Breaking free from hair extensions can be liberating for Black women looking to embrace their natural texture.
Tapered cuts offer a stylish, low-maintenance option that celebrates natural hair while providing versatility and ease. These stunning styles will have you wondering why you didn’t make the switch sooner!
1. Pixie classico affusolato
Closely cropped sides with slightly longer top layers create this timeless look. The Classic Tapered Pixie frames your face beautifully while highlighting your natural texture.
Maintenance is minimal – just a trim every 4-6 weeks to maintain the shape.
2. Curly Top Fade
Gorgeous natural curls bloom at the crown while the sides stay neatly faded. This playful style works with various curl patterns and face shapes.
A bit of curl-defining cream keeps those top curls bouncy and defined all day.
3. Dramatic Undercut Taper
Bold and edgy, this style features shaved sides with artistic line designs and a voluminous natural top. The contrast creates a head-turning statement.
Rock this look with confidence and watch the compliments roll in!
4. Soft Round Taper
Feminine and flattering, the Soft Round Taper gently frames the face with graduated layers. The crown retains enough length to showcase your natural curl pattern.
Perfect for those wanting a subtle transition from longer styles.
5. Bold Color Tapered Cut
Vibrant colors like platinum blonde, burgundy, or even pastel purple make this tapered cut truly yours. The shorter style means less damage when coloring.
A good color-preserving shampoo will keep your hue looking fresh between salon visits.
6. Sculpted Temple Taper
Precision is the hallmark of this architectural style. Barber-sharp temple and neckline tapering creates clean lines that frame your features.
The top remains textured and natural, creating a beautiful balance between structure and softness.
7. Asymmetrical Tapered Bob
One side features a close crop while the other sweeps dramatically longer. This bold style combines the best of short and mid-length looks.
Versatile enough for both corporate settings and weekend adventures!
8. Feathered Crown Taper
Wispy, feathered texturing at the crown creates movement and dimension. The sides remain closely tapered for a clean silhouette.
This style works beautifully for those with fine-textured natural hair who want volume without bulk.
9. Tapered Teeny Weeny Afro
The TWA gets an upgrade with graduated tapering around the edges. Short enough to be ultra-low maintenance yet styled enough to look intentional.
Just a bit of moisturizer and you’re good to go – perfect for busy mornings!
10. Vintage-Inspired Tapered Cut
Channeling 1920s finger waves or 1950s short styles, this modern take adds tapering for contemporary edge. The top remains long enough for period-inspired styling.
Dress it up with accessories like decorative pins or headbands.
11. Mohawk-Inspired Taper
Not your average mohawk! This sophisticated version features gradually tapered sides rather than completely shaved ones.
The center strip of hair can be worn curly, twisted, or stretched for different looks throughout the week.
12. Layered Curl Taper
Strategic layering throughout the crown creates a beautiful cascade of defined curls. The sides and back are tapered close for contrast and easy maintenance.
Perfect for those blessed with springy, defined curl patterns!
13. Tapered Brush Cut
Ultra-short all over but with subtle graduation, this no-fuss style celebrates your natural texture while keeping things simple. The brush cut works with all face shapes.
Maintenance is minimal – just a trim every 3-4 weeks.
14. Textured Crown Taper
Natural coils or kinks on top create stunning texture while the sides remain sleek. This style celebrates the versatility of natural hair textures.
A pick or finger-combing is all you need to refresh this look throughout the day.
15. Disconnected Taper
A dramatic distinction between the closely-cut sides and the voluminous top creates this bold look. No gradual blending here – the contrast is the statement!
Works beautifully with both straight and curly natural textures.