Curly hair offers incredible versatility, especially when paired with a taper fade. If you’re blessed with natural curls and looking for a stylish, modern haircut that enhances your texture while keeping maintenance manageable, a taper fade might be your perfect match. This guide explores the best taper fade styles specifically designed for curly hair, helping you find the ideal look for your unique texture and face shape.
What Makes Taper Fades Perfect for Curly Hair?
A taper fade gradually reduces hair length from top to bottom, creating a clean transition from longer curls to shorter sides. For curly-haired individuals, this combination offers several benefits:
- Highlights natural texture by maintaining length on top where curls can shine
- Reduces bulk on the sides for a more balanced silhouette
- Creates structure while allowing for natural movement
- Simplifies styling and maintenance for busy lifestyles
- Adapts well to different curl patterns, from loose waves to tight coils
Top 7 Taper Fade Styles for Curly Hair
1. Classic Curly Taper Fade
The classic curly taper fade maintains medium to long length on top with a gradual fade on the sides and back. This timeless style works with all curl types and face shapes, making it an excellent starting point if you’re new to taper fades.
Styling tip: Use a lightweight curl cream to enhance definition without weighing down your curls.
2. High Taper Fade with Curly Top
This bold style features a dramatic contrast between voluminous curls on top and tight fades that start high on the sides. The high taper fade creates a striking visual effect that elongates the face and draws attention to your curl pattern.
Best for: Those with tight to medium curls who want a low-maintenance yet high-impact style.
3. Low Taper Fade with Curly Fringe
The low taper fade begins just above the ears, creating a subtle transition while maintaining more hair around the sides. Paired with a curly fringe that falls forward slightly, this style frames the face beautifully and works particularly well for those with oval or square face shapes.
Styling tip: A diffuser attachment on your hair dryer helps enhance your natural curl pattern without causing frizz.
4. Curly Drop Fade
The drop fade curves around the ear and back of the head, “dropping” lower as it moves toward the neck. This unique fade pattern complements curly hair by creating a custom-shaped frame that highlights your natural texture on top.
Best for: Those looking for something more distinctive than a standard taper fade while maintaining professionalism.
5. Temple Fade with Curly Top
The temple fade (also called a temp fade) focuses the fading specifically around the temples and sideburns while maintaining length on top and at the back. This style works exceptionally well for those with thick, dense curls who want to reduce volume around the face.
Styling tip: Use a pick or wide-toothed comb to add height and shape to your curls on top.
6. Textured Crop with Taper Fade
This contemporary style combines a taper fade with shorter textured curls on top, often styled forward. The textured crop with taper fade offers excellent versatility for those with looser curl patterns who want a sophisticated, low-maintenance option.
Best for: Professional environments where you want a clean-cut look that still showcases your natural texture.
7. Burst Fade with Curly Mohawk
For the bold and fashion-forward, the burst fade radiates from behind the ear in a semi-circular pattern, paired with longer curls down the center of the head in a mohawk-inspired style. This eye-catching look celebrates natural curl texture while creating a unique silhouette.
Styling tip: A strong-hold gel or mousse helps maintain the mohawk shape without stiffening your natural curl pattern.
How to Maintain Your Curly Taper Fade
Keeping your taper fade looking fresh requires some maintenance:
- Regular trims every 2-3 weeks to maintain the fade’s clean lines
- Proper hydration with curl-specific conditioners and leave-in products
- Use nighttime protection using a satin or silk pillowcase to prevent frizz
- Minimal heat styling to preserve curl pattern and hair health
- Regular scalp care to ensure healthy growth, especially in the shorter areas
Finding the Right Stylist
The key to a perfect curly taper fade is finding a stylist experienced with both curly hair and precision fades. When booking your appointment:
- Ask for portfolios of previous curly hair clients
- Specify your curl type and desired fade height
- Bring reference photos of your desired style
- Discuss maintenance requirements based on your lifestyle
Conclusion
A well-executed taper fade can transform curly hair from potentially unmanageable to stylishly sophisticated. Whether you prefer a subtle low fade or a bold high fade, there’s a variation that will complement your natural texture and personal style. Embrace your curls with one of these top taper fade styles, and enjoy the perfect balance of definition, structure, and natural movement.