Mens Slicked Back Hairstyles: Your Guide To A Classic And Modern Appearance

So, you're thinking about mens slicked back hairstyles, are you? It's a look that just about always gets attention, giving off a feeling of cool confidence. This particular style, you know, has been around for ages, popping up in different ways through the years, yet it always seems to feel fresh and totally on point. It’s a great choice for lots of folks looking to add a bit of polish to their overall appearance.

Actually, whether you're heading to a really important meeting or just out for a relaxed evening, a well-done slicked back style can truly complete your whole outfit. It works with a nice suit, like those modern fits you find at places such as Men's Wearhouse or Dillard's, and it even looks pretty good with more casual stuff, too, like jeans and shirts you might pick up at Target or Nordstrom. This kind of hair can definitely make you feel a bit more put together, you know?

In a way, getting this look just right means knowing a few simple tricks. It's not just about pushing your hair back; there's a little bit more to it than that. We'll go over what you need to do, from picking the right hair products to actually styling your hair so it stays in place all day. It's a classic for a reason, and it's something you can definitely make your own, too.

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Table of Contents

• The History of the Slicked Back Look
• Why Choose a Slicked Back Style?
• Different Types of Slicked Back Hairstyles
  • The Classic Slick Back
  • The Modern Slick Back
  • The Disconnected Slick Back
  • Slick Back with a Fade
• Getting the Cut Right
• Choosing the Best Products
  • Pomade
  • Gel
  • Clay or Paste
• Step-by-Step Styling Guide
• Maintaining Your Slicked Back Style
• Troubleshooting Common Issues
• FAQ About Slicked Back Hair
• Conclusion

The History of the Slicked Back Look

The slicked back style, you know, has a rather interesting past. It first became really popular in the early 20th century, especially among men who wanted a very clean and tidy appearance. Think about the "Roaring Twenties" and the dapper gentlemen of that time; this look was quite the thing. It was a way to show you were well-groomed and perhaps a bit sophisticated, too.

Then, in the 1950s, it had a huge moment again, but with a different kind of feel. This was when rock and roll was getting big, and guys like Elvis Presley made the slick back, or sometimes a variation called the "pompadour," incredibly cool. It was still polished, yet it had this rebellious, edgy vibe that was very appealing. That, you know, really helped cement its place in style history.

Over the years, the style has popped up and faded a bit, but it never really goes away. Today, it's back, but with a more relaxed, modern feel sometimes. It's still about looking good, but maybe not quite as stiff as it once was. It just goes to show how some looks truly stand the test of time, adapting to different eras, too.

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Why Choose a Slicked Back Style?

There are quite a few good reasons why men still pick mens slicked back hairstyles. For one thing, it just looks really sharp. It gives off an air of being put together and having things in order, which is pretty appealing. It's a simple way to make a strong visual statement without doing anything too wild, you know?

Another thing is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can wear it to a formal event, like a wedding or a fancy dinner, and it fits right in. But then, you can also rock it for a casual day out, maybe with a nice shirt and some jeans you picked up from Zara or Costco. It just works in so many different situations, which is a big plus, apparently.

Also, for many guys, it’s a way to keep hair out of their face while still looking stylish. If you have hair that tends to fall forward, this style is a pretty practical solution. It keeps everything neat and tidy, letting your face be the main focus. It’s a good balance of function and fashion, really.

Different Types of Slicked Back Hairstyles

When we talk about mens slicked back hairstyles, it's not just one single look. There are actually several ways you can do it, each with its own little twist. Knowing these different versions can help you pick the one that fits your own personal style and hair type the best, too.

The Classic Slick Back

This is probably what most people think of first. The classic slick back involves pulling all your hair straight back from your forehead, keeping it very flat and close to your head. It usually has a good bit of shine to it, too. This look is pretty formal and very polished, often seen on guys who like a super clean and traditional appearance. It's the kind of style that really goes well with a sharp suit, perhaps one you got at Men's Wearhouse, you know?

The Modern Slick Back

The modern version is a bit softer and has more texture than the classic. Instead of being completely flat, it might have a little bit of volume at the top, and it often has a more matte finish rather than being super shiny. This style is still slicked back, but it feels a bit more relaxed and current. It’s pretty popular right now because it combines that timeless appeal with a more casual, everyday vibe, too. It’s less about looking stiff and more about looking effortlessly cool, apparently.

