The pompadour haircut is a stylish men’s short, slicked-back look featuring added volume on top. It’s adaptable enough to be dressed up for the office or down for a casual occasion.
Master barber Kirby Stout from Fort Bragg, NC considers this cut a timeless classic. Regardless of the era, this style will never fall out of favor. In her view, anyone can sport it no matter their age.
Check out Stout’s tips on how to achieve this look.
Key Things to Know First
- A key aspect is the fringe area, which should be the longest part.
- Recognize the distinction between this cut and a combover. With a combover, there is minimal height at the crown, and the top is just long enough to blend in when styled to the side.
- A combination of blowdrying and a strong hold product yields the best outcome.
- When left unstyled, the cut may resemble more of an undercut mens haircut or appear disconnected.
Be sure to bring a reference picture to your salon appointment. Explore examples of the most popular pompadour cuts and styles for men by browsing through our gallery.
#1: Short Mini Pompadour for Older Men with White Hair
This short mini pompadour for older men with white hair has been kept more concise. Of the various pompadour hairstyles, there’s a notable benefit to selecting a shorter version. It’s simpler to style since there’s less weight to manage. This has been cut entirely with scissors and features a tapered edge for a neat look around the ears. The simplest method to style it is to dry it using some volume spray. Apply a small amount of matte clay for optimal hold.
#2: The Ideal Pompadour
It’s the ideal pompadour what’s not to admire? A quick blow-dry for volume and some pomade for hold will take you a long way. The biggest benefit to this style is that it can last 6-8 weeks before your next visit to the barbershop. Other barber-type haircuts that last closer to 2-4 weeks are your other option.
#3 Contemporary Low Fade Pompadour Style
This is one of my favorite hairstyles from recent years. The cut evokes the classic 20s-40s look but features a modern twist. Utilizing a hair dryer to create volume and achieving the skin fade are two essential steps for this hairstyle.
#4: Classic Vintage Slicked Back Pompadour
This is a timeless tapered slick back pompadour. It’s cut to an executive length and utilizes the natural hair flow and growth pattern. The best aspect of this style is its enduring charm. It’s been a staple for ages, always being subtly refined over time.
#5: Classic Pompadour Style
This is a “classic” type of hairstyle. It’s hard to highlight my favorite aspect of this look because it’s the final outcome with all the fine details that make it remarkable. I used two kinds of products for this look. I used a powder for volume and a pomade for hold and shine. This style is suitable for guys that are willing to dedicate a little time styling their hair.
#6: Timeless Pompadour with Defined Part
This haircut is referred to as mid-razor fade with a defined part pompadour hairstyle. For me, it embodies sophistication and masculinity. My favorite aspect of this look is the precision of the haircut. I would suggest to a client a matte pomade for styling. The ideal type of hair is straight and thick. The shape of the face should be oval, and the client should possess a strong personality.
#7: Timeless White Pompadour
Are you seeking the top choices to revitalize your aging hair? If you’re feeling uninspired by your current hairstyle or noticing a shift in your hair texture, a pompadour could be the ideal solution.
#8: Stylish Brushed Back with Tapered Sides
The pompadour has captivated us for generations, and it’s easy to see why! This brushed back style with tapered sides serves as a timeless reminder that this haircut remains a fashion staple. It’s just as on-trend today as it was in the past. I recommend bringing this picture to your barber if you’re looking to elevate your look.
#9: Classic Retro Pomp
Ask for a classic retro pomp if you’re a timeless and professional man! I suggest a firm hold pomade for a shiny, classic finish, such as Suavecito’s Firme (Strong) Hold Pomade .
#10: Classic Large Pompadour with Height
Pompadour hairstyles can be found in a variety of forms. This classic large pompadour with height has a timeless Teddy Boy twist to it. The front of the style has been styled forward and back into the center of the head to create the appearance. A men’s pompadour haircut does require some care when it comes to styling. I suggest using a volume spray to establish the foundation of the shape. Complete with hairspray to achieve a natural finish.
