Ever stood in front of the mirror five minutes before a meeting wondering how to make your hair look sharp, modern, and effortless? If so, you’re not alone. The slicked back look is one of those timeless men’s hairstyles that instantly upgrades a guy’s appearance—clean lines, confident vibe, and surprisingly versatile. In this guide you’ll find practical styling steps, the best variations for different hair types, outfit pairings, and product recommendations so you can rock slicked back hair with confidence.
Why Choose a Slicked Back Style?
Slicked back hairstyles for men blend classic grooming with contemporary edge. Whether you’re aiming for a polished boardroom presence or a sleek night-out look, the slick back gives structure and height. It works great for medium to long hair, and with fades or tapers on the sides it can suit nearly every face shape and personal style.
Top mens slicked back hairstyles to try
1. Classic Slicked Back
The all-time favorite: medium length on top, combed straight back, sides tapered or scissor-cut. Ideal for business and formal settings. Use a medium-hold water-based pomade for shine without stiffness.
- Best for: straight to slightly wavy hair.
- Outfit pairing: tailored navy suit, white shirt, leather oxford shoes.
2. Slicked Back Undercut
Short or shaved sides contrast with longer top hair slicked back for a bold, modern silhouette. The undercut adds volume on top and emphasizes facial features.
- Best for: thick hair and men who like a pronounced shape.
- Outfit pairing: bomber jacket, slim jeans, low-top sneakers—casual but deliberate.
3. Textured Slick Back (for a relaxed finish)
Not all slicked back looks need high shine. A textured slick back uses a matte clay or paste to give movement and a lived-in feel—perfect for creative workplaces or weekend brunches.
- Best for: those with fine hair who want the illusion of density.
- Outfit pairing: soft knit sweater, chinos, suede boots.
4. Pompadour-Slick Hybrid
Combine a pompadour’s lift with a slicked back direction for a vintage yet modern vibe. Blow-dry to build volume, set with a strong-hold pomade.
- Best for: those seeking height and drama.
- Outfit pairing: leather jacket, white tee, dark denim for a stylish night-out look.
5. Slicked Back with Side Part
Adding a defined side part gives a classic, sophisticated impression—great for interviews and client-facing roles. Use a comb to create a crisp separation and finish with medium shine product.
How to Style a Slicked Back Hairstyle (Step-by-step)
- Start clean: wash and towel-dry hair to damp (not dripping).
- Prep: apply a small amount of styling product—water-based pomade for shine, clay for matte texture, or gel for a sculpted look.
- Blow-dry (optional): use a brush or comb to direct hair back while drying to build volume and set the shape.
- Comb back: use a fine-tooth comb for a smoother look or your fingers for texture.
- Finish: lock in place with light hairspray if you need extra hold, especially in humid conditions.
Product Guide & Tools
Choosing the right product depends on hair type and the finish you want:
- Water-based pomade — medium to high shine, easy to wash out.
- Oil-based pomade — heavy shine and longer hold, best if you have thick hair.
- Matte clay/paste — textured, low shine, great for fine hair.
- Gel — strong hold, can look stiff if overused.
- Tools: blow dryer, round brush, fine-tooth comb, and a soft-hold hairspray.
Adapting the Slicked Back Look to Your Hair Type
Not all hair behaves the same. Here’s how to adapt:
Thin or fine hair
Use volumizing shampoo and a lightweight matte paste to create lift without weighing hair down. Blow-dry upward at the roots before slicking back.
Thick hair
Heavy pomades or clay help control volume. Consider a subtle taper or undercut to reduce bulk on the sides.
Curly or wavy hair
Embrace texture—use a smoothing cream or light pomade and finish with a diffuser when blow-drying. A looser slick back (textured) often looks best.
Receding hairline
Shorter, textured slicked back styles or combed-back fades can minimize contrast and draw attention upward without exaggerating the hairline.
Outfit Combinations: Match Your Look to the Occasion
Pick an outfit that echoes the hair’s level of polish.
- Formal / Business: Classic slicked back + tailored suit + leather dress shoes.
- Smart Casual: Slicked back undercut + blazer + dark denim + loafers.
- Casual Weekend: Textured slick back + crewneck sweater + chinos + sneakers.
- Night Out: Pompadour-slick + leather jacket + slim black jeans + Chelsea boots.
Maintenance & Real-World Tips
Keep these practical tips in mind:
- Get regular trims every 4–6 weeks to maintain the length and clean sides.
- Use a clarifying shampoo once a week if you use heavy pomades to avoid buildup.
- On humid or rainy days, choose stronger hold products or a protective hairspray to avoid frizz.
- If you’re short on time, a matte paste applied to dry hair can give a decent slick-back texture in under two minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does my hair need to be to slick it back?
For a true slicked back look you generally need at least 3–4 inches on top. Shorter cropped versions are possible, but the hair should be long enough to comb backward. If you’re growing it out, maintain neat sides so the top looks intentional.
2. What product is best for a natural-looking slicked back hairstyle?
For a natural finish, choose a matte clay or low-shine paste. These give texture and hold without the glossy effect of traditional pomade. Start with a small amount—you can always add more.
3. Can men with curly hair wear a slicked back style?
Yes. Curly hair looks great with a relaxed or textured slick back. Use smoothing creams, light pomades, and a diffuser while blow-drying to control the curl without flattening it completely.
Conclusion — Try a Slicked Back Haircut Next
Mens slicked back hairstyles are a flexible go-to whether you want classic refinement or a modern edge. With the right cut, product, and outfit, this look can take you from office meetings to weekend plans with ease. Ready to update your hair? Book a cut emphasizing medium length on top and a tailored taper on the sides, experiment with a water-based pomade, and check out our grooming resources for more style ideas. For more product picks and styling routines, visit our Grooming Tips and Hair Product Reviews pages.
