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30 STYLISH TAPERED HAIRCUTS TO ENHANCE NATURAL CURLS

Natural hair offers a wealth of stunning styling options. There’s a vast array of protective styles, creative ways to enhance and volumize curls, and numerous methods to rock shorter lengths. Additionally, you can explore various undercuts, mohawk-inspired designs, and sleek looks. Among these, tapered haircuts stand out as a favorite for styling natural hair.

Tapered haircuts feature varying lengths that create a distinctive gradation, ranging from low fade buzz cuts to asymmetrical bobs and long curly layers. The beauty of tapered haircuts lies in their versatility; they can be tailored to match your hair type, curl pattern, length, and face shape, resulting in a personalized style that suits you perfectly.

To spark inspiration for your next salon visit, we consulted two professional hairstylists who have curated a list of the 30 best tapered haircuts for natural hair, along with expert styling tips. From Amandla Stenberg’s tapered box braids and Angela Bassett’s layered curls to Danai Gurira’s buzzcut styles and Zendaya’s modern pixie, explore these top looks to find the perfect tapered haircut for you.

CLASSIC POMPADOUR

A modern twist on the pompadour focuses on achieving maximum volume. You can replicate a tapered cut by pinning the hair to the sides or keep the hair trimmed or buzzed everywhere except the top. This approach allows you to maintain a striking, voluminous style with a contemporary edge.

SIMPLE SALT & PEPPER

Simplicity has its own charm, especially in the natural hair world. You don’t need elaborate designs, complex dye jobs, or long lengths to make a statement. Embrace a chic, peppery short ‘do and let your unique features shine through effortlessly.

SHORT POMPADOUR

The timeless pompadour consistently enhances one’s style, as perfectly exemplified by model Maria Borges.

ASYMMETRICAL SIDE

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your haircut. For example, this asymmetrical cut features soft edges on both sides, forming a striking geometric look that showcases inventive styling.

CONVENTIONAL CUT

If you’re not keen on getting too close with the clippers, consider a long, layered pixie tapered haircut. This classic and timeless style complements curly textures and beautifully frames the face. It’s also a great option for naturals with fine hair who want to add more volume and depth to their look.

PIXIE WITH BANGS

Add a boyish-glam touch to your pixie cut by incorporating sweeping bangs. Finish off the style with a shine spray to enhance the sleek, polished effect.

FRIZZY FRO

Embrace the humidity and its natural frizz. Your curls will appear even more voluminous, creating a halo-like effect around your face.

ACCESSORIZED WITH A HAT

Choosing a tapered haircut doesn’t mean you have to forgo dressing up your natural curls. In fact, you can experiment with colors and accessories to enhance your look. A wide-brimmed hat is a chic way to complement your tapered style and add an extra touch of flair.

CURLY FADE

We adore Cynthia Erivo’s subtle, curly fade haircut. It adds texture and dimension to her look, striking the perfect balance between laid-back elegance and high glamour.

GROWN OUT TAPERED CUT

A tapered cut is stylish, but it also looks fantastic as it grows out. When your curls lengthen, you can use techniques like finger coils and twist-outs to define and enhance your hair’s shape and texture.

DIP-DYE FRO

While fro-hawks are popular, this dip-dyed tapered haircut offers a fresh twist. Shave your sides and create a large “Z” pattern for a unique look. When you’re heading out, style your hair to the front and pin or tie it in place to showcase your lightened curly ends.

COMB-OVER FRO-HAWK

Make a statement like Rihanna with this dynamic haircut. “I love seeing women rock a fro-hawk,” says Bailey. “The fro-hawk is a daring style with versatile options. With the sides typically faded, tapered, or closely trimmed, the real drama happens at the top or along the center of the head.”

SOFT CUT

Channel Rihanna’s bold style with this striking haircut. “I love seeing women embrace a fro-hawk,” says Bailey. “The fro-hawk is a fearless choice with lots of versatility. While the sides are usually faded, tapered, or closely trimmed, the real impact is made at the top or along the center of the head.”

