The slicked-back hairstyle has been a staple of men’s fashion for over a century, symbolizing a classic style that transcends decades. Originating in the 20th century, this hairstyle embodies a timeless appeal, popularized by figures from Wall Street to Hollywood. Its versatility allows it to adapt to various hair types and face shapes, making it a favorite haircut for many.
The art of achieving the perfect slicked-back haircut involves understanding one’s hair texture and growth pattern. A Texas-based barber once shared that the key is in the struggle to train the hair, especially for those with curly hair. The pushed-back hairstyle can be achieved with styling products like Layrite Cement Clay for a matte finish or Layrite Superhold for a more shiny look.
The fade, whether high or low, plays a crucial role in accentuating the slicked-back style, giving a sharpness and personal preference in appearance. The method may vary for hair lengths of short, medium, or long, but the outcome is consistently refined and contemporary.
While the pompadour is a well-known variant, today’s slicked-back hairstyles extend beyond this retro vibe. The undercut and side part have emerged as modern twists, showcasing the hairstyle’s versatility and ability to integrate imagination. It’s a secret sauce that transforms a basic haircut into a statement of personal style and instinct. This hairstyle not only stands the test of time but also adapts to the fashion fads of each era, making it a trendy choice for men from all walks of life.
How To Slick Back Hair
The slicked-back hairstyle for men is not just about having an ample amount of hair on your head; it’s about mastering the art of styling, irrespective of the hair types you possess. Whether it’s short, straight hair that’s easier to push back or curly hair of low to medium density, the approach may vary, but the outcome is equally dashing.
For those with thicker, denser hair, the process becomes more involved but not impossible. The key lies in the preparation – starting with damp, towel-dried hair, applying the right product, and using tools like a wide-tooth comb.
The technique for achieving the perfect slicked-back look revolves around styling from the front to back, using a comb to trail alongside a hairdryer set on a low setting. This method ensures the hair is spread evenly and thoroughly, creating a style that maintains its shape for a longer period.
For those with curly follicles, the process involves a brush and possibly spraying some sea-salt spray to maintain texture. Once dry, a strong product is needed to push back the hair effectively. The trick is to use your fingers to finesse the final look, giving it a natural and effortless appearance
Slicked-Back Side Part
The slicked-backside part hairstyle, famously popularised by Don Draper, epitomizes a style that works best with hair of medium density and a length that is not too long. This signature look is characterized by hair that is slightly longer on the top compared to the sides, and a clearly defined, hard part on one side of the crown.
The fringe may feature one edge longer than the other, adding to its distinctiveness. Perfectly balancing classic and modern aesthetics, this hairstyle continues to be a go-to for men seeking a refined and sharp appearance.
The Classic Slick Back
The slick back style, canonized by Gordon Gekko in Oliver Stone’s Wall Street and recently sported by figures like Eric Trump, remains a timeless choice in men’s fashion. This style is defined by its uniform length and appearance, with all follicles neatly swept back in one direction, creating a look of sleek sophistication.
It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of this classic hairstyle, proving that some styles truly withstand the test of time and continue to resonate across different generations.
The Slicked-Back Pompadour
The slicked-back pompadour is a style that combines length at the top with tapered sides to create a look that’s been popular among celebrities like David Beckham. This men’s hairstyle offers ample room for personal expression, blending slick sophistication with a hint of boldness.
It’s a modern twist on a classic look, perfectly embodying the blend of tradition and contemporary style.
The Slicked-Back Curly Quiff
For curly-haired gents, the slick back curly hairstyle is a game-changer. With the help of a good barber and the right quality product, achieving this style is a breeze. It typically involves keeping the sides short in length, allowing the top to be styled more prominently.
This approach offers a sharp contrast that accentuates the natural curls, proving that slicked-back hair isn’t just for straight-haired men.
The Slicked-Back Undercut
The slicked-back undercut has become a popular style in men’s fashion, known for its textural precision in blending the top and sides. Achieving this look takes time and commitment, involving growing out the top while tapering the sides on a regular basis.
When done right, this hairstyle epitomizes slicked back perfection, offering a sharp and sophisticated look that stands out in any crowd.
Salt and Pepper Slick Back
Embracing a disconnected haircut, the Salt and Pepper Slick Back is the epitome of style for men. This look combines shaved sides with a longer top, slicked back to accentuate the contrast in textures. It’s ideal for those with beards, as it draws focus to the face, creating a rugged yet sophisticated appearance.
The cropped portions add a dynamic edge to the overall look, making it a bold choice for the fashion-forward man.
