Hairstyle comparison

Curtain Fringe vs Low Taper: What Is the Difference?

Compare the Curtain Fringe and Low Taper by length, shape, finish, maintenance, salon wording, and how each changes your overall outline.

Published 12 August 2026

Example of the Curtain Fringe hairstyle
ExampleCurtain Fringe
Example of the Low Taper hairstyle
ExampleLow Taper

The short version

The Curtain Fringe is defined by a centre opening with cheekbone-skimming, face-framing pieces, while the Low Taper uses a restrained gradient limited to the lowest edges of the haircut.

The Curtain Fringe is rated medium maintenance here, compared with low for the Low Taper.

FeatureCurtain FringeLow Taper
Signaturea centre opening with cheekbone-skimming, face-framing piecesa restrained gradient limited to the lowest edges of the haircut
Lengthmediumshort
Shapesoft and face-framingnatural and softly cleaned up
Finishairytapered
Maintenancemediumlow

Curtain Fringe

Choose this direction if...

You prefer a soft and face-framing outline with a airy finish and the defining feature of a centre opening with cheekbone-skimming, face-framing pieces.

Salon wording: Ask for a centre-parted fringe that opens around the eyes and blends gradually into face-framing layers.

Low Taper

Choose this direction if...

You prefer a natural and softly cleaned up outline with a tapered finish and the defining feature of a restrained gradient limited to the lowest edges of the haircut.

Salon wording: Ask for a low taper around the sideburns and neckline without taking the fade high into the sides.

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Hair Mirror

These informational guides are generated from Hair Mirror's structured hairstyle catalog and published automatically. They are not professional hair-care advice.