The world of men’s haircuts is vast and always evolving, but some styles stand the test of time while bringing a fresh, modern edge. One such haircut that has gained immense popularity is the blowout taper. This style combines the clean, sharp lines of a taper with the voluminous, textured look of a blowout, creating a dynamic and eye-catching appearance. Whether you have seen it on your favorite celebrity or noticed it on the streets, the blowout taper is a versatile look that can be adapted to suit various hair types and personal styles. It’s more than just a haircut; it’s a statement.
This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about the blowout taper. We’ll dive deep into what defines this unique cut, how it differs from other popular styles like fades, and who can pull it off best. We’ll also cover how to ask your barber for this specific look, the best products for styling it at home, and the maintenance required to keep it looking sharp. From different variations of the style to tips for growing it out, consider this your ultimate resource for mastering the blowout taper.
Key Takeaways
- Definition: A blowout taper combines a gradual taper on the sides and back with longer, voluminous hair on top styled to look “blown out.”
- Versatility: This haircut works for many hair types, including straight, wavy, and curly, and can be customized in length and style.
- Communication is Key: Knowing the right terminology and bringing reference photos to your barber is crucial for getting the exact blowout taper you want.
- Styling Essentials: A good blow dryer, a quality brush, and the right styling products (like pomade, mousse, or clay) are essential for achieving the signature voluminous look at home.
- Maintenance: Regular trims every 3-4 weeks are necessary to maintain the clean lines of the taper and the shape of the overall style.
What Exactly Is a Blowout Taper?
So, what makes a blowout taper stand out from the crowd? At its core, this haircut is a fusion of two distinct techniques: the taper and the blowout. Let’s break down each component to understand the complete picture. The “taper” part refers to the hair on the sides and back of the head. Unlike a fade, which can go down to the skin, a taper is a more conservative and gradual shortening of the hair. The length changes subtly from the longer hair on top to the shorter hair at the neckline and around the ears, leaving a noticeable but soft hairline. This creates a clean, professional, and well-groomed finish without being as stark as a high-contrast fade. It’s the foundation of the cut, providing structure and tidiness.
The “blowout” element describes the styling of the longer hair on top. This hair is styled upwards and outwards, giving it a windblown or “blown out” effect. The goal is to create maximum volume, texture, and movement. This look is typically achieved using a blow dryer and a brush to lift the roots and direct the hair into the desired shape. The final result is a hairstyle that appears effortlessly voluminous and full of life, contrasting beautifully with the neatness of the tapered sides. The combination of the structured taper and the free-flowing top is what gives the blowout taper its signature, dynamic appeal. It’s a style that feels both polished and relaxed at the same time.
Blowout Taper vs. Blowout Fade: Understanding the Key Differences
While they might sound similar, a blowout taper and a blowout fade are two distinct haircuts. The primary difference lies in how the hair on the sides and back is cut. As we’ve discussed, a taper involves a gradual decrease in hair length, but it always leaves some length, even at the very bottom. You can still see a visible, soft hairline. Think of it as a slope. The transition is smooth and subtle, offering a classic and refined look that is often considered more professional and less aggressive than a fade. This makes the blowout taper a great option for office environments or for those who prefer a less dramatic haircut while still enjoying the voluminous top.
On the other hand, a “fade” cuts the hair down progressively shorter until it blends with the skin. Fades can be low, mid, or high, depending on how high up the head the skin-short transition begins. A blowout fade, therefore, pairs the voluminous top with sides that disappear into the skin. This creates a much sharper, higher-contrast look. The fade is bold and modern, emphasizing the disconnect between the full hair on top and the buzzed sides. Choosing between a blowout taper and a blowout fade comes down to personal preference and desired aesthetic. If you want a cleaner, more classic finish with a soft edge, the taper is your best bet. If you’re aiming for a bolder, more striking style with a sharp contrast, a fade is the way to go.
|
Feature |
Blowout Taper |
Blowout Fade |
|---|---|---|
|
Side/Back Finish |
Hair gradually shortens, leaving a soft hairline. |
Hair gradually shortens down to the skin. |
|
Contrast |
Lower contrast, subtle and blended. |
High contrast, sharp and disconnected. |
|
Overall Vibe |
Classic, refined, professional. |
Modern, edgy, bold. |
|
Maintenance |
Requires trims to maintain the taper’s shape. |
Requires frequent touch-ups to keep the fade sharp. |
|
Best For |
Professional settings, subtle style statements. |
Making a bold fashion statement. |
Who Can Rock a Blowout Taper? Exploring Hair Types and Face Shapes
One of the best things about the blowout taper is its remarkable versatility. It’s not a one-size-fits-all cut, but it can be adapted to suit a wide range of individuals. The key to making it work lies in tailoring the cut to your specific hair type and face shape.
