Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you purchase through our links at no extra cost to you.
Slicked Back Hairstyles are the easiest way to add instant polish and edge to your look. Slicked Back Hairstyles work for glossy wet finishes, soft brushed-back textures, and sculpted buns, making them perfect for nights out or office-ready days.
These Slicked Back Hairstyles flatter round, oval, and heart-shaped faces by opening the face and emphasizing cheekbones and the neck.
Wear them on short, medium, or long hair to show off facial features and outfit details while keeping a chic, low-fuss vibe.
Glossy Wet Slicked Back For High Shine
This glossy wet slicked back look gives hair a mirror-like finish that feels glamorous and modern. Use a lightweight gel to smooth hair back from the hairline, then brush through to create that sleek, polished surface. It pairs beautifully with bold makeup or a minimalist outfit and works well for evening events and photo-ready moments. Because the finish is so eye-catching, it’s a simple way to make a plain outfit feel elevated. The look frames the face and highlights bone structure for a confident appearance.
Styling Tips
- Apply a clear gel to damp hair and comb back for uniform shine.
- Use a boar bristle brush to smooth and seal the surface.
- Finish with a light mist of shine spray for extra gloss.
Low Sleek Bun With Polished Slicked Back Finish
The low sleek bun keeps hair tidy while delivering that chic slicked back energy. Smooth hair straight back to the nape and secure in a neat bun for a refined silhouette that pairs with tailored blazers or flowing dresses. This version is great for busy days when you want a neat look with minimal fuss. It also keeps hair off the face and neck, giving a fresh, elongated neckline. The bun can be tight for an edgy vibe or slightly soft for a romantic twist.
Styling Tips
- Sweep hair back with a smoothing cream before securing the bun.
- Use small pins to anchor flyaways around the hairline.
- Wrap a small strand of hair around the base to hide the elastic.
High Sleek Ponytail With Razor-Sharp Hold
The high sleek ponytail is a bold take on slicked back styling that elongates the face and lifts the eye line. Pull hair back tightly to a high point and smooth with a medium-hold gel or cream for maximum control. This look is ideal for events where you want drama without overworking your routine. Add a wrapped section of hair around the base for a polished finish. It pairs well with statement earrings and off-the-shoulder tops, letting accessories shine while hair stays perfectly in place.
Styling Tips
- Tame edges with a small toothbrush and edge control product.
- Use a strong elastic and finish with light hairspray for hold.
- Add a hair wrap or silk scarf for extra polish and texture contrast.
Slicked Back Pixie Cut For Edgy Short Hair
The slicked back pixie is a fierce short-hair option that looks modern and streamlined. Apply a light wax or pomade to damp hair and sweep it back, working product into roots for lift and hold. This style highlights facial features and gives a confident, editorial feel that works day to night. It’s perfect for anyone who wants low styling time but high-impact results. Keep edges neat and touch up with a bit of shine serum for a soft gleam that keeps the look fresh throughout the day.
Styling Tips
- Work a small amount of pomade into hair from roots to tips.
- Use fingers to sculpt the direction and texture while drying.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray for long-lasting control.
Slicked Back Bob With Sleek Center Part
This slicked back bob uses a clean center part to balance structure and softness. Brush hair back on each side and smooth with a low-shine cream to keep movement while controlling frizz. The cut looks modern and flattering, especially on jaw-length and slightly longer bobs. It emphasizes a tidy hairline and lets makeup and jewelry take center stage. This style transitions beautifully from daytime meetings to evening plans, offering an elegant, restrained vibe that feels put-together without appearing overdone.
Styling Tips
- Use a flat iron on low heat to refine the edges and maintain shape.
- Apply a smoothing serum to control flyaways and boost shine.
- Comb through with a fine-tooth comb for a precise center part.
Textured Slicked Back With Soft Volume At Crown
This textured slicked back style keeps a smooth front while leaving subtle volume at the crown for a balanced silhouette. Use a light mousse at the roots and comb hair back, teasing slightly at the crown for lift before smoothing the sides. The effect is polished but not rigid, offering movement and dimension. It works well for medium-length hair and provides an understated, wearable look for daytime events. The contrast between sleek sides and gentle height creates a flattering profile that suits many face shapes.
Styling Tips
- Apply mousse to damp roots then blow-dry while lifting the crown.
- Smooth sides with a medium-hold cream and comb back gently.
- Use a light hairspray at the crown to keep volume without stiffness.
Retro Slicked Back With Soft Finger Waves
Fuse vintage charm with modern polish by adding finger waves to a slicked back style. Create soft, sculpted waves at the front and sweep the rest of the hair back into a low bun or sleek pony. The look reads glamorous and refined, perfect for formal nights or themed gatherings. Finger waves add texture and a timeless feel while the slicked sides keep it current. This styling plays up curves and shadow, making a bold fashion statement that pairs beautifully with red lips and sculpted brows.
