Top 35 Tape Up Haircuts for Men: Fresh Taper Fade Styles for Everyone

If you’re looking for a clean, stylish, and low-maintenance haircut, the tape up haircut is a perfect choice. This versatile style—also known as a taper fade—features a gradual transition from longer hair on top to shorter sides and neckline, giving your look a sharp, modern edge. It works seamlessly with all hair types and lengths, whether you wear curls, waves, a sponged top, or a sleek buzz cut. The tape up is popular because it adds structure, enhances facial features, and stays fresh longer between cuts. Get inspired with 33 tape up haircut ideas that suit every vibe and personality.

Why This Hair Type Is Great

The tape up haircut is an incredibly versatile and flattering style that suits nearly every hair type, texture, and length. Its clean, gradual tapering around the neckline and sideburns offers a fresh, modern look without sacrificing personality or volume on top. Whether you prefer a bold high taper or a subtle low fade, the tape up allows for easy personalization.

Works well with curly, straight, or coiled hair
Highlights facial features and jawline
Blends effortlessly with beards and line ups
Offers a clean, stylish look with low maintenance

Top 35 Tape Up Haircuts to Elevate Your Style

1. Buzz Cut with Low Skin Tape Up

Description

The Buzz Cut with Low Skin Tape Up is a clean, low-maintenance haircut featuring short, uniform hair on top and a gradual taper that blends into the skin around the sides and neckline. Inspired by military cuts, this style is simple yet sharp, offering a neat, practical appearance. It’s ideal for men who want a no-fuss, fresh look that stays sharp with minimal styling effort.

Benefits

Very low maintenance and easy to manage.
Keeps the scalp cool in warmer weather.
Works well for most face shapes.
Offers a sharp, clean finish.
Ideal for active lifestyles.

Consideration

The style requires regular touch-ups to maintain the sharp skin fade.
Limited styling versatility due to its ultra-short length.

2. Textured Crew Cut with High Skin Tape Fade

Description

The Textured Crew Cut with High Skin Tape Fade is a modern, stylish option that starts with a textured, choppy top and transitions into a high skin fade that quickly tapers to the skin. The aggressive contrast between the top and sides makes this cut stand out, especially when styled with matte hair products to enhance the texture. This style gives a fresh, trend-forward look.

Benefits

Sharp, edgy appearance.
Works great with textured styling products.
Keeps sides neat and cool.
Highlights the face and jawline.
Suitable for straight and wavy hair.

Consideration

The high fade demands frequent barber visits.
Not ideal for men who prefer fuller side volume.

3. Low Tape Up

Description

The Low Tape Up is a subtle, polished haircut that features minimal tapering around the sideburns and neckline. This style preserves more length on the sides while offering a slight clean-up for a fresh, controlled look. Perfect for men who prefer to keep their hair fuller with just enough edge to look neat and intentional, the Low Tape Up is a go-to for versatile everyday styling.

Benefits

Very natural and understated finish.
Requires fewer maintenance sessions.
Keeps more volume around the sides.
Works with many different hair types.
Provides a clean but soft look.

Consideration

The taper is subtle, so the style changes are minimal.
May not offer enough contrast for those seeking a bold fade.

4. Low Skin Tape Up with Curly Hair

Description

The Low Skin Tape Up with Curly Hair perfectly balances a clean finish with the natural volume and texture of curls. The sides and back are closely faded down to the skin, offering a sharp edge that complements the softness and bounce of curly hair on top. This style is both low-maintenance and stylish, making it a solid option for men who want to highlight their curls.

Benefits

Showcases natural curly texture.
Easy to style and maintain.
Sharp, clean neckline and edges.
Provides a modern contrast.
Works well for tight or loose curls.

Consideration

Regular trims are needed to keep the fade crisp.
Humidity may affect curl definition if not properly styled.

5. Short Hair with Tape Up

Description

Short Hair with Tape Up is a timeless, low-maintenance hairstyle that neatly frames the face while enhancing natural hair texture. Whether you opt for a low, mid, or high tape up, this cut offers flexibility while maintaining a sharp, groomed appearance. Perfect for men who prefer practical yet stylish looks, this haircut adds just enough structure to keep the sides clean without losing volume on top.

