Boosted by its traditionalist origins, the slicked back hairstyle has
reemerged as a contemporary favorite. Able to be interpreted for
different hair types, lengths, and occasions, the wide variety of ways
this style can be worn can be overwhelming. So, to help you find your
perfect match, we’ve rounded up the best slick back hairstyles for you
to copy.
1. Classic Slick Back
For a simple,
timeless take on the slicked back trend, opt for classic styling. For
this look, use a wet gel or pomade for a decent hold with a glossy
touch. Comb the hair back repetitively and thoroughly. Be mindful of
products that are too rigid as they will make the hair look flat. Opt
for a product that will give your locks a thicker appearance despite its
pulled-back structure.
2. Slick Back + Beard
A
traditional way to interpret slicked back hairstyles is to complement
this hair trend with a beard. Opt for a light beard or strategic scruff
to amplify the look of your slicked back hairstyle. Be mindful of your
face shape and the proportions of your features when trying out this
trend. Facial hair will add a dimensional element to your slicked back
look, creating a complementary appearance.
3. Slick Back + Side Part
50’s
fictional style muses, like Don Draper, are no doubt pivotal in the
reemergence of the side part slick back. To appropriate such a Mad Men
style for yourself, create a sharp part with a silkier product, which
will afford a greater sleekness to your look. Additionally, ensure you
have determined which side your part appears most flattering on for
appropriate styling.
4. Slick Back + Man Bun
Much
like all trends, when done right, the man bun works incredibly well.
When done wrong, this trend can register as unflattering and
misappropriated. Consider a beard or facial hair when trying out this
version of the slicked backed hairstyle and contemplate your features
when determining whether a man bun would look flattering on you.
5. Slick Back + Pompadour
The
slick back pompadour is a traditional hairstyle that has seen a
resurgence in recent years. As such, it’s an excellent style that’s both
classic and on-trend. To create the look, you need to achieve a neat,
smoothed-back style that’s full of volume. To do so, try using
volume-boosting products and blow-drying your hair upside down to direct
roots upward.
6. Long Slicked Back Hair
Men
with long hair can also rock a slicked back style. Perfect for formal
functions, a sleek look is ideal for giving grown out locks a
sophisticated touch. To nail the hairstyle, just comb your long mane
back and tuck it behind your ears. Then, use a flexible hairspray for a
soft appearance or a firm-hold mousse or wet-look pomade for a bolder
aesthetic. Remember though; you won’t need to use a lot as the weight of
your hair will help keep it in place.
7. Slick Back Undercut
The
slick back undercut is another classic hairstyle that has seen a
resurgence in recent years. The look, which features a short back and
sides with the hair on the top left longer, is perfect for both formal
and casual occasions. Thanks to its length and shape, it’s also
seriously simple to style.
8. Slick Back + Volume
The
blow-dried slick back requires a good quality volumizing hair product
such as a pomade or a mousse, which will add depth to the hair and give
it a distinctly different appearance than the typical shiny, wet look.
This version of the popular hair trend hinges on volume, so ensure your
nominated product boosts hair thickness without adding frizz.
9. Slick Back Curly Hair
Curly
hair can be notoriously difficult to style, but that doesn’t mean you
can’t rock a killer slicked back look. When your hair is damp, just use a
hair dryer and wide-tooth comb to help direct your locks away from your
face. Then, if you wish to maintain your natural waves, add sea salt
spray and choose a flexible hold product, such as a light mousse.
Finally, comb your hair back using your hands and allow your locks to
dry naturally for a great slicked back hairstyle with texture.
10. Slick Back Waves
For
gentlemen with wavy hair, rock this hair trend with slicked back
styling specifically for your natural hair type. Utilize a flexible hold
product like a lighter mousse, which will provide a bit more
flexibility when it comes to harnessing your curls. Additionally, be
sure to opt for a messier look, which will add dimension to the natural
volume created by your waves
11. Slick Back Fade
A
fade haircut, which features tapered sides and back, can add a modern
twist to the classic slick back hairstyle. The contemporary cut is
perfect for keeping hair with a long length on top looking smart and
polished. To nail this look, just select the right level of fade to suit
your style.
12. Modern Slick Back Hair
For a
modern take on the slicked back style, be sure to loosen things up a
little. By adding volume on top and plenty of texture, you can create a
stylishly contemporary version of this traditional look. Also, remember
to use a minimal amount of product to maintain a natural appearance and
your fingers instead of a comb for a perfectly imperfect finish.
13. Combed Back
A
combed-back look is a minimal and classic version of the slicked back
style. It’s simple to create, requires little product, and appears neat
and stylish, making it an excellent option for busy men You can achieve
the look by combing your hair back while using a small amount of pomade
for a smooth finish. The result should have a natural volume and not
appear flat or wet.
