually shortens from the top down to the sides and back. It typically starts longer at the top and decreases in length as it approaches the neck. The result is a seamless transition between different hair lengths that can be customized to suit your personal style.
Understanding the Taper Fade
The taper fade is more than just a trendy haircut; it’s a versatile style that can be tailored to fit any personality or occasion. The gradual reduction in length creates a clean and sophisticated look, making it suitable for both professional and casual settings. This adaptability is what has kept the taper fade in vogue for decades.
Types of Taper Fades
There are various types of taper fades, each offering a unique twist on the classic style. The low taper fade, for instance, is subtle and conservative, starting just above the ears. The mid taper fade strikes a balance, offering a look that’s neither too bold nor too understated. Meanwhile, the high taper fade is more dramatic, starting higher on the head for those who want a more striking contrast.
Customizing Your Taper Fade
One of the greatest advantages of the taper fade is its customizability. You can adjust the fade’s starting point, length, and even incorporate patterns or designs. Discuss with your barber the look you wish to achieve, and they can tailor the fade to complement your long hair perfectly, enhancing your overall appearance.
Why Combine Taper Fade with Long Hair?
Combining a taper fade with long hair offers a unique look that stands out. Here’s why it’s worth trying:
Versatility
This style allows for various styling options, from sleek and polished to tousled and casual. The combination of long hair with a taper fade means you can adapt your hairstyle to suit any occasion. Whether you’re attending a formal event or enjoying a relaxed weekend, your hair can effortlessly match the vibe.
Low Maintenance
While it looks sophisticated, the taper fade with long hair is relatively easy to maintain. Regular trims keep the fade sharp, while the longer hair on top requires less frequent cutting. This means you can enjoy a polished look without constant trips to the barber, making it a practical choice for busy individuals.
Modern Appeal
This haircut is trendy and offers a contemporary edge that keeps you looking fresh and stylish. The contrast between the short sides and the longer top creates a modern silhouette that’s both eye-catching and fashionable. It’s a style that’s sure to turn heads and is favored by trendsetters and fashion icons alike.
Styling Tips for Taper Fade with Long Hair
Choosing the Right Fade
The first step is to decide the type of fade you want to pair with your long hair. Here are a few options:
Low Taper Fade
This starts just above the ears and is subtle, perfect for those who prefer a conservative look. The low taper fade offers a neat and tidy appearance, making it an ideal choice for professional environments. It provides a gentle transition from the long hair on top to the neatly cropped sides, maintaining a sophisticated edge.
Mid Taper Fade
Falls between the low and high fade, offering a balanced look that’s neither too bold nor too subtle. The mid taper fade is versatile, allowing you to experiment with different styles on top. It’s a perfect middle ground for those who want a bit of flair without going too extreme.
High Taper Fade
Starts higher on the head, creating a more dramatic contrast with the long hair on top. The high taper fade is bold and attention-grabbing, making it a favorite for those who love to stand out. It allows for creative styling on top, as the stark contrast emphasizes the length and volume of the hair.
Preparing Your Hair
Before styling, it’s crucial to prep your hair properly:
Wash and Condition
Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair clean and manageable. Clean hair is the foundation of any great style, and using products suited to your hair type ensures it remains healthy and vibrant. Regular washing helps to remove build-up and keep your scalp refreshed.
Blow Dry
To add volume, blow dry your hair, focusing on lifting the roots. This is especially important for a blowout taper style. Use a round brush to direct the airflow and create lift, giving your hair a fuller appearance. Proper blow-drying can transform your hair, making it easier to style and manage.
Heat Protection
Always apply a heat protectant before using any heat styling tools to prevent damage. Heat can be damaging, especially when styling long hair, so protecting it is essential. A quality heat protectant can shield your hair from the high temperatures of styling tools, keeping it healthy and reducing breakage.
Styling Techniques
Sleek and Polished
For a polished look, follow these steps:
- Straighten: Use a flat iron to straighten the long hair on top for a sleek finish. Straightening gives a refined look that exudes professionalism and elegance. Ensure you straighten in small sections for an even, smooth result.
- Product Use: Apply a small amount of pomade or gel to keep the sides smooth and in place. These products help in managing flyaways and maintaining the sleekness throughout the day. Choose a product with the right hold for your hair type to avoid stiffness.
- Finishing Touch: Use a shine spray to add a glossy finish. A touch of shine elevates the sleek look, making your hair appear healthy and well-maintained. It’s the perfect final step for a polished appearance.
Tousled and Casual
For a more relaxed style, try this approach:
- Texturize: Apply a texturizing spray or mousse to damp hair before blow-drying. This adds body and movement, creating a natural, effortless look. Texturizing products are essential for achieving that tousled, carefree vibe.
- Curl and Wave: Use a curling wand to add soft waves or curls to the long hair on top. Soft waves enhance the volume and add dimension, making the hair look fuller and more dynamic. It’s a great way to add interest to your hairstyle without much effort.
- Set the Style: Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the casual, tousled look. A light-hold spray keeps the style intact while allowing natural movement. It ensures your hair stays in place without feeling crunchy or stiff.
Blowout Taper Style
The blowout taper is a popular variation that combines volume and style:
- Volumize: Use a volumizing mousse before blow-drying, focusing on lifting the roots. Mousse adds thickness and volume, crucial for a successful blowout. It helps in creating a fuller, more buoyant look.
- Brush Up: Use a round brush while blow-drying to achieve maximum volume and lift. The round brush technique lifts the hair at the roots, creating a dramatic and stylish effect. It’s a key component in achieving the signature blowout look.
- Lock it In: Use a strong-hold hairspray to keep the style intact throughout the day. A strong hold ensures your blowout stays voluminous and in place, no matter what the day brings. It’s the finishing touch that keeps your style looking fresh and lively.
Maintaining Your Taper Fade with Long Hair
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your taper fade with long hair looking fresh. Here are some tips:
Regular Trims
Visit your barber every 3-4 weeks to keep the fade sharp and the long hair tidy. Regular trims prevent split ends and maintain the shape of your hairstyle. Keeping a consistent schedule with your barber ensures that your taper fade remains crisp and well-defined.
Moisturize
Use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to keep your hair hydrated and prevent dryness. Moisturizing is essential for maintaining healthy hair, especially when dealing with long lengths. Proper hydration prevents breakage and keeps your hair looking lush and vibrant.
Avoid Overstyling
Limit the use of heat styling tools to prevent damage and breakage. Overstyling can lead to dry, brittle hair, so it’s important to give your hair regular breaks from heat. Embracing natural styles occasionally can promote healthier hair and reduce the risk of damage.
Conclusion
The taper fade with long hair is a versatile and stylish choice that offers endless possibilities. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished look or a casual, tousled style, there’s a taper fade variation for you. With the right preparation, styling techniques, and maintenance routine, you can effortlessly rock this modern hairstyle. Embrace the contrast and stand out with the taper fade and long hair combination. Experiment with different styles and make this trend your own! The versatility and modern appeal of the taper fade ensure that you’ll always have a chic, contemporary look that suits any occasion.
