Hair Trends 10 April 2025

What is a tapered haircut?

The Wisteria Avenue Journal

Tapered Haircuts in Abingdon

If you’re thinking about aa tapered haircut you can be forgiven for thinking that it looks much like a fade. Neat, professional and well-kept, this timeless haircut can offer you a versataile look that can work well whether dressed up or down and is in particularly popular with men. The tapered haircut is an old school classic haircut and is considered very low-maintenance, growing out naturally and is generally considered a well-balanced all round haircut without any harsh lines.

In our daily blog we cover everything that you need to know about tapered haircuts from how popular it is, whether it can work for you, its distinguishable features and how you can ask for one at your next appointment.

If you are considering something different, our gents haircutting service page can help. Finally, if you’re new to the salon and not sure how to get the most value from your next appointment, need a consultation or would value a conversation before booking, call or send a WhatsApp message on 01235 534705

Tapered Haircut FAQ’s

What is a tapered haircut haircut?

A tapered haircut is different from a fade however it is easily mistaken for the same thing. The biggest difference and the easiest way to establish a tapered haircut from a men’s fade is identifiable by the gradual change. A tapered cut involves the hair being cut progressively shorter from the top to bottom on the back and sides. Where a fade creates a stark contrast between lengths (in particular a skin fade), the taper blends the hair much more smoothly for both a natural and professional look.

In most instances, tapering works well with most hair types and textures, in particular clients with thicker hair given it’s highly effective at removing bulk around the back and sides without negatively affecting the overall choice of haircut. Conversely if you have finer hair, it’s reasonably effective at contributing structure and definition.

How should I ask for a tapered haircut?

Knowing how to ask for the right haircut is often overlooked and by many salons not encouraged. Whether it’s a tapered haircut or something else, clear lines of communication are critical. No Stylist will expect you to be able to roll technical hairdressing jargon off at will and in many cases attempting to do so can be detrimental! In some cases we have experienced clients using the wrong term and whilst some probing can help identify this, breaking down what you would like into plain English is always best. When it comes to a tapered haircut, simply explain that you’d like your hair to be shorter towards the bottom and gradually becoming lights towards the top. Whilst most good Stylists will ask you more questions and may even show you pictures, they tend to find it helpful if you have also arrived prepared with one or two inspiration pictures to help them identify your likes and also help them to establish both visually and verbally what you are looking for.

Is a tapered haircut popular?

It’s one of the most popular mens haircuts and it’s more common in hair salons than it is with barbers. Hairdressers tend to be better equipped at scissor cutting so if you are seeking a precision haircut, choose a salon. The tapered haircut offers the perfect balance of smart and casual and it’s considered very adaptable for both professional and social settings. It can too be tailored to suit different lengths and it’s appropriate for hair types including curly hair.

How should I style a tapered haircut?

If you’re unsure how to style your hair, ask your Stylist. The fact that Hair Stylists work on their clients appearances every day most are typically en trend with the latest fashion, looks and they are able to better understand your sense of style, where improvements can be made and most importantly ‘how to’ both add value and how to work with your hair type and haircut. When it comes to everyday styling of a tapered haircut your ‘go to’ products will be sea salt sprays or a matte clay for a messier look. For curly hair, curly hair products are ones to look out for. We specifically use Only Curls in-salon and these are much denser and cater to moisturising your curls for a more defined look. Curls cremes can work well as can curl gels. Products can be worked through using your hands or in some cases using a brush for a more precise look however both can prove effective.

Conclusion

A tapered haircut is an option which can look sophisticated, professional and you can all but guarantee will leave a positive impression on most. It’s effortless, simple to maintain and the maintenance is sound. On the whole it suits most face shapes, lifestyles and it can be tailored to suit your specific hair needs and if you need help ensuring you are choosing the right tapered haircut for you, your Stylist will be able to successfully point you in the right direction for the perfect look.

If you are feeling lost in what could work best for you, leave it to us. Our consultations work through any question you might have, logistics and we too make recommendations based upon your lifestyle and hair type.

Ready When You Are

Enjoyed the read?
Book your appointment.

Whether it's colour, a restyle, curly hair or a men's hair system — every visit at Wisteria Avenue starts with a proper consultation. No pressure, just honest advice.

Latest Work

Follow @wisteriaavesalon

↗ View on Instagram
JOICO Professional Haircare
Only Curls Curl Specialists