Slicked back hairstyles have been a timeless classic for over a century, exuding sophistication, confidence, and a hint of rebellion. From the iconic greaser look of the 1950s to the modern interpretations of today, the slicked back hairstyle has evolved to cater to diverse preferences and facial structures. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of slicked back hairstyles, exploring 30 variations to help you find the perfect look for your unique style.
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Origins and Evolution of Slicked Back Hairstyles
The slicked back hairstyle has its roots in the early 1900s, when pomade was used to hold hair in place. The style gained popularity among barbers in the 1920s, but it wasn’t until the 1950s that slicked back hairstyles became truly iconic. The greaser style, characterized by combed-back hair and a side part, was the epitome of cool during this era.
Over the years, slicked back hairstyles have undergone numerous transformations. In the 1960s, the style became more relaxed, with longer hair and a less severe hold. The 1970s saw the emergence of disco-inspired slicked back hairstyles, which featured a more dramatic hold and sometimes included sideburns.
Types of Slicked Back Hairstyles
Slicked back hairstyles offer a wide range of options to suit different face shapes and hair textures. Some of the most popular types include:
Classic Slick Back
The classic slick back is characterized by combed-back hair with a sharp, defined part. It can be styled with or without a side part, and is suitable for most hair types.
Modern Slick Back
A more contemporary take on the classic slick back, the modern slick back features a less severe hold, allowing for more natural volume and movement. It is often paired with an undercut or fade on the sides.
Undercut Slick Back
The undercut slick back is a stylish and versatile option that combines a slicked back top with shaved or faded sides. It adds a touch of edge and sophistication to the classic slick back.
Taper Fade Slick Back
The taper fade slick back takes the undercut slick back to the next level, creating a smooth, gradual transition from the slicked back top to the faded sides. It is a low-maintenance and stylish choice.
Benefits of Slicked Back Hairstyles
Slicked back hairstyles offer numerous benefits, including:
- Versatility: Slicked back hairstyles can be adapted to suit any occasion or style, from formal events to casual hangouts.
- Timeless appeal: Slicked back hairstyles have been popular for over a century, making them a timeless choice for men of all ages.
- Low maintenance: Once styled, slicked back hairstyles require minimal maintenance, making them easy to manage.
How to Style a Slicked Back Hairstyle
Styling a slicked back hairstyle is relatively simple, but it requires the right products and technique. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Wash and condition your hair. Start with clean, dry hair.
- Apply a pre-styling product. A pre-styling product, such as a mousse or gel, will help to create volume and hold.
- Create a part (optional). If desired, create a part using a comb or razor.
- Apply pomade or wax. Scoop out a pea-sized amount of pomade or wax and apply it evenly to your hair.
- Comb your hair back. Use a fine-toothed comb to comb your hair back from the front of your head to the nape of your neck.
- Smooth over: Use your hands to smooth over the top of your hair to create a sleek finish.
- Secure with hairspray (optional). If desired, spritz your hair with hairspray to lock in the style.
Slicked Back Hairstyles for Different Hair Textures
Slicked back hairstyles can be adapted to suit all hair textures, including:
- Fine hair: Slicked back hairstyles can add volume and body to fine hair. Use a volumizing pre-styling product and a light-hold pomade or wax.
- Thick hair: Slicked back hairstyles can help to tame thick hair and create a sleek, controlled look. Use a strong-hold pomade or wax.
- Curly hair: Slicked back hairstyles can be challenging to style on curly hair, but with the right products and technique, it is possible. Use a curl-control pre-styling product and a strong-hold wax or gel.
Tools and Products for Slicked Back Hairstyles
To style a slicked back hairstyle, you will need the following tools and products:
- Comb: A fine-toothed comb is essential for creating a smooth, sleek finish.
- Pomade or wax: Pomade or wax provides hold and shine to your hair. Choose the right type of product for your hair texture.
- Pre-styling product: A pre-styling product, such as a mousse or gel, helps to create volume and hold.
- Hairspray (optional): Hairspray can help to lock in your style for a long-lasting hold.
Hairstyle Variations
In addition to the classic, modern, undercut, and taper fade slick backs, there are numerous other variations to explore:
- Pompadour slick back: This variation features a longer, voluminous top that is slicked back into a pompadour shape.
- Side-swept slick back: This variation features a top that is swept to one side, creating a more relaxed, asymmetrical look.
- Quiff slick back: A quiff slick back combines a quiff with a slicked back top, resulting in a stylish and textured look.
- Faux hawk slick back: This edgy variation features a faux hawk style with a slicked back top.
Facial Shapes and Slicked Back Hairstyles
The right slicked back hairstyle can complement your facial shape and enhance your overall appearance:
- Round face: A slicked back hairstyle with a side part can help to elongate and slim the face.
- Oval face: Almost any slicked back hairstyle will suit an oval face shape.
- Square face: A slicked back hairstyle with a low fade or undercut can help to soften the angular lines of a square face.
- Heart face: A slicked back hairstyle with a longer top and side part can help to balance out the narrowness of a heart-shaped face.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Slick Back
- Use a good pomade or wax: The quality of your styling product will have a big impact on the hold and shine of your slick back.
- Don’t overdo it: Too much pomade or wax can weigh your hair down and make it look greasy.
- Use a comb to create a clean part: A fine-toothed comb will help you to create a sharp, defined part that will enhance the overall look.
- Smooth over the top: After combing your hair back, use your hands to smooth over the top and remove any bumps or ridges.
- Secure with hairspray: If you want your slick back to last all day, finish by spraying it with hairspray.
Conclusion
Slicked back hairstyles continue to reign supreme as a timeless and versatile option for men. Whether you prefer a classic, modern, undercut, or taper fade slick back, there is a style to suit every face shape and hair texture. With the right tools, products, and techniques, you can achieve a sleek, sophisticated slick back hairstyle that will turn heads wherever you go.
Below are 30 slicked back hairstyle inspirations to help you find the perfect look for your next style:
Table 1: Classic Slick Back Hairstyles
Haircut | Description | Example Image |
---|---|---|
Classic Slick Back | Short, tapered sides with a slicked back top | ![]() |
Modern Slick Back | Medium-length sides with a less severe hold on the top | ![]() |
Undercut Slick Back | Short, faded sides with a slicked back top | ![]() |
Table 2: Fade Slick Back Hairstyles
Haircut | Description | Example Image |
---|---|---|
Taper Fade Slick Back | Gradual fade from the top to the bottom of the sides | ![]() |
High Fade Slick Back | Fade that starts high on the sides and gradually gets lower | ![]() |
Low Fade Slick Back | Fade that starts low on the sides and gradually gets higher | ![]() |
Table 3: Slick Back Hairstyles for Different Hair Textures
Hair Texture | Slick Back Variation | Example Image |
---|---|---|
Fine Hair | Slick Back with Volumizing Spray | ![Slick Back with Volumizing Spray](https://example.com/images/slick-back-with-vol |