#11: Classic Pompadour for Curly Hair
This pompadour presents a textured curly crop. What I appreciate most about this style is its ease of upkeep every day. I am also fond of the contrast between the length on the sides and the length on top.
#12: Defined Bald Fade
If you’re open to a bolder look, this defined bald fade may be exactly what you need. There are countless variations of the pompadour style. However, this one features a zero fade on the sides and a bolder length achieved on top to create even more contrast. I recommend a dry, matte clay such as Hanz De Fuko’s Quicksand to highlight your striking length up top!
#13 Effortless Disconnected Pompadour
The haircut is a timeless pompadour-updo featuring a drop skin fade. My favorite aspect of this haircut is that it presents a long disconnected classic style while incorporating a short, clean fade on the side. Find a skilled barber/stylist who can assist in cutting, forming, and shaping your hair to achieve your ideal look, while also recommending the appropriate products and volume for your hair.
#14: Stylish Quiff with Tapered Sides and Back
Fit for a distinguished gentleman, this stylish quiff with tapered sides and back is designed to help you look and feel your very best. This particular haircut features a fade starting at a one and blending upward beautifully to a longer length on top. The length on top is tailored to your face shape and personal preferences. So consult with your hairstylist about a custom length to sit above your faded sides to match your style.
#15: Pompadour and Taper Cut for Thick Hair
This pompadour and taper cut for thick hair are classic and stylish. Who wouldn’t want that?! You can display a fantastic mane with this look. You can also have a taper around the ears and nape that give this haircut depth and a polished appearance. I suggest asking your barber for a pompadour with a taper fade. Or better yet, show them this image during your next appointment to discuss whether this style suits you.
#16 Stylish Side Parted Pomp with Facial Hair
While many barbers refuse to call this a combover and instead refer to it as a “side part”, the hairstyles are really similar. The combover hairstyle consists of hair combed to one side with a part. The primary difference between the classic side part and the combover is the side-swept look and angular brush back of the hair.
#17: Full Pomp Look with Facial Hair
Need to keep all of your lush, fantastic hair in check? Let’s explore this full pomp look with facial hair! This haircut should leave just enough hair on your head to be able to bend back and away from the face. This makes it an easy style to towel dry, add some pomade, and go on busy days. Give it a quick blow-dry with a round brush for a more sleek feel!
#18: Distinctive Gentlemen’s Pompadour
This is a gentleman’s hairstyle featuring a light taper. To achieve this look, I suggest using a medium hold pomade. The style works best for busy Millennials, those with strong jawlines, and oblong face shapes.
#19 Stylish Disconnected Pompadour
My favorite aspect of a pompadour is its vintage appeal. It transports you back to the elegant 50s when hair was meticulously styled and everyone dressed to impress. If you aim to create a voluminous pompadour, I suggest using a blow-dry product like salt spray or a grooming tonic. For the finishing touches, I recommend utilizing a pomade or fiber product.
#20: Adaptable High Fade Pompadour
This style is my contemporary take on a classic rock n’ roll pompadour. I truly appreciate pompadours for their remarkable versatility in terms of styling options. Additionally, it’s an excellent way for men to feel confident in using more tools than just their hands to create the look.
#21: Stylish Pomp for Short Hair
The pompadour is a timeless hairstyle that remains in vogue. This stylish pomp for short hair is an excellent illustration. The elevation of the fringe at the front is what names this style and will require effort and time to achieve. The ideal products to apply are a volume spray for height and pomade for added hold and shine.
#22: Textured Shadow Taper Pompadour Style
This haircut features a shadow taper combined with a textured top. I suggest using any pomade with a matte finish to achieve this style. This time I opted for Layrite Cement. It’s a matte-based pomade that gives your hair a natural appearance. Plus, since it’s water-based, it washes out easily. This haircut is ideal for the military man looking for a civilian look and for civilians aiming for a polished beach style.