Hair Type Considerations
The signature volume of the blowout is most easily achieved with hair that has some natural thickness and wave. Straight hair can absolutely work, but it may require more product and effort with a blow dryer to create and hold the necessary lift and texture. For those with very fine or thin hair, a blowout taper can be a fantastic choice, as the styling technique can make the hair appear much fuller and more voluminous than it actually is.
For men with curly or coily hair, the blowout taper can be adapted into what is often called a “curly blowout” or “textured blowout.” In this variation, the natural curl pattern is embraced and enhanced. Instead of aiming for a straight, windblown look, the goal is to define the curls on top while keeping the sides neatly tapered. This creates a wonderful contrast between the structured sides and the free-form, textured curls on top. A good curl cream or mousse can help define the curls and control frizz, making this a stylish and manageable option.
Matching the Cut to Your Face Shape
The blowout taper is also quite forgiving when it comes to face shapes.
- Oval: Considered the ideal face shape, oval faces can pull off almost any hairstyle, and the blowout taper is no exception. The balanced proportions of the face work perfectly with the volume on top and the clean sides.
- Round: For round faces, the height created by the blowout style is incredibly flattering. The volume on top adds length to the face, helping to elongate its appearance and create a more balanced, oval-like silhouette. It’s important to keep the sides trimmed and neat to avoid adding any more width.
- Square: Square faces, characterized by a strong jawline, also pair well with a blowout taper. The softness of the blowout styling can help to balance the sharp angles of the face, while the height still adds a complementary vertical dimension.
- Heart/Triangle: For those with a wider forehead and a narrower chin, the key is balance. A moderately voluminous blowout works well, as too much height can over-emphasize the width of the upper face. The tapered sides help to create a clean line that doesn’t add bulk where it’s not needed.
How to Ask Your Barber for the Perfect Blowout Taper
Walking into a barbershop and getting the exact haircut you envision can sometimes feel like a challenge. Clear communication is absolutely essential. To ensure you walk out with the perfect blowout taper, you need to know the right language to use. Simply asking for a “blowout” might not be enough, as the term can be interpreted in different ways. Start by explicitly using the name of the haircut: “blowout taper.” This tells your barber you want the specific combination of a tapered cut on the sides and a voluminous, styled top.
Next, get specific about the details. Bring reference photos. A picture is truly worth a thousand words and is the single best way to show your barber precisely what you want. You can find countless examples of the blowout taper on social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. When discussing the cut, specify how long you want the hair on top to be and how short you want the taper to go. Do you want a subtle taper or a more noticeable one? Do you want the taper to be low, starting near the neckline, or higher up? Mentioning the length in inches (e.g., “I’d like to keep about 3-4 inches on top”) is much clearer than using vague terms like “short” or “long.” Also, discuss the texture. Do you want a messy, textured look or a more structured, combed-back style? A good barber will be able to guide you and make recommendations based on your hair type and the photos you provide.
Step-by-Step Styling Guide: Achieving the Look at Home
Getting a great blowout taper at the barbershop is only half the battle. To keep it looking its best every day, you need to master the art of styling it at home. It might seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools and a little practice, you can easily replicate that fresh-from-the-chair volume and shape. The key is to build a solid foundation with clean, damp hair and then use heat and product to create the signature look. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find the technique that works best for your hair.
Follow these steps for a flawless finish:
- Start with Damp Hair: Begin by washing your hair. You want to style from a clean slate. Towel-dry your hair until it’s damp but not soaking wet. Applying products to overly wet hair will dilute them, and styling bone-dry hair is much more difficult.