The Disconnected Slick Back

With this style, the hair on top is kept much longer than the sides, and there's a very clear, distinct line where the long hair meets the short hair. It's a bold look that really stands out. The top section is then slicked back, creating a strong contrast with the closely cut or faded sides. This is a very fashionable choice for guys who want something a bit edgy and contemporary, you know? It's pretty dramatic, in a good way.

Slick Back with a Fade

This is a very popular combination these days. The hair on the sides and back gradually gets shorter, fading down to the skin, while the top is left long enough to be slicked back. This gives a really clean and neat appearance around the ears and neck, while still allowing for that cool slicked back look on top. It’s a versatile option that can be dressed up or down, and it looks pretty sharp, actually. This style offers a nice balance between a classic look and something a bit more current, too.

Getting the Cut Right

Having the right haircut is probably the most important step for mens slicked back hairstyles. You can't really just slick back any length of hair and expect it to look good. You need some length on top, but the sides and back need to be cut in a specific way to support the style, too.

When you go to your barber or stylist, it's a good idea to bring a picture of the exact slicked back style you want. This helps them really understand what you’re looking for. Tell them you want enough length on top to push back, maybe about 4 to 6 inches, depending on how much volume you want. For the sides, you might ask for a taper, a fade, or just a neat, short cut, depending on the specific slick back variation you're aiming for, you know.

A good barber will also consider your hair type and face shape. For instance, if you have really thick hair, they might thin it out a bit to make it easier to slick back. If your hair is on the finer side, they might suggest a cut that helps create a bit more volume at the root before you slick it back. It’s all about getting a cut that works with your natural hair, too.

Choosing the Best Products

Picking the right product is absolutely key for mens slicked back hairstyles. The product you use will really determine how your hair looks and how well it stays in place throughout the day. You can find a great selection of men's grooming products at places like Nordstrom, Target, or even Amazon, just like you’d shop for shirts and suits, you know.

Pomade

Pomade is a really popular choice for slicked back hair, and for good reason. It usually gives a good amount of hold and a nice shine. There are oil-based pomades, which offer a very strong hold and a high shine, but they can be a bit harder to wash out. Then there are water-based pomades, which still give good hold and shine but wash out much more easily. If you want that classic, super shiny look, pomade is probably your best bet, actually.

Gel

Hair gel gives a very strong hold and a wet, shiny look. It’s great for keeping every single hair in place, especially if you have hair that tends to be unruly. However, gel can sometimes make your hair feel a bit stiff or crunchy, and it might flake if you use too much or if you touch your hair a lot throughout the day. It’s a good option for really humid days when you need maximum hold, though, you know.

Clay or Paste

For a more modern, less shiny slick back, a hair clay or paste is a fantastic choice. These products typically offer a medium to strong hold with a matte or natural finish. They give your hair some texture and volume while still keeping it pushed back. They're usually pretty easy to work with and wash out, too. If you prefer a look that’s not too "done" or overly shiny, then a clay or paste might be just what you need, apparently.

Step-by-Step Styling Guide

Okay, so you've got the right cut and the perfect product. Now, let's talk about actually styling your mens slicked back hairstyles. It’s a process that’s pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it, you know.

1. Start with Clean, Damp Hair: It's usually best to start with hair that's just been washed and is towel-dried until it's damp, not soaking wet. This helps the product spread evenly and gives you more control. Some people, too, prefer to start with completely dry hair for a different kind of hold, but damp is often easier.

2. Apply Your Product: Take a small amount of your chosen product – maybe a pea-sized or dime-sized amount to start. Rub it between your palms until it's evenly spread and warm. This makes it much easier to apply to your hair. You can always add a little more if you need it, but it’s hard to take it away, apparently.

3. Work it Through Your Hair: Using your fingers, work the product evenly through your hair, starting from the roots and going all the way to the ends. Make sure to get it on all sides of your hair, not just the top. Really try to coat every strand. This helps with hold and ensures the look lasts, you know.

4. Comb Your Hair Back: Now, using a fine-tooth comb, start combing your hair straight back from your forehead. Keep combing until all your hair is going in the direction you want it to. You might need to apply a bit of pressure to get it really flat against your head, especially if you have stubborn hair. This is where the "slick" part really comes in, too.

5. Refine and Shape: Once it's all combed back, use your comb or your fingers to refine the shape. You can create a slight part on the side if you like, or just keep it all pushed straight back. Make sure the sides are neat and the top is smooth. You can also use a blow dryer on a cool setting for a few seconds to help set the style, especially if you want a bit more hold, you know.

