Slicked Back Hair For Men 2025: 27 Ideas With Modern Fade Style, Classic Undercut And Messy Haircuts
The slicked back hairstyle has long been a symbol of sophistication and confidence. As we step into 2025, this classic look is evolving, merging modern techniques with timeless appeal. From fades to tapered cuts and messy textures, slicked back hair is making waves in men’s fashion. Whether you’re channeling a sharp, professional vibe or opting for a relaxed, casual look, there’s a slicked back style for everyone. Let’s dive into the latest trends and see how this iconic style is being reimagined.
The Classic Slick Back with a Modern Fade
This style blends the elegance of a traditional slick back with the contemporary edge of a fade. The top is kept long and sleek, brushed back with precision, while the sides are sharply tapered, creating a seamless transition. This look is perfect for formal events or professional settings, offering a clean yet stylish appearance. To maintain this look, use a strong-hold pomade and a fine-tooth comb for that flawless finish.
Undercut Slick Back for a Bold Statement
For those who love a daring style, the undercut slick back is a go-to choice. The top is styled back smoothly, while the sides are completely shaved, offering a stark contrast that’s both bold and edgy. This look works well for creative professionals or anyone looking to make a statement. Maintenance involves regular trimming of the sides and using a high-shine gel to keep the top sleek and in place.
Sophisticated Grey Slick Back for the Modern Gentleman
Grey hair exudes wisdom and style, and when slicked back, it’s the epitome of sophistication. This medium length slick back is perfect for mature men who want a refined yet modern look. The sides are neatly trimmed but not overly short, allowing for a balanced appearance. Use a light styling cream to maintain the natural texture while keeping the hair controlled.
Natural Slick Back with a Low Taper
This style embraces a more natural finish, combining a low taper with a relaxed slick back. The hair is styled loosely, giving it a slightly messy yet controlled look, perfect for casual outings or weekend brunches. This style suits those who prefer a laid-back vibe while still maintaining a polished appearance. A lightweight mousse can help keep the hair in place without weighing it down.
Sleek and Sharp with Shaved Sides
For a sleek and defined look, this style features shaved sides with a meticulously slicked back top. The contrast between the smooth top and the shaved sides adds a modern twist to the classic slick back. Ideal for both formal occasions and night outs, this style demands regular upkeep to keep the sides clean and the top smooth. Use a high-hold gel for a glossy, sharp finish.
Sharp Slicked Back with Tapered Fade
This slicked back hairstyle keeps things clean and structured with a precise tapered fade on the sides, complementing the sleek top. The short sides accentuate the polished top, creating a bold contrast perfect for professional or formal settings. The thick beard adds a rugged touch, making this style versatile for both business and casual looks.
Styling tip: A water-based pomade will help keep the hair in place without making it look greasy. Use a comb to maintain the sharp lines.
Sharp Slick Back with a Defined Side Part
Incorporating a side part into a slicked back style adds a touch of classic elegance. This look features a defined part with the top slicked back smoothly, creating a structured and polished appearance. The sides are neatly trimmed to complement the sharpness of the part. This style is perfect for business meetings or formal gatherings. Use a pomade with medium hold to keep the hair in place without making it too stiff.
The Modern Slick Back with a Tapered Fade
Combining a tapered fade with a slicked back top gives a contemporary twist to this timeless style. The gradual fade on the sides enhances the volume on top, making it a standout look. This style is versatile enough for both professional and casual settings. Regular trims will keep the fade sharp, while a lightweight gel will maintain the sleekness of the top.
Platinum Slick Back with a Fade
This platinum blonde slick back is all about contrast. The top is styled back with a smooth finish, while the sides feature a sharp fade that transitions seamlessly into the beard. This look is perfect for those who want to blend bold hair color with a modern cut. To maintain the shine and color, use a purple shampoo and a high-hold styling gel.
Textured Slick Back with a Low Taper
Combining texture with sleekness, this style features a low taper and a slightly messy slicked back top. The natural waves add dimension, giving the look a casual yet stylish flair. Perfect for both day and night, this hairstyle works well with lightweight styling creams to enhance the natural waves without making the hair feel heavy.
Medium-Length Slick Back with a Mullet Twist
This slick back puts a contemporary spin on the mullet, blending sleek front styling with medium-length flow at the back. The look is both edgy and refined, perfect for trendsetters looking to push the boundaries of classic styles. Use a flexible hold pomade to keep the front neat while allowing movement at the back.
Sleek City Look with a Classic Middle Part
Urban sophistication meets timeless elegance with this slicked back style featuring a subtle middle part. The hair is combed back smoothly on both sides, framing the face beautifully. Ideal for formal settings or high-profile events, this look requires a fine-tooth comb and a high-shine pomade to maintain its polished appearance.
