Slick Back Hairstyles that Will Turn Heads: Get Inspired by These Looks!

Slick back hairstyles have stood the test of time, consistently being a popular choice for various occasions. This article explores an array of slick back styles, providing detailed descriptions, identifying who they suit best, and offering valuable styling tips for each look.

Classic Slick Back

The classic slick back is a timeless hairstyle characterized by a hair combing back that is held in place with pomade or gel. This look exudes sophistication and allows facial features to shine.

Best For: This hairstyle is perfect for formal occasions, business meetings, or any event where a polished appearance is desired. It suits medium to long hair lengths.

Styling Tips:

• Use a strong hold gel or pomade for a long-lasting grip.
• Start with damp hair for better product distribution.
• Use a fine-tooth comb for a sleek finish.

Twisted Buns

Twisted buns combine a bun’s elegance with sleek hair’s chicness. This hairstyle involves twisting sections of hair into a bun, often anchored at the back of the head or at the nape of the neck.

Best For: Ideal for special events or casual outings, twisted buns work well for medium to long hair and add an artistic touch to the look.

Styling Tips:

• Keep hair straight and smooth for the best results.
• Use hair gel to tame flyaways.
• Secure with bobby pins, ensuring the bun is tight and compact.

Wet Hair Look

The wet hair look mimics freshly washed hair, giving off a casual yet trendy vibe. This can be achieved using styling creams or gels that provide shine and hold.

Best For: This style is versatile, suitable for casual outings and nights out. It particularly complements those with straight or slightly wavy hair.

Styling Tips:

• Apply product generously to damp hair.
• Scrunch with fingers for a more natural wave.
• Finish with a shine spray for added luster.

Sky-High Coif

The sky-high coif is a statement hairstyle that involves lifting the hair high off the scalp. This voluminous style combines slicked hair with height and flair.

Best For: Perfect for fashion-forward individuals or glamorous events, this look works best with medium to thick hair.

Styling Tips:

• Use volumizing mousse before blow-drying.
• Tease the roots for added height.
• Secure with a strong-hold hairspray to keep it in place.

Voluminous Roots

This style retains slickness but emphasizes volume at the roots, creating an eye-catching contrast.

Best For: Excellent for those with fine hair looking to add body and structure. Suited for both casual and formal events.

Styling Tips:

• Use a root-lifting spray before blow-drying.
• Flip hair upside down while drying for extra lift.
• Finish with a lightweight hairspray for flexibility.

Slick Pixie Cut

A slick pixie cut is a daring short hairstyle that presents a chic and modern silhouette while sleekly combed back.

Best For: This cut complements those with strong facial features. It works well for both casual and professional settings.

Styling Tips:

• Use styling wax for a firm hold.
• Create texture by tousling with fingers.
• Regular trims are essential to maintain the shape.

Slicked-Back Bob

The slicked-back bob incorporates a sleek, straight bob haircut styled back to create a smooth, contoured look.

Best For: Suitable for various face shapes, this hairstyle is perfect for both office wear and upscale events.

Styling Tips:

• Start with straightened hair.
• Use a serum for shine and taming frizz.
• Define the ends with a flat iron for a sharper look.

Loose Ends Style

This hairstyle features slicked-back hair with loose, tousled ends, providing a balanced, effortless look.

Best For: Great for transitional styles, it suits medium to long hair and works well for casual outings.

Styling Tips:

• Apply a light mousse to damp hair.
• Blow-dry while tousling with fingers.
• Use a light finishing spray to maintain movement.

High Ponytail

The high ponytail is a dynamic style that lifts hair away from the face, providing a chic and active appearance.

Best For: This look is universally flattering and suited for both casual and formal occasions.

Styling Tips:

• Secure with a strong elastic band.
• Wrap a piece of hair around the base to conceal the band.
• Finish with a smoothing serum for a polished finish.

Edgy Slicked Ponytail

An edgy slicked ponytail combines sleekness with an attitude, often styled with a section of hair falling over one shoulder.

Best For: Perfect for individuals looking to express their personality, ideal for night outs and informal gatherings.