Smoldering and Striking
The disconnected cut with a beard has become a popular choice in men’s styles, offering a blend of contrasts and balance. A style that combines a scruffy beard with a bald fade creates an edgy yet chic look. The combed back hair flows into the crown, presenting a dapper appearance that’s both smoldering and striking.
This hairstyle exudes confidence and sophistication, perfect for the modern man.
Also Read: Top Fringe Hairstyles For Men
Vintage Taper
The soft brushed back haircut offers a chic yet safe choice for men seeking a blend of toughness and professionalism. This style is perfectly office appropriate, making it a great fit for business casual or a creative environment. Adding a short scruffy beard enhances its appeal, providing a touch of ruggedness to the refined look.
The Vintage Taper is a classic yet contemporary choice, suitable for various settings.
Slick Back on Fine Hair
Creating a slick back hairstyle on thin hair requires a whimsical yet precise approach. The key is to use specialized hairstyling tools and the expertise of a great hairstylist. This approach transforms fine hair into a style reminiscent of a classic pompadour, offering volume and elegance in a seemingly effortless manner.
Perfect Pretty Boy
For the man who moves seamlessly between conservative offices where a suit is a must and stylish post-work engagements, the Perfect Pretty Boy hairdo is the ideal choice. It features sculpted waves and often a neatly trimmed beard, creating a cut that has universal appeal.
This hairstyle strikes the perfect balance between professionalism and personal flair, appealing to everyone who values a polished appearance.
Dark and Dangerous
The Dark and Dangerous hairstyle is a bold choice, particularly for those who see their tattoos as eye-catching works of art and a significant investment, both financially and personally. This slick back hair style in a dark hue serves as the perfect canvas to showcase face and neck tattoos.
The back is kept cropped to avoid covering any intricate designs, creating a look that’s as daring as it is deliberate.
Also Read: Haircuts With Skin Fade For Black Hair Styles
Seasoned and Sophisticated
The Seasoned and Sophisticated style is perfect for men of a certain age who embody dapper and refined elegance. This sleek style adapts effortlessly to every season, pairing seamlessly with a linen outfit in the summer or a wool overcoat and suit in the colder months.
Its versatility makes it a universal style, appreciated by gentlemen who value timeless sophistication in their appearance.
Bold and Bearded
For those with thick, black hair, achieving the slick back look is a statement of boldness. A skilled stylist can work wonders, using a blow dry method on wet hair to transform it into a smooth, straight look. This technique not only adds volume but also shapes the hair in a way that perfectly complements a bearded style, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a standout, sophisticated appearance.
Long Slicked Back Hair
For those struggling to learn how to style long slicked back hair, it’s surprisingly simple. The process begins with wet hair, to which a hair product is applied to create the necessary hold. Next, using a comb, comb back the hair to the desired flatness and shape. This method is straightforward and effective, providing a sleek and controlled look that stays in place throughout the day.
Curved the Usual
In the realm of slick styles, an iteration has emerged that appeals to the fashion-forward male. This modern take on the classic cut eschews sharp lines, instead incorporating sculptural, curved edges. Popular for decades, this style offers a fresh perspective, blending traditional slicked back looks with contemporary design elements for a unique and stylish appearance.
Also Read: THE BEST BUZZ CUT HAIRCUTS FOR MEN
Printed Mohawk
The Printed Mohawk is far from a low-key cut. It’s designed for the man who loves to live outside of the box, incorporating etched designs into the Mohawk, with hair slicked back for added drama. This cut is perfect for those wanting a crazy, creative look that showcases their wild side, blending traditional slicked-back styles with bold, unconventional elements.
Wavy Slicked Hair
Curly hair beautifully works with slicked back styles, contrary to common belief. Utilizing strong hold gel and a small brush, you can easily guide your strands into place. The result? A look that boasts soft, shiny waves, providing a unique twist on the traditional slicked back hair. This style is perfect for those wanting to showcase their natural curls in a refined, polished manner.
Hot Hipster
In the Hot Hipster look, the slicked back hairstyle doesn’t just distract; it commands immediate attention. Paired with a trendy lumberjack beard, this style takes on an even more distinctive edge. The hair styled in a steely silver hue adds a modern twist, making it the quintessential choice for the fashion-forward man.
Spiked Front Bangs
Achieving volume in a slick cropped cut can be difficult for men, but Spiked Front Bangs offer a well-balanced look. This style concentrates fullness at the forehead and crown, while keeping the back flat to avoid a too-round appearance. It’s a trendy twist that adds a dynamic edge to the conventional slicked-back style.
