Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror and felt like your hairstyle was lacking a certain charm? That extra touch of style and self-assurance that captures everyone’s gaze? Look no further, because the classic pompadour is the answer you’ve been looking for.
There’s something undeniably alluring about the classic pompadour hairstyle. It’s a timeless look that has captivated men for decades, allowing them to exude charm, power, and style all at once. Picture the iconic image of Elvis Presley, with his perfectly coifed hair and a sneer that could make anyone weak in the knees. That’s the power of the pompadour.
But how do you achieve that perfect pompadour? It takes more than just a comb and a can of hair spray. To truly rock the classic pompadour, you’ll need the right tools, products, and techniques. It’s all about finding the balance between volume, height, and sleekness, creating a look that is both effortlessly cool and meticulously crafted.
So, if you’re ready to take your style to the next level and embrace the undeniable allure of the classic pompadour, read on. In this article, we’ll break down the essential tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect pompadour hairstyle, no matter your hair type or personal style.
Key Takeaways:
- Rock the classic pompadour hairstyle to exude charm, power, and style.
- Achieving the perfect pompadour requires the right tools, products, and techniques.
- Balance volume, height, and sleekness to create an effortlessly cool and meticulously crafted look.
- Master the art of the pompadour with the essential tips and tricks provided in this article.
- Embrace the allure of the classic pompadour and turn heads wherever you go.
The Classic Pompadour
The classic pompadour, made famous by Elvis Presley, is a timeless and iconic hairstyle that exudes confidence and style. It features the sides and back of the hair scissor-cut slightly shorter than the top, creating a contrast that emphasizes the voluminous front fringe.
Styling a classic pompadour begins with towel-dried hair, providing a clean canvas to work with. To achieve the desired Elvis look, apply a grooming tonic, which adds texture and volume to the hair.
Next, use a blow dryer and a brush to push the bangs up and back, creating height and volume at the front. This technique is crucial for capturing that signature pompadour shape.
To complete the classic greaser style, finish the look with a high-hold matte pomade or pink pomade grease. These products provide a firm hold while maintaining a natural, non-greasy appearance.
The classic pompadour is a versatile style that can be adapted to different hair lengths, textures, and personal preferences. It remains a popular choice for those seeking a sleek and sophisticated look.

“The classic pompadour is a timeless hairstyle that never goes out of fashion. It’s a statement look that oozes confidence and pays homage to the style icons of the past, such as Elvis Presley.” – Hair Stylist
The Modern Pompadour
The modern pompadour is a looser take on the classic style, with a drier texture and a more natural look. Instead of a structured, slicked-back appearance, the modern pompadour embraces a softer and more effortless aesthetic. This variation of the pompadour hairstyle is perfect for those who want a versatile and contemporary look while still paying homage to the timeless appeal of the traditional pomp.
To achieve the modern pompadour, it’s important to communicate your desired style to your barber. Ask for a traditional pomp haircut without any clear separation or undercut. This will help create a seamless and blended look that emphasizes the voluminous top without compromising on the overall shape.
Before styling, prepare your hair with a volumizing spray or texture powder as a pre-styler. These products help add extra volume and grip to your hair, allowing for easier manipulation and hold throughout the day.
Styling Tips for the Modern Pompadour
- Start with clean, towel-dried hair.
- Use a vent brush and blow dry your hair in an upward direction, focusing on lifting and shaping the top section.
- Once your hair is dry, begin styling it like a classic pompadour. Use a comb or your fingers to comb the hair backward and slightly upwards, creating volume and structure.
- For the finishing touch, choose an extreme hold matte pomade to provide lift and hold on the top section. Apply a lighter product, such as a wax or cream, to the sides to maintain a more natural and textured look.
With the modern pompadour, you can effortlessly exude a laid-back yet polished style. Its adaptability makes it suitable for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events. Embrace this contemporary twist on the iconic pompadour and enjoy a hairstyle that combines modern trends with a nod to the past.
The Medium Pompadour
The medium pompadour is a stylish and versatile variation of the classic pompadour hairstyle. It is all about creating big volume on top while keeping the sides tight for a polished and sophisticated look. To achieve the medium pompadour, follow these steps:
1. Consult with your barber
When visiting your barber, ask for a medium to long pompadour haircut. The sides and back should be clippered tightly while leaving enough length on top to create volume. A skilled barber will ensure that the haircut is tailored to your face shape and hair type.
2. Start with towel-dried hair
After washing your hair, gently towel dry it until it is slightly damp. This will provide the right foundation for styling.
3. Apply grooming tonic
Take a small amount of grooming tonic and evenly distribute it through your hair. The grooming tonic will add thickness and texture, making it easier to create volume.
4. Comb and blow dry
Using a comb, comb the grooming tonic through your hair, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Then, grab a round brush and a blow dryer. Start blow drying your hair while using the brush to direct the hair back and up, creating volume at the roots. The brushing technique will give your hair the desired lift and shape.
5. Finish with a pomade or grease
To complete the medium pompadour look, finish with a pomade or grease. Choose a product that offers shine for a sleek appearance or opt for a matte finish for a more natural look. Apply the pomade or grease evenly through your hair, focusing on the top section to enhance the volume and hold.
With the medium pompadour, you’ll rock a stylish hairstyle that exudes confidence and charm. Embrace the volume and groomed flair of this timeless look.