Benefits

Clean and polished finish.
Very easy daily styling.
Complements various hair textures.
Can be customized with different taper heights.
Makes the hair look fuller and well-shaped.

Consideration

Frequent trims are essential to keep the tape up sharp.
May lack variety for men who prefer more styling options.

6. Long Afro Tape Fade

Description

The Long Afro Tape Fade is a bold, stylish cut that combines the natural volume of an afro with a sharp, tapered finish at the neckline and sideburns. The fade keeps the edges crisp, offering contrast that draws attention to the height and shape of the afro. This look is especially flattering for men with coily hair who want to showcase their texture while maintaining a clean silhouette.

Benefits

Emphasizes natural afro volume.
Sharp, clean edges for a modern touch.
Works well with a faded beard.
Stylish yet low-maintenance around the sides.
Perfect for expressing cultural pride and individuality.

Consideration

The afro requires regular moisturizing and shaping.
The taper will need upkeep to stay crisp.

7. Short Sponged Top with Mid Tape Up

Description

The Short Sponged Top with Mid Tape Up features finger-length curls on top with a textured, sponged finish that adds volume and character. The mid tape up offers a balanced taper on the sides and back, providing contrast without overpowering the top. This style is perfect for men who want to maintain a youthful, modern look while showcasing their natural hair texture in an easy-to-maintain haircut.

Benefits

Emphasizes natural curl texture.
Youthful and trendy appearance.
Balanced fade for clean edges.
Easy to style with a sponge brush.
Works well with a line up or beard.

Consideration

Requires regular use of curl products to maintain definition.
Mid tape up needs upkeep to stay sharp and fresh.

8. Hard Ivy League Part with Low Tape Fade

Description

The Hard Ivy League Part with Low Tape Fade combines classic sophistication with modern precision. The hard part creates a strong, defined line that divides the neatly combed top, while the low tape fade offers a subtle taper for a clean finish. This style frames the face beautifully and is ideal for men seeking a polished, office-ready haircut that also transitions well for casual settings.

Benefits

Sharp, structured appearance.
Versatile for professional and casual settings.
Easy to style with pomade.
Low tape fade maintains some side fullness.
Works well with most hair types.

Consideration

The hard part needs regular upkeep to stay defined.
Fade may require touch-ups every two weeks for best results.

9. Mid Tape Up and Shape Up

Description

The Mid Tape Up and Shape Up is a precision haircut that pairs a mid-level taper with sharp, clean lines around the hairline and sideburns. This combination offers a fresh, modern look with a neat, balanced fade that enhances facial structure. It’s a favorite for men who prioritize crisp edges and want a cut that stays sharp throughout the week while keeping the top simple and manageable.

Benefits

Crisp, clean hairline and edges.
Balanced taper for versatile styling.
Great for maintaining a fresh look.
Complements beards and facial hair.
Easy to combine with various top lengths.

Consideration

Shape up lines require frequent touch-ups to stay sharp.
The mid tape up fade grows out quickly, needing regular maintenance.

10. Waves with High Tape Up

Description

Waves with High Tape Up is a standout style for men who want to elevate their wave pattern while introducing a high contrast fade. The high tape up offers a sharp, skin-tight transition on the sides, drawing focus to the detailed 360 waves on top. This haircut not only enhances the appearance of the waves but also keeps the edges looking fresh and modern throughout the week.

Benefits

Highlights and sharpens 360 waves.
High contrast fade for a striking look.
Keeps sides neat and cool.
Works great with a beard or shape up.
Ideal for black men embracing their texture.

Consideration

Requires consistent wave brushing and durag use to maintain pattern.
High tape up needs regular trimming to retain its sharpness.

11. Short Tight Curls with Low Bald Tape Up

Description

Short Tight Curls with Low Bald Tape Up offers a clean, refined style that emphasizes tight curls on top while featuring a low bald taper that fades seamlessly into the skin. This haircut strikes a perfect balance between showcasing natural texture and maintaining sharp, skin-close edges. It’s ideal for men who prefer a neat, short cut that still allows their curls to stand out and take center stage.

Benefits

Highlights tight curls for a defined top.
Low bald fade keeps sides super clean.
Easy to style and maintain.
Great for active lifestyles.
Pairs well with a line up for extra sharpness.

