Introduction to the Mid Taper Fade
If you’ve got a round face and you’re looking for a haircut that sharpens your look, a mid taper fade might be exactly what you need. It’s modern, versatile, and works well with different hair types. But what makes this style so popular, and why does it complement round faces so well? Let’s break it down.
What is a Mid Taper Fade?
A mid taper fade is a haircut where the sides gradually fade from shorter hair near the ears to slightly longer hair as you move up the head. The “mid” part means the fade starts around the temples or just above the ears—right in the middle. It’s not too low, not too high, but just right.
Why it’s Popular Among Men
It’s trendy yet professional. You can wear it to the office during the week and still look fresh on the weekend. Plus, it’s easy to style and works with most outfits, making it a go-to for men who want low-maintenance yet stylish hair.
Understanding Face Shapes
Before diving into why the mid taper fade is perfect for round faces, let’s first understand what a round face really means.
Characteristics of a Round Face
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Equal width and height proportions.
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Soft jawline with no sharp angles.
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Fuller cheeks that make the face appear circular.
Why Choosing the Right Hairstyle Matters
The wrong hairstyle can make a round face look even rounder. The right one, however, adds structure, balances features, and gives the illusion of a slimmer, longer face.
Why the Mid Taper Fade Works for Round Faces
Adding Definition and Structure
Round faces lack sharp angles, and that’s where the mid taper fade shines. By adding contrast on the sides and keeping more length on top, it introduces a sense of structure.
Balancing Soft Facial Features
The fade draws attention upwards, emphasizing your hairstyle rather than your cheeks, making your face appear more balanced.
Creating a Slimming Effect
The gradual fade naturally elongates the face, reducing the overall roundness and giving you a leaner look.
Different Variations of the Mid Taper Fade
Classic Mid Taper Fade
The standard version—clean, neat, and timeless. It’s versatile and suits almost any lifestyle.
Mid Taper Fade with Curly Hair
Curly hair adds natural volume on top, which is perfect for stretching the face visually. The fade keeps it tidy without looking messy.
Mid Taper Fade with Straight Hair
With straight hair, you can easily style it into a pompadour, quiff, or side part for a sharp appearance.
Mid Taper Fade with Beard
Pairing a taper fade with a beard works wonders for round faces. The beard adds definition to the jawline, creating angles where nature didn’t.
Styling the Mid Taper Fade for Round Faces
Choosing the Right Length on Top
Go for medium to longer lengths on top. The extra height helps elongate the face.
Side Part vs. Brushed-Up Look
A side part adds a gentleman’s touch, while a brushed-up style (like a quiff) gives a bold, modern vibe.
Texture and Volume Tips
Messy textures and natural waves make the hairstyle look fuller, while volume at the crown makes your face appear longer.
Mid Taper Fade vs. Other Fades
Mid Taper Fade vs. Low Fade
A low fade starts lower, near the ears. While it looks clean, it doesn’t elongate the face as much as a mid taper.
Mid Taper Fade vs. High Fade
A high fade is more dramatic but can sometimes overexpose the roundness of the face. The mid taper strikes the perfect balance.
Which Fade Looks Best on Round Faces?
For round faces, the mid taper fade wins. It gives structure without being too bold or too subtle.
How to Maintain a Mid Taper Fade
Salon Visits and Touch-Ups
Plan to visit your barber every 2–3 weeks. Fades lose their sharpness quickly as hair grows.
Daily Styling and Products
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Pomade for sleek looks.
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Clay or wax for textured, messy styles.
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Mousse or sea salt spray for volume.
Home Grooming Tips
Keep the edges neat with a trimmer and use a good shampoo to avoid buildup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Going Too Short on the Sides
Too short can overemphasize the roundness of the face.
Ignoring Beard and Sideburns
A well-kept beard or stubble balances the fade and defines the jawline.
Forgetting Hair Texture
Work with your hair’s natural texture, not against it. Straight, wavy, or curly—style accordingly.
Celebrities with Mid Taper Fades on Round Faces
Inspiring Looks to Copy
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Drake often sports taper fades with a beard, complementing his round face.
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Jonah Hill has tried variations that slim his face down.
How They Pull It Off
They combine the fade with either a sharp top style or facial hair for balance, proving how versatile the cut really is.
Final Tips for Rocking the Mid Taper Fade
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Add volume on top for elongation.
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Keep the sides neat and balanced.
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Use facial hair to enhance structure.
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Experiment with styling products for different looks.
Conclusion
A mid taper fade for round faces isn’t just a haircut—it’s a confidence booster. It sharpens soft features, adds balance, and works with almost any style. Whether you go for a sleek side part or a textured quiff, this haircut adapts to your vibe. So, if you want a style that’s modern, flattering, and versatile, the mid taper fade should be at the top of your list.
FAQs
Is a mid taper fade suitable for all hair types?
Yes! Whether you have straight, curly, or wavy hair, a mid taper fade can be adapted to suit your texture.
How often should I get my fade touched up?
Every 2–3 weeks is ideal to keep it looking sharp and fresh.
Does a mid taper fade look good with a beard?
Absolutely. A beard adds definition and helps balance out a round face.
Can I style my mid taper fade without using gel or wax?
Yes, you can. Use natural volume or lightweight sprays like sea salt spray if you prefer a product-free look.
What’s the difference between a taper and a fade?
A taper gradually reduces hair length but keeps some hair at the neckline, while a fade blends the hair down to the skin. The taper fade combines the best of both.