Also Read: Haircuts For Men Featuring A Distinctive Hard Part
Rockin Retro Fade
The Rockin Retro Fade is a blast from the past, drawing inspiration from the retro cuts of the fifties and sixties. It’s a style that conjures up images of James Dean and Ricky Ricardo, icons who made this look popular. Incorporating a vintage element, this suave haircut features a high shine pompadour.
It’s a cool combo that continues to be a hit with the ladies man of today, proving that classic styles never truly fade away.
Mini Man Bun
The Mini Man Bun is living proof that slick back hair doesn’t always have to be shiny and flat; it’s not a one size fits all. This style incorporates a major trend in male grooming by adding a unique twist to the traditional look. Styling the hair into a mini man bun creates a cooler, more on trend statement, offering a fresh take on the slicked back style.
Wet and Wild
Wet-looking hair is all the rage, offering a minimal effort, maximum impact style. To achieve this Wet and Wild look, coat your strands with high-shine pomade and sculpt them into your desired style. The result is a wavy texture on top, perfectly paired with a tamed grizzly beard.
The use of sharp, curved lines helps blend everything together for a cohesive, daring appearance.
Modern Slick Back Style
The Modern Slick Back Style is defined by its shaved part, adding an edgy highlight to the classic slick, sculpted pompadour. It’s about blending trends within a hairstyle to achieve surprisingly cool results. The main thing to remember is to avoid styles overloaded with details, unless that’s the purpose.
This approach to slick back hair offers a fresh, modern look without compromising on sophistication.
Also Read: Men’s Stylish Low Fade Haircut Trends
Double Braid Mohawk
The Double Braid Mohawk is a bold hairstyle where men can incorporate elements traditionally seen in ladies’ styles. Cornrows and smaller braids are used on the sides, contrasting with larger ones to create a look that’s both edgy and stylish. This hairstyle steers away from the romantic, bohemian vibe, instead offering a dynamic, modern twist to classic braiding techniques.
High Fade Slick Back
The High Fade Slick Back hairstyle is a testament to the versatility and enduring popularity of slicked back styles. It combines a clean shaved line with a neat pompadour, offering a look that’s both sophisticated and sleek. This style suits a wide range of personal fashion tastes, from the classic men’s grooming to more edgy cuts inspired by punk rock.
A tidy beard can further enhance this look, making it a trend that resonates with many. Whether using hair gel for a stronger hold or keeping it natural, it’s a style that can be easily incorporated into a quick styling routine, offering an appealing option for those looking to try something new.
Finger Combed Back Swept
The Finger Combed Back Swept style is a modern twist on the classic slick back, closely resembling a quiff but with a more Rock ‘n Roll and super chill vibe. This way of styling offers a relaxed yet stylish look, perfect for those who want to effortlessly express their personality through their hair. It’s a nod to traditional styles while embracing the casual, cool aesthetics of today’s fashion.
Slicked Back Mid Fade Undercut
The Slicked Back Mid Fade Undercut is a style that barely resembles the actual slicked back style but still checks off all the right boxes. The hair on top is styled to look breezy, with little to no product used, allowing it to keep its natural movement. This approach offers a fresh take on the traditional slicked back look, providing a perfect blend of sharpness and ease.
Also Read: Stunning Haircut Styles for Fashionable Black Men
Slicked Back Salt and Pepper Hairstyle
The Slicked Back Salt and Pepper Hairstyle is a distinguished look that suits both older and younger men. It’s a style that enhances the natural salt and pepper hues, making it perfect for those embracing the silver fox look. This hairstyle features hair that is combed back in a sleek manner, with the top left heavy to elongate the face.
A low fade and minimal accessories add to its elegance, while an elegantly trimmed full beard perfectly complements the cut, creating a refined and mature appearance.
Classic Medium Length Graduated Slick Back
The Classic Medium Length Graduated Slick Back is a businessman’s cut that exudes sophistication. This hairstyle features hair that is long on the top and gradually tapers down in length around the ears and neck. It’s cut in a uniform layer that graduates towards the back, with no texturizing to maintain its heavy appearance.
Using heavy pomade, this haircut achieves significant shine and hold. Light stubble perfectly complements the gradual fade, adding to its elegance. A stylish cross earring can give an illusion of a more laid-back, casual vibe. The technique created by cutting the hair with tension leaves enough room to vary the look from trendy to conservative.
Slicked Back with a Perfect Fade
The Slicked Back with a Perfect Fade combines a modern look with a classic style, making it a versatile choice in slicked-back hairstyles for men. This haircut features top length that is longer, allowing the wearer to experiment with different top styles.