Consideration

Low bald fade requires regular touch-ups to stay fresh.
Curls may need moisturizing products to avoid dryness.

12. Thick Buzz Cut with Mid Tape Fade, Line Up and Beard

Description

The Thick Buzz Cut with Mid Tape Fade, Line Up and Beard is a masculine, structured haircut that keeps the top full and dense while introducing a mid tape fade for sharp, skin-tight sides. A clean line up and well-groomed beard complete this rugged, stylish look. It’s perfect for men who want a short, low-maintenance haircut that still delivers bold, standout features with clear, defined lines.

Benefits

Thick top provides natural volume.
Mid tape fade adds sharp contrast.
Clean line up enhances facial features.
Full beard balances the overall look.
Low-maintenance daily styling.

Consideration

The fade and line up require frequent touch-ups.
Beard grooming is essential to maintain balance.

13. Drop Tape Fade with Spiky Hair

Description

The Drop Tape Fade with Spiky Hair is a bold, modern haircut that features a curved fade that drops behind the ears for a stylish contour. The spiky hair on top adds a rebellious, textured finish that stands out effortlessly. This look is perfect for men who want to combine structured fades with playful, edgy spikes, offering both versatility and attitude in one clean, attention-grabbing style.

Benefits

Drop fade provides a unique curved shape.
Spiky top adds bold texture and volume.
Works well with various hair types.
Easy to style with matte or strong-hold products.
Modern, fashion-forward appeal.

Consideration

Spiky top needs regular styling to maintain texture.
Drop fade requires precise maintenance for the curved effect.

14. Skin Tape Fade with 360 Waves and Beard

Men Style Lab — *Image Credit: menshairstylestoday.com*

Description

The Skin Tape Fade with 360 Waves and Beard is a fresh, well-rounded haircut that focuses on a sharp skin-tight fade and perfectly patterned 360 waves on top. Paired with a neatly shaped beard, this style brings a cohesive, polished look from head to chin. It’s perfect for black men who want a sharp, fashionable cut that shows off their wave discipline and enhances their facial structure.

Benefits

Highlights well-maintained 360 waves.
Skin fade offers a crisp, fresh edge.
Beard balances the overall style.
Clean, sharp hairline from the tape fade.
Low-maintenance sides.

Consideration

Requires consistent brushing and wave care for best results.
Skin fade and beard need regular upkeep to stay neat.

15. Crew Cut with High Tape Fade and Groomed Beard

Description

The Crew Cut with High Tape Fade and Groomed Beard is a classic meets modern style that combines a short, uniform top with a sharp, high tape fade. The fade quickly tapers to skin, adding strong contrast to the look, while a carefully groomed beard completes the masculine vibe. This cut is perfect for guys looking for a timeless, low-maintenance option that keeps them looking sharp and fresh.

Benefits

Simple and low-maintenance top.
High tape fade provides bold contrast.
Groomed beard enhances face shape.
Works well for most hair types.
Clean, sharp appearance.

Consideration

High fade grows out quickly and needs regular touch-ups.
Beard grooming is essential to keep the style balanced.

16. Modern Mullet with Tape Fade

Description

The Modern Mullet with Tape Fade brings back a retro favorite with a stylish twist. This haircut keeps the hair long in the back while featuring a neat tape fade on the sides for a sharp, modern contrast. Perfect for guys looking to stand out, this mullet variation balances edginess with structure, giving a nod to classic trends while staying completely fresh and fashion-forward.

Benefits

Trendy update to a classic style.
Tape fade keeps sides clean and sharp.
Works well with textured or straight hair.
Ideal for bold, fashion-conscious men.
Offers unique contrast between top and sides.

Consideration

The mullet shape may not suit conservative work environments.
Long back section needs occasional trimming to keep shape.

17. Messy Spiky Top with Mid Bald Tape Up

Description

The Messy Spiky Top with Mid Bald Tape Up combines edgy texture with a clean, sharp fade. The mid bald tape up gradually fades to the skin, offering a sleek base that highlights the messy, spiky top. This haircut is perfect for men who want to express personality and confidence while still keeping the sides clean and manageable for easy day-to-day styling.