Styling Tips
- Create finger waves on damp hair using a small comb and clips while setting.
- Seal with a light-hold gel and let dry for crisp definition.
- Finish by brushing the back smooth and pinning into a low bun.
Slicked Back Undercut For Bold Contrast
The slicked back undercut pairs trimmed sides with a longer top that brushes back for dramatic contrast. This cut is edgy and modern, great for anyone who wants a low-effort high-impact look. Smooth the top with a medium-hold product and comb it back so the undercut frames the longer section neatly. The contrast draws attention to facial features and adds a cool, editorial edge to everyday outfits. Keep the undercut tidy with regular trims to maintain the crisp silhouette.
Styling Tips
- Apply a paste for texture and control on the top section.
- Comb back with a vented brush to keep lift without flattening the undercut.
- Maintain the shaved sides with frequent trims for a sharp finish.
Sleek Top Knot With Clean Slicked Back Halo
The sleek top knot gives that elegant slicked back effect while keeping hair totally out of the face. Smooth hair straight back to a high pony and twist into a compact knot at the crown. This style highlights jawlines and necklines while staying practical for busy schedules. It’s a go-to when you want a neat silhouette without too much fuss. Add decorative pins or a thin metallic cuff to the knot for extra polish during special evenings, or keep it minimal for everyday chic.
Styling Tips
- Prep hair with a smoothing serum to reduce frizz before styling.
- Secure the knot with bobby pins and a sturdy elastic for hold.
- Use a finishing spray to tame flyaways around the hairline.
Side-Swept Slick Back With Gentle Wave
This side-swept slick back keeps the front smooth while adding a soft wave that drapes over one shoulder for balance. Brush one side back and create a shallow wave on the other, then tuck or pin behind the ear. It’s an elegant, feminine twist on slick styling that works well for medium to long hair lengths. The asymmetry draws the eye and adds movement, making it ideal for romantic dates or polished gatherings. Keep the wave soft so the look stays modern and wearable.
Styling Tips
- Create a gentle wave with a large-barrel iron and brush it through lightly.
- Smooth the slicked side with a cream for control and shine.
- Pin the tucked side discreetly to keep the look in place all night.
Sleek Braided Crown With Slicked Back Sides
Pair braids with slicked back sides for a regal and modern hybrid. Braid a crown across the top of the head and smooth the sides back for contrast between texture and sleekness. This look lifts the face while keeping hair controlled and elegant, making it ideal for celebrations and outdoor gatherings where you want both style and structure. The braided detail adds interest while the slicked sides keep hair neat. It’s a creative way to wear a slicked back aesthetic with romantic flair.
Styling Tips
- Create tension-free braids to avoid pulling at the scalp while smoothing sides tightly.
- Secure braid ends discreetly and tuck them under for a seamless finish.
- Set the style with flexible-hold spray to maintain shape without stiffness.
Slicked Back With Curtain Bangs For Softness
Add curtain bangs to a slicked back look for a softer, face-framing effect. Smooth most hair back while letting curtain bangs fall gently to frame the brow and cheeks. This balances the sharpness of a slicked style with a delicate touch that feels approachable. Curtain bangs add movement and keep the look from feeling too severe while still maintaining an overall sleek vibe. It’s ideal for anyone who wants a polished style that keeps a hint of softness around the face.
Styling Tips
- Blow-dry curtain bangs with a round brush for natural volume and shape.
- Smooth the rest of the hair back with a light gel for contrast.
- Use a dab of shine serum on the bangs to keep them looking healthy.
Curly Slicked Back With Natural Coil Definition
Slicked back styles work beautifully on curly and coily hair when you enhance natural texture. Smooth the front with a lightweight cream while keeping coils defined at the crown or back. This creates a bold silhouette that celebrates natural volume and pattern. The slicked perimeter frames the face while the textured body keeps the look lively and full of personality. It’s a great option for events and everyday wear when you want control without flattening your natural curl pattern.
Styling Tips
- Use a curl cream to define coils and a gel for smooth edges.
- Work product into damp hair to set the shape and reduce frizz.
- Finger-coil any sections that need extra definition after drying.
Half-Slicked Back With Loose Beachy Waves
Keep things relaxed with a half-slicked back look that lets waves cascade while keeping the front tidy. Smooth only the top half back and leave the lower lengths in loose beachy waves for a romantic, undone vibe. This balances effort and polish and works well for social outings or casual weddings. The slicked portion keeps hair off the face while the waves add softness and movement, giving an approachable yet chic appearance that feels fresh and easy to wear.