TAPERED BOX BRAIDS

Elevate your protective style with a touch of tapered length for a subtle yet eye-catching detail that adds a hint of flair.

VOLUMINOUS BOB WITH BANGS

Boost the volume of your curls for a tapered, stylish look. Simply apply a curl-defining product to your strands to achieve a well-coiffed and controlled style, reminiscent of Solange’s signature flair.

TAPERED AFRO

For naturals in stage two of their hair journey, joining the tapered haircut trend is easy by keeping the hair shorter at the back. This creates a choppy, medium-sized afro that retains definition while adding style. To enhance the look, fluff up the front and pull a few strands to achieve wispy curls, making your cut truly stand out.

CURLY COIFFURE

Keep your curls voluminous at the top of your head while tapering the rest to a shorter length, drawing attention to your crown. If you love this style but prefer not to commit to a tapered cut, achieve a similar effect by gathering your hair into a high puff.

PEEKABOO CUT

Surprise and captivate with a hidden undercut design. Style your box braids into a high bun to showcase your shaved sides, creating a visually striking contrast. Pulling your hair up will reveal the tapered cut, offering a stylish and attention-grabbing twist.

ASYMMETRICAL CURLS

An asymmetrical cut is a timeless choice, and you can personalize it by embracing your natural texture. This style remains stylish and allows you to highlight the unique qualities of your curls or waves, making the look distinctly your own.

AUBURN WAVES

Naturalistas looking to enjoy the benefits of short hair without a drastic chop can enhance their look with a teeny weeny afro. The key to this style is to keep your hair short enough to stay manageable while long enough to showcase your natural texture.

Use a boar bristle brush to smooth baby hairs or create soft waves, and consider a monthly (or weekly) auburn rinse for a touch of color. The Mason Pearson Handy Mixture Bristle Hair Brush is ideal for achieving the perfect finish.

ASYMMETRICAL BUZZCUT

Embrace a punk-inspired look by shaving one side of your hair, while letting the other side showcase your curls or featuring box braids for a stylish protective option. This contrast creates a bold and versatile style that combines edgy flair with practical hair care.

HIGH FADE

A high fade allows you to achieve the flat-top look without the hassle of maintaining height. Simply buzz the sides of your head for a clean finish. The contrast between the shorter sides and the longer top creates a striking, gender-neutral style that’s both sleek and sophisticated.

BOLD FRO-HAWK

If daring is your style, you’ll love the idea of a colorful frohawk. Ask your stylist to buzz the sides, create a distinctive shape—like a shaved lightning bolt—and add some bleach for extra impact. Choose any color you like, but a vibrant shade adds personality and pairs well with neutral outfits. The standout feature is the playful shape, which adds a fun, bold touch without taking itself too seriously.

LONG, TAPERED CURL

Anyone with curls knows that each bend can create a trompe l’œil effect, but you can enhance this illusion by adding real layers for even more shape and dimension. This approach not only emphasizes the natural texture but also adds depth and movement to your curls, making your hairstyle even more striking.

BUZZ CUT WITH DESIGNS

Keep your style sharp and eye-catching with a buzzcut that incorporates unique designs. Whether you opt for various sizes, shapes, or personal messages, your scalp becomes a canvas for creativity. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make a bold statement with your haircut.

GINGER SNAP

No matter which tapered haircut you choose, adding a ginger hue can give your style an edgy, alternative vibe. This vibrant color enhances the look, providing a fresh and eye-catching twist to your tapered cut.

ICY TRAIL

If you’re ready to transition from long natural hair to a vibrant fashion color, this clean fade is the perfect choice. Opt for a close shave on the sides to let the deep side steal the spotlight, and add an icy, gunmetal blue for a striking, contemporary look.

