Right, let’s clear this up.
We get asked about burst fades and tapers all the time — sometimes by people who know what they want, sometimes by people pointing at a TikTok saying “this one, but not cooked.”
So here it is, plain and simple: what each cut actually is, who it suits, and how not to end up looking like you lost a bet.
So, What’s a Burst Fade?
A burst fade wraps around your ear and drops clean into the neckline. It’s tight, curved, and usually blends into a longer style on top — good if you’ve got a bit of texture or want to leave something to play with.
It’s not a mullet, but it flirts with one.
It’s not loud, but it’s definitely not shy.
Great if you want something a bit different without screaming for attention.
And a Taper?
A taper’s your go-to clean-up. It fades out low — just around the neck and sideburns — so from the front, it barely looks like anything’s happened, but the back’s sharp and sorted.
It’s tidy, subtle, and grows out smooth.
If you want to keep things low-key but still look like you give a toss, taper’s your mate.
So Which Should You Get?
That depends on your hair, your vibe, and whether you want people to notice your haircut or just wonder why you look a bit fresher than usual.
Burst fade’s for you if…
You’ve got a bit of curl or volume up top
You want some shape around the sides
You like your cuts to have a bit of presence
Taper’s more your style if…
You like it clean without being obvious
You want something you don’t have to think about
You work somewhere that still thinks tattoos are edgy
Still Not Sure?
Fair. That’s what we’re here for.
Sit down, have a yarn, we’ll have a look at your mop and tell you straight what’s going to work.
No ego, no hard sell, just proper haircuts done right.
Find Us
📍 85 Grattan Street, Carlton (just off Lygon)
💻 Book Online or roll in whenever
🎶 Music’s hit-and-miss, but the fades aren’t