Benefits

Mid bald fade offers sharp, clean edges.
Messy spiky top adds personality and edge.
Low-maintenance sides.
Easy to style with strong-hold products.
Great for modern, punk-inspired looks.

Consideration

Spiky top requires regular styling to maintain volume.
Mid bald fade needs frequent trims to keep sharpness.

18. High Burst Tape Fade with Mohawk

Description

The High Burst Tape Fade with Mohawk is a standout, rebellious style featuring a high, curved burst fade that accentuates the bold mohawk on top. The mohawk’s volume and potential for color or bleach make this cut a head-turning option for men who want to break the mold. This look perfectly balances edgy vibes with clean, stylish lines for a confident, youthful appearance.

Benefits

Bold mohawk style commands attention.
High burst fade offers a unique curve.
Works well with color or bleach for added flair.
Perfect for creative, outgoing personalities.
Clean shape-up balances the style.

Consideration

Mohawk requires regular maintenance to keep its height.
Burst fade grows out quickly and needs upkeep to maintain shape.

19. Messy Fringe with Mid Skin Tape Fade

Description

The Messy Fringe with Mid Skin Tape Fade is a trendy, relaxed haircut that pairs a textured, tousled fringe with a sharp mid skin tape fade. The messy fringe adds volume and movement to the front, while the clean fade offers a stylish contrast on the sides. This cut is ideal for guys who want a casual, effortless vibe with just enough structure to keep things looking fresh and modern.

Benefits

Casual, easygoing style.
Mid skin fade provides a clean contrast.
Adds texture and volume to the front.
Great for low to medium maintenance routines.
Versatile styling options.

Consideration

Requires regular trims to maintain fringe length.
The skin fade needs upkeep to stay sharp.

20. Tape Fade with Thick Sponged Hair and Line Up

Description

The Tape Fade with Thick Sponged Hair and Line Up is a bold, textured hairstyle that combines voluminous sponged curls on top with a clean, low tape fade. The sharp line up frames the face and ties the entire look together. This cut is perfect for black men who want to highlight their natural texture while keeping the sides neat and the edges crisp for a sharp, polished finish.

Benefits

Highlights thick, natural curls.
Sharp line up provides a structured frame.
Low tape fade adds balance and cleanliness.
Great for high-volume styles.
Low-maintenance on the sides.

Consideration

Sponged top requires regular maintenance to keep its texture.
Line up needs frequent touch-ups to maintain precision.

21. Clean Mid Taper Fade with Short Tight Curls

Description

The Clean Mid Taper Fade with Short Tight Curls is a simple, sharp haircut that blends the natural tight curl pattern with a smooth mid taper fade. This style offers a clean, polished look that’s easy to maintain while still showcasing your curls. It’s perfect for guys looking for a fresh summer style or anyone who prefers a quick, no-fuss grooming routine with maximum style impact.

Benefits

Clean, low-maintenance sides.
Enhances natural curl texture.
Suitable for professional and casual settings.
Great for hot weather.
Quick morning styling.

Consideration

Curls may need occasional product to avoid dryness.
Mid taper fade requires regular barber visits to stay sharp.

22. Blowout with Low Tape Fade

Description

The Blowout with Low Tape Fade is a stylish, voluminous cut that focuses on creating height and texture on top while keeping the sides crisp and clean with a low tape fade. The blowout effect gives the hair a lifted, airy appearance that feels modern and cool. This cut is perfect for men who want a bold, structured style that still feels light and fresh, especially during warmer months.

Benefits

Volume-forward style with a clean fade.
Low fade keeps sides neat and sharp.
Great for adding height to the face.
Perfect summer look.
Works well with all hair types.

Consideration

Blowout requires time and heat styling.
Low fade needs frequent touch-ups for best results.

23. Mid Tape Up with Short Hair and Beard

Description

The Mid Tape Up with Short Hair and Beard is a clean, masculine haircut that pairs a simple short top with a smooth mid tape up and a well-groomed beard. The mid fade blends neatly into the beard for a seamless, structured look that highlights facial features. It’s a great everyday style for men who want something easy to manage while still appearing sharp and well put together.

Benefits

Seamless blend from hair to beard.
Clean, low-maintenance cut.
Flatters most face shapes.
Great for all hair types.
Easy to style and maintain.