TAPERED PIXIE

Pair a pixie cut with tapered sides for a wispy, stylish look that’s both cute and easy to maintain—just remember regular touch-ups with clippers or your stylist. For an extra touch, sweep the top into a soft mohawk for added flair and versatility.

ARTSY COLORS

“Tapered cuts are like blank canvases, offering clients the chance to get creative and express their style almost artistically,” says Dent. “You can opt for cut designs that reflect your personality or mood, incorporating clean lines, swirls, or even shaved artwork. Plus, you can style it with curls, twists, faux locs, and coils—or, in this case, with vibrant dye.”

CURLY FRO-HAWK

For a timeless yet edgy look, sweep the sides of your hair up and style them into a curly faux frohawk. To add even more impact, stretch out your curls to enhance their volume and create a bold, standout style.

FAQ

1.How can I maintain a natural tapered cut?

One key aspect of tapered cuts is their tendency to grow out quickly. To keep your style looking sharp and fresh, aim to schedule a barber appointment every 2 to 3 weeks.

2.How can I fake a tapered cut?

If you’re drawn to the tapered sides but hesitant to fully commit, try creating a faux hawk. Divide your hair into 2 or 3 vertical sections, slick up the sides to form ponytails, and fluff each ponytail to achieve a cohesive, uniform look.

40 GORGEOUS LAYERED LONG PIXIE CUT IDEAS

Have you heard of the layered long pixie cut? Starting with the timeless classic pixie cut, it has evolved into a longer version known as the long pixie, or “Lixie.” Now, we introduce the layered long pixie cut—a fantastic blend of the classic pixie, the length of a Lixie, and the added dimension of layers. It’s unique, stylish, and offers a fresh twist. If you’re looking for a change, your hair is the perfect place to start. So why not try this hairstyle for your next cut? Keep exploring with our curated collection of 40 layered long pixie cut styles below!

PIXIE CUT WITH LONG BANGS

Opt for a pixie cut with long bangs to reduce bulk and highlight your best features. A close crop around the sides and nape of the neck removes excess weight, making styling effortless. Adding a side part to an asymmetrical pixie cut creates extra volume in the fringe.

STRAIGHT LONG PIXIE WITH WISPY LAYERS

A straight long pixie cut with wispy layers is an ideal Lixie for women looking to add movement to straight hair. Blended layers create a uniform, rounded shape at the back. For a wispy finish, ask your stylist to texturize the edges and sideburns.

LONG LAYERED PIXIE FOR THIN HAIR

Choose a long layered pixie hairstyle for thin hair to add movement and create a fuller look. This style typically falls at or below the ears, with a fringe that grazes the jawline. Consult your stylist to see if a platinum blonde shade would suit your skin tone.

PIXIE WITH STACKED LAYERS FOR THICK HAIR

If you’ve been hesitant to go short because of your thick hair, worry no more! A pixie cut with stacked layers is the perfect solution. This stylish crop not only simplifies your styling routine but also helps manage the weight of your hair. A layered long pixie is especially great for reducing bulk. For the best results, blow-dry with Kevin Murphy’s Ever.Smooth and finish with Bedroom.Hair dry texturizer.

TEXTURED PIXIE CUT WITH CHOPPY LAYERS

For fine hair that needs a volume boost, try a textured pixie cut with choppy layers. Angled, cheek-skimming layers on a long choppy pixie frame your face beautifully and accentuate your cheekbones. To enhance the look, consider a rich hazelnut color with a few baby lights to warm your complexion and showcase the texture.

SHAGGY PIXIE CUT WITH CURTAIN BANGS

A shaggy pixie cut with curtain bangs is a stylish, easy-to-maintain short hairstyle that provides plenty of movement and suits straight, wavy, and curly textures. For a complete, low-maintenance look, add some soft, face-framing balayage to your long pixie cut for a wash-and-wear layered style.

