Slicked-back hairstyles have been a staple in men’s fashion for centuries, with variations emerging throughout history. From the polished gentlemen of the Victorian era to the rockabilly rebels of the 1950s, slicked-back styles have exuded confidence and sophistication. With the rise of modern styling products and a renewed appreciation for classic looks, slicked-back hairstyles are back in full force. This guide will delve into the world of men’s slicked-back hairstyles, providing you with everything you need to know to achieve the perfect style.
Slicked-Back Hairstyle Basics
A slicked-back hairstyle is characterized by hair that is combed back from the forehead and secured with a styling product. It can be worn with any hair length, from short to long, and can be tailored to suit individual face shapes, hair textures, and personal preferences.
Benefits of Slicked-Back Hairstyles
1. Timeless Style: Slicked-back hairstyles have stood the test of time, remaining a versatile and stylish choice for men of all ages.
2. Versatility: Slicked-back styles can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for any occasion, from casual outings to formal events.
3. Low Maintenance: While regular trims are required to maintain the shape, slicked-back hairstyles generally require less daily styling than other hairstyles.
Types of Slicked-Back Hairstyles
1. Classic Slicked-Back: The classic slicked-back is characterized by hair that is combed straight back from the forehead and secured with a generous amount of pomade or gel. It creates a sleek, polished look that exudes sophistication.
2. Modern Slicked-Back: The modern slicked-back is a more relaxed take on the classic style, featuring hair that is combed back with a looser hold. It provides a more natural, textured look that is both stylish and easy to wear.
3. Undercut Slicked-Back: The undercut slicked-back combines the slicked-back look with an undercut, where the hair on the sides and back is shaved or trimmed short. It creates a stylish contrast between the long, slicked-back hair on top and the short, shaved sides.
4. Pompadour Slicked-Back: The pompadour slicked-back takes the classic pompadour hairstyle and slicks it back for a more polished look. It creates volume and height at the front, while the sides and back are sleeked down.
Styling a Slicked-Back Hairstyle
Step 1: Wash and Towel Dry Hair
Wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to remove any dirt or product buildup. Towel dry your hair to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Apply Styling Product
Apply a generous amount of pomade, gel, or wax to your hair, starting at the roots. Use a wide-toothed comb to distribute the product evenly throughout your hair.
Step 3: Comb Back Hair
Use a fine-toothed comb to comb your hair straight back from the forehead. Start at the front and work your way towards the back, ensuring that your hair is evenly slicked down.
Step 4: Secure Hair
Use a hair dryer on a low heat setting to dry your hair and secure the slicked-back style. Once your hair is dry, use hairspray to hold the style in place.
Slicked-Back Hairstyles for Different Hair Types
1. Thick Hair: Slicked-back hairstyles work best with thick hair, as it holds the style better and creates a more dramatic look.
2. Fine Hair: Fine hair can be more challenging to slick back, as it may lack the volume and texture required for a polished look. To achieve a slicked-back style with fine hair, use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner and apply a styling product that provides a strong hold.
3. Curly Hair: Curly hair can be slicked back using a combination of styling products and techniques. Apply a curl cream to damp hair to define and control the curls, then use a pomade or gel to slick the hair back.
Table 1: Slicked-Back Hairstyles for Different Face Shapes
| Face Shape | Suitable Slicked-Back Hairstyles |
|---|---|
| Oval | Any slicked-back hairstyle |
| Round | Slicked-back with a side part, slicked-back with volume at the top, undercut slicked-back |
| Square | Slicked-back with a side part, slicked-back with volume at the sides, pompadour slicked-back |
| Diamond | Slicked-back with a center part, slicked-back with volume at the front, pompadour slicked-back |
| Heart | Slicked-back with a side part, slicked-back with volume at the sides, undercut slicked-back |
Table 2: Slicked-Back Hairstyles for Different Occasions
| Occasion | Suitable Slicked-Back Hairstyles |
|---|---|
| Formal Event | Classic slicked-back, pompadour slicked-back |
| Casual Outing | Modern slicked-back, undercut slicked-back |
| Business Meeting | Classic slicked-back, modern slicked-back |
| Date Night | Modern slicked-back, pompadour slicked-back |
| Sports | Undercut slicked-back, modern slicked-back |
Table 3: Pros and Cons of Slicked-Back Hairstyles
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Polished, sophisticated look | Can be difficult to style with certain hair types |
| Timeless and versatile | Requires regular trims |
| Low maintenance | Can be uncomfortable if not styled properly |
Table 4: Inspiration from Iconic Men with Slicked-Back Hairstyles
| Icon | Slicked-Back Hairstyle |
|---|---|
| David Beckham | Modern slicked-back |
| Brad Pitt | Classic slicked-back |
| George Clooney | Modern slicked-back, pompadour slicked-back |
| Ryan Gosling | Classic slicked-back |
| Leonardo DiCaprio | Modern slicked-back |
Conclusion
Men’s slicked-back hairstyles are a timeless and versatile style that can transform any look. From the classic polished style to the modern relaxed look, there is a slicked-back hairstyle to suit every face shape, hair type, and occasion. By following the steps outlined in this guide and experimenting with different styling products and techniques, you can achieve the perfect slicked-back hairstyle that will make you look and feel your best.