The side part with taper fade blends classic style and modern edge. This haircut offers sharp lines, versatile looks, and easy maintenance for a polished appearance that suits any occasion.
The side part with taper fade combines timeless elegance with a modern edge, making it a top choice for men looking to upgrade their hairstyle.
This cut features a clean side part hairstyle complemented by a tapered fade on the sides and back, creating sharp contrasts and a polished finish.
It works well on various hair types and suits different face shapes, from oval to square.
Whether you prefer a classic smooth look or a textured, casual style, the taper fade adds versatility and freshness.
Maintenance is simple compared to more complex fades, and regular trims keep the haircut looking sharp.
This guide will walk you through styling tips, popular variations, and care routines so you can confidently wear this stylish haircut every day.
Recommended: Ultimate Guide to Men’s Haircuts and Styles
Table of Contents
- What is the Side Part with Taper Fade?
- An Overview of Taper Fade
- How to Style a Side Part with Taper Fade
- Variations of Side Part with Taper Fade
- Benefits of the Side Part with Taper Fade
- Who Should Get a Side Part with Taper Fade?
- How to Communicate Your Desired Side Part with Taper Fade to Your Barber
- Maintenance and Care Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
What is the Side Part with Taper Fade?
The side part with taper fade is a hairstyle that combines a clean, classic side part with a modern taper fade on the sides and back, creating a sharp contrast and a polished look suitable for various hair types and face shapes.
The taper fade gradually shortens hair length from the top down, blending smoothly for a neat finish.
Easy to maintain and versatile in style, it works well for professional and casual settings, making it a popular choice for men.
An Overview of Taper Fade
The taper fade is a modern haircut featuring a gradual reduction in hair length from the top down to the sides and back.
Unlike sharper fades such as the bald or burst fade, the taper fade offers a smooth, subtle transition that creates a clean, polished look.
It pairs well with the side part hairstyle by emphasizing sharp lines and neatness.
There are three main types: the low taper fade starts just above the ears for a conservative style; the mid taper fade begins near the temples for a balanced, modern appearance; and the high taper fade starts near the crown, offering a bold, dramatic effect.
Each variation allows men to tailor the style to their personality and needs.
How to Style a Side Part with Taper Fade
Styling a side part with a taper fade gives you a fresh, clean look that works for many occasions.
Getting it right takes a bit of care with the cut, products, and technique. Here’s how to style it step by step for a sharp and polished finish.
Hair Length and Cut: What You Need to Start
Your hair on top should be about 3 to 5 inches long to have enough volume and movement.
The sides should gradually get shorter, from about 1 inch near the top down to very short or skin close to the ears and neckline.
This gradual change makes the side part stand out and keeps everything neat.
Washing and Product Application: Setting the Base
Start with clean hair so your styling product works better.
After towel drying, take a small amount of your product, pomade for shine, wax for hold without shine, or matte clay for a natural look.
Rub it evenly between your palms, then apply mostly to the top hair while keeping the sides neat.
This step sets the foundation for your style.
Creating the Side Part: Fingers and Comb Work Together
Use your fingers to move the hair to one side, forming the side part where you want it. Then take a comb to sharpen the part and smooth the hair down.
The comb helps define the line and gives a crisp finish. Adjust as needed until it looks clean and balanced.
Related Posts
The High and Tight Fade Haircut for Men
10 Best Men’s Hair Grooming Tools Every Man Should Have
45 Hairstyles and Haircuts for Black Men
Scalp Care: How to Take Care of Your Scalp
Crew Cut Haircut And Its Variants
The Buzz Cut: A Timeless, Low-Maintenance Haircut
Variations of Side Part with Taper Fade
The side part with taper fade works well with different styles to match your hair type and look.
Whether you want something neat or a bit bold, there’s a version that fits your style and daily routine.
Classic Side Part with Taper Fade: Clean and Polished
This style keeps things simple with sharp lines and a neat finish. It suits straight or wavy hair and works great for formal or professional settings.
The focus is on symmetry, with the hair neatly parted and tapered sides that frame your face without drawing too much attention.