6. Final Touches: If you notice any stray hairs, use a tiny bit more product on your fingertips to smooth them down. You might also consider a light mist of hairspray if you need extra hold, but for many, the pomade or gel is enough. Then, you're good to go, actually.

Maintaining Your Slicked Back Style

Keeping your mens slicked back hairstyles looking good throughout the day isn't too hard, but it does take a little bit of care. The goal is to keep it neat and in place, even when you're moving around a lot, you know.

First, avoid touching your hair too much once it's styled. Every time you run your hands through it, you risk messing up the carefully placed strands and making it look less polished. If you do need to fix something, try to use a small comb you carry with you, or just a quick, gentle pat with your palm, apparently.

If you're going to be out in windy or humid weather, you might want to use a stronger hold product or a light mist of hairspray as a kind of extra shield. This helps protect your style from the elements. Also, if your hair tends to get oily, a little bit of dry shampoo at the roots before you style can help absorb excess oil and keep your look fresh longer, too.

At the end of the day, make sure to wash your hair thoroughly to remove all the product. This keeps your scalp healthy and prevents buildup, which can make your hair look dull or greasy. A good shampoo and conditioner are pretty important for keeping your hair in good condition, you know.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best intentions, you might run into a few little problems when styling your mens slicked back hairstyles. But don't worry, most of them have pretty simple fixes, actually.

Problem: Hair isn't staying back.

Solution: This usually means you need a stronger hold product, or you're not using enough of it. Try a pomade with a firmer hold, or apply a bit more of what you're already using. Make sure you're working the product all the way to the roots, too. Sometimes, a quick blast of cool air from a blow dryer after styling can help set it, you know.

Problem: Hair looks too greasy.

Solution: This often happens if you use too much product, especially if it's an oil-based one. Try using less product next time. You might also want to switch to a water-based pomade or a matte-finish clay, which give less shine. Starting with damp, not wet, hair can also help prevent that overly greasy look, apparently.

Problem: Hair looks stiff or crunchy.

Solution: This is a common issue with gels. If you like gel, try using a little less, or mix it with a tiny bit of water in your hands before applying to dilute it slightly. For a softer feel, consider switching to a pomade or a styling cream that offers more flexibility. You want hold, but you don't want your hair to feel like a helmet, you know?

Problem: Stray hairs popping out.

Solution: Sometimes, especially with new haircuts, some hairs just don't want to cooperate. Use a tiny dab of product on your fingertips to smooth down any rebellious strands. For really stubborn ones, a light mist of hairspray on a comb and then gently combing them into place can work wonders, too.

FAQ About Slicked Back Hair

What is the best product for slicked back hair?

The "best" product really depends on the look you're going for. For a classic, shiny look with strong hold, a good pomade is usually the way to go. If you want a more natural or matte finish, then a hair clay or paste would be a better choice, you know. Gel gives the strongest, wettest look but can feel a bit stiff, apparently.

How long does my hair need to be for a slick back?

Generally, you need at least 3 to 6 inches of length on top to properly slick it back. The exact length depends on your hair type and how much volume you want. Shorter hair might just look pushed back, not truly slicked. You need enough length to actually comb it smoothly back, you know.

Can I slick back curly or wavy hair?

Yes, you definitely can slick back curly or wavy hair! It might take a bit more effort and a stronger hold product to get it to lay flat. You might also need to use a blow dryer with a comb to really straighten it out as you style. The result can be a really interesting look, with a bit more texture than straight hair, too.

Conclusion

So, mens slicked back hairstyles are truly a timeless choice that can give you a sharp, confident look. Whether you prefer the classic, super shiny version or a more modern, textured approach, there's a slick back out there for just about everyone. It’s a style that works with all sorts of clothing, from the latest men's suit styles you'd find at Men's Wearhouse to the casual wear available at Macy's or Amazon, you know.

Getting it right comes down to a few simple things: having the proper haircut, picking the right product for your hair type and desired finish, and learning the basic steps for styling. With a little practice, you'll be able to achieve that polished appearance pretty easily, actually. This look, in a way, just keeps on giving.

To really complete your appearance, remember that the right grooming products are just as important as the clothing you choose. You can find a wide selection of men's clothing, shoes, accessories & grooming products at places like Nordstrom.com, and you can learn more about grooming essentials on our site, and perhaps discover more about finding your perfect fit for clothes.