- Apply a Pre-Styler: This step is crucial for volume and hold. Work a small amount of a pre-styling product, like a volumizing mousse, sea salt spray, or grooming tonic, through your damp hair. Make sure to distribute it evenly from roots to tips. This will add texture, provide heat protection, and give your hair the memory it needs to hold the blowout shape.
- The Blow-Drying Technique: This is where the magic happens. Grab a blow dryer and a round brush or a vent brush. Set your dryer to medium heat and high speed. Start by directing the airflow at your roots while lifting the hair upwards with your brush. This creates the initial volume. Continue drying the hair, brushing it upwards and slightly back. For extra volume, you can even flip your head upside down and dry the roots that way.
- Shape and Direct: As your hair starts to dry, use the brush to direct it into the final shape you want. For the classic blowout taper look, you’ll be brushing the hair up and away from your face. Once your hair is about 90% dry, switch your blow dryer to the cool shot setting. A blast of cool air will lock the style in place.
- Finish with Product: Now it’s time to apply your finishing product. Scoop a small, pea-sized amount of pomade, wax, or styling clay. Rub it between your palms to warm it up. Lightly run your hands through your hair, starting from the back and moving forward, to apply the product. This helps distribute it without weighing the hair down. Use your fingers to further define the texture and shape, creating that perfectly messy-yet-controlled look. Don’t overdo it with the product—you can always add more if needed.
Essential Products for Maintaining a Flawless Blowout Taper
Having the right arsenal of hair products is non-negotiable if you want to maintain a salon-quality blowout taper at home. The products you choose will directly impact your ability to create volume, texture, and hold. It’s not about having dozens of bottles cluttering your bathroom counter; it’s about having a few high-quality, effective products that are suited for this specific style and your hair type. Investing in good products will not only make styling easier but will also help keep your hair healthy and looking its best between barber visits. Think of these products as the tools of your trade, essential for crafting and preserving your signature look.
Here’s a breakdown of the must-have products:
Pre-Stylers: The Foundation for Volume
- Volumizing Mousse: This lightweight foam is excellent for adding lift and body to hair, especially for those with finer strands. It provides a great foundation before you even pick up the blow dryer.
- Sea Salt Spray: If you’re aiming for a more natural, beachy texture, a sea salt spray is your best friend. It adds grit and texture, making the hair easier to shape and giving it that effortlessly messy look.
- Grooming Tonic: A classic barbershop staple, grooming tonic adds a light hold and control while making the hair more manageable during blow-drying. It’s great for achieving a smoother, more polished blowout.
Finishing Products: For Hold and Texture
- Styling Clay: Matte-finish clays are perfect for a textured, high-volume blowout taper. They offer a strong hold without any shine, giving the hair a natural, pliable look. They are ideal for creating separation and a piecey texture.
- Pomade: Pomades come in various holds and shines. A water-based, medium-hold, low-shine pomade is a versatile choice for this style. It provides enough control to shape the hair while still allowing for some natural movement.
- Hair Wax: Similar to clay but often with a bit more tackiness, wax is great for creating definition and holding specific pieces of hair in place. It works well for adding texture to the ends of the hair.
Essential Tools
- A Quality Blow Dryer: Look for one with multiple heat and speed settings, as well as a concentrator nozzle to direct the airflow. A “cool shot” button is also a must-have for locking in your style.
- A Good Brush: A vent brush is great for general drying and adding volume quickly. A round brush gives you more control for shaping and creating smoother, more directed volume, especially at the front.
The Versatility of the Cut: Exploring Different Variations
The standard blowout taper is a fantastic look on its own, but its true strength lies in its adaptability. This haircut serves as an excellent base that can be customized to create a variety of different styles, allowing you to express your personality. You can play with the length on top, the texture of the styling, and the subtlety of the taper to create a look that is uniquely yours. Whether you prefer something edgy and modern or something more refined and classic, there’s a variation of the blowout taper that will fit your vibe. This flexibility is a major reason for its enduring popularity.
Let’s look at some popular variations:
The Textured Crop Blowout Taper
This version keeps the hair on top shorter and choppier, often with a slight fringe at the front. The styling focuses on creating a messy, piecey texture rather than smooth volume. The sides still feature that clean, gradual taper, creating a modern and edgy contrast with the textured crop on top. This is a lower-maintenance option as the shorter length on top requires less intensive blow-drying. It’s perfect for someone who wants a stylish, contemporary look that is easy to manage on a day-to-day basis. A matte clay or paste is the ideal product for achieving that separated, textured finish.