It’s adaptable to various face shapes, including round, and versatile enough for everything from formal occasions to a pub crawl with the dudes. Adding a walrus mustache can give it an unforgettable look, suitable for those who want to make a statement with their hairstyle.
Fury Slicked Back with Temple Fade
Inspired by the likes of Brad Pitt’s style, the Fury Slicked Back with Temple Fade is a sophisticated and edgy hairstyle. This look features a slight puff with slick back strands on top, adding a refined finessing touch. The haircut is completed with an undercut taper resembling a buzz cut and a stylish temple fade.
Incorporating a beard with this style elevates the overall appearance, making it a bold yet polished choice for the contemporary man.
The Tidy Slick Back
The Tidy Slick Back hairstyle stands out for its use of Heavier product with a purpose. This hairdo is designed to hold the style in place throughout the whole day. It’s perfect for the man who needs a hairstyle that remains impeccable from morning meetings to evening events, offering a consistently polished look.
Neat Slick Back with A Mid Skin Fade
The Neat Slick Back with A Mid Skin Fade is a contemporary take on slicked back hairstyles for men, particularly appealing to younger men looking for a retro, casual look. This style features a fade that is midway and disconnected, providing a balance of weight and length. The slick back portion on the top seamlessly blends into the skin on the sides, creating a smooth transition.
This hairstyle is perfect for those preferring a clean-shaven appearance or with minimal facial hair around the chin and mustache area. Finishing touches with pomade ensure a strong hold and a classic, glossy finish, making it a sophisticated yet easy-to-maintain choice.
Thin Hard Part with Wavy Textured Top
The Thin Hard Part with Wavy Textured Top hairstyle is a stellar choice for men who want to focus on a sleek and modern look. This style features a thin hard part that subtly yet effectively enhances the haircut, while the wavy textured top adds dimension and interest. The combination of these elements ties the look together, creating a sophisticated and contemporary appearance.
Casual Slicked Back with Loose Ended Strands
The Casual Slicked Back with Loose Ended Strands is an excellent way to adapt the traditional slicked back style to a more manly and rugged look. This hairstyle is achieved with rougher styling, ideal for men with thicker hair. It’s a versatile style that can be enhanced with bushy facial hair, adding to the robust and masculine charm of the overall appearance.
Brad Pitt’s Medium Length Slick Back
Brad Pitt’s Medium Length Slick Back is an epitome of elegance, making it an ideal trick for an elegant cut. This hairstyle, perfect for those with medium length hair, is a sublime choice for events where a posh touch is required, such as a dinner party. The slick back lends a refined and polished look, encapsulating a blend of classic charm and modern sophistication.
Gentlemen’s Pompadourean Slicked Back
The Gentlemen’s Pompadourean Slicked Back is a hairstyle that redefines sophistication. This look, characterized by a loose, brushed back style, gives off a clean look that’s both classic and modern. It’s a hairstyle that’s been designed considering various face shapes, ensuring it does not give a strange or stretched appearance. Ideal for the gentleman who values elegance in simplicity, this hairstyle is a testament to timeless style.
Individual Stranded Slicked Back
The Individual Stranded Slicked Back hairstyle offers a unique take on the long variant of the classic slicked back haircut. With locks gracefully suspended over the head, it’s a good choice for those looking to combine style with practicality, especially during colder winters.
This style not only offers a fashionable look but also provides enough length to comfortably cover the ears, blending functionality with fashion.
Fancy Temple Shave with Layered Slicked Back
The Fancy Temple Shave with Layered Slicked Back hairstyle is a testament to how slicked back hairstyles can triumphantly embrace volume. This style is a clear example of maintaining volume to significantly elevate the overall style. It beautifully pairs the slicked back look with a fancy temple shave, creating an amazing yet subtle contrast.
This sophisticated hairstyle defies the notion that slicked back styles lack dynamism, proving its versatility and appeal.
Short Top Pushed Back Texture
For the busy man who has less time to spend on adjusting their hair, the Short Top Pushed Back Texture is an impressive choice. This hairstyle is characterized by its shorter, gelled back style, making it an ideal contender for a quick yet stylish look.
It’s perfect for those who value simplicity and elegance in their grooming routine, offering an effortlessly chic appearance with minimal fuss.
Slicked Back Side Part
The Slicked Back Side Part is a testament to sophisticated styling, where a clean taper meets meticulous detailing. This hairstyle for men is all about maintaining volume while adhering to a close hair comb pattern. Ideal for those attempting a look that resonates with class, it’s a style that could grab attention and perhaps even deserve a medal for its good defining product use and flawless execution.