WAVY PIXIE HAIR WITH LAYERS

For those with textured tresses, a wavy pixie cut with layers can be a fantastic choice. Pixies are incredibly versatile, flattering women of all ages and face shapes. Naturally wavy hair can be styled by letting it air dry with sea salt spray or enhanced with some loose waves created by a curling iron.

ANGLED PIXIE WITH A SIDE PART

If you’re considering a bold transformation, an angled pixie with a side part is worth considering. Short layered pixies offer sheer perfection, with soft, tousled layers and an asymmetrical side part that accentuate cheekbones and highlight your eyes. For a finishing touch, pair this chic style with a buttery shade of platinum blonde hair dye.

PIXIE WITH RAZORED CROWN LAYERS

If you have thin hair and want to add some volume, consider a pixie cut with razored crown layers. Layered long pixies for fine hair look incredibly chic with wispy sideburns and a short, swoopy fringe. This stylish razored crop is especially flattering for women over 50.

SIDE-SWEPT PIXIE CUT WITH LAYERS

Opt for a side-swept long pixie cut with layers for a look that’s both edgy and chic. This versatile haircut suits women of all ages and adds a touch of sophistication. Enhance your layered pixie with a stunning shade of champagne blonde.

TAPERED PIXIE CUT FOR FINE HAIR

A tapered pixie cut for fine hair is a lively layered style that revitalizes limp tresses. By trimming the back very close and leaving textured length around the sides and top, this creative long pixie cut adds volume and interest. For optimal lift, apply Living Proof Full Root Lift to damp hair and blow dry.

LAYERED PIXIE WITH HEAVY BANGS

Consider a layered pixie with heavy bangs for a chic, low-maintenance style. Long pixie hairstyles with layers and a full fringe can balance broad heart-shaped faces and shorten oval face shapes. Regular trims will help maintain the shape of your pixie and keep it looking fresh.

LAYERED PIXIE BOB

If you’re seeking a short cut with versatile styling options, try a layered pixie bob. This hairstyle, which falls between the ear and neck, is a perfect transitional choice if you’re not ready for a super short crop. Discuss with your stylist about adding icy beige highlights to make your new look truly stand out!

EXTRA LONG BLONDE PIXIE WITH A SIDE BANG

Opt for an extra long blonde pixie with a side bang for a classy, effortless look. To style, use a root lift product like Living Proof Full Root Lift on wet hair, or Puff.ME Powder on dry hair for added lift and separation. When blow-drying, avoid drying your hair flat against your scalp. Instead, dry in the opposite direction with a round brush, then flip your hair once it’s dry to achieve gorgeous volume.

FEATHERED PIXIE CUT WITH LAYERS

A feathered pixie cut with layers is incredibly chic and offers a soft, feminine style. It’s perfect for middle-aged professionals and older women. Feathered layers enhance medium wavy textures and are easy to maintain. For a quick, effortless look, simply wash and go, or add a bit of volume spray at the roots before a quick blow-dry to boost body.

BRUNETTE PIXIE BOB WITH LAYERS

A brunette pixie bob with layers is a stunning medium-to-short haircut that beautifully frames and accentuates the face. Layering a pixie bob adds body and movement, making the haircut easier to style. While a pixie bob does require daily styling to maintain its intentional look, the process is typically quick and straightforward.

BRUNETTE PIXIE BOB WITH LAYERS

A brunette pixie bob with layers is a stunning medium-to-short haircut that highlights and frames the face. Layering adds body and movement, making the style easier to manage. While a pixie bob does need daily styling to maintain its polished look, the process is usually quick and simple.

WHITE LONG PIXIE WITH SHORT LAYERS

Embrace natural beauty with a white long pixie featuring short layers. Adding short layers is an excellent way to create body and movement right at the crown. If your hair feels bulky at the nape or crown, removing excess weight can help it feel lighter and sit better, making styling easier.

