Mid Taper Guide: Everything You Need to Know About This Popular Haircut
Mid Taper Guide: Everything You Need to Know About This Popular Haircut
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The mid taper haircut has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its clean, versatile look that can be styled in various ways. It’s a great option for those who want a fresh and sharp appearance without going too short or too long. Whether you're considering a mid taper for yourself or simply curious about the style, this mid taper guide will provide you with all the information you need, including tips for maintenance, styling, and variations.
What Is a Mid Taper?
A mid taper is a popular hairstyle that involves gradually shortening the length of the hair from the top down toward the ears and neckline. The "taper" refers to the gradual fade, which creates a seamless transition from long to short hair. The "mid" part of the name refers to the position of the fade, typically starting around the temples or just above the ears.
Unlike a high taper, where the fade starts higher up on the head, or a low taper, which begins closer to the neckline, the mid taper strikes a balance between the two. It offers a clean, sharp look that works well for various face shapes and hair types.
How to Get a Mid Taper Haircut
To achieve the perfect mid taper, it's essential to go to a skilled barber who understands the technique and can deliver a clean fade. Here's what you can expect during your appointment:
1. Consultation with the Barber
Before you begin the haircut, have a conversation with your barber about how you want the fade to look. Some prefer a more subtle taper, while others may opt for a more dramatic fade. Communicate the starting point of the taper (usually around the temple or above the ear) and how short you want the sides and back to be.
2. Tapering the Sides and Back
The barber will use clippers to gradually reduce the length of the hair from the top of your head down to the sides and neck. A mid taper typically starts with a longer length on top and then transitions to a shorter length around the ear and neck. The barber will blend the fade, ensuring a seamless and sharp finish.
3. Trimming the Top
While the sides are tapered, the top hair is usually left longer. Depending on your preferences, the barber may trim the top slightly to match the taper and clean up any unevenness. The length on top can be customized to suit your style, whether you want a messy, textured look or a more polished appearance.
4. Blending the Fade
A good barber will ensure that the fade is blended seamlessly. This process is crucial for achieving the smooth transition between different lengths of hair. The goal is to create a clean look with no harsh lines or visible contrasts.
5. Final Touches
After the fade is completed, the barber will check the overall symmetry and shape of the haircut, making adjustments as needed. They may also trim your beard or neckline to ensure everything looks neat and sharp.
How to Style a Mid Taper
One of the best things about a mid taper haircut is its versatility. It can be styled in various ways to suit your personal taste and preferences. Here are some popular styling options:
1. Textured Top
For a more laid-back and casual look, you can style the longer hair on top with a textured finish. Use a lightweight styling product, such as a texturizing spray or a matte pomade, to add volume and definition. Simply run your fingers through the hair to create a messy, natural style.
2. Slicked Back
For a more formal or polished look, you can slick the top hair back using a strong-hold gel or pomade. This style is perfect for professional settings or occasions where you want to look more put-together.
3. Spiky Hair
If you prefer a more edgy or bold appearance, consider styling the top of your hair into spikes. This can be achieved by using a strong-hold gel or wax to create textured spikes. The mid taper fade provides a sharp contrast to the spiky style, making it stand out.
4. Side Part
A side part is a classic way to style a mid taper. Simply create a part on one side and comb the top of your hair over for a neat, well-groomed look. This style works well for both casual and formal settings and is easy to maintain.
5. Buzzed Sides with Longer Top
For those who prefer a more dramatic difference between the top and sides, you can ask your barber to leave the top much longer while keeping the sides buzzed. This creates a striking contrast and emphasizes the mid taper fade.
Maintenance Tips for Your Mid Taper Haircut
Like any haircut, the mid taper requires regular maintenance to keep it looking fresh. Here are a few tips for maintaining your haircut:
1. Regular Trims
To maintain the clean look of your mid taper, it's essential to get regular trims. The fade will grow out over time, so visit your barber every 4 to 6 weeks for touch-ups and to keep the fade sharp.
2. Use the Right Products
Use styling products suited to your hair type to keep your mid taper looking its best. For a textured look, opt for a lightweight wax or pomade. For a slicked-back style, a gel or cream with a strong hold will help keep your hair in place throughout the day.
3. Wash and Condition Your Hair
Maintaining healthy hair is crucial for keeping your mid taper looking sharp. Make sure to wash and condition your hair regularly to keep it soft, clean, and manageable. Healthy hair will also help styling products work better.
4. Be Gentle with Your Hair
Avoid excessive heat or harsh treatment that could damage your hair. Be gentle when brushing or styling your hair to prevent breakage, especially if you have longer hair on top.
Variations of the Mid Taper
There are many ways to customize the mid taper haircut to suit your preferences. Here are a few popular variations:
1. Skin Fade Mid Taper
A skin fade mid taper starts with a very short fade that goes all the way down to the skin around the ears and neck, creating a bold, clean look. The skin fade provides a stark contrast with the longer hair on top, making it a trendy choice.
2. Textured Mid Taper
For those who like a little more texture and volume, the textured mid taper adds extra definition to the hair on top. This variation works well with natural, wavy, or curly hair, as the taper accentuates the natural texture.
3. Curly Mid Taper
If you have curly hair, the mid taper can help manage volume while maintaining the shape and bounce of your curls. A barber skilled in cutting curly hair will ensure the fade complements your natural curls.
4. Crew Cut Mid Taper
For a more classic look, you can combine the mid taper with a crew cut. The sides and back are tapered, while the top is kept short and neat. This is a low-maintenance option that still looks sharp and clean.
Conclusion
The mid taper is a versatile, stylish haircut that works for a wide range of face shapes and hair types. Whether you're looking for a polished, professional look or something more casual and textured, the mid taper guide provides all the information you need to understand this trendy style. With regular maintenance, the mid taper will keep you looking sharp and stylish for months to come. Report this page