The buzz cut high taper is a clean, sharp hairstyle that combines the simplicity of a buzz cut with the boldness of a high fade. This style is a favorite among those who prefer a short, low-maintenance look that still has a lot of edge and definition. The high taper brings a modern twist to the traditional buzz cut by blending a closely-shaved top with faded sides that start higher up the head. This creates a sharp contrast that enhances the structure of your face and adds an element of coolness to the overall look. It’s a haircut that can easily be dressed up or down and suits a wide range of face shapes and personal styles.
What Is a Buzz Cut High Taper?
The buzz cut high taper is essentially a buzz cut where the sides are faded starting from a higher point on the head, usually around the temples or slightly above. Unlike a traditional buzz cut, where the length is uniform all over, the high taper adds more contrast and dimension by keeping the top slightly longer and fading the sides toward the bottom. The result is a clean, well-defined look that gives a sharp edge to the buzz cut, making it stand out in a way that a typical buzz cut doesn’t.
The taper can range from a light fade to a skin fade depending on your preference, but the key feature is the high starting point of the fade. The longer top and tapered sides help elongate the face and bring attention to the jawline, making this cut flattering for many face shapes. It’s a versatile style that can be customized to fit your personality, whether you’re going for something more classic or want a more edgy look.
Why Choose a Buzz Cut High Taper?
The buzz cut high taper offers several advantages that make it a popular choice among men looking for a sharp, stylish, and easy-to-maintain haircut. Here are some reasons to consider this style:
Clean and Defined Look
The high taper adds an element of structure and definition to the buzz cut, giving you a cleaner, sharper look. The fade on the sides helps to accentuate the shape of the head and jawline, while the slightly longer top keeps things balanced. It’s an ideal choice for men who want a short haircut with a little more dimension.
Low Maintenance
Like any buzz cut, the high taper is easy to maintain. The sides are short and require minimal upkeep, and the top can be styled with minimal product. The high taper works well for men who want to avoid lengthy styling routines but still want a polished appearance. Depending on how short the fade is, you may need a touch-up every 3-4 weeks to keep it looking fresh.
Versatile for Different Styles
Whether you’re dressing up for a business event or just hanging out on the weekend, the buzz cut high taper works for nearly every occasion. It’s a clean and professional style when kept neat, but it can also be made more relaxed and edgy if you leave a little more length on top or add a texturizing product. This flexibility makes it a great all-around cut for anyone.
Flattering for Many Face Shapes
The contrast between the longer top and tapered sides makes the high taper a flattering option for many different face shapes. It helps to elongate round faces and adds definition to square or angular faces. If you have a more oval face, this cut can add structure and enhance your features, making it a versatile option for various facial structures.
Sharp Edge for a Bold Look
For those who like a bold, edgy appearance, the high taper provides a sharper, more distinctive look compared to the standard buzz cut. The fade starts high on the head, creating a noticeable contrast that draws attention to the edges of the haircut and enhances the overall shape. This edgy appeal can help you stand out while keeping your look clean and professional.
How to Get a Buzz Cut High Taper
Getting a buzz cut high taper requires a few key steps, whether you’re going to a professional barber or attempting to cut it at home. Here’s what to expect:
Decide on the Top Length
The top of your hair should be cut short but not too short. Typically, a buzz cut high taper features hair that is about 1 to 2 inches long on top, though this can vary depending on your preference. Some people like a little more length on top for a textured look, while others may go for something shorter and more uniform. Discuss your preferred length with your barber, keeping in mind that the contrast between the top and sides should be noticeable.
Choose the Right Fade
The key to the high taper is the fade, which starts high on the sides, around the temples or slightly above. Depending on how dramatic you want the contrast to be, you can choose between a high fade, mid fade, or skin fade. A high fade will give you a more striking, bold look, while a mid fade creates a subtler contrast. For a more edgy, clean appearance, you can go with a skin fade, where the fade eventually blends down to the skin.
Edge the Cut
Once the fade is in place, the barber will clean up the edges around the ears, neck, and forehead to ensure a sharp, defined look. The line-up is essential to making the cut look polished and neat, so make sure your barber takes care in cleaning up these areas. The goal is to have clean, defined edges that enhance the taper and create a symmetrical, sharp look.
Regular Maintenance
To keep your buzz cut high taper looking sharp, you’ll need to get regular trims, especially on the sides and fade. Depending on how fast your hair grows, you’ll likely need to visit the barber every 3-4 weeks for a touch-up. This will help maintain the crisp lines and overall shape of your cut.
Who Should Consider a Buzz Cut High Taper?
The buzz cut high taper is a great option for anyone who:
- Wants a low-maintenance haircut that still has definition and structure
- Prefers a sharp, bold look with clean lines
- Has straight or wavy hair (works well with hair types that hold a fade)
- Enjoys versatility and wants a cut that can be dressed up or down
- Has a round, square, or oval face shape, as the high taper works well with a variety of facial structures
It may not be the best option for those with very curly or coarse hair, as the fade might not blend as seamlessly with the texture. If you have very thick hair, you might want to discuss with your barber how to achieve the best fade for your hair type.
The buzz cut high taper is a modern twist on the classic buzz cut that adds dimension, contrast, and style to an otherwise simple haircut. It’s a great choice for men looking for a clean, sharp, and low-maintenance look without sacrificing personality or edge. Whether you’re going for a bold, high fade or a more subtle taper, this style can work for nearly anyone. With regular maintenance and a bit of styling, you’ll be sporting a buzz cut high taper that makes a statement.