Consideration

Mid tape up needs regular maintenance to stay crisp.
Beard requires grooming to maintain symmetry with the fade.

24. Tape Up Fade with Short Round Afro

Description

The Tape Up Fade with Short Round Afro is a balanced style that highlights the natural shape and volume of a rounded afro while using a subtle tape up fade to keep the edges clean. This cut emphasizes the afro’s rounded silhouette without cutting into it, making it perfect for men who want to embrace their texture while adding a polished finish around the neckline and temples.

Benefits

Showcases natural afro texture.
Tape up fade adds clean structure.
Low-maintenance sides.
Maintains the round afro shape.
Great for both casual and professional settings.

Consideration

Afro needs regular moisturizing and occasional trimming.
Fade requires upkeep to keep edges sharp.

25. High Top Tape Fade

Description

The High Top Tape Fade is a bold, retro-inspired haircut that features a tall, squared-off top with a sharp tape fade on the sides. The high top provides a vertical silhouette that draws attention, while the taper fade keeps the sides clean and modern. This cut is a great option for men looking to make a stylish statement while celebrating classic black hairstyles with a contemporary edge.

Benefits

Eye-catching vertical style.
Clean tape fade balances the height.
Retro yet trendy look.
Accentuates facial structure.
Works well for thick hair.

Consideration

High top needs regular shaping to maintain height and structure.
Fade requires upkeep to keep the sides sharp.

26. Tape Up with Blowout and Design

Description

The Tape Up with Blowout and Design is a creative, modern cut that combines a voluminous blowout with a crisp tape up and a personalized design etched into the fade. The blowout adds height and fullness, while the design near the neckline adds a bold, unique touch. This style is perfect for men who want a fresh, head-turning look that shows off their personality and flair.

Benefits

Customizable design element.
Blowout adds stylish volume.
Clean, sharp tape up finish.
Perfect for self-expression.
Trendy and youthful.

Consideration

Blowout requires heat styling and maintenance.
Designs need regular barber visits to stay defined.

27. Short Messy Top with Fringe and Low Tape Up

Description

The Short Messy Top with Fringe and Low Tape Up is a versatile, laid-back style that combines textured, tousled hair on top with a neat low tape up on the sides. The fringe softly frames the forehead, adding a playful element to the look. This haircut is ideal for men who want a fashionable yet low-maintenance style that embraces texture while keeping the sides clean and sharp.

Benefits

Casual, easy-to-style top.
Low tape up provides clean edges.
Fringe adds softness to the face.
Suitable for most face shapes.
Great for a relaxed vibe.

Consideration

Fringe needs occasional trimming to avoid covering eyes.
Low tape up requires maintenance to keep edges fresh.

28. Tape Up with Waves

Description

The Tape Up with Waves is a classic style that enhances natural 360 waves while keeping the sides and back crisp with a clean tape up. The taper helps maintain a neat shape around the ears and neckline, while the waves on top offer a textured, polished look. This cut is a timeless choice for black men who want to embrace their natural wave pattern with a sharp, modern finish.

Benefits

Highlights natural wave pattern.
Clean, tapered sides.
Timeless and stylish.
Suitable for all occasions.
Easy to maintain with proper wave care.

Consideration

Waves require consistent brushing and moisturizing.
Tape up needs regular touch-ups to maintain sharpness.

29. Textured Tousled Top with Mid Tape Fade Shaved Line Design

Description

The Textured Tousled Top with Mid Tape Fade Shaved Line Design is a modern, edgy haircut that combines a messy, textured top with a clean mid tape fade. The shaved line design adds a bold accent, creating contrast and personal flair. This cut is perfect for guys who want a rugged, fashionable style that’s both easygoing and sharp, offering flexibility to customize with different designs.

Benefits

Unique shaved line adds personality.
Mid tape fade provides clean sides.
Tousled texture offers a relaxed vibe.
Great for easy styling.
Customizable design options.

Consideration

Shaved line needs frequent touch-ups to stay defined.
Mid tape fade requires upkeep to maintain sharp edges.

30. Skin Tape Up with Long Side Swept Hair

Description

The Skin Tape Up with Long Side Swept Hair is a fresh, high-contrast style that combines longer, layered hair on top with a skin-tight tape up on the sides. The long side-swept top provides a soft, flowing look that’s perfect for summer, while the skin tape up keeps the back and sides sharp and lightweight. This cut is a stylish way to balance volume with clean, breathable edges.