#23: Textured Pompadour with Drop Fade
Looking to stay stylish? A pompadour remains one of the year’s top styles while also being quite timeless. A textured pompadour with a drop fade provides the appeal of precisely faded sides. It features 2-4 inches of length on top, depending on your face shape, hair texture, and what suits you best.
#24: Side-Swept Pompadour with a Mid Fade
A pompadour hairstyle typically flows straight back. However, this side-swept pomp with mid-fade showcases an intriguing twist on this classic style. It has been faded down to the skin and seamlessly blended up at the midpoint. The intention behind this is to maintain a bit of weight for the side sweep. The sweep has been kept short and aligned with the hairline for a polished finish. Style it with a quality pomade for a sleek glossy look and a strong hold.
#25: Classic Side-Swept Pompadour Look
A classic side-swept pompadour look is timeless. It’s ideal for the fashionable gentleman or anyone who enjoys showcasing their hairstyle! Have your barber create a length on top that complements both your face and your grooming routine. There’s a subtle difference between the top length and the sides. This helps keep your haircut looking fresh for 4-6 weeks before you need to return to the barber!
#26 Chic Pompadour with a Taper Fade
Pompadour hairstyles are trendy, fashionable, and sleek. I appreciate the fade and the level of volume it offers. This style fits men with straight hair or a slight wave. Curly hair is not suitable for this appearance. It’s ideal for men with a vibrant personality.
#27: Elevated Volume Pomp with a Beard
If you want to enhance your style, consider an elevated volume pomp with a beard. This hairstyle combines classic pompadour with modern trends to create a striking and eye-catching look. Achieving high volume comes from keeping the hair longer on top. Opt for a shorter cut on the sides and back. This contrast will enhance the dimension of your look. The cut suits men with thick hair or men looking to boost their hair’s volume and texture. Ask your barber to incorporate point cutting. This technique can help create a more textured and tousled appearance.
#28: Striking Contour Pompadour
The pompadour, though initially linked to women’s hairstyles, is now making an impact across gender lines. A highly artistic cut, featuring an elevated upper section, where the hair is lifted to create a substantial wall, and then swept back for a seamless appearance.
#29: Timeless Pompadour Fade Hairstyle
Maybe you’re not the type to keep your hair so short up top. Or perhaps a longer length is more fitting for your face shape. Either way, this timeless pompadour fade hairstyle might just be your next move. I suggest first discussing with your barber a suitable length up top. One that not only looks fantastic on you but also is something you can manage. And, depending on the density of your hair, a zero or one fade on the sides. Blow-dry your hair back for added volume or apply a pomade for a polished and shiny finish.
#30: Stylish Faded Pompadour
I would describe this pompadour as a fade haircut for men featuring a disconnected cropped top styled up into a faux hawk. I appreciate this style because it’s versatile and can be styled in various ways. You can comb everything forward and up in a faux hawk, comb it back for a pompadour, or over to the side for a business professional appearance.
#31: Sleek Brushed-Back Pomp with a Skin Fade
One of the most sought-after pompadours is this sleek brushed-back pomp with a skin fade. It has been taken to the skin around the ears and faded up at the midpoint. Commonly the fringe at the top of the head is disconnected to leave length to shape your pompadour. I recommend blow-drying your hair back using a volume spray to create the height. Then finish off with a high-quality pomade to maintain the style throughout the day.
#32 Modern Pompadour
I would describe this look as a timeless and refined pompadour haircut. My favorite aspect of the cut is the shape. Building volume in the front and finishing it sleek in the back gives it a contemporary flair. I recommend pompadours to gentlemen who dedicate time in the morning for their hair. This isn’t suited for the impulsive, on-the-go types.
#33: Contemporary Comb Over Pomp
This is a timeless cut featuring a touch of modern flair. I always strive to uphold traditional barbering techniques as the foundation, then I explore innovative styling and contemporary barbering methods. The silhouette of the cut is very classic and familiar while the fade and styling impart that modern edge.
