Taper Fade
The Taper Fade is a classic 90s men’s hairstyle that remains timeless and highly versatile. Characterized by a gradual reduction of hair length from the top to the sides and back, it can be tailored to suit individual head shapes and facial features. This haircut allows for creative variations, including low, mid, or high fades, combined with different top lengths and textures. Its clean lines and customizable silhouette make it suitable for both casual and formal occasions, offering a polished yet stylish appearance.
| Hair Type | Straight |
| Categories | |
| Occasion | Casual/Formal |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Styling Time | 10 minutes |
| Setting Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Hair Length | Short |
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Popularity | 96/100 |
| Tags | cleancustomizableclassic |
Instructions
- 1
Consult with a barber to determine the desired fade height (low, mid, high) and top length.
- 2
Start with clean, dry hair and comb it into its natural fall.
- 3
Use clippers with the appropriate guard to trim the sides and back, gradually increasing the guard length as you move upward.
- 4
Blend the transition between the faded sides and longer top using scissors over comb or clipper-over-comb technique.
- 5
Detail the edges around the hairline, ears, and sideburns with a hair trimmer for clean, sharp lines.
- 6
Trim the top with scissors if needed to achieve the desired length and texture.
- 7
Apply styling cream or pomade to the top for added texture, volume, or shine, depending on personal preference.
- 8
Check symmetry from all angles, making adjustments to blending or length as necessary.
- 9
Optional: Use a comb to style the top into a classic look, a textured finish, or a more modern swept-back style.
Styling Tips
Choose fade height based on face shape for the most flattering look.
Regular maintenance every 2–3 weeks keeps the fade sharp and defined.
Use minimal product on the top for natural movement or more for polished finishes.
Always blend carefully to avoid harsh lines between fade levels.
Experiment with texturing or parting the top to personalize the style.
More 90s Hairstyles For Men
Undercut
The Undercut is a versatile 90s men’s hairstyle that features a stark contrast between the longer top and closely cropped or shaved sides and back. Popularized in both casual and formal contexts, it allows customization to suit different head shapes and personal style preferences. Ideal for warmer seasons, it keeps the hair off the neck and sides, while the longer top provides styling flexibility, ranging from slicked-back to textured, tousled looks.
Greaser
The Greaser hairstyle experienced a 90s revival, blending midcentury nostalgia with contemporary flair. Characterized by voluminous hair slicked back from the forehead, it conveys a rebellious, “bad boy” aesthetic. Popular for evenings out and stylish daytime appearances, the look requires smooth, shiny hair with controlled volume. Achieving the Greaser style demands proper product application and precise combing to maintain a sleek, polished finish while retaining a sense of effortless attitude.
High Top
The High Top was a bold and unmistakable 90s men’s hairstyle, defined by a tall, squared silhouette that emphasized height and structure. Perfect for showcasing natural hair texture, it became iconic within hip hop culture and urban fashion scenes. This style requires precision cutting and shaping by a skilled barber to achieve clean edges and balance. The high top is attention-grabbing, offering both a stylish statement and a nostalgic nod to the era’s influential trends.
Pompadour
The Pompadour was a bold and iconic 90s men’s hairstyle, characterized by voluminous hair swept upward and back from the forehead, creating a striking lift at the crown. This style balances elegance with retro flair, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions. It requires medium to long top hair while keeping the sides shorter for contrast. Proper product application and combing technique are essential to achieve the signature height and smooth, glossy finish.
Punk Length
Punk Length was a rebellious 90s men’s hairstyle associated with the punk rock scene. It features long, untamed hair that emphasizes individuality, self-expression, and a raw, edgy aesthetic. Popularized by rockstars who grew their hair out to convey attitude and emotion, this look combines natural texture with minimal styling for a carefree, rebellious vibe. While it may appear effortless, care and proper maintenance are key to keeping hair healthy, frizz-free, and manageable.
Dreamy Volume
Dreamy Volume was a quintessential 90s men’s hairstyle, popularized by romantic comedy leading men. This style features hair swept back from the face with natural-looking volume at the crown, giving a soft, effortless, and charismatic appearance. The look balances elegance and casual appeal, making it suitable for both formal and everyday occasions. Its key feature is movement and body, achieved through careful blow-drying and light styling products, rather than stiff gels, ensuring the hair flows naturally while maintaining shape.
Grunge Hairstyle
Grunge hairstyles became synonymous with 90s music culture, inspired by icons like Kurt Cobain. Characterized by long, straight, slightly messy locks, this style radiates a rebellious, rockstar attitude. Its low-maintenance nature and effortless appeal made it a favorite among men seeking an edgy yet casual look. Wavy or curly hair can be straightened to achieve the authentic aesthetic, while naturally straight hair flows freely to capture the signature disheveled vibe of the era.
Spiky Hair
Spiky hair was a defining trend of 90s men’s hairstyles, famously worn by boy band members like the Backstreet Boys. Short to medium length hair is styled into sharp, defined spikes using pomade or gel, creating a bold, playful appearance. This style allows for easy customization with frosted tips, subtle highlights, or vibrant hair colors, adding personality and flair. Its quick styling process and eye-catching look made it a staple for young men during the decade and a nostalgic favorite today.