Low Taper Fade Haircuts: Celebrity Trends and How to Get the Look

Celebrity Inspirations: Low-Taper Fade Haircuts Worn by Your Favorite Stars The low-taper fade haircut is a timeless style that has gained popularity over the years. Many celebrities, from athletes to musicians and actors, have embraced this adaptable haircut. Its clean and sharp look makes it a go-to choice for men who want a hairstyle that’s both stylish and low-maintenance. In this blog post, we’ll explore what a low taper fade is, why it’s so popular among celebrities, and how you can get inspired by the stars to rock this haircut yourself.
What is a Low-Taper Fade Haircut?
Before diving into celebrity inspirations, it’s important to understand what a low-taper fade haircut is. The low taper fade is a haircut where the hair gradually shortens as it transitions from the top to the sides and back of the head. The “low” part is where the fade starts, typically just above the ears. Unlike high or mid fades, the low taper fade is more subtle, providing a gentler transition from longer hair on top to shorter sides. This haircut is highly versatile and works well with various hair textures, whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair. It can be paired with different styles on top, such as a pompadour, a crew cut, or even longer, textured hair.
Why Celebrities Love the Low Taper Fade?
Celebrities often have access to the best hairstylists in the world, so it’s no surprise that many choose the low taper fade for its sleek and polished look. This haircut enhances facial features, gives a neat appearance, and is easy to maintain between red-carpet events or public appearances. The low taper fade also provides a modern edge without being too bold, which is why it appeals to a wide range of personalities and styles. Now, let’s explore a few celebrities who have adopted the low taper fade and how they style it to match their unique image.
1. Zayn Malik: The Modern Pop Star Look

Zayn Malik, the former One Direction member and now solo artist, is renowned for his constantly evolving hairstyles. One of his most iconic looks is the low taper fade paired with a slicked-back top. Zayn’s take on the low taper fade is edgy yet sophisticated, often combining it with a slight pompadour for added volume. His hairstyle works perfectly with his sharp jawline, giving him a sleek and well-groomed appearance.
How to Get the Look:
- Request a low taper fade from your barber, leaving a couple of inches of length on top.
- To achieve a sleek, polished finish, apply a strong-hold pomade or gel to slick back the hair.
- For a more casual, textured look, opt for a lightweight styling cream to enhance volume and create movement.
2. Michael B. Jordan: The Versatile Actor’s Fade

Michael B. Jordan, recognized for his performances in Creed and Black Panther, frequently wears a low taper fade that enhances his masculine features. His go-to style involves a fade that starts low around the temples and gradually blends into the top, which he keeps short and clean. The simplicity of this haircut matches Jordan’s laid-back yet powerful image, making it suitable for both red carpet-events and his day-to-day life.
How to Get the Look:
- Keep the top short, about 1-2 inches in length, and ask your barber to blend the fade low and gradually.
- For maintenance, brush or comb the hair regularly to keep it looking neat.
- You can add a small amount of matte styling product to avoid shine and maintain a natural look.
3. Chris Hemsworth: The Effortlessly Cool Fade

Chris Hemsworth, the Australian actor renowned for his role as Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, is another celebrity who stylishly embraces the low taper fade. Hemsworth’s version of the fade usually incorporates longer hair on top with a subtle, low fade around the sides and back. This haircut gives him a relaxed yet polished appearance, making it perfect for both casual outings and high-profile events.
How to Get the Look:
- Keep the top longer for a more textured look, around 3-4 inches, and ask for a low taper fade starting at the temples.
- Apply a texturizing spray or sea salt spray to add volume and create a relaxed, beachy wave in your hair.
- This style is ideal for anyone looking for a low-maintenance yet fashionable appearance.
4. Drake: The Iconic Low Fade Haircut

Drake, the Canadian rapper, singer, and songwriter, is known for his signature low taper fade. His haircut is often simple yet incredibly sharp, with a fade that starts just above the ears and transitions smoothly into a neatly trimmed top. Drake’s style proves that sometimes less is more, as the clean lines of his haircut perfectly complement his confident and smooth persona.
How to Get the Look:
- Keep the fade low, starting at the bottom of the ears, and ask for a sharp, clean line-up around the edges.
- Maintain a short and evenly trimmed top.
- Frequent trims are essential for keeping this look sharp.
5. Cristiano Ronaldo: The Athletic Fade Haircut

Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most famous footballers in the world, is known for his impeccable style both on and off the field. His low taper fade is often paired with a textured, voluminous top that gives him a dynamic look. The fade starts low, just above the ears, while the top remains longer and styled to perfection. Ronaldo’s haircut is perfect for athletes or anyone with an active lifestyle, as it’s both functional and stylish.
How to Get the Look:
- Keep the fade low and subtle, starting just above the ears, with more length on top.
- Apply a volumizing mousse or styling gel to add height and texture to the top of your hair.
- For a more structured look, use a fine-tooth comb to style the top into place.
6. Odell Beckham Jr.: The Bold Fade

NFL star Odell Beckham Jr. is known for his daring fashion choices, and his low taper fade is no exception. Beckham often combines his low taper fade with blonde-dyed curls on top, making his hairstyle both unique and eye-catching. This look is perfect for someone who wants to stand out while still maintaining a clean and well-groomed appearance.
How to Get the Look:
- Ask for a low taper fade with a longer, curly top.
- Consider dyeing the top portion of your hair a bold color, like blonde, to add a striking contrast.
- Use curl-enhancing products to define your natural curls and keep them looking fresh.
7. David Beckham: The Timeless Classic

David Beckham, the ex-footballer who has become a fashion icon, is well-known for establishing hair trends. Beckham has sported various hairstyles throughout his career, but the low taper fade remains one of his classic looks. He often pairs the fade with a slightly longer, slicked-back top for a timeless, gentlemanly appearance.
How to Get the Look:
- Request a low taper fade from your barber, leaving approximately 2-3 inches of length on top.
- Use a strong-hold pomade to slick the hair back and keep it in place.
- For a more relaxed version, use a medium-hold styling cream to add texture without making the hair too stiff.
Final Thoughts:
The low taper fade is a versatile haircut that can be adapted to suit different personal styles and preferences. Whether you’re inspired by Zayn Malik’s edgy look, Michael B. Jordan’s clean-cut fade, or Cristiano Ronaldo’s athletic style, this haircut is sure to give you a polished and stylish appearance. The best part is that the low taper fade works with various hair textures and lengths, making it an accessible option for almost anyone.
When selecting your low taper fade style, take into account your face shape, hair texture, and the level of maintenance you’re prepared to commit to for your look. With the right cut and styling products, you can easily replicate the looks of your favorite celebrities and make the low taper fade into your signature style. So, the next time you visit your barber, don’t be afraid to ask for a low taper fade inspired by the stars! Whether you’re going for a bold and trendy look like Odell Beckham Jr. or a classic style like David Beckham, the low taper fade is sure to turn heads and keep you looking sharp.