Curly Slick Back with Volume
For those with curly hair, this voluminous slick back is a game changer. The curls are styled back loosely, giving the look a dynamic, textured finish while maintaining control. This style works well for casual events and adds a playful twist to the traditional slick back. Use a curl-enhancing mousse to define the curls without losing the sleekness.
Formal Slick Back with a Sharp Side Part
This formal slick back is all about precision, featuring a defined side part that adds structure and elegance. The hair is slicked back smoothly, with the part adding a distinct, clean line. This look is ideal for business professionals or formal events, requiring a strong-hold gel to keep the style intact throughout the day.
Undercut Slick Back with Shaved Sides
This bold style features an undercut with shaved sides, emphasizing the contrast between the smooth slicked back top and the bare sides. The dramatic difference adds a rebellious edge to the look, making it perfect for those who like to stand out. Regular maintenance of the sides is crucial, along with using a high-gloss pomade for the top.
Beard and Slick Back Combo for a Rugged Look
This style pairs a sleek slick back with a full, well-groomed beard, creating a rugged yet refined appearance. The natural texture of the hair is maintained while being styled back, giving it a soft, approachable look. Ideal for casual and semi-formal occasions, this style requires beard grooming products and a lightweight styling cream for the hair to keep both elements looking their best.
Classic Slicked Back with Undercut
This style exudes confidence with its sharp undercut and perfectly slicked back top. The sides are kept clean with a close shaved sides finish, while the longer top provides the perfect canvas for a sleek, refined look. Ideal for both formal events and casual outings, this hairstyle embodies a modern aesthetic with a hint of classic charm.
Medium Length Slick with a Low Taper
This variation keeps things subtle with a low taper that transitions smoothly into the longer, slicked back top. The medium length hair adds volume and movement, giving it a more natural and laid-back vibe. It’s perfect for those who want a refined yet effortless style.
Messy Slicked Back with Tapered Sides
For a more relaxed, messy finish, this look pairs a slightly tousled top with neatly tapered sides. It strikes the right balance between formal and casual, offering flexibility for various settings—from office meetings to weekend brunches.
Blonde Slicked Back with Sharp Fade
This bold blonde look pairs a sharp fade with a perfectly styled top. The lighter hue adds a modern flair, while the precise lines of the haircut keep things sharp and clean. It’s a standout look for those who love to make a statement.
Natural Slick with Middle Part
For those preferring a natural vibe, this style incorporates a soft middle part into the slicked back look. The gentle parting adds dimension and frames the face beautifully, offering a less rigid, more approachable style.
The Business-Ready Slick Back with Low Taper
This low-taper slick back exudes confidence and professionalism, making it an excellent choice for the office. The hair is kept at a medium length on top and transitions seamlessly into the faded sides.
Apply a styling cream for a flexible hold that lasts all day. Perfect for those with straight or slightly wavy hair.
Long Slicked Back with Messy Waves
For those with long hair, this look emphasizes loose, messy waves that are pulled back for a relaxed yet stylish effect. It’s a versatile style that can transition from the beach to the boardroom effortlessly.
Modern Slicked Back with Side Part
A subtle side part adds a fresh twist to this modern slicked back style. The precise parting gives the hair a structured look, while the slick finish keeps things sleek and sophisticated—ideal for professional settings or formal occasions.
Loose Slicked Back with Natural Volume
For those who prefer a more natural finish, this loose slicked back style is perfect. The hair is pushed back with minimal product, allowing natural waves and volume to shine through. This medium length cut is ideal for those who want a laid-back yet stylish vibe, effortlessly transitioning from day to night.
High Fade with Slicked Back Top
This haircut features a dramatic high fade paired with a sleek, slicked back top. The sharp contrast between the shaved sides and longer top gives it a bold, modern appeal, while the smooth finish keeps it sophisticated. Perfect for those looking to make a strong style statement.
Apply a strong-hold gel to keep the slicked-back look intact throughout the day, especially for longer wear.
Messy Slicked Back with Textured Finish
This messy hair take on the slicked back style offers a relaxed, textured finish. The sides are neatly tapered, while the top maintains a tousled, carefree look, adding a youthful and trendy flair. This style is great for casual outings or creative workspaces where a laid-back look is appreciated.
Use a texturizing paste to create volume and definition, giving the hair a messy, effortless appearance.
The slicked back hairstyle continues to be a versatile and stylish choice for men in 2025. Whether you prefer a classic look, a modern twist, or something in between, there’s a slicked back style that fits your personality and lifestyle. Have a favorite style from the list? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear which look you’re rocking this year!
