The slick back is more than just a haircut; it is a statement of intent. For decades, this style has been the hallmark of the refined gentleman, the high-powered executive, and the rebellious icon alike. Its enduring popularity stems from its incredible versatility and the instant polish it adds to any look. Whether you’re heading into a boardroom or a night out, a well-executed slick back signals that you are a man who pays attention to detail.
In this guide, we explore 13 variations of the slick back that range from vintage classics to modern, textured interpretations. Each of these styles offers a unique way to frame your face and project confidence.
1. Classic Slick Back
The classic slick back is the foundation of all modern variations. It typically features hair that is roughly the same length on the top and sides, though the top is long enough to be swept back entirely. This look relies on a good quality pomade to keep every strand in place. It’s the ultimate “Old Hollywood” aesthetic that works remarkably well for men with straight or slightly wavy hair. To achieve this, use a fine-toothed comb to distribute product from the roots to the tips, ensuring a smooth, uniform surface.
2. Undercut Slick Back
If you want to add a modern edge to the traditional look, the undercut slick back is the way to go. This style features a high contrast between the shaved or very short sides and the long hair on top. By removing the bulk from the sides, the focus is placed entirely on the volume and flow of the hair on top. It’s a bold, aggressive style that looks incredibly clean and requires minimal maintenance on the sides, though you’ll need frequent trims to keep the undercut looking sharp.
3. Pompadour Slick Back
The Pompadour slick back combines the height of a 1950s “pomp” with the sleekness of a back-swept style. Instead of lying flat against the scalp, the hair is blown dry upward to create significant volume before being swept back. This style is particularly effective for men with rounder faces, as the added height helps to elongate the face and create a more balanced silhouette. A high-hold wax or clay is often better than pomade here to maintain that gravity-defying lift.
4. Fade Slick Back
The fade slick back is arguably the most popular contemporary version of this style. It utilizes a gradient on the sides—usually a mid or high fade—that blends into the longer hair on top. This creates a very clean, “fresh from the barber” look that frames the face perfectly. The fade adds a level of athletic sharpness to the sophisticated slick back, making it a favorite for younger professionals who want to look modern yet disciplined.
5. Long Hair Slick Back
For men who prefer to keep their length, the long hair slick back offers a “Viking-chic” vibe that is both rugged and refined. This isn’t about a tight, greasy look; rather, it’s about using a light-hold cream or oil to sweep the hair back behind the ears. This style works best with hair that has some natural weight to it, allowing it to stay back without the need for heavy products. It’s a great way to look formal without sacrificing your long locks.
6. Side Part Slick Back
Adding a side part to a slick back introduces a layer of vintage professionalism. This was the “Mad Men” look of the 1960s, and it remains a powerhouse style for the corporate world. The part defines the shape of the head and adds a structured, geometric element to the hair. To get this right, find your natural part line while the hair is damp, and use a comb to define it clearly before applying a high-shine pomade.
7. Textured Slick Back
If the traditional “wet look” feels too rigid for you, the textured slick back is the perfect alternative. This style focuses on movement and a natural finish. Instead of a comb, use your fingers to push the hair back after applying a matte clay or sea salt spray. This creates a look that says you’ve put in effort, but you’re not trying too hard. It’s ideal for casual settings or creative professional environments where a more relaxed vibe is appreciated.
8. Man Bun Slick Back
When the slick back meets the man bun, you get a style that is both functional and trendy. This look requires the hair to be slicked back very tightly against the scalp, often using a gel or high-hold pomade to ensure no flyaways escape. The remaining length is then secured in a knot at the back. This is an excellent choice for active men or those who want to keep their hair out of their face during a long workday while maintaining a very clean, deliberate silhouette.
9. Low Fade Slick Back
For those who want the cleanliness of a fade without the dramatic skin exposure of a high fade, the low fade slick back is the conservative choice. The taper begins just above the ears, providing a neat frame while keeping plenty of hair on the sides. This results in a softer, more traditional look that still feels updated. It’s particularly flattering for men with diamond or heart-shaped faces, as it doesn’t add too much width to the top of the head.
10. High Shine Slick Back
The high shine slick back is the ultimate choice for black-tie events or formal occasions. This style leans heavily into the “wet look,” utilizing oil-based pomades or high-gloss gels. The key is to apply the product to slightly damp hair and comb it back repeatedly until it forms a smooth, mirror-like surface. It projects an air of absolute authority and meticulous grooming that few other hairstyles can match.
11. Salt and Pepper Slick Back
The slick back is one of the best styles for men who are “going grey.” By sweeping the hair back, you showcase the natural highlights and lowlights of salt-and-pepper hair, creating a distinguished “silver fox” look. It’s a way to embrace aging with confidence and style. The slick back keeps the hair looking thick and controlled, which is a great way to manage the changing texture of hair as it matures.
12. Slick Back with Beard
Pairing a slick back with a beard creates a powerful sense of balance. The slicked-back hair keeps the top of the head looking neat and orderly, which allows the beard to provide a rugged, masculine contrast. The trick to this look is the transition area near the sideburns; ensure your barber tapers the hair where the beard meets the hairline to create a seamless flow. This “lumberjack-meets-gentleman” aesthetic is a timeless favorite.
13. Tapered Slick Back
The tapered slick back is the most “natural” version on this list. Unlike a fade or undercut, which uses clippers, a taper is usually done with scissors. This results in a softer, more organic finish on the sides. The hair is swept back but not plastered down, allowing for a bit of natural bounce and volume. It’s a sophisticated, “quiet luxury” style that works beautifully for men who want a low-maintenance but high-impact haircut.
Pro-Tips for the Perfect Slick Back
- Choose the Right Product: Pomades offer shine and hold, clays offer a matte finish and volume, and gels provide a “set it and forget it” wet look. Match your product to the occasion.
- Blow Dry for Volume: If you want your slick back to have some “oomph,” blow-dry your hair in the direction you want it to go before applying product.
- Start with Less: It’s easy to add more product, but hard to take it out. Start with a pea-sized amount and build up until you reach the desired hold.
- Comb or Fingers?: For a formal, structured look, use a comb. For a casual, modern look, use your fingers.