The Curly Blowout Taper
As mentioned earlier, the blowout taper is not just for straight or wavy hair. Men with curly hair can rock this style with incredible results. For this variation, the goal is not to straighten the hair but to enhance the natural curl pattern. The hair on top is left long enough to allow the curls to form and create natural volume. The tapered sides provide a clean, sharp contrast to the wilder texture on top. Using a curl-defining cream or mousse on damp hair and then drying with a diffuser attachment will help your curls look their best—defined, bouncy, and frizz-free. This style beautifully showcases natural texture while maintaining a neat, polished frame.
The Pompadour Blowout Taper
This variation takes the volume of the blowout taper and combines it with the classic, swept-back shape of a pompadour. The hair on top is longer, especially at the front, and is styled up and back to create a prominent “pomp.” The blowout technique is used to achieve the necessary height and volume before the hair is combed back into the classic pompadour shape. The tapered sides keep the look modern and prevent it from appearing dated. This style is sophisticated and bold, perfect for making a statement. It requires a bit more styling time and a stronger-hold product, like a pomade, to keep the shape all day.
Maintenance and Upkeep: How to Keep Your Cut Looking Fresh
A great haircut requires consistent maintenance to keep it looking sharp, and the blowout taper is no exception. The two main components of the cut—the voluminous top and the clean taper—require different kinds of attention. Neglecting upkeep can quickly turn this stylish, dynamic cut into an overgrown, shapeless mess. The taper will lose its clean lines, and the top will become heavy and difficult to style. Regular visits to your barber and a consistent home care routine are crucial for preserving the integrity and impact of the style.
To keep your blowout taper in prime condition, you’ll need to schedule regular trims. The taper on the sides and back grows out relatively quickly. To maintain that clean, gradual transition, you should plan on visiting your barber every 3 to 4 weeks. This will keep the edges sharp and prevent the sides from looking bulky or unkempt. During these visits, your barber can also lightly trim the top to remove any split ends and maintain the desired shape and length, ensuring it remains easy to style for volume.
Beyond the barbershop, your at-home care routine plays a significant role. Using quality shampoo and conditioner will keep your hair healthy and manageable. Don’t wash your hair every single day, as this can strip it of its natural oils, making it dry and harder to style. Washing every 2-3 days is usually sufficient for most hair types. Additionally, always use a heat protectant spray or pre-styler before blow-drying to prevent heat damage. Healthy hair is the foundation of any great hairstyle, so taking these simple steps will ensure your blowout taper looks vibrant and stylish for weeks on end.
The Historical Roots and Evolution of the Blowout Style
While the modern blowout taper feels very contemporary, the concept of the “blowout” hairstyle has a rich and interesting history. The term itself gained popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s, heavily influenced by pop culture and music scenes. It was famously associated with the cast of MTV’s Jersey Shore, where the “blowout” hairstyle—characterized by heavily gelled, spiked, and voluminous hair—became a cultural phenomenon. This version was often paired with a sharp fade and was a much more extreme and product-heavy interpretation of the style. It was all about creating a stiff, unmovable structure with maximum height.
However, the idea of styling hair for volume and lift goes back much further. The pompadour, popular since the 18th century and famously revived by Elvis Presley in the 1950s, is a clear ancestor. It championed the idea of creating height and a swept-back shape. The 1980s also saw a love for big hair, with rock bands and pop stars sporting voluminous, often teased and hair-sprayed styles. The modern blowout taper is an evolution of these past trends. It takes the core principle of volume and height but refines it with a more natural, textured, and sophisticated approach. Instead of stiff gels and heavy hairsprays, today’s style relies on blow-drying techniques and pliable products like clays and pomades. The addition of the clean, professional taper grounds the style, making it more wearable and versatile than its predecessors. It’s a perfect example of how hairstyling trends evolve, borrowing elements from the past and reinterpreting them for a new generation.