LONG COPPER PIXIE WITH SIDEBURNS

The long copper pixie with sideburns is an ideal autumn hairstyle. It elegantly contours to the head shape, adding roundness at the crown and occipital area while accentuating the cheekbones with pointy, slightly feathered sideburns. To maintain the vibrancy of the copper color at home, consider using direct dye masks like Wella’s Colour Fresh Mask.

FEMININE GREY LIXIE WITH LAYERS

Try a feminine grey lixie with layers for a beautifully voluminous look. Ideal for adding height and reducing bulk in aging hair, a lixie is flattering on anyone. Layers provide a stylish, moveable look while keeping the overall appearance polished.

SILVER LIXIE FOR OLDER WOMEN

Hairstyles for older women have evolved significantly, offering a wide range of options. Whether you opt for professional texturizing for easy wear or embrace your natural silver or gray texture, a lixie is a versatile choice for a fresh look. This haircut adapts well to both smooth and curly textures, providing a stylish transition to a new you.

LIXIE BLONDE HIGHLIGHTS AND DARK ROOTS

Being in between styles can look fantastic, especially with a versatile lixie. A long pixie cut works wonderfully for showcasing blonde highlights with darker roots, offering a stylish and adaptable short hairstyle.

CUTE LIGHT BROWN PIXIE WITH LAYERS

Opt for a charming light brown pixie with textured layers. To achieve this look, request a long, swooped bang and uniform layers. For added dimension, consider highlights with lowlights to accentuate the layers. This style is ideal for women seeking a trendy, low-maintenance haircut.

RAZOR CUT LONG SHAGGY PIXIE

Consider a razor-cut long shaggy pixie for a lightweight, textured look. If you prefer a highly piecey style, a razor will create soft, fringed layers with plenty of texture. Personally, I love shags for their low-maintenance yet incredibly stylish appeal.

CHAMPAGNE BLONDE FEATHERY LIXIE CUT

Before opting for champagne blonde, consider your current hair color, budget, and maintenance needs. If your hair has a lot of color history, a feathery lixie cut can help streamline the process by removing bulk and allowing you to achieve your desired color more quickly.

YUMMY CHOCOLATE PIXIE

To soften a squared jawline, consider a long textured pixie. The longer sides frame your face and add curvature, which helps to soften your features. If you have thick hair, be sure to include extra texturizing throughout the cut to create shape and movement.

SIDE-SWEPT LIXIE WITH LONGER BANGS

If you want a shorter style while keeping some length, consider a side-swept lixie with longer bangs. Ask your stylist to use texturizing shears to add volume and texture. For extra volume when styling, simply backcomb the top a bit, and you’ll be set for the day.

SOFT FEATHERY LAYERS

Nothing exudes elegance like soft, feathery layers. For an easy-going yet sophisticated look, a long layered pixie is a fantastic choice. Your stylist will shape the layers to complement your head’s contours, using texturizing shears or a razor to achieve a soft, refined finish. To style, use volumizing mousse and a small to medium-sized round brush to add volume and definition.

CHIC PIXIE CUT WITH LIVED-IN LAYERS

Add a modern twist to your pixie cut for a chic and stylish look. Choose shorter layers at the crown to create a lived-in feel, and opt for wispy bangs to add softness. Finish with a dry texturizing product to achieve a natural, voluminous effect.

PERFECTLY LAYERED AND TAPERED LONG PIXIE CUT

Try a short, wispy stacked shag cut to create an eye-catching look that suits any face shape! This versatile hairstyle works beautifully with straight, wavy, or curly hair. To achieve this chic style, ask your stylist for tapering along the sides and subtle layering towards the back. es all the difference!

HAND-PAINTED BALAYAGE

Hand-painted balayage offers a natural, lived-in blonde effect, even on darker hair bases. However, if you’re aiming for a very light ashy blonde, the foilayage technique is your best option. These techniques produce different results, so it’s important not to confuse them. If you’re unsure, bring some reference photos to your colorist to ensure you get the desired outcome.

