In the world of men’s grooming and hairstyles, one cut that continues to gain popularity is the low taper fade. Combined with straight hair, this style creates a clean, sharp, and timeless look that can be tailored to suit different face shapes and personal preferences. Whether you’re looking to update your current style or try something new, the low taper fade straight hair combo is an option that offers both flexibility and style.
What Is a Low Taper Fade?
A taper fade is a haircut where the hair gradually shortens in length from the top of the head to the sides and back, blending seamlessly into the skin or a very short length. This gradual fade creates a sharp and clean finish. A low taper fade refers specifically to the fade starting lower down the sides and back of the head, usually around the temples or slightly above the ear.
This style offers a balanced, subtle transition from the longer hair at the top to the shorter sides. Unlike the high taper fade, which starts higher and can be more dramatic, the low taper provides a more natural and understated look, making it perfect for those who prefer a clean, sharp style without the extreme fade.
Characteristics of Low Taper Fade Straight Hair
When you combine a low taper fade with straight hair, the result is a clean and sharp look that enhances the natural lines of the face. Straight hair is generally characterized by its sleek texture and lack of waves or curls, making it a great pairing for the taper fade as the clean lines of the fade blend effortlessly with the straight hair’s smoothness.
Here’s a breakdown of what this combination offers:
- Sharp, Clean Edges: The low taper fade creates a sharp contrast between the long hair on top and the shorter sides, especially with straight hair, where the lines are more defined.
- Versatility: Straight hair paired with a low taper fade works well with various lengths and styles, from short to medium or even longer top sections.
- Modern, Fresh Look: This hairstyle gives a fresh and modern appearance with its precision and clean-cut edges.
- Low Maintenance: While regular trimming is necessary to maintain the fade, straight hair doesn’t require as much styling maintenance compared to curly or wavy hair. This makes it a relatively low-maintenance look once the fade is in place.
- Flattering for Different Face Shapes: The low taper fade straight hair style works well with most face shapes, whether oval, square, round, or heart-shaped. The gradual fade can help add structure to the face, highlighting your facial features.
How to Achieve Low Taper Fade Straight Hair
Achieving a low taper fade with straight hair requires precision, so it’s recommended to visit a skilled barber. However, if you’re determined to do it yourself, here are the basic steps:
1. Start with Clean, Dry Hair
Before beginning the fade process, ensure that your hair is clean and completely dry. Straight hair can be more prone to showing imperfections in a fade, so it’s essential to have a good foundation.
2. Set the Length of the Fade
The low taper fade starts just above the ear, so decide how high you want the fade to go. This is crucial because the fade’s starting point will determine the overall look. The lower you start the fade, the subtler and more gradual the transition will appear.
3. Use Clippers with Guards
The key tool for creating a low taper fade is a set of hair clippers with adjustable guards. Start by using a longer guard to trim the top part of your hair to the desired length. Then, slowly work your way down the sides with progressively shorter guards. Blend the fade gradually to avoid harsh lines, especially where the fade begins.
4. Taper the Sides and Back
Once you’ve achieved the desired fade length, taper the sides and back of your hair. This involves trimming the hair in a downward motion using clippers with a guard that shortens as you move towards the ear. Blend the edges of the fade to ensure a smooth transition.
5. Shape the Top
After the fade is completed, shape the hair on the top of your head. For straight hair, this could mean keeping the top relatively long and cutting it into a uniform length. The idea is to leave enough length on top for styling while keeping it neat and structured.
6. Maintenance and Touch-Ups
To maintain a low taper fade, regular touch-ups are necessary. Depending on how quickly your hair grows, a visit to the barber for a trim every 3 to 4 weeks is ideal. You can also touch up the fade at home using clippers and a mirror to ensure the fade remains sharp.
Styling Low Taper Fade Straight Hair
One of the best features of a low taper fade with straight hair is the number of different styling options available. Here are some popular ways to style this haircut:
1. Sleek and Polished
For a sleek, polished look, you can style the top section of your straight hair with some pomade or gel. This gives the hair a shiny finish while keeping it in place. Simply run your fingers or a comb through the hair to create a clean, straight style that works perfectly with the sharp edges of the low taper fade.
2. Textured Top
For those who prefer a bit of texture, you can add some light mousse or a texturizing spray to your hair. This will give it a slightly messy, voluminous look while still showcasing the clean lines of the fade. A textured top balances the sharpness of the low taper fade with a more casual appearance.
3. Side Part
A side part can enhance the low taper fade by adding a sense of structure to the look. You can comb the hair to one side, creating a neat and elegant appearance. This style works well for formal settings or when you want to create a more professional look.
4. Pompadour Style
For a more daring and modern look, a pompadour works beautifully with a low taper fade. With straight hair, the pompadour can be styled to add height and volume on top, which contrasts nicely with the low taper fade. Use a blow dryer and some styling cream to add volume, and finish with hairspray to hold it in place.
5. Crew Cut with Fade
Another great option for straight hair with a low taper fade is to keep the top slightly short in a crew cut style. The low taper fade will complement this cut by providing sharp, clean edges, while the short top ensures minimal maintenance.
6. Undercut with Fade
For a more edgy style, pair the low taper fade with an undercut, where the hair on top is left longer while the sides are shaved close to the scalp. This creates a contrast between the longer, straight hair on top and the short fade on the sides. It’s a bold look that’s perfect for those who enjoy standing out.
Why Choose Low Taper Fade Straight Hair?
The low taper fade straight hair style is versatile, stylish, and easy to maintain. Here are a few reasons why this haircut continues to be a top choice:
1. Timeless Appeal
This look is classic and never goes out of style. Whether you’re looking for something professional, trendy, or even edgy, the low taper fade straight hair combination has you covered.
2. Customization
The beauty of the low taper fade is its ability to be customized. Whether you prefer a more subtle fade or a sharp, defined look, your barber can adjust the fade’s length and intensity to match your preferences.
3. Easy Maintenance
Compared to other more complicated styles, the low taper fade requires minimal maintenance. Regular trims are essential, but straight hair tends to be easier to manage and style, especially if you’re aiming for a clean, polished look.
4. Flattering for All Ages
The low taper fade straight hair style is flattering for men of all ages. Whether you’re a young adult or someone looking for a more refined style, this haircut can be adapted to suit anyone.
5. A Clean, Refined Look
A low taper fade with straight hair creates a well-groomed, refined appearance. It’s a great choice for professional environments and social events where you want to appear polished and sharp.
Conclusion
The low taper fade straight hair style offers a combination of sharp, clean lines and versatile styling options. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, polished look or a more textured, voluminous style, this haircut can be easily tailored to suit your needs. By blending the low taper fade with straight hair, you create a timeless look that works for various occasions and can be customized to reflect your personal style. Whether you’re at the barber for a trim or styling it yourself, this haircut remains a top choice for its simplicity, elegance, and timeless appeal.
