Tapered Haircuts for Men: 5 Styles Perfect for Business Casual

Finding a haircut that works for the office and a night out can be challenging, but men’s tapered haircuts offer the perfect solution. Tapered cuts are subtle, clean, and versatile, making them ideal for transitioning from business casual settings to more relaxed occasions like date nights. Unlike fades, which can be more dramatic, tapered haircuts gradually shorten the hair on the sides and back, creating a neat, professional look that still leaves room for personal style.

Here are five tapered haircut ideas that will take you from the boardroom to the bar with ease.

1. Classic Tapered Cut

The classic tapered haircut is the ultimate style for men who want a polished look that works for any occasion. This haircut features a subtle taper on the sides and back, with enough length on top to style it in a variety of ways. It’s clean and professional for business casual settings but can easily be styled for a night out with a bit of product for extra shine or texture.

Styling tips: For a business look, part your hair to the side and use a lightweight pomade for a sleek finish. To transition to date night, add a bit of texture to the top with your fingers for a more relaxed, tousled look.
Why it works: The classic taper offers a timeless, sophisticated look that’s versatile enough for both formal and casual environments.

2. Tapered Side Part

For men who want a touch of structure with minimal effort, the tapered side part is an excellent choice. The taper gradually shortens from the top to the sides, while the side part gives your haircut a neat, organized appearance. This style is perfect for business casual settings, but it can easily be dressed up for a date with a little extra styling.

tapered haircuts for men — Tapered Haircuts for Men

Styling tips: For the office, keep your part sharp by using a comb and a medium-hold gel or wax. For date night, you can use a matte paste to create a softer, more natural part.
Why it works: The tapered side part offers a sharp, clean-cut appearance that’s perfect for professional settings, yet flexible enough to add some edge when needed.

3. Textured Tapered Cut

A textured tapered cut is a great option for men who want to keep things stylish but a bit more casual. The subtle taper on the sides and back keeps everything neat, while the top is left longer and textured, giving you a playful, laid-back vibe. This look is perfect for a business casual setting when styled neatly, but its versatility shines when transitioning to a date night look.

Styling tips: Use a light wax or texturizing cream for volume during the day. For date night, tousle the top with your fingers and add a bit of matte clay for an effortless, undone finish.
Why it works: The textured taper strikes a balance between professionalism and a more relaxed, modern style, making it ideal for guys who want something versatile.

4. Tapered Ivy League

The tapered Ivy League cut is a classic and elegant option that’s slightly longer on top compared to the crew cut. The subtle taper on the sides keeps it looking sharp, while the longer top can be styled into a side part for the office or left a little messier for a more casual evening look. This cut is great for men who need something polished yet flexible.

business casual haircuts for men ivy league cut

Styling tips: During the workday, style it neatly with a light pomade and a comb. For date night, switch things up by adding some texture and volume to the top with a bit of matte product.
Why it works: The Ivy League cut is perfect for men who want a sophisticated, clean look during the day that’s easy to transition to a more relaxed style in the evening.

5. Tapered Crew Cut

The tapered crew cut offers a neat and low-maintenance option that looks polished enough for the office but can still be styled up for a night out. This cut features short hair on top, gradually tapering down the sides and back. While it’s a simpler style, its clean lines make it versatile enough for both business casual and casual outings.

Styling tips: Keep the top neat with a small amount of styling gel for work. When you’re off-duty, use a matte clay to give the top a bit of texture for a more relaxed look.
Why it works: The tapered crew cut is practical and easy to manage, making it a great option for men who need a professional haircut that’s also date-ready with minimal effort.

Why Tapered Haircuts Are Ideal for Any Occasion

Tapered haircuts for men offer the perfect mix of subtlety and style, making them ideal for men who need a haircut that works in both business casual and social settings. The gradual shortening of the hair on the sides and back creates a clean, polished look without the stark contrast of a fade. This makes taper cuts more understated and versatile, perfect for environments where professionalism is key.

What’s even better is that tapered cuts are easy to maintain and style. Whether you need a neat, sleek look for work or a more relaxed, textured look for a night out, a taper gives you the flexibility to switch up your style with minimal effort. With the right products and a little bit of technique, you can easily go from a structured, professional look during the day to a more laid-back, casual style by evening.

Final Style Notes

Men's Taper haircut with Pompadour — Taper with Pompadour

Tapered haircuts for men are the perfect solution for those looking to balance professionalism with personal style. Whether you’re in the office, headed out on a date, or just enjoying a night out, these five tapered haircut styles will keep you looking sharp and confident. From the classic taper to textured or side-parted styles, there’s a look here for every man who wants a haircut that’s flexible, stylish, and easy to maintain.