Styling Tips
- Create waves with a medium iron and tousle with salt spray for texture.
- Smooth the top section with a light cream and comb back gently.
- Secure the top with discreet pins if needed for extra hold.
Slicked Back With Hair Jewelry And Delicate Chains
Add delicate hair jewelry to a slicked back style for instant glamour. Place thin chains or small clips along the slicked section or wrap them around a bun or ponytail for sparkle and interest. This gives a festival-ready or celebration-ready twist to a classic silhouette, perfect for date nights or special events. The jewelry contrasts with the smoothness of the hairstyle and draws attention to the sleek lines and face. Keep pieces light and secure so the look remains elegant and wearable.
Styling Tips
- Choose lightweight accessories that won’t pull on the hair.
- Pin jewelry pieces discreetly to prevent slipping during wear.
- Match metal tones to your outfit or jewelry for a cohesive look.
Slicked Back With Braided Side Accents
Keep the main silhouette slick and polished while adding braided accents along the sides for texture and interest. Small braids tuck neatly into a low bun or flow into a ponytail, offering structure and style without overpowering the slick finish. This is a playful way to add personality to a refined look, suitable for creative workplaces or casual celebrations. The contrast between neat slicked sections and braided texture feels youthful and intentional, making it a memorable variation of classic slick styling.
Styling Tips
- Create thin side braids and secure them under the main style for a seamless finish.
- Use a smoothing balm on the slicked sections to contrast textures.
- Protect braids with light oil to keep them frizz-free and shiny.
Slicked Back With Soft Face-Framing Tendrils
Soften a slick look with tiny face-framing tendrils to keep things romantic. Pull most hair back smoothly but release a few delicate strands around the temples and nape. These soft tendrils add movement and a playful touch while maintaining the overall sleek aesthetic. The style works beautifully for weddings and romantic dinners where you want structure with gentle softness. Keep tendrils lightly textured rather than curly for an effortless feel that complements the crispness of the slicked sections.
Styling Tips
- Use a small curling iron on the tendrils for a slight bend, not tight curls.
- Apply a touch of styling wax to control the tendrils without weighing them down.
- Lightly mist with flexible-hold spray to keep shape and movement intact.
Slicked Back Mohawk With Tapered Sides
The slicked back mohawk puts volume and drama at the center while keeping sides neat and tapered. Brush the center section back and add texture with a matte paste, while the tapered sides keep the overall look clean. This style feels fierce and modern, great for statement looks and bold wardrobes. It still reads polished due to the slicked edges, making it wearable for creative events and nights out. Keep the center section styled for height and movement to maintain the mohawk’s energy.
Styling Tips
- Use a volumizing mousse at the roots of the center section for lift.
- Sculpt the center with a matte paste for texture and hold.
- Keep sides sharp with regular taper trims to maintain the silhouette.
Slicked Back With Deep Side Part And Shine
A deep side part adds drama to a slicked back look, creating a sweeping line that feels confident and chic. Smooth hair back on the heavier side and add a glossy finish for a runway-ready sheen. This styling highlights the structure of the cut and offers a sleek silhouette that pairs well with structured coats or evening gowns. The deep part brings asymmetry that flatters many face shapes and adds a modern edge to a classic slicked technique.
Styling Tips
- Create a precise deep part with the tip of a comb on damp hair.
- Apply a shine serum along the part and smooth with a paddle brush.
- Secure the back with pins if you want extra hold for long events.
Slicked Back With Scarf Wrap For Chic Accents
Wrap a silk scarf around a slicked back bun or ponytail for a chic accent that adds color and pattern. Smooth hair back and secure the base, then tie a scarf around it for a retro-modern touch. Scarves introduce a playful element and can coordinate with outfits, making the hairstyle an accessory in itself. This approach is casual enough for daytime errands but polished enough for brunch or travel, giving a versatile, wearable finish to the slicked aesthetic.
Styling Tips
- Choose a lightweight scarf and knot it snugly to prevent slipping.
- Coordinate scarf colors with your outfit for a cohesive look.
- Secure scarf ends under the base with a pin to keep everything neat.
Slicked Back For Men With Clean Fade And Shine
Men can rock slicked back styles with a clean fade for a polished, masculine finish. Smooth the longer top back with a pomade and let the fade frame the silhouette for a sharp contrast. This look reads both classic and contemporary, pairing well with suits or casual denim. Keep product moderate to avoid a greasy look while retaining glossy control. The clean fade keeps the overall effect neat and modern, providing a versatile option for work or evening plans.
Styling Tips
- Warm pomade between palms before applying to help distribute evenly.
- Comb through from roots to ends for uniform direction and hold.
- Refresh the fade with regular barbershop visits to maintain crisp lines.