Growing Out a Blowout Taper: The Transition Phase
Every haircut eventually reaches a point where you either refresh it or decide to grow it out for a new look. Growing out a haircut that has different lengths, like the blowout taper, can sometimes lead to an awkward in-between stage. The key to navigating this transition gracefully is to have a plan. The short, tapered sides will grow out faster and might start to look bushy or unkempt long before the top gets much longer. This can throw off the proportions of the cut and make it look unbalanced.
The best strategy for growing out your blowout taper is to continue visiting your barber, but with a different goal in mind. Instead of just asking for a trim, explain that you are trying to grow out the top while keeping the sides tidy. Your barber can clean up the neckline and around the ears without taking off significant length, managing the awkward phase of the taper growing out. They can help shape the sides so they blend more smoothly with the lengthening top. As the hair on top gets longer, you may need to adjust your styling routine. You might transition from a high-volume blowout to a more relaxed, swept-back look or a textured fringe as the weight of the hair increases. Using lighter products can help prevent the longer hair from falling flat. With a little patience and some strategic maintenance trims, you can successfully grow out your blowout taper into your next hairstyle without looking messy along the way.
Is the Blowout Taper a Professional Hairstyle?
The question of whether a hairstyle is “professional” can be subjective and often depends on the specific workplace environment. However, the blowout taper is widely considered to be one of the more versatile and office-appropriate modern hairstyles. The primary reason for this is the “taper” component. The clean, gradual taper on the sides and back provides a sharp, tidy, and well-groomed appearance that is universally accepted in professional settings. Unlike a more aggressive skin fade, the taper is subtle and classic, signaling neatness and attention to detail.
The “blowout” top, when styled appropriately, can also be perfectly professional. While an extremely high-volume, messy blowout might be better suited for a night out, a more controlled and moderately voluminous style looks polished and sophisticated. A blowout taper styled with a slight side part or combed back neatly can project confidence and style without appearing unprofessional. The key is moderation. As long as the hair is clean, well-maintained, and not excessively styled, the blowout taper strikes an excellent balance between modern fashion and professional decorum. For a more conservative office, you can always opt for a lower-volume blowout and a more conservative taper. The inherent customizability of the cut allows it to be toned down for the boardroom or played up for the weekend, making it a fantastic choice for the modern professional who doesn’t want to sacrifice style. As detailed in resources like those from Silicon Valley Time, workplace aesthetics are constantly evolving, and styles like the blowout taper are at the forefront of this change.
Celebrity Inspirations: Who Wears the Blowout Taper Well?
One of the reasons the blowout taper has surged in popularity is its visibility on celebrities, athletes, and influencers. Seeing a hairstyle executed perfectly on a public figure can provide the inspiration needed to try it for yourself. These examples showcase the cut’s versatility across different hair types, face shapes, and personal styles. Pauly D from Jersey Shore might be the most famous (or infamous) early adopter of a blowout style, but the modern blowout taper has been refined and adopted by a new wave of style icons who wear it with a more contemporary and sophisticated flair.
Soccer players are often trendsetters in men’s hair, and many have been seen sporting variations of the blowout taper. Their active lifestyle demands a cut that looks good but can also be managed easily, and this style fits the bill. You’ll see players with curly, textured blowouts and others with straighter, more classic versions. Actors and musicians have also embraced the look on red carpets and in their daily lives. For example, you might see a leading man with a longer, softer blowout taper that looks effortlessly charming, while a musician might opt for a higher-contrast version with more texture and edge. Looking up recent photos of your favorite male celebrities is a great way to gather reference images for your barber. When you see someone with a similar hair type or face shape rocking the style, it can give you the confidence that it will work for you, too.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Styling a Blowout Taper
While styling a blowout taper can become second nature with practice, there are a few common pitfalls that can derail your look. Avoiding these mistakes is just as important as knowing the right techniques. One of the most frequent errors is using too much product. It’s tempting to think that more clay or pomade will lead to better hold, but it usually does the opposite. Overloading your hair with product will weigh it down, kill the volume you worked so hard to create, and can make your hair look greasy and clumped. Always start with a small, pea-sized amount, warm it up in your hands, and apply it lightly. You can always add more if needed.