#34: Timeless Taper Faded Pomp
Taper faded pompadours represent a timeless style that has stood the test of time. This look primarily involves scissor techniques paired with a short graduation method and features a tight fade around the ears and neck area, achieved using clippers. While this is a longer hairstyle, it’s essential to visit your barber every 3-4 weeks to maintain its shape. A lengthy pompadour does necessitate daily styling, so ensure you have the availability to commit before making a decision.
#35: Elegant Silver Fox Pomp with a Fade
Consider this elegant silver fox pomp with a fade to showcase your natural color. Not only is this style classic, but it also maintains a touch of modern flair with a taper around the ears and a blow-dried look. Adding a bit of product to enhance your hair never hurts, so I suggest incorporating a dab of matte clay for an all-day hold.
#36: Stylish Long Trim Pompadour with Beard
Have a more laid-back style? A long trim pompadour with a beard is a fantastic way to keep extra hair on your head and face. And you can still maintain a polished appearance. This style has a taper around the ears that fades neatly into the beard. This keeps the hair around your face down with a tidy lineup around the beard. I recommend a pomade applied to the sides and back of your hair to add a hint of hydration, shine, and hold. It will keep your hair organized throughout your day.
#37 Distinctive Transitional Pompadour
This is a men’s pompadour. My favorite aspect of it is the seamless transition between the top and the bottom. To style, I recommend Elegance hair products. No matter what haircut you desire, you need to ensure that your hair type will complement the cut you are considering. My advice is to embrace a change in your look. Change is beneficial and can elevate your hair to new heights!
#38: Timeless Razor Fade Pompadour
The pompadour was a stylish haircut back in the 50s, with the likes of Elvis and Johnny Cash making it a favored choice amongst rock and rollers. This razor fade adds a contemporary flair to the classic haircut.
#39: Modern Side Part Pompadour with Tapered Sides
This modern side part pompadour with tapered sides is another variation of the classic pomp style. There is no hard part, creating a natural finish and offering the option of styling a pomp going straight back. Opting for a pompadour haircut opens up many styles and variations of the classic look, allowing different appearances to cater to various situations.
#40: Chic Rockabilly Pompadour
This pompadour style is a timeless hairstyle. I appreciate this look because you can adapt the various shapes to match different personality types and lifestyles. To style, I primarily use and recommend Reuzel Red pomade. Gentlemen, rockers, teddy boys, and rockabillies can all showcase their variation of the pompadour! A skilled barber will create a pompadour to enhance any face shape.
#41: Chic Short Pompadour
Short pompadours aren’t just for formal occasions. This hairstyle maintains your elegance in every environment.
#42: Sleek Voluminous Pomp with Shaved Sides
Mullets are all the rage right now. But this sleek pomp with shaved sides is nothing short of a mullet style for masculine guys. This haircut features a nice break from some of the more faded styles we’ve seen over the last few years. It has been shaved on the sides and back by promoting hair left along the back of the head. But still maintaining the satisfaction of a fade around the sides and ears. Ask your barber for some length on top to add some height!
#43: Classic Rockabilly Pompadour
I appreciate this style because it epitomizes traditional barbering techniques and the iconic 50s rockabilly vibe. To achieve this look, I suggest using Uppercut Deluxe Matte Pomade or Sweet Georgia Brown Pomade. Blow drying is crucial. Begin at the back and then for your fringe, ensure to dry the roots upright with tension from the brush. The optimal brush for this style is a Denman d3. This look works well for men with robust or thick hair. Even dudes with curly hair, when blow-dried effectively, can become straight and maintain its form.
#44: Classic Rock Pompadour
I would describe this pompadour as a true classic of rock style. I love the fact that it provides a variety of styling options to perfectly suit the client in terms of height and how it is connected/styled at the top and rear. I like to use a strong oil pomade like the Pink Reuzel and either a touch of Green Reuzel or Grooming Tonic. If the client prefers a clean finish, a water-soluble will work just fine if you blow-dry your hair in place with the help of some grooming tonic.