The Medium Fade Pompadour
The medium fade pompadour is a popular hairstyle that features shorter sides that fade into the upper part of the hair, creating a clean and stylish look. This style combines the elegance of a pompadour with the modern touch of a fade, resulting in a versatile and trendy hairstyle.
To achieve the medium fade pompadour, start with clean and towel-dried hair. Apply a grooming tonic to add control and texture to the hair. Using a brush, blow dry the hair while directing it upward and backward to create volume and shape. This step is crucial in achieving the iconic pompadour look.
Once the hair is dry, it’s time to add the finishing touch with the right product. For a clean and shiny look, opt for a blue pomade. The blue pomade will provide a lightweight hold and a natural finish, giving your pompadour a polished and sophisticated appearance.
If you’re aiming for a bolder style, you can use pink pomade grease. This product will give your pompadour a more rebellious and edgy look, perfect for channeling a biker bar aesthetic.
Finally, comb the hair into place, lifting the bangs up and back to add height and definition. The medium fade pompadour offers a clean and refined look that suits various occasions, from formal events to casual outings.

The Medium Fade Pompadour: Key Styling Steps
- Start with clean and towel-dried hair.
- Apply grooming tonic to add control and texture.
- Blow dry the hair while directing it upward and backward.
- Finish the style with a blue pomade for a clean and shiny look or pink pomade grease for a biker bar style.
- Comb the hair into place, lifting the bangs up and back to add height and definition.
Style | Product | Finish |
---|---|---|
Clean and shiny look | Blue pomade | Natural and polished |
Biker bar style | Pink pomade grease | Rebellious and edgy |
The Long Pompadour
The long pompadour is the ultimate in attitude, with longer hair on the back and sides. To achieve this bold and voluminous look, follow these steps:
- Start with a generous amount of grooming tonic applied to the sides, back, and top of the hair. This will provide the necessary hold and texture for styling.
- Blow dry the sides first, using a brush to push the hair away from the face. This will add volume and create a sleek appearance.
- Next, focus on the top section. Blow dry the hair upward and backward, creating height and lift.
- Once the hair is dry, it’s time to add the finishing touch – an extreme hold matte pomade or heavy hold pink pomade grease. These products will ensure a long-lasting hold and give your pompadour that classic greaser look.
- Comb the product through the hair, working it into place. For added height at the front, gently lift the hair with your comb.
With these steps, you’ll be able to rock a stunning long pompadour with volume and extreme hold.
Comparison of Pomades for Long Pompadour
Pomade | Hold | Finish |
---|---|---|
Extreme Hold Matte Pomade | Extreme | Matte |
Heavy Hold Pink Pomade Grease | Heavy | Greaser |
The Low Fade Pompadour
The low fade pompadour is a popular hairstyle that offers a balanced look with a fade that blends about an inch above the ears. This style combines the sleekness of a fade with the classic appeal of a pompadour. The length on top can vary between a short and medium pompadour, allowing for versatility in styling.
To achieve the low fade pompadour, start by applying grooming tonic to clean, towel-dried hair. This will provide control and help add volume to your hair. Next, use a blow dryer while using a brush to direct the hair back and up, creating the desired shape and lift. The grooming tonic will also help in keeping the style intact throughout the day.

For a polished finish, consider using blue pomade. Blue pomade offers a clean and high-shine look that enhances the overall appearance of your pompadour. Alternatively, you can opt for pink pomade grease for a greasier style, reminiscent of the classic greaser look.
Once your hair is styled, comb it into place, lifting the bangs up and back for added height if desired. This will further accentuate the pompadour shape and give your hairstyle a touch of drama.
The low fade pompadour is a versatile hairstyle that exudes style and confidence. It offers a modern twist to a classic look, perfect for individuals who want to make a statement with their hair. Experiment with different styling techniques and products to find the right balance and achieve the desired low fade pompadour look.
Tips for Maintaining the Low Fade Pompadour:
- Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair healthy and manageable.
- Regularly trim the faded sides to maintain the desired look.
- Apply a small amount of pomade each day to enhance shine and hold.
- Visit a professional barber for touch-ups and fresh fades.
Benefits of the Low Fade Pompadour:
The low fade pompadour offers a balanced and stylish look that suits various face shapes and hair types. It combines the sophistication of a pompadour with the modern appeal of a fade, resulting in a timeless hairstyle that can be worn for any occasion.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
– Provides a balanced and polished look | – Requires regular maintenance and touch-ups |
– Versatile styling options | – May not be suitable for people with very short hair |
– Combines classic and modern elements | – Requires the use of styling products to achieve the desired look |
– Suitable for various face shapes and hair types | – May take some practice to master the styling technique |
The Short Pompadour
The short pompadour is a practical choice for those who want a low-maintenance hairstyle. This style features short or faded sides and back, cut above the ears, while the length on top measures about three inches, providing volume and versatility. With its practicality and timeless appeal, the short pompadour is a favorite among those seeking a classic yet manageable look.
How to Achieve the Short Pompadour
To create a stylish short pompadour, follow these simple steps:
- Towel dry your hair to remove excess water.
- Apply a grooming tonic or surf tonic to add volume and texture.
- Style your hair using a comb or your fingers, lifting the top section upward for added volume.
- For a wet shine, finish with a blue pomade. Alternatively, if you prefer a greaser look, opt for pink pomade grease.
With its practical style and manageable length, the short pompadour allows for easy maintenance while still exuding charisma and sophistication. Whether you have a busy lifestyle or simply prefer a more effortless grooming routine, this practical variation of the iconic pompadour is sure to complement your individual style.
Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|
Low maintenance. | Less versatility compared to longer pompadour styles. |
Quick and easy to style. | May not suit all face shapes. |
Suitable for various hair types. | Less room for experimentation with different pomp variations. |
Expert Tip
“To add extra dimension and hold to your short pompadour, consider using a strong-hold hairspray after applying pomade. This will keep your style in place all day while adding shine and control.”