Benefits

High-contrast, modern style.
Long layers offer movement and softness.
Skin tape up keeps sides sharp.
Great summer haircut.
Works well for thick, straight, or wavy hair.

Consideration

Long hair requires regular brushing and some styling.
Skin tape up needs frequent fades to stay fresh.

31. Long Hair with Tape Up and Beard

Description

The Long Hair with Tape Up and Beard is a bold, masculine style that pairs flowing long hair with a sharp tape up and a well-groomed beard. The tape up keeps the sides and neckline clean, providing contrast to the length and volume on top and around the face. This look is perfect for men who want to showcase their personality while maintaining a polished edge.

Benefits

Long hair offers expressive, bold style.
Tape up keeps edges neat and sharp.
Beard adds balance and masculinity.
Low-maintenance sides with stylish volume.
Great for showcasing natural texture.

Consideration

Long hair needs regular washing and detangling.
Beard grooming is essential to keep the look balanced.

32. High Tape Up with Long Curly Hair

Description

The High Tape Up with Long Curly Hair is a vibrant, carefree hairstyle that highlights natural curls while keeping the sides sharply tapered. The high tape up starts above the temple, providing crisp edges and a clean neckline that make the long curls stand out even more. This cut is ideal for men who want their curls to take center stage while enjoying the benefits of a neat, structured fade.

Benefits

Showcases natural curls beautifully.
High tape up offers clean contrast.
Easy to maintain sides.
Perfect for a carefree, modern look.
Adds volume and personality.

Consideration

Long curls need moisture and curl care products.
Tape up requires regular touch-ups to stay sharp.

33. Undercut Tape Fade with Short Textured Top

Description

The Undercut Tape Fade with Short Textured Top is a trendy, edgy cut that features a sharp undercut with a mid-to-low tape fade on the sides. The top is kept short and textured, giving it a choppy, messy look that’s easy to style. The combination of the drop fade and textured layers creates a bold contrast that’s perfect for men looking for a standout, modern hairstyle.

Benefits

Undercut adds a bold, sharp look.
Tape fade keeps sides clean and neat.
Textured top offers easy, messy styling.
Drop fade adds visual interest.
Great for men with thick hair.

Consideration

Drop fade needs upkeep to maintain the sharp curve.
Undercut contrast may not suit formal workplaces.

34. Low Taper Fade with Brush Up

Description

The Low Taper Fade with Brush Up is a stylish, easy-to-wear haircut that combines softly tapered sides with hair brushed up and back for volume. The low taper keeps the cut neat around the ears and neckline, while the brushed-up top adds height and texture. This cut is great for guys who want a clean, modern look that’s low-maintenance yet fashion-forward.

Benefits

Low taper offers subtle clean edges.
Brush up adds easy volume and style.
Suitable for most face shapes.
Minimal daily styling required.
Works well for straight and wavy hair.

Consideration

Brushed-up style may need light product for hold.
Taper needs occasional touch-ups for sharpness.

35. Tape Up with Line Up and Thick Sponged Top

Description

The Tape Up with Line Up and Thick Sponged Top is a sharp, high-volume style perfect for black men who want to highlight their texture. The tape up provides a clean taper around the ears and neckline, while the thick sponged top offers height and rich texture. The crisp line up frames the face perfectly, giving the entire cut a bold, structured finish that’s both trendy and expressive.

Benefits

Thick sponged top offers great texture.
Clean tape up and sharp line up.
Perfect for showcasing volume and curls.
Stylish, modern, and masculine.
Low-maintenance sides with standout top.

Consideration

Sponged top needs product to keep texture defined.
Line up requires frequent barber visits to stay sharp.

Final Thoughts

The tape up haircut is a modern, versatile style that adapts to all hair types, textures, and personal aesthetics. Whether you’re going for a clean-cut professional appearance or a bold and edgy look, there’s a tape up variation to match. With its ability to blend seamlessly with short or long hairstyles, this cut offers a fresh, stylish option for any man. Explore your ideal tape up haircut to stay sharp, confident, and effortlessly cool.