If you want a timeless look that stays sharp, this is a solid choice.
Modern Side Part with Taper Fade: Textured and Relaxed
If you prefer a more casual vibe, this version adds layers and texture on top to create volume and movement.
It feels less rigid and more natural, making it a good pick for everyday wear or informal events.
You get a stylish look that still keeps the clean taper on the sides, blending classic and modern in a relaxed way.
Side Part with Hard Part Line: Sharp and Defined
The hard part line is a shaved line that separates the longer hair on top from the faded sides.
This adds a sharp, eye-catching contrast and gives your side part more edge.
It’s perfect if you want a look that stands out but still fits into professional or casual environments.
The line keeps the part clear and easy to style every day.
Side Part Pompadour with Taper Fade: Bold and Voluminous
This style combines the side part with a high-volume pompadour at the front.
The taper fade balances the height, creating a strong and confident appearance.
It works best if you want to show personality with your haircut and don’t mind spending a little extra time styling.
The pompadour side part is popular for those who like a statement look without losing polish.
Related: Buzz Cut Taper Haircut: Origin and Features
Benefits of the Side Part with Taper Fade
The side part with taper fade gives you a clean, sharp look that fits many occasions.
It works well for both formal meetings and casual days out, helping you feel confident and polished.
This style is a top pick for men who want a neat, modern haircut without too much hassle.
Polished Look for Any Setting
This haircut keeps your appearance sharp without looking overdone.
Whether you’re at work, a social event, or just running errands, the side part with taper fade makes sure you look put together.
It adds definition to your style and suits different face shapes, so you always have a strong, professional vibe.
Low Maintenance and Easy to Style
You don’t need to spend a lot of time on this style. A quick comb to define the part and regular trims to keep the fade clean are usually enough.
It works well for men with busy schedules who want to stay groomed without spending much time on daily styling.
Works with Different Hair Types and Lengths
No matter if your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, you can make this cut work for you.
You can adjust the side part, make it deeper or lighter, depending on what suits your face and style.
This flexibility makes the side part with taper fade a lasting favorite for many men.
Who Should Get a Side Part with Taper Fade?
The side part with taper fade fits many men because it works well with different face shapes and hair types.
It’s a solid choice if you want a style that looks clean and sharp but also adapts to your daily life.
Oval Face Shape: Adds Definition and Balance
If you have an oval face, the taper fade enhances your natural shape by adding subtle definition on the sides.
The side part helps create a balanced look that keeps your face from appearing too long or soft.
This cut highlights your features without overpowering them, making it easy to pull off for work or casual days.
Square Face Shape: Softens Angles and Creates Symmetry
With a square face, the taper fade can soften strong jawlines by trimming the sides neatly.
The side part brings attention to your upper face, balancing the angular edges.
This combination gives your face a more even, approachable look while keeping your style polished.
It works well if you want a haircut that feels sharp but not harsh.
Round Face Shape: Adds Height and Slenderizes
For round faces, the extra volume on top with the side part adds height and elongates your silhouette.
The taper fade on the sides keeps the look clean and stops the face from appearing wider.
This haircut helps create the illusion of a slimmer, more structured face while still being easy to maintain and style.
Hair Texture: Works Best with Straight, Wavy, or Thick Hair
This haircut fits straight hair well because it allows a crisp, defined side part.
If your hair is wavy, you get some natural texture that keeps the look casual but neat.
Thick hair holds the shape and style better, making it easier to manage the taper fade and part without losing the sharp lines.
Lifestyle: Fits Professional and Active Men
If you work in a professional setting, this haircut sends a polished message without being too flashy.
At the same time, it’s great for active lifestyles since it doesn’t require much upkeep.
You can wear it casually or dress it up for formal events.
It’s a flexible style that fits your routine and personal style without adding extra hassle.
How to Communicate Your Desired Side Part with Taper Fade to Your Barber
Getting the side part with taper fade you want starts with clear communication.
Using the right words and sharing your preferences helps your barber understand exactly what you expect.
Here’s how to make sure you leave the barber chair with the look you imagined.
