14 slicked-back hairstyles for guys that are suave and sophisticated

Slicked-back haircuts can work well for guys with all hair types and lengths. It works well for people with short, medium, and long hair, as there are so many ways to achieve your desired style.

You can pair a slicked-back look with a fade, or you can let your hair grow and round things off with neatly trimmed facial hair; the choice is yours!

Here, we introduce you to 14 slicked-back hairstyles for guys that are suave and sophisticated, helping you to look your very best as you step out this year.

What exactly is the slicked-back hair look?

The slicked-back hair look is all about clean lines and controlled texture. It’s a style where the hair is combed away from the face and held in place using gel, pomade, mousse, or even lightweight styling creams.

At its slicked-back hair creates a silhouette that highlights facial features, so it is a favorite for both everyday wear and red-carpet moments. For men, it often channels a sharp vibe. For women, it can transform into a powerful runway-ready style or a brushed-back for a minimalist look.

The technique is simple yet impactful: start with damp or dry hair, apply product from roots to ends, then use a fine-tooth comb to guide everything backward. The result is a refined appearance that stays in place while still allowing room for personalization.

1. Short slick back haircut

We think the slicked-back style is spot-on for guys with short hair. The top and sides are clearly defined in this look, which results in a clean and easy style. Select a thickening pomade to lock in the look throughout the day.

2. Slicked back side parting

The ideal slicked-back haircut for guys with medium-length hair is the side parting. Choose the side of the crown on which to part your hair and clearly define it before fixing your hair into place on one side.

3. Fade haircut slick back

A slick-back haircut with a fade is the impeccable way to combine two timeless classics. The fade is all about style and sophistication, while slicked-back hair sharpens your look. Task your barber with tailoring your fade to the length of your hair for the best results.

4. Slicked back with a beard

Facial hair exemplarily complements the fine finish of the slicked-back look. We recommend a tailored, medium-length beard rather than unruly facial hair. The slicked-back look is for men of precision, so make sure your beard is in keeping with your sought-after style.

5. Low fade slick back haircut

This is a long-fancied style that never seems to go out of fashion. The fade in this look is deliberately low, disconnecting the top and sides. Depending on your length, ask your barber to take the fade as low as possible. You can review some low taper fade hairstyles.

6. Slick-backed bun

The ideal long slicked-back haircut is the bun, which never seems to go out of fashion. The beauty of the bun is that you can finish the top knot in various positions, but the back of the head works best.

7. Classic slick back haircut

We can look back to Gordon Gekko in The Wolf of Wall Street for the original slick-backed look, and for good reason. It’s a timeless classic that is as popular today as it was in the 1980s.

8. Slicked back pompadour

David Beckham has recently shown an interest in the slicked-back pompadour, and we’re all for it. Height and volume are key to any pompadour, but you can define your own style with a simple holding product like wax or pomade to keep your hair in shape.

9. Slicked back undercut

For a more textured look, the slicked-back undercut is a brilliant choice. You will need to grow out the top of your hair while carefully tapering the sides to precision. This is our favorite tapered slicked-back hairstyle for men.

10. Hipster slick

The hipster slick is a bold and daring style that combines volume with texture. The goal is to shoot for volume at the front, so this is the ideal look for guys with thick, medium-length hair. You can leave your hair wavy by using a holding wax to lock it in place.

11. Straight short slick

Think back to 1970s and 1980s mafioso for this look. The straight, short slick is as simple as it comes. Wet your hair, comb it back, and hold it in place with gel for a signature look that shows your serious side.

12. Peaky Blinder

If you want to model your slicked-back haircut style on one of the greatest TV shows on earth, The Peaky Blinder is a great choice. Modeled by Tommy Shelby and his gang, this look is exceptional for younger guys with medium-length dark hair.

13. Dyed slick back

Another popular haircut for slicked-back hair in 2025 is the dyed slick back. You can dye your hair entirely or opt for streaky highlights. Whichever you choose, it’s a great way to show your style ahead of a special event like a wedding or party.

14. Wavy slick back

Slicked-back hair isn’t just for guys with long, straight hair. The wavy slick back is a timeless look for anyone with textured, curly locks. Unite it with a short beard to finish off this look and bring out your face’s best features.

How to make your slicked-back hairstyle last all day?

Apply a mousse first to build a flexible base, then layer a stronger product like pomade or gel on top for hold. Work the product from the roots to the ends to get structured.

Next, use a fine-tooth comb to shape your hair back in steady strokes. This creates the sleek, uniform surface that defines the style. If you want extra staying power, blow-dry your hair on low heat while keeping it brushed back; this sets the direction and increases hold without adding frizz.

Throughout the day, avoid touching your hair; your hands can break the set and introduce oil. For humid environments or long hours, choose humidity-resistant styling products or a light mist of strong-hold hairspray to lock everything in place.

Lastly, maintenance matters. Occasionally brushing the top layer, smoothing stray sections, or reapplying a tiny amount of product can refresh the look without weighing it down.

Conclusion

From David Beckham to Tommy Shelby of The Peaky Blinders, guys from all walks of life love slicked-back haircuts. This look is timeless, suave, and sophisticated, and it’s easy to maintain and keep in place throughout the day.

While you can style the slicked-back look yourself, consider asking your barber to elevate the look for you. You can even show him a picture of the specific look you want to go for to ensure you look your very best in 2025!

FAQs to slicked-back haircuts

1. What is a slicked-back haircut?

A slicked-back haircut features hair that’s brushed or combed away from the face and held in place with styling products. The sides can be faded, tapered, or kept longer, but the signature look is the swept-back top.

2. Is slicked-back hair suitable for all hair types?

Mostly yes. Straight and wavy hair slicks back easily, while curly or thick hair may need stronger products and more control. Extremely fine or thinning hair may require lightweight products to avoid a flat look.

3. What products work best for achieving a slicked-back style?

Pomade, gel, mousse, and styling creams all work. Pomade offers shine, gel gives firm hold, mousse adds volume and creams create a natural effect.

4. Do slicked-back haircuts require a lot of maintenance?

A bit, yes. You’ll need regular trims to keep the sides clean and the top controlled. Daily styling also helps maintain shape, but with the right product, it only takes a few minutes.

5. Can slicked-back hair look natural instead of shiny?

Absolutely. Using matte pomades or lightweight creams allows you to push the hair back without the glossy "wet" effect. This creates a more lived-in version of the slicked-back style.

6. Will slicking my hair back damage it?

Not if done properly. Damage usually comes from using too much product, pulling the hair tightly, or skipping cleansing. Keeping hair hydrated and using styling techniques helps maintain health.

7. Is a slicked-back haircut good for formal events?

Yes! It’s one of the most versatile hairstyles. Its structured appearance works well for weddings, business events, and evenings out, adding instant sophistication to any outfit.

Sienna Marlowe

Sienna is a smart copywriter with a background in cosmetic chemistry and editorial publishing, specializing in hair care education with an accessible approach. From comparing sulfate-free shampoos to analyzing deep conditioning treatments, Sienna translates hair science into practical insight. Her writing balances technical accuracy with a personal tone, we love her stories.