If there’s one hairstyle that strikes the perfect balance between clean-cut and effortlessly cool, it’s the blowout taper. It’s a look that says, “I take care of my appearance, but I’m not trying too hard.” From celebrities on red carpets to everyday guys heading to the office, this haircut has made its mark as a timeless yet modern choice. But here’s the thing — while it looks simple, a proper blowout taper is all about skill, technique, and the right styling routine.
In this article, we’ll break down exactly what a blowout taper is, why it’s so popular, how to get one, how to maintain it, and what variations you can try to make it your own. We’ll also share pro tips for keeping it looking sharp long after you leave the barber’s chair.
What Is a Blowout Taper?
A blowout taper is a hairstyle that combines two distinctive elements: the blowout and the taper fade. The blowout focuses on volume and texture on top, often styled with a hair dryer (hence the name “blowout”), while the taper fade gradually shortens the hair on the sides and back for a clean, blended look.
The beauty of the blowout taper lies in its contrast — the top remains full, lively, and eye-catching, while the sides and back stay neat and professional. This makes it a great style for guys who want to make a statement without crossing into overly flashy territory.
Unlike a traditional fade, the taper in a blowout taper doesn’t go down to the skin. Instead, it subtly decreases in length, making it look natural and less aggressive than, say, a skin fade or bald fade. And unlike a quiff or pompadour, the blowout is less about sculpted perfection and more about controlled volume.
People sometimes confuse the blowout taper with the Brooklyn blowout (also called a temple fade blowout), but they’re not exactly the same. The Brooklyn version is bolder and often involves sharper lines and more dramatic height, while the classic blowout taper keeps things softer and more adaptable to different settings.
It’s a hairstyle that works for different hair types, too — straight, wavy, or curly. The key is in the cut and styling approach, which we’ll dive into later.
Why the Blowout Taper Is So Popular
Trends in men’s haircuts come and go, but the blowout taper seems to stick around. And there are some solid reasons for that.
First, it’s versatile. You can wear it in casual environments with a laid-back, messy look or go for a sleek, brushed-back style when you need to look sharp for a meeting or date. Few hairstyles offer this kind of adaptability without needing constant restyling throughout the day.
Second, it’s low maintenance compared to many other stylish cuts. Sure, you’ll need regular trims to keep the taper looking clean, but the styling itself doesn’t require hours in front of the mirror. A quick blow-dry with the right product is usually enough to bring it to life.
Third, it has a timeless appeal. The blowout taper doesn’t lean too heavily on any particular fashion trend, which means it doesn’t get outdated quickly. Whether you’re 18 or 48, it’s a cut that looks age-appropriate without being boring.
Finally, it’s confidence-boosting. Hair is one of the first things people notice, and the blowout taper draws attention in a good way — it frames the face, makes hair look fuller, and projects a sense of style without trying too hard.
And let’s not forget — this is also a favorite among celebrities and athletes, which means it’s constantly being seen on social media, influencing more guys to give it a shot.
How to Get a Perfect Blowout Taper
If you’re going for a blowout taper, don’t just sit in the barber’s chair and say “give me a blowout.” That could mean different things depending on who’s holding the clippers. You want to be clear and specific so your barber knows exactly what you have in mind.
Start by describing the length you want on top. A blowout taper usually looks best with at least 2–4 inches of hair to work with, but this can vary depending on your hair type. Curly hair can work with less length, while straight hair often needs more to create enough volume.
For the sides and back, explain that you want a taper fade rather than a skin fade. This means the hair will gradually shorten from the top down without going completely bald at the neckline or around the ears. The taper should be smooth and well-blended so there’s no harsh line between the longer top and shorter sides.
The blowout part happens during styling. Your barber may use a hair dryer to lift the hair and create volume, finishing with a product like a matte clay, pomade, or lightweight mousse, depending on whether you want a natural or polished finish.
If you’re unsure, bring reference photos. A good barber will also assess your face shape, hair type, and lifestyle to suggest the ideal version of the blowout taper for you.
Styling a Blowout Taper at Home
Once you’ve left the barber, the real test is whether you can recreate the look at home. Fortunately, the blowout taper is relatively straightforward to style — once you get the hang of it.
Step 1: Start with clean, slightly damp hair. Use a lightweight shampoo and conditioner so your hair doesn’t get weighed down.
Step 2: Apply a pre-styling product. A volumizing mousse or heat-protectant spray will help protect your hair from heat while giving it some hold.
Step 3: Blow-dry strategically. Use medium heat and direct the airflow upward from the roots to create lift. A round brush can help with shaping, especially for straight or wavy hair.
Step 4: Apply your finishing product. Matte clay gives a natural, textured look; pomade or cream works for a smoother finish. Apply lightly — the blowout is about movement, not stiffness.
Step 5: Lock it in. If you need your style to last all day, a light mist of hairspray can keep everything in place without making it crunchy.
Pro tip: Don’t overcomplicate it. The charm of the blowout taper comes from looking effortlessly styled, not overly precise.
Maintenance and Upkeep
The blowout taper is low-maintenance, but not no-maintenance. You’ll want to get it trimmed every 3–4 weeks to keep the taper clean and the top manageable. Letting it grow too long will make it lose shape and volume, which takes away from the style’s sharpness.
At home, focus on keeping your hair healthy. This means avoiding excessive heat, not over-washing, and using the right products for your hair type. If your hair tends to get dry, a leave-in conditioner can help keep it soft and manageable.
You might also need to touch up the sides between barber visits if your hair grows fast. A quick clipper run over the taper area can extend the life of your cut.
And don’t forget — hair health starts from within. Staying hydrated, eating nutrient-rich foods, and avoiding stress can actually help your hair look fuller and stronger, making your blowout taper look its best.
Variations of the Blowout Taper
One of the great things about this haircut is how customizable it is. Here are a few popular variations:
- Messy Blowout Taper – A laid-back version with lots of texture, perfect for casual looks.
- Slick Blowout Taper – More polished, with hair brushed back for a clean, professional vibe.
- Curly Blowout Taper – Embraces natural curls for volume and personality.
- Temple Fade Blowout – A bolder variation with a sharper fade around the temples.
- Side-Part Blowout Taper – Combines the volume of a blowout with a structured part.
Experimenting with these can help you find the version that best suits your style and lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
The blowout taper is more than just a haircut — it’s a style statement that works in almost any setting. It’s versatile, easy to maintain, and adaptable to different hair types and personal styles. Whether you go for a messy, beachy vibe or a sleek, boardroom-ready look, this cut has you covered.
If you want a hairstyle that strikes the perfect balance between modern and timeless, professional and laid-back, the blowout taper might just be your best bet. And once you master the styling routine, it’s one of those cuts that makes every day a good hair day.
\
