What is a Mid Taper?
A mid taper is a haircut that features a fade beginning around the middle of the sides of your head. The hair on top is left longer, while the sides and back gradually taper shorter. This creates a smooth transition from the longer hair on top to the shorter hair on the sides, giving it a clean and well-defined look.
Key Features of a Mid Taper:
- Mid Fade: The fade starts at the middle of the head and gradually shortens as it goes toward the ears and neckline.
- Longer Top: The hair on top is left longer, providing versatility for different styling options.
- Clean and Structured: The sides are blended smoothly into the top, offering a clean and polished appearance.
Why Choose a Mid Taper?
There are many reasons why the mid taper has become one of the most sought-after haircuts for men. It’s a versatile, stylish, and low-maintenance haircut that looks good on almost anyone. Here are some reasons to consider choosing this haircut:
1. Flattering for All Face Shapes
- The mid taper is versatile and suits various face shapes. Whether you have a round, square, or oval face, the fade on the sides and longer hair on top create a balanced look, helping to enhance your natural features.
2. Easy to Maintain
- The fade on the sides requires minimal upkeep, and the longer top hair is easy to manage. You don’t have to visit the barber frequently, making it a practical and low-maintenance option for busy individuals.
3. Versatility in Styling
- With the mid taper, the top is left long enough to be styled in multiple ways. From a slicked-back look to a messy, textured style, this haircut gives you the flexibility to change your look depending on your mood or the occasion.
4. Suitable for All Hair Types
- Whether you have thick, thin, curly, or straight hair, the mid taper can be adapted to suit your hair texture. The fade will look great regardless of your hair type, and the longer top can be shaped to fit your needs.
How to Get the Perfect Mid Taper
To achieve the perfect mid taper, you’ll need to visit a skilled barber. Here’s how the process typically goes:
1. Start with the Fade
- The barber will begin by fading the sides of your hair. The fade will start around the middle of your head and gradually shorten as it moves toward the ears and neckline. The fade can be customized based on how subtle or dramatic you want it to be.
2. Shape the Top
- The top is left longer than the sides and can be cut according to your preference. You can ask for it to be styled with layers for texture, or you can keep it uniform for a more classic look.
3. Blending the Fade
- One of the most important steps in achieving the perfect mid taper is blending the fade seamlessly into the longer top section. A good barber will use specific cutting techniques to ensure the transition is smooth and natural.
4. Texturizing the Top
- To add more movement and dimension to the top, the barber may use texturizing shears or a razor. This helps create volume and enhances the natural texture of your hair.
5. Finishing Touches
- After the haircut, the barber will usually style your hair to ensure it looks its best. Depending on your preferences, they may use products like pomades, gels, or waxes to define the style.
How to Style the Mid Taper
The beauty of the mid taper lies in its versatility. Here are some popular styling options for this haircut:
1. Slicked-Back Style
- For a clean, polished look, apply a medium-hold pomade or gel and comb your hair back. This works well for professional settings and formal occasions, highlighting the sharp fade and long top.
2. Textured Look
- If you want a more casual and relaxed style, apply a texturizing product to your damp hair. Use your fingers to tousle the hair on top, creating a messy yet controlled texture. This works well for everyday wear and adds volume to your hair.
3. Pompadour Style
- For a more dramatic look, you can style the top into a pompadour. Apply a strong-hold product to your hair and comb the top back and upward, creating volume and height. This style works best for individuals with thicker hair.
4. Side Part
- A side part can give your mid taper a more structured and polished appearance. Use a comb to create a clean side part and apply a medium-hold product to keep the style in place. This look is versatile and works well for both casual and professional environments.
Maintenance Tips for the Mid Taper
While the mid taper is a relatively low-maintenance haircut, some care is still required to keep it looking sharp. Here are some maintenance tips:
1. Regular Trims
- The fade on the sides will need to be touched up every few weeks to maintain its clean appearance. The top can be trimmed as needed to keep the length manageable.
2. Use the Right Products
- Depending on the texture of your hair, choose a product that helps define your style. For textured looks, use a lightweight pomade or wax. For a slicked-back look, opt for a stronger hold gel or cream.
3. Keep the Sides Fresh
- The fade on the sides should remain clean and sharp, so ensure you keep the sides trimmed regularly. You can ask your barber to maintain the fade whenever you go in for a trim.
4. Avoid Over-styling
- While the mid taper is versatile, try not to over-style it with heavy products. A little goes a long way, and too much product can weigh down your hair and take away from the clean look.
Who Should Get a Mid Taper?
The mid taper is a fantastic choice for almost anyone. Here’s who it suits best:
- Those looking for a versatile, stylish cut: If you want a look that’s both clean and trendy, the mid taper is a great choice.
- People with busy lifestyles: This haircut is easy to maintain, making it ideal for those with limited time for hair care.
- Those with any hair type: The mid taper works well with straight, curly, thick, or thin hair.
- Anyone who wants a balanced, clean look: The fade on the sides and the longer top create a harmonious balance, making it suitable for all face shapes.
Conclusion
The mid taper is a timeless and stylish haircut that offers the perfect blend of clean lines and textured volume. Whether you want a slick, polished look or a more relaxed style, this haircut provides flexibility and versatility. By following this mid taper guide, you can achieve the perfect balance of style, function, and ease. Book your next appointment with your barber and ask for the mid taper—it might just be the perfect haircut you’ve been searching for!