14. Slick Back + Low Fade
For
a unique take on the slicked back style, consider partnering it with a
low fade. Featuring a fade just above the ears, this cut is
simultaneously subtle and unique. As such, it’s perfect for gents who
like to stand out from the crowd without going too crazy. By removing
weight on the sides, this cut will also help to balance your sleek look
on top.
15. Slick Back Short Hair
You don’t
have to have medium or long hair to rock a slick back hairstyle. Even
short strands can perfectly pull off this sleek trend. So, if you’ve got
a cropped cut, consider opting for a slicked back style for a polished
appearance. However, be careful of how much hair product you use to
secure your style. As your hair is short, you’ll only need a minimal
amount.
16. Slick Back + Grey Hair
If you’re a
silver fox, you should definitely consider rocking a slick back
hairstyle. Thanks to its sophisticated and sleek appearance, this style
is perfect for older gents. However, as it’s also an on-trend look, a
slick back can also add a youthful touch to your appearance. But, be
sure to add a little texture to your style to keep it modern.
17. Slick Back + Receding Hairline
Do
you have a receding hairline? Don’t waste your time trying to cover it
up. Instead, embrace your hairline by styling your hair with a slick
back. While you may think this style will draw more attention to your
receding hairline, it will actually help to blend it in as there will be
less contrast in both volume and texture between your skin and hair.
18. Slick Back + Disconnected Undercut
For
a look that’s sharp, edgy, and utterly sleek, there’s no better
hairstyle than a slicked-back disconnected undercut. Featuring
slicked-back hair on top with contrasting shaved sides, this look is
bold and eye-catching. As such, it makes an excellent choice for daring
gents who like to stand out with a fashion-forward appearance.
19. Slick Back + Drop Fade
A
fade haircut cut pairs exceptionally well with a slick back style. But,
choosing what kind of fade to go for can be challenging. While low
fade, mid fade, and high fade styles all make good options, you should
also consider a drop fade which curves around the ear; it is a subtle
and modern take on the traditional fade and partners excellently with a
smart slicked back hairstyle.
20. Slick Back Half-Pony
If
you have long hair, a slick back half-pony is a hairstyle well worth
trying. Simple and stylish, this look is perfect for modern-day gents.
For a subtle take on the look, just leave the lower half of your hair
loose. For a bolder version, cut it off for an undercut. No matter which
you choose, always remember to brush your hair back when creating the
half-pony to ensure a smooth, slick back.
How to Slick Back Curly Hair
You
don’t have to miss out on rocking a slicked back style just because you
have curly hair. To wear your waves in a sleek way, just start with
damp, towel-dried hair. Then, blow-dry your locks away from your face
while combing them back. Apply pomade all over your hair, including the
roots, while using your hands to smooth back strands. Finish by neatly
brushing your hair towards to back of your head.
Comb vs Fingers
When
styling a slicked back look, you can either use a comb or your fingers
to smooth strands backward. If you want a classic style that appears
smooth and neat, be sure to choose a comb. The comb’s teeth will offer
more control when styling and can help achieve a more defined style. For
a more modern or textural slicked back style, your fingers are the
ideal tool for the job. They will direct your strands back away from
your face but leave you with a more natural appearance.
How to Train Hair to Slick Back
For
a perfect slicked back look, you may need to teach your strands to sit
flat when styled back away from your face. To do so, all you need to do
is regularly style your hair backward, so that your strands start to
grow in that direction. You can do this by brushing towel-dried hair
back. Then, use your hands to apply a small amount of hair clay from the
front of your hair to the back. Now, comb your hair through and add
more clay if needed. Apply an oil-based pomade to add shine and
maneuverability before using your comb once more.
How to Keep Your Hair Looking Wet
To
keep your hair looking sleek and wet all day, you need to use the right
hair products. A good quality pomade or mousse should do the job well.
Just make sure you choose one that adds plenty of shine. If you select a
pomade, remember to apply it to dry strands. If you decide on a mousse,
you should use it on damp hair.
Slick Back Hair Products
Pomade
Most
barbers would advise you to use pomade when creating a classic
slicked-back hairstyle. All you need to do is select the right type
based on your needs and desired look. It is available in natural,
oil-based, and water-based varieties. Natural is best for a matte finish
with a subtle sheen while oil- and water-based versions offer more
shine and are ideal for sleek styles.
Wax
Wax
is a seriously versatile hair product and can easily be used to slick
back hair. Although it won’t usually provide as much shine or
maneuverability as pomade, it will offer extra hold. As such, it’s a
good option for keeping unruly hair in place or achieving a textured
style that won’t lose its shape throughout the day.
Clay
For
a natural slick back style, clay is the best choice. As the product is
drier than wax or pomade, it provides a more texturized finish and is
perfect for messy and modern versions.