Styling Tips:

• Apply a strong-hold gel to achieve a wet look.
• Secure the ponytail tightly for an edgier appearance.
• Use hair spikes or decorative hair ties for added flair.

Sleek Low Bun

The sleek low bun is a minimalistic hairstyle where hair is neatly gathered at the nape of the neck, providing a refined look.

Best For: This bun is suited for professional environments and formal events, working well for long hair.

Styling Tips:

• Smooth hair back using a fine-tooth comb.
• Use a strong-hold hairspray to secure strands.
• Consider a hair net for added longevity.

Braided Slick Back

Incorporating braids into the slick back style creates a unique and intricate look that stands out.

Best For: Perfect for festivals, casual outings, or those looking to add texture to a sleek style.

Styling Tips:

• Start with straightened hair for a clean base.
• Incorporate small braids along the sides, pulling back into a bun or ponytail.
• Use a light hair oil to enhance shine.

Half-Up Slicked Back

The half-up slicked back hairstyle combines a portion of the hair pulled back while leaving the rest free, providing a balanced look.

Best For: Great for casual gatherings and daywear, suitable for all hair types and lengths.

Styling Tips:

• Smooth back the top section with gel.
• Tie at the back with a clear elastic.
• Use a curling wand for soft waves on the loose hair.

Textured Slick Back

This style offers a balance between slicked-back and textured hair, allowing for a more rugged appearance while maintaining sleekness.

Best For: Ideal for those with naturally wavy or curly hair. Suitable for both informal and semi-formal occasions.

Styling Tips:

• Apply a sea salt spray to enhance texture.
• Use fingers to tousle hair while still wet.
• Finish with a light hairspray to maintain the tousled effect.

Side-Swept Slick Back

A side-swept slick back hairstyle incorporates a dramatic side parting, making it a refined and feminine choice.

Best For: This hairstyle is excellent for formal events. It suits various face shapes and is particularly flattering on oval faces.

Styling Tips:

• Create a deep side part and slick down one side.
• Pin back the side if longer hair is desired.
• Use a shiny finishing spray for a polished appearance.

Glossy Slicked Waves

Glossy slicked waves blend the softness of waves with a sleek appearance, perfect for adding depth.

Best For: This style suits those with longer hair and is great for party settings or upscale events.

Styling Tips:

• Use a curling wand to create soft waves.
• Apply a gel or serum to smooth over the waves.
• Use a shine spray to finish it and give it a glossy look.

Retro Slicked Back

Taking inspiration from the past, retro slicked-back hairstyles often feature dramatic rolls or curls paired with a slicked look.

Best For: This style works well for both short and long hair and is great for themed parties or vintage aesthetics.

Styling Tips:

• Use a hot roller or curling iron to create defined curls.
• Smooth curls back with gel for a sleek finish.
• Pin curls in place for intricate designs.

Messy Slicked Updo

This hairstyle combines elements of a messy bun with sleeked-back hair for a casual yet elegant look.

Best For:  This updo complements various hair lengths for everyday wear or casual events.

Styling Tips:

• Secure hair in a loose bun while leaving some strands loose.
• Use a texturizing spray for added volume.
• Finish with a light hairspray to maintain softness.

Long Straight Slick Back

The long straight slicked back style features hair that is completely straightened away from the face, producing a sophisticated look.

Best For: Ideal for formal settings, this hairstyle fits all face shapes and works well with long hair.

Styling Tips:

• Use a flat iron to achieve a straight, sleek finish.
• Apply serum to reduce frizz and add shine.
• Use a strong-hold hairspray for lasting results.

Chic Slicked Side Bun

A chic slicked side bun presents an elegant twist on the traditional bun, positioned to the side with hair slicked neatly back.

Best For: This hairstyle is versatile enough for both corporate and evening functions, working well with medium to long hair.

Styling Tips:

• Smooth back hair to one side before securing it in a bun.
• Use gel for holding and bobby pins for security.
• A decorative pin can add an extra touch of elegance.

In conclusion, slick back hairstyles offer flexibility and sophistication for various occasions. From classic looks to modern twists, a slick style suits every preference and hair type.