Introduction
Slicked back hair has been a hallmark of suave style for decades, seamlessly blending classic charm with modern edginess. This timeless hairstyle transcends ages, fitting effortlessly into both casual gatherings and high-profile events. In this article, we explore ten unique slicked back hairstyles that cater to a variety of tastes and occasions, offering a perfect blend of sophistication and boldness for the fashion-forward man.
Classic Slick Back for Formal Events
The Classic Slick Back is the quintessential choice for formal events, exuding elegance and refined taste. Ideal for medium to long hair, this style works best on straight or wavy hair types. It pairs beautifully with oval and square face shapes, and the glossy finish complements dark eye colors, enhancing a deep, enigmatic look.
To achieve this polished appearance, apply a high-quality pomade evenly through damp hair, and use a fine-toothed comb to pull hair straight back. Maintenance is straightforward, with daily combing and occasional touch-ups using a light hold spray to keep every strand in place.
Modern Textured Slick Back for Creative Professionals
A modern twist on the traditional slick back, the Textured Slick Back introduces a playful, yet professional demeanor suitable for creative work environments. This style is perfect for those with textured or curly hair, adding volume and movement that contrasts sharply with more conventional styles. Best suited for round and heart-shaped faces, the added texture highlights vibrant eye colors like blue or green.
Styling involves using a texturizing cream and blow-drying hair backwards to build volume. For upkeep, a matte finish product will maintain the texture without the shine, and a weekly application of nourishing oils will keep hair healthy.
Loose and Wavy Slick Back for Casual Outings
Ideal for a relaxed yet stylish look, the Loose and Wavy Slick Back works wonderfully for weekend outings. This laid-back style suits those with wavy or loose curls, providing a soft, approachable appearance. It’s particularly flattering on men with longer face shapes and lighter eye colors like hazel or grey.
Use a light mousse to provide hold without stiffness, and finger-comb your hair back for that effortless charm. Regular conditioning is key to maintaining the waves’ natural bounce and preventing frizz.
Short Tapered Slick Back with Disconnected Undercut
The Short Tapered Slick Back with Disconnected Undercut offers a bold and edgy look, perfect for making a strong impression. This style is particularly effective on Asian hair types, known for their texture and volume. The sharp contrast of the taper fade enhances angular features, making it a match for diamond and triangular face shapes.
Apply a volumizing foam before blow-drying your hair upwards and back to achieve height and fullness. The undercut requires regular trims to keep the style defined, while a strong-hold gel ensures the top stays sleek throughout the day.
Blonde Ambition Slick Back for the Fashion-Forward
Channel the iconic 80s flair with a Blonde Ambition Slick Back, a bold choice for those looking to stand out. This style suits lighter hair colors and is particularly striking on blonde hair, providing a vibrant contrast to darker outfits or settings. It pairs well with paler skin tones and light eye colors, enhancing the overall dramatic effect.
Bleaching may be necessary to achieve the perfect blonde hue, followed by a high-shine gel for slicking back. To protect the color, use a color-preserving shampoo and conditioner, and consider a monthly toner application to maintain the blonde’s brightness.
Rugged and Messy Slick Back for Outdoor Adventures
Embrace a more rugged look with the Rugged and Messy Slick Back, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. This style works best with naturally messy or textured hair, giving a robust, adventurous vibe. It complements broader face shapes and darker, earthy eye colors like brown or green.
A wax-based styling product will provide the necessary hold while allowing some natural movement. Regular use of a deep-conditioning treatment will keep the hair manageable and healthy, especially important for those exposed to the elements.
Sleek Pompadour Slick Back for Evening Socials
The Sleek Pompadour Slick Back is a glamorous twist on traditional slicked-back styles, perfect for evening social events. This hairstyle adds height and drama, making it suitable for men with medium to long hair, especially those with round or oval face shapes. The voluminous top complements lighter eye colors, adding a charismatic sparkle to your look.
Achieve this by applying a volumizing lotion to damp hair, blow-drying upwards while pulling back. Use a strong-hold pomade to maintain the pompadour’s lift throughout the event. Regular use of a moisturizing conditioner will keep the hair supple and voluminous.
Understated Chic Slick Back for Business Meetings
Opt for the Understated Chic Slick Back when you need a hairstyle that speaks of professionalism and sophistication. This minimalist approach works best for short to medium hair and is particularly flattering for men with sharp facial features. The sleekness of the hair enhances professional attire, matching well with structured, tailored suits.
Style with a lightweight gel to avoid overpowering the look and comb neatly back. To maintain the chic appearance, a daily routine of light styling cream will keep hair in place without the greasiness.
Vintage Hollywood Slick Back for Gala Nights
The Vintage Hollywood Slick Back is all about recreating the glamorous days of yore, perfect for a black-tie gala or a fancy dinner date. Ideal for those with wavy or curly hair, it works wonderfully on classic facial structures, particularly square and heart-shaped faces.
Use a curl-defining cream to enhance the waves before slicking back with a glossy pomade to achieve that old-school Hollywood charisma. Regular deep conditioning treatments ensure waves remain defined and lustrous.