#45: Refined Executive Contour Pomp
This haircut is referred to as the “Refined Executive Contour.” My favorite aspect of it is that it can be tailored for a variety of hair types and can be sported by men with shorter or longer locks at any age. I suggest this look for individuals seeking a timeless hairstyle and who prefer a low-maintenance option. This haircut is suitable for all face shapes due to its ability to elongate the head silhouette. The curlier your hair, the more challenging it may be to style in this manner.
#46: The Executive Pompadour
Having a hectic day means you can refresh your style less frequently. This pompadour cut is a reliable choice for all busy professionals. Minimal maintenance but still offers plenty of style.
#47: Trendy Pompadour Mullet
This hairstyle is a fusion of timeless cuts, let’s refer to it as the trendy pompadour mullet. The back segment has been disassociated to allow for the growth of the mullet. The sides have been trimmed short, which seamlessly blend into the mullet. This look is particularly flattering for rounded face shapes. The short sides draw attention away while the pompadour stretches the face. Be prepared to dedicate time for styling this, so consider adding extra time to your morning routine.
#48: Elevated Mountain Pompadour
Skin faded sides, until the last moment hair is kept short and then ZOOM lifted like a grand mountain, confident, a cut that’s undeniably BOLD.
#49: Refined Short-Sided Brushed-Up Look
The James Dean is a timeless style that will remain popular, and this is a refined brushed-up look with short sides. Achieving a pompadour does require some effort in styling. You will need to dedicate time to drying with volume spray to maintain the height throughout the day. The sides have been faded down short and blended seamlessly at the midpoint. I recommend using a pomade for added hold.
#50: Stylish High Volume Pompadour
The longer hair on top creates a striking contrast with the short back and sides. It’s one of the most stylish pompadour haircuts you’ll find here.
#51: Scumbag Boogie Hairstyle
This hairstyle is a modern pompadour, sometimes referred to as a Scumbag Boogie. It’s a very trendy cut now as it’s smart yet very contemporary. My favorite aspect of this look is that it merges classic and modern barbering seamlessly with a skin fade on the sides and a traditional scissor-cut style on top.
#52: A Contemporary Side-Part Pompadour
The pompadour remains timeless and consistently a fashionable hairstyle. This classic look has transformed since the 1920s and 1930s, gaining notable popularity in the 1950s, when Elvis embraced it as his iconic style. Contemporary interpretations of the pompadour, like this one I designed, draw from the original aesthetic while adding a modern flair, playing with the top’s length and maintaining a sharp and short finish on the back and sides.
#53: Classic Flat Top Pompadour
This classic flat-top pompadour has been around for decades, yet still retains its charm in today’s men’s hair. This particular haircut features tapered sides and a neckline. It maintains a brush-back along the temples and top of the head. I suggest a pomade such as Suavecito’s Original Hold Pomade to keep this look in place all day!
#54: Elegant Salt and Pepper Pomp for Seniors
The elegant salt and pepper pomp is a distinguished hairstyle for seniors. Especially men that embrace their natural grey hair. This style features a pompadour, where the hair is swept back and styled with height and volume at the front. The combination of salt and pepper hair color adds a touch of sophistication and maturity to the overall look. This makes it perfect for seniors who want a polished and timeless hairstyle. Apply a bit of pomade through the sides and top for an extra polished feel.
#55: Classic Long Hair Pompadour Look
This timeless style can be reimagined to produce a distinctive appearance. This classic long hair pompadour look maintains the length and weight in the back. With this ample volume of hair, some styling will be necessary to ensure the shape is preserved. A sea salt spray applied when dry will provide an excellent base for the look. I would recommend using a pomade and potentially finishing with hairspray for maximum hold.
Enter your email and get this picture and description straight to your inbox, and you'll also get new hair ideas ❤️
🔒 We don't spam or sell emails. See our Privacy Policy.