The Hard Part Pompadour
The hard part pompadour is a stylish variation of the classic pompadour hairstyle. It features a shaved-in part either on the left or right side, creating a distinct and sharp look. This side part adds an edgy element to the pompadour, making it stand out from the crowd.

To achieve the perfect hard part pompadour, it is essential to communicate your desired style to your stylist. Make sure they understand that you want a clean and precise part shaved into your hair. This attention to detail will ensure that the hard part stands out and enhances the overall look of your pompadour.
Start by washing and towel-drying your hair to create a clean canvas. Then, use a comb to set the hard part in place, running it along the shaved line. This will define the part and separate it from the rest of the hair.
Next, focus on styling the pompadour itself. Apply your preferred styling product, such as a pomade, to add hold and shine to your hair. Use a comb or your fingers to shape the pomp, sweeping it to the side opposite the hard part. Comb everything into place, ensuring that the hair has volume and height in the front, creating that classic pompadour look.
To finish off the hard part pompadour, consider using a blue pomade for a clean and polished appearance. Blue pomade adds a subtle shine and complements the side part, enhancing the overall aesthetic. Comb the hair one final time to ensure everything is in place, and you’re ready to rock your hard part pompadour with confidence.
The History of the Pompadour Hairstyle
The pompadour hairstyle has a rich history and has been associated with men’s hair icons throughout the years. From Elvis Presley to David Beckham, the pompadour has remained a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and classic look.
The origins of the pompadour can be traced back to the 18th century, where it was initially a women’s hairstyle named after Madame de Pompadour, the mistress of King Louis XV of France. However, it wasn’t until the 1950s that the pompadour gained popularity among men, thanks in large part to Elvis Presley’s iconic hairstyle.
Elvis Presley, known as the King of Rock and Roll, popularized the classic pompadour with his signature slicked-back style featuring voluminous hair on top. His trendsetting look captivated audiences and set the stage for the pompadour’s enduring appeal.
Today, the pompadour continues to make a modern comeback, with celebrities like David Beckham carrying on the tradition of this timeless hairstyle. The versatility of the pompadour allows for various interpretations and adaptations, making it suitable for different hair types, face shapes, and personal preferences.
Whether you prefer a classic, modern, or contemporary twist on the pompadour, this hairstyle offers a unique look that exudes confidence and style. It is a testament to the enduring influence of men’s hair icons like Elvis Presley, who have left their mark on the world of fashion and grooming.

Men’s Hair Icons: The Evolution of the Pompadour
The pompadour hairstyle has seen many iterations over time, each reflecting the trends and influences of their respective eras. Here is a brief overview of the evolution of the pompadour:
Decades | Men’s Hair Icons |
---|---|
1950s | Elvis Presley |
1960s | Johnny Cash |
1970s | David Bowie |
1980s | Morrissey |
1990s | Leonardo DiCaprio |
2000s | David Beckham |
The pompadour has proven to be a resilient and endlessly adaptable hairstyle, serving as a testament to its enduring appeal and ability to reinvent itself throughout history.
Conclusion
The pompadour hairstyle is a timeless look that can be rocked by men of all ages and styles. Whether you prefer a classic, modern, medium, or short pompadour, the key is to have the right tools, products, and styling techniques. Practice is essential to master the art of styling a pompadour, but with the right guidance and products, you can achieve a stylish and head-turning look.
The classic pompadour, made famous by icons like Elvis Presley, offers a sleek and sophisticated appearance. On the other hand, the modern pompadour gives a looser and more natural vibe. The medium pompadour creates big volume on top with tight sides for a bold statement. The short pompadour provides a practical and low-maintenance style for those who don’t want to spend too much time on their hair.
From its history as a women’s hairstyle to its modern comeback among men, the pompadour continues to be a popular choice. With its versatility and adaptability to different hair types, face shapes, and personal preferences, the pompadour offers a timeless look that never goes out of style. So go ahead and rock the classic pompadour, turning heads and exuding confidence wherever you go.