Ever stood in front of the mirror the morning of a wedding or important date and wondered if a classic, polished look would fit your personality? If you love timeless style — clean lines, purposeful grooming, and that effortless “I-mean-business” finish — 1940s mens hairstyles offer a perfect roadmap. Whether you want a refined side part for the office or a modern take on the slick back for weekend wear, these retro men’s hairstyles translate surprisingly well to today’s wardrobe.
Why 1940s mens hairstyles are making a comeback
The 1940s produced some of the most recognizable men’s haircuts: neat side parts, tapered sides, pompadours with structure, and military-inspired cuts that emphasize clean lines. In an era obsessed with practicality and polish, grooming was part of a man’s identity. Today, modern men are rediscovering those looks because they convey confidence, professionalism, and a vintage sophistication that pairs well with contemporary minimalism.
Signature 1940s mens hairstyles and how to wear them today
The Classic Side Part
Description: A deep, defined part with medium length on top and tidy tapered sides. This is the quintessential 1940s men’s haircut — smart, office-ready, and low drama.
How to style: Use a firm-hold pomade or styling cream. Comb the top over to the side after blow-drying for volume at the root. Finish with a fine-tooth comb for a crisp part.
The Slick Back / Pompadour
Description: Higher volume at the front swept back into the crown. The 1940s pompadour isn’t as exaggerated as later decades — it’s controlled and slightly tapered.
How to style: Work a medium to heavy pomade through damp hair and comb back. Use a blow dryer and a boar-bristle brush for a modern, textured take.
The Military-Inspired Short Cut
Description: Short on the sides, slightly longer on top. Practical and easy to maintain — a nod to WWII-era service cuts.
How to style: Minimal product, just a matte paste to define texture. Ideal for active lifestyles and hot weather.
Wavy / Finger Wave Texture
Description: Structured waves that hug the head. This look suits naturally wavy hair and men who want a distinctive vintage touch.
How to style: Use a cream or light gel to set waves and a comb to sculpt. Best achieved with help from an experienced barber.
Tools, products and step-by-step styling
To recreate authentic 1940s styling, invest in a few essentials:
- Comb (fine-tooth for parts, wide-tooth for texture)
- Blow dryer and round brush or boar-bristle brush
- Pomade (water-based for easy washout or oil-based for shine and hold)
- Matte paste or clay for textured, modern interpretations
- Barber visits every 4–6 weeks for tapered sides and clean lines
Step-by-step (Classic Side Part): Towel-dry hair → blow-dry while combing to the part → apply a dime-sized pomade → comb the top into place and define the part → use a light hairspray if needed.
Outfit combinations to match your 1940s look
Part of the appeal of 1940s mens hairstyles is how well they pair with classic menswear. Here are practical outfit combinations that match different vintage looks:
- Classic Side Part: Single-breasted navy suit, white dress shirt, narrow tie, leather oxfords — perfect for work or formal events. (See our guide to vintage suits for more.) Vintage suits guide
- Slick Back / Pompadour: Leather jacket, white tee, dark denim, and Chelsea boots for a mid-century rebel-meets-contemporary vibe. Try lighter pomade for daytime texture.
- Military-Inspired Cut: Field jacket, chambray shirt, chinos, and work boots — rugged and practical for weekend wear.
- Wavy / Finger Waves: Tweed sport coat, patterned shirt, suspenders for a true retro statement at themed parties or sharply styled evenings.
Real-world advice: hair types, face shapes, and maintenance
Not every 1940s cut works the same on every man — here’s how to choose wisely:
- Thick hair: Choose a tapered side and medium length on top to control bulk. Strong pomade helps keep styles in place.
- Thin or fine hair: Go for shorter sides and a modest side part; use volumizing products and avoid heavy oil-based pomades that weigh hair down.
- Curly hair: Embrace texture with a shorter 1940s-inspired crop rather than forcing straight styles. Matte pastes work best.
- Face shape: Square faces pair well with pompadours and slick backs; oval faces are versatile and can wear most 1940s looks; round faces benefit from height on top to elongate the face.
Maintenance tips: Schedule regular barber visits for tapered sides, trim facial hair to complement the clean lines, and condition weekly to keep hair healthy. If you’re unsure, bring photos — visual references help barbers recreate retro cuts accurately. For step-by-step styling guides, see our tutorial on how to slick back hair. How to slick back hair
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are 1940s mens hairstyles suitable for modern workplaces?
Yes. Many 1940s looks — especially the classic side part — are polished and conservative enough for most professional environments. Keep the style neat and avoid excessive shine for a contemporary office-appropriate finish.
2. What product should I use to achieve authentic 1940s shine?
Traditional oil-based pomades provide a high-shine, firm hold typical of the 1940s. If you prefer easier washing and a less greasy feel, modern water-based pomades mimic the look while rinsing out easily.
3. Can I adapt 1940s styles if I have a beard?
Absolutely. Pairing a neatly trimmed beard with a 1940s haircut creates a balanced contrast between vintage grooming and modern facial hair trends. Keep beard lines tidy to maintain the refined aesthetic.
Conclusion — Bring 1940s mens hairstyles into your rotation
1940s mens hairstyles offer a timeless foundation for modern grooming — whether you’re aiming for classic polish or a retro-inspired update. Try a classic side part for formal settings, a slick back for nights out, or a military-inspired crop for low-maintenance style. Start with a clear photo of the look you want, talk to your barber, and experiment with pomades and pastes until you find the right balance of hold and texture.
Ready to try a vintage cut? Book a consultation with your barber, experiment with styling products, and share your results below. For more styling tips and outfit ideas that complement these looks, check out our guides on vintage suits and beard styles for men. Drop a comment with your hair type and the style you want — I’ll recommend the best cut and product combos.
