24 Slicked-Back Hairstyles For Men: Timeless Trends and Modern Looks

As a classic choice for men throughout history, slicked-back hairstyles exude confidence, sophistication, and a certain timeless appeal. 

Originating in the early 1920s, slicked-back hairstyles gained popularity among men seeking a neat, polished appearance. Today, slicked-back hairstyles are not limited to a single approach. 

Whether your locks are short, long, curly, or straight, slicked-back looks can be tailored to suit different hair types, fade lengths, and personal tastes. If you prefer a more volume, consider a slicked-back pomp or classic quiff. Meanwhile, the slicked-back comb-over and slicked-back temple fade strike a balance between timeless charm and modern sensibilities. 

Keep reading for 24 timelessly trendy slicked-back hairstyles for men, each offering its own unique twist on this ageless classic.  

24 Slicked-Back Hairstyles For Men

1. Short Slicked Back Hair

Short, slicked-back hair works well with various hair types and textures, delivering a low-maintenance yet stylish look.

Apply a pomade or gel to damp hair, and comb it back for a sleek, retro-inspired appearance. 

2. Drop-Faded Slick Back

The drop-faded slick back features a low fade gradually following the head’s contour.

This style offers a clean, sharp look, combining the elegance of a slicked-back top with the trendy appeal of a fade.

3. Slicked Back Pomp

The slicked-back pomp is a bold and commanding twist on the classic pompadour.

It’s characterized by smooth, high-volume hair on top, typically combed back for a dramatic, vintage look. 

4. Slicked Back With Beard Fade

Incorporate a beard fade with your slicked-back hair for a polished, well-groomed aesthetic.

This combination offers a balanced blend of charm and ruggedness, making it a popular choice for a refined, coordinated look.

5. Low-Faded Slick Back

Perfect for a professional setting, the low-faded, slick back delivers a subtle, understated look.

It balances traditional sophistication and contemporary minimalism, suitable for various hair types, lengths, and textures. 

6. Slick Back Braids

Slick back braids combine the sleekness of a traditional slicked-back style with the intricacy and protective nature of scalp braids.

This versatile choice works well in both casual and formal settings, adding a touch of creativity and individuality to your overall look.

7. Slicked-Back Comb-Over

The slicked-back comb-over is a fusion of two popular styles.

This style involves slicking the hair back to one side, resulting in a refined and slightly asymmetrical look. 

8. Slicked Back Temple Fade

The slicked-back temple fade is both sharp and stylish, striking a balance between classic and contemporary aesthetics.

It offers a fresh take on the traditional slick back and can be adapted to various hair types and lengths.

9. Curly Slicked Back Hair

Men with curly hair can embrace their natural texture while maintaining a slicked-back look.

Apply a water-based pomade or gel with a strong yet flexible hold, and comb the curls back for added definition.

10. Slicked Back Undercut

The slicked-back undercut is popular among those seeking a cool, modern hairstyle.

With shaved sides and long hair on top, this style is versatile and can be paired with various hair types and textures. 

11. Slicked Back Top Knot

Combine your slicked-back hair with a top knot for a casual yet put-together look.

The slicked-back top knot is a stylish option for men with longer hair who want a low-maintenance yet fashionable hairstyle.

12. Long Slick Back

For men with longer hair, a slicked-back hairstyle can offer a polished, sophisticated look.

Apply a lightweight gel or hairspray to damp hair and comb it back, maintaining its natural movement and volume.

13. Slicked-Back Pomp With Skin Fade

This slicked-back style marries the boldness of a pompadour with the sharpness of a skin fade.

This high-impact cut features a voluminous top section and a closely shaved fade, giving the look a modern, confident edge.

14. Slicked Back Side Part

Add a side part to your slicked-back hairstyle for a refined, structured look.

This style exudes a polished, dapper vibe, perfectly blending sophistication and tradition.

15. Slicked Back Mid-Fade

Allow a mid-fade to complement the sleek finish of your slicked-back hair.

The mid-fade adds a modern and edgy twist, creating a versatile look that suits various hair types and styles.

16. Slick Back With Hair Tattoos

Incorporate hair tattoos into your slick back hairstyle for an artistic, eye-catching look.

This statement-making hairstyle showcases your creative and fashion-forward personality.

17. Mid-Length Slick Back

Men with medium-length hair can enjoy a laid-back yet confident appearance with a mid-length slick back.

It’s a versatile choice that combines the sophisticated qualities of slicked-back hair with the low-effort charm of longer hair.

18. Slicked Back Taper Fade

For a clean-cut look, try a slicked-back taper fade.

This style offers a seamless transition between different hair lengths, giving it a modern, edgy appeal.

19. Slicked Back Quiff

Create a timelessly stylish look with a slicked-back quiff.

This retro-inspired hairstyle showcases height and volume at the front while maintaining a sleek, refined finish.

20. Wavy Slick Back

Men with wavy hair can embrace their natural texture with this stylishly laid-back take on the traditional slick back.

The wavy slick back delivers a relaxed yet refined finish, resulting in a low-maintenance, effortlessly cool look.

21. Slicked-Back Disconnected Undercut

The slicked-back disconnected undercut creates an edgy, high-contrast look.

It features a sharp disconnect between the longer slicked-back top and the closely cropped or shaved sides, creating a bold, striking look.

22. High-Volume Slick Back

For those with thick locks, the high-volume slick back is a bold choice that showcases your hair’s natural fullness.

Apply a firm-hold pomade or gel to damp hair and comb it back, allowing the hair to maintain its volume for a confident and stylish appearance.

23. Slick Back Bald Fade

Combine the precision of a bald fade with the sophistication of slicked-back hair to create a clean, polished look.

This popular style provides a seamless transition between longer and shorter hair, ideal for a professional, well-defined appearance.

24. Ducktail Cut

A ducktail is a classic men’s cut with a distinctive silhouette.

It involves styling the hair to create a slight “V” or ducktail shape in the back, delivering a look with vintage charm and a sense of individuality.