Use Clear Terms for the Style You Want
Tell your barber where you want the side part: do you prefer a classic, natural part or a sharp, defined line? Be specific about the taper fade, too.
Do you want a low fade starting just above the ears, a mid fade around the temples, or a high fade near the crown?
Naming these options helps your barber cut your hair to match your vision.
Bring Photos That Match Your Hair
Photos are the best way to show your barber the exact look you want.
Pick pictures that show the side part and taper fade on hair similar in length and texture to yours.
This helps your barber see what you’re aiming for and adapt the style to fit your hair type and face shape.
Ask Questions and Share Your Thoughts
Talk with your barber during the cut. Ask how they plan to blend the fade with the side part or which tools they’ll use.
Share any concerns about your hair or face shape and listen to their advice.
This back-and-forth helps you both agree on what will look best and ensures you feel confident in the process.
Work Together for the Best Result
When you use clear language, bring good examples, and keep the conversation open, you and your barber become partners in creating your style.
This makes it easier to get the side part with taper fade that suits your look and lifestyle perfectly.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Keeping your side part with taper fade looking sharp takes regular care and simple daily habits.
With the right routine, your haircut stays fresh longer and keeps its clean lines. Here’s how to maintain your style and protect your hair.
Schedule Regular Trims: Keep the Fade Crisp
Plan to get your haircut every 3 to 4 weeks. This timing keeps the taper fade sharp and the side part defined.
Find a barber who knows how to blend fades and shape side parts well.
A good barber will maintain the clean look you want and make sure your style doesn’t lose its edge as it grows out.
Daily Styling: Define the Part and Control Hair
Start styling with clean, damp hair. Use a shampoo and conditioner that fits your hair type to keep it healthy.
Apply a light to medium hold pomade or styling cream. Work a small amount evenly through your hair, focusing on the part.
This helps your hair stay in place without feeling heavy or sticky. Comb or finger-style to keep the side part sharp and neat.
Nourish Your Hair: Fight Dryness and Frizz
If your hair is thick, curly, or tends to dry out, use a leave-in conditioner or serum.
These add moisture and smoothness, reducing frizz and rough texture.
This step keeps your hair looking polished and easier to style every day.
Refresh and Protect: Manage Oil and Sun Exposure
If you work out or sweat a lot, dry shampoo can refresh your style by soaking up oil without washing.
Too much washing strips natural oils, so dry shampoo helps maintain balance.
Also, protect your hair from sun damage by wearing a hat or using a UV protection spray. This keeps your hair healthy and your fade bright.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a taper fade in a side part haircut?
A taper fade gradually shortens hair on the sides and back, blending smoothly into the longer top with a clean side part for a polished look.
How often should I get a side part with taper fade trimmed?
To keep the taper fade sharp and the side part defined, schedule trims every 3 to 4 weeks.
Can the side part with taper fade work on curly hair?
Yes, it suits straight, wavy, and some curly hair types, as the fade keeps sides neat while the top shows natural texture.
What products are best for styling a side part with taper fade?
Use pomade for shine, wax for hold without shine, or matte clay for a natural finish to style and hold the side part in place.
Conclusion
The side part with taper fade offers a sharp, stylish haircut that balances timeless elegance with modern grooming trends.
Its smooth fade contrasts with the neat side part, creating a versatile look that suits many hair types and face shapes.
Whether you prefer a classic smooth style or a textured, casual finish, this haircut is easy to maintain and fits well in professional and everyday settings.
Regular trims keep the fade clean, and using the right styling products helps you achieve a polished appearance.
Overall, the side part with taper fade is a reliable and fashionable choice for men looking to upgrade their look with minimal effort.
References
Pyo Merez is a men’s lifestyle enthusiast and writer about the gentleman’s place and impact on society. Raised by a distinguished gentleman dad, he offers unique insights into how the mind of a gentleman works and how societal norms shape gentlemen’s identity and vice versa.
Through his insightful articles, Pyo taps into the depths of gentleman culture to provide perspectives on etiquette and manners in modern society.