Edgy Spiked Slick Back for Music Concerts
Capture the essence of the rock and roll spirit with an Edgy Spiked Slick Back, suitable for concerts or nights out in the city. This style is best for those with textured or thick hair, and adds an element of rebelliousness to any outfit. It particularly suits triangular and oval face shapes.
Spike the hair by applying a strong-hold gel to the roots and pulling upwards while slicking back. Maintain the edgy look with weekly trims and use a matte finish product to keep the spikes sharp without the shine.
Soft Tousled Slick Back for Beach Days
For a more laid-back, beachy vibe, the Soft Tousled Slick Back is an excellent choice. This effortless style is great for long, loose curls, offering a relaxed and inviting look that’s perfect for sandy beaches and sunny days. It suits broader face shapes and lighter eye colors, enhancing a sun-kissed complexion.
Style with a salt spray to add texture and a light hold mousse to keep the hair manageable. A leave-in conditioner will help protect hair from saltwater and sun damage, keeping it healthy and hydrated.
Polished Executive Slick Back for Corporate Leaders
The Polished Executive Slick Back conveys authority and professionalism, designed for the corporate leader. This style is impeccable for those with medium to short hair and works best on rectangular and oval face shapes. The neat, tidy look complements formal business attire, adding an air of command.
Use a high-shine pomade for a crisp finish and comb neatly to maintain a structured look. Regular salon visits for trims and professional styling products are essential to uphold this executive aesthetic.
Dynamic Layered Slick Back for Artistic Flair
Introduce a sense of creativity and modernity with the Dynamic Layered Slick Back, ideal for artists or anyone in the creative field. This style works best on medium to long hair with natural volume and texture, suitable for all face shapes due to its adaptable nature.
Layer the hair with a light texturizing spray before slicking back to create depth and movement. Use a flexible hold gel to keep the layers distinct yet controlled, and consider a volumizing shampoo to enhance the hair’s natural dynamism.
Retro Greaser Slick Back for Themed Parties
Channel your inner 50s bad boy with the Retro Greaser Slick Back, a hit at any themed party or vintage event. This style is particularly striking on black or dark hair, suitable for all face shapes, especially those with strong jawlines.
Achieve this look with an oil-based pomade for that authentic greasy shine, and comb through for that classic clean line. Regular application of a deep cleansing shampoo will keep hair from getting too oily and maintain scalp health.
Sophisticated Fade Slick Back for Trendsetters
The Sophisticated Fade Slick Back blends the sharpness of a fade haircut short with the elegance of slicked back hair, creating a contemporary and stylish look. This hairstyle is best for those with sharp, angular features, enhancing a modern wardrobe.
To style, apply a fade-specific product to maintain the sharp contrast while using a pomade to slick back the top. Regular touch-ups at the barber will keep the fade precise, and a medium-hold gel will ensure the top stays sleek.
Flowing Locks Slick Back for the Bohemian Spirit
Embrace a free-spirited aesthetic with the Flowing Locks Slick Back, ideal for artistic gatherings or music festivals. This style is perfect for long, curly hair, offering a romantic and whimsical flair that suits softer facial features.
Use a curl-enhancing cream to define the curls before pulling them back loosely. A light hairspray will maintain the flow without compromising the natural bounce, and hydrating masks will keep the curls lush and vibrant.
Urban Chic Slick Back for City Explorers
The Urban Chic Slick Back is sleek and functional, designed for the man on the go in the urban jungle. This look is great for short to medium hair and complements an angular face, working well with contemporary casual or semi-formal attire.
Style with a lightweight pomade for a smooth finish that lasts all day. Include a regular use of a fortifying shampoo to combat the environmental stresses of city life, keeping hair strong and sleek.
Decadent Wavy Slick Back for Luxurious Evenings
For those special nights out, the Decadent Wavy Slick Back offers an allure of mystery and romance, ideal for those with naturally wavy or curly hair. This style enhances any formal outfit, particularly accentuating deep-set eyes and prominent cheekbones.
Apply a high-gloss serum to bring out the waves, slicking back gently to preserve the hair’s natural flow. A silk protein treatment once a month will keep the waves smooth and luxurious, ensuring they always look their best.
Sporty Slick Back for Active Lifestyles
The Sporty Slick Back is dynamic and resilient, perfect for men who lead an active lifestyle. Suitable for all hair types, this style keeps hair out of the face during physical activities, fitting snugly under athletic gear without losing its shape.
Use a sweat-resistant styling gel to maintain a clean look, and wash hair regularly with a revitalizing shampoo to refresh and recharge after workouts.
Gentleman’s Refined Slick Back for Daily Wear
The Gentleman’s Refined Slick Back is an all-rounder, perfect for daily wear from the office to dinner dates. This versatile style suits medium to short hair and complements all face shapes with its neat and tidy appearance.
Style with a light pomade for a subtle sheen and a natural hold. Regular trimming and the use of a daily conditioner will keep this look fresh and refined, ready for any occasion.
I’m Nikita Mazlov, a web developer with a passion for men’s style. My interest in haircuts, tattoos, outfits, and grooming inspired me to create this platform. Here, I blend my technical skills with a love for masculine style, sharing unique ideas and the latest trends. From sharp haircuts to bold tattoos, I explore various styles to inspire your next look. Join me as we dive into men’s fashion and grooming, where every detail shapes your personal story.