DARK BROWN LAYERED LIXIE

A dark brown layered pixie cut is a fantastic way to try something new and trendy. However, you’ll need a skilled hairstylist to create the short layers with precision. This cut is easy to style, versatile, and adds body and movement to your look. Be sure to communicate clearly with your stylist about the type of layers you want, and bring reference photos to ensure you both have a clear vision of the final result.

SOFT ASH BROWN LAYERED LIXIE

Opt for a soft layered ash brown lixie for a look that’s both soft and feminine. A disconnected long pixie works especially well for thick hair, reducing styling time due to the lighter volume. Softly textured layers provide movement and separation. To achieve an ethereal effect, use a half-inch curling wand and hair wax to define and separate the strands.

EDGY AND DIMENSIONAL LAYERED PIXIE

If you’re looking to refresh your short hair, consider a pixie cut with edgy layers and dimensional color. Request plenty of texture, especially if you have wavy hair, to enhance its sexy movement. Keep in mind that this style requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best.

VISIBLE LAYERS ON A LIXIE CUT

For older women with thick brown hair, incorporating visible layers into a lixie cut can create a youthful appearance. Ask your stylist to add layers that reduce weight, making the hair more manageable while adding volume. It’s important to balance the layers and length to prevent the hair from looking too thin or short. To style, use a blow-dryer and a large round brush to achieve volume and shape. For extra body and texture, consider using mousse or a volumizing spray.

COPPER LIXIE WITH LAYERS

To add volume to fine hair, consider a longer pixie style. This longer-frame cut works well for elongated face shapes and convex profiles. Choose a side part for added softness, and ask your stylist to layer the back and crown of your head strategically. This technique allows you to style with texture paste or use a round brush for a fuller appearance.

LAYERED LIXIE FOR VERY DARK HAIR

A layered pixie cut is perfect for women with dark, short, deep-toned hair seeking a fresh, stylish update. This haircut adds movement and texture to dark locks, creating a multi-dimensional effect. The layers enhance volume and shape while keeping the hair short, making it ideal for very dark hair as they enrich the color. For styling, apply a small amount of volumizing mousse to damp hair, then use your fingers to tousle and scrunch for added texture.

DARK ASH BROWN LAYERED LIXIE CUT

Pixie cuts remain popular for their easy maintenance, requiring minimal care at home. However, it’s important to schedule your next cut promptly, as even slight growth can become bothersome. For a softer appearance, keep a bit more length around the face to maintain a feminine and airy look. As a professional tip, avoid heavy, waxy products, as they can weigh the hair down.

ICONIC LONG PIXIE CUT

Choose a long pixie cut for a modern and effortless hairstyle. It’s important to discuss your face shape with your hairstylist, as this cut may not suit round faces as well. Opt for shaggy, razor-cut layers to achieve a textured look with natural movement. Blow dry with a bit of wax and style using your hands for the best results. Remember to leave a longer section in the front to enhance the cut and style it elegantly to the side.

BRUNETTE LIXIE WITH FEATHERED LAYERS

For your next cut, consider a brunette lixie with feathered layers. If your short hair feels too thick, ask your stylist to layer and thin it out. To style a long pixie cut, use a blow dryer and round brush, directing the hair away from your face so that the front layers fall gracefully along your hairline.

CHIC LIXIE WITH VISIBLE LAYERS AND TONES

If you want to stay stylish while maintaining your personal touch, opt for a chic pixie cut with visible layers and customizable tones. This haircut allows you to tailor the tones to your preference and keeps the hair slightly longer, giving you more styling options each day.

CONCLUSION

The long pixie cut is a versatile and stylish option that can suit a variety of face shapes and hair textures. With the addition of layers, this cut can be even more dynamic and expressive. Whether you prefer a classic look or something more edgy, there’s a layered long pixie cut out there for you. By considering factors like your face shape, hair texture, and personal style, you can find the perfect layered long pixie cut to enhance your beauty and confidence.