Another common mistake is applying styling products to soaking wet hair. Water dilutes the product, rendering it less effective, and you won’t get the hold or texture you’re looking for. Always towel-dry your hair to a damp state before applying any pre-stylers or finishing products. Similarly, skipping the pre-styler is a recipe for a flat, lifeless style. Products like mousse or sea salt spray provide the crucial foundation for volume and heat protection. Skipping this step will make it much harder to achieve and maintain the blowout effect. Finally, be mindful of your blow-drying technique. Aiming the dryer down onto your hair will flatten it. You must direct the airflow from underneath and lift the roots with a brush to build that essential volume that defines the blowout taper.
The Blowout Taper for Different Age Groups
Style has no age limit, and the blowout taper is a testament to that. Its classic-meets-modern aesthetic allows it to be adapted for men of all ages. It’s not just a haircut for teenagers and young adults; it can look equally sophisticated and stylish on men in their 30s, 40s, and beyond. The key to making it age-appropriate lies in the customization of the cut and styling. A younger man might opt for a more dramatic version with significant volume, a higher taper, and a messier, more textured finish. This look is energetic, trendy, and perfectly suited for a more fashion-forward, youthful vibe.
For a more mature man, the blowout taper can be refined into a more understated and distinguished style. This might involve keeping the hair on top at a more moderate length and styling it with less extreme volume. A neatly combed-back blowout or a gentle side part can look incredibly sharp and polished. The taper can be kept low and conservative, providing a clean finish without the high contrast of a skin fade. This version of the blowout taper projects confidence and an awareness of current style, while remaining entirely appropriate for a professional or family man. It’s a way to look modern and put-together without chasing trends that might feel too young. The haircut’s fundamental structure—clean sides and a styled top—is timeless, making it a fantastic option for any man looking for a stylish and versatile cut.
Final Thoughts and Conclusion
The blowout taper has firmly established itself as a premier choice in modern men’s hairstyling, and for good reason. It offers a perfect synthesis of structure and freedom, pairing the clean, professional lines of a taper with the voluminous, expressive styling of a blowout. Its remarkable versatility allows it to be tailored to nearly any hair type, face shape, or personal style, from a textured curly top to a sleek pompadour hybrid. It’s a haircut that can be worn in the boardroom, on a date, or just hanging out with friends, and it can be adapted to look great on men of any age. Mastering the at-home styling takes a bit of practice, but with the right tools and products, achieving that fresh-from-the-barber look is entirely within reach.
Ultimately, the blowout taper is more than just a fleeting trend; it represents the evolution of men’s grooming. It takes classic principles of volume and clean lines and updates them for a contemporary audience that values both style and practicality. Whether you are considering this cut for the first time or looking for ways to perfect your existing style, understanding its nuances is key to making it your own. Remember to communicate clearly with your barber, invest in quality products, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations. This dynamic haircut is a fantastic way to express your personal style and project an image of modern confidence. The history of hairstyles shows a constant evolution, and the blowout taper is a noteworthy style in that lineage, a topic you can explore further on platforms like Wikipedia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How often should I get my blowout taper trimmed?
A: To maintain the clean lines of the taper, it’s recommended to get a trim every 3 to 4 weeks. This will keep the sides and back looking sharp and prevent the haircut from looking overgrown.
Q2: Can I get a blowout taper if I have thin hair?
A: Absolutely! A blowout taper can be an excellent choice for thin or fine hair. The blow-drying technique used to style the top creates significant volume, which can make your hair appear much thicker and fuller than it actually is.
Q3: What’s the most important product for styling a blowout taper?
A: While several products are helpful, a good pre-styler (like a volumizing mousse or sea salt spray) is arguably the most important. It’s applied before blow-drying to create the foundational volume and texture that is essential for the signature look.
Q4: Is a blowout taper difficult to style every day?
A: There is a learning curve, but once you get the hang of the blow-drying technique, it typically only takes about 5-10 minutes to style. With the right tools and a little practice, it can become a quick and easy part of your morning routine.
Q5: What is the main difference between a blowout taper and a regular taper haircut?
A: The main difference is the styling on top. A regular taper haircut can have any style on top (e.g., combed over, crew cut). A blowout taper specifically refers to a taper haircut where the longer hair on top is styled for maximum volume and a “blown out” or windblown effect.