Zachary Quinto’s Slicked Back Undercut
Zachary Quinto’s Slicked Back Undercut elegantly combines bold tapering on the sides with a cut that brings out a different, surprisingly cool aspect of the slicked back style. This look results in a striking contrast, where the hair is trimmed off completely on the sides, enhancing the overall suave appeal. Perfect for those seeking a modern twist on a classic style.
Undercut Slicked Back with Faded Temple
The Undercut Slicked Back with Faded Temple embodies a high and tight shape, merging a short crop on the sides with medium-length hair on the top. This hairstyle creates a slicked-back variation that is not too conservative, offering a clean look. It’s an ideal style for those who appreciate a sharp yet understated appearance.
Middle Parted Puffy Slicked Back
The Middle Parted Puffy Slicked Back is a modern twist on the retro slicked back hairstyle, where short sides and a long top are key. This look is accentuated by taper faded sides, making the thick and middle-parted fluff on top stand out. It exudes a vintage touch, reminiscent of the classic retro era.
The use of product or oil is essential to keep the hair in place and maintain its fluffy texture.
Dyed Slicked Back
The Dyed Slicked Back throws a curveball to the classic hairstyle. It’s not just a change in natural shade; it’s about making a difference. The strategically placed line in the hair adds a unique element, transforming the standard slick back into something more eye-catching and modern.
This style proves that a simple dye job can drastically alter the impact of a traditional look.
Simple Cut with Combed Back
The Simple Cut with Combed Back offers a visual feast with its slick pompadour and classic regulation crop part. It’s all about sectioning the hair and tapering sharply for a cohesive and tapered undercut. This style balances simplicity with sophistication, making it a standout choice for those who prefer a neat yet stylish look.
What do I need for slicked back hair?
To create a suave look with slicked back hair, regardless of face shape – be it round, square, diamond, or oblong, the right hair type and products are crucial. Whether you have thin hair, thick hair, straight hair, or even wavy hair, mastering the style is achievable. However, for those with extremely wavy, curly, or coiled hair, the challenge is in taming the unruly strands. The key lies in selecting the right essential hair products. Opt for light hold pomade for finer hair or firm hold for thicker types.
A water-based pomade is preferable over an oil-based one for its easier washout and manageability. Brands like Suavecito and Layrite offer great options. Don’t underestimate the importance of a high-quality comb, a crucial component to achieving the perfect hairstyle. For extra control, consider optional accessories like a blow dryer to blow the hair into place or a touch of hairspray to help it stay.
How to style it?
Achieving the perfect slicked back hair starts with the right preparation and products. Whether you have any haircut, adding a touch of class is effortless with this style. Begin with damp hair, ideally towel-dried after a shower. Scoop out a small amount of pomade, about the size of an American nickel, and work it into your hair. Ensure the pomade only coats the hair, not the scalp.
The slicking action should be a smooth motion from the forehead towards the back of the head. Use a comb to slick the hair back, starting right above the forehead and continuing to the crown. If you encounter problems staying, consider using a blow dryer or a light amount of hairspray to help the style stay in place. This approach gives you neat results, perfect for a classy look.
How do guys get their hair slicked back?
The secret to masterfully slick back hair for men begins with freshly washed and towel dried hair, ensuring it’s damp, not wet. The key tool is a wide-toothed comb. Start by using the comb to brush your hair backwards in your desired direction. Crucially, comb your hair from the ends towards the roots. This technique helps achieve that classic slicked-back look without straining the hair from its roots.
What is slicked back hair called?
The Pompadour is a prime example of a slicked-back hairstyle, which, as the name implies, involves hair on top being pulled back tightly. Unique to this style is the absence of a line caused by combing into a part. To complete this look, it typically boasts a wet appearance, lending a sharp and polished edge to the overall aesthetic.
What haircut goes with a slick back?
A slick back haircut can be brilliantly combined with a fade or undercut on the sides and back to create a modern vibe. This pairing is both popular and classic in style, offering a contemporary twist to a traditional look.
Is slick back still in style?
The slick back hairstyle remains a leading style, transcending particular hair textures. It’s effortlessly chic and easy to achieve, making it a go-to choice for many. Anyone can ace this look with the right products in hand, proving its enduring appeal and versatility.
Is slicked back hair damaging?
Pulling hair tightly while slicking back can twist the follicles and potentially cause damage, especially around the edges of the face. This concern applies to both men and women and is not related to male pattern baldness. However, a person may experience both conditions at the same time if care is not taken.
