How to Look Attractive in Pompadour Haircut in 2023: A Complete Guide

The pompadour haircut is one of the most iconic and timeless hairstyles for men. It features short hair on the back and sides with long hair on top that is swept up and back to create a voluminous and stylish look. The pompadour haircut can suit any face shape, hair type, and personality, as it has many variations and ways to style it. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the pompadour haircut, from its history and variations to how to cut and style it. Plus, you will see 30 stunning examples of pompadour hairstyles for men that will inspire you to try this classic style.

What is a Pompadour Haircut?

The pompadour haircut is named after Madame de Pompadour (1721–1764), a mistress of King Louis XV of France, who popularized a hairstyle that involved piling up her hair on top of her head in a high and elegant manner. The pompadour hairstyle was mainly a women’s style until the 1950s, when male celebrities like Elvis Presley, James Dean, and Little Richard adopted it and made it a symbol of rock and roll rebellion. Since then, the pompadour haircut has evolved and diversified, becoming one of the most versatile and fashionable hairstyles for men.

Definition and Features of the pompadour haircut

The main feature of the pompadour haircut is a large volume of hair swept upwards from the forehead and gradually receding towards the back of the head. The hair on the sides and back can be cut short or left longer, depending on the desired effect. The hair on top can also vary in length, texture, and height, depending on how it is styled. The pompadour haircut can be combined with other elements, such as a fade, an undercut, a side part, or a beard, to create different looks.

Types and Variations of the pompadour haircut

There are many types and variations of the pompadour haircut, each with its own characteristics and advantages. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Classic Pompadour: This is the original and most traditional version of the pompadour haircut. It features long hair on top that is combed back and up with a lot of volume and shine. The sides and back are kept neat and slicked down with pomade or gel. This style is elegant and sophisticated, but also requires a lot of maintenance and styling products.
• Modern Pompadour: This is a more contemporary and relaxed version of the pompadour haircut. It features shorter hair on top that is styled with less volume and more texture. The sides and back are usually faded or undercut to create contrast and definition. This style is easier to style and manage, but also more versatile and edgy.
• Undercut Pompadour: This is a variation of the pompadour haircut that involves shaving the sides and back very short or bald, leaving only a strip of long hair on top. This creates a sharp contrast between the top and the sides, making the pompadour stand out more. This style is bold and daring, but also requires regular visits to the barber to keep the undercut clean.
• Fade Pompadour: This is another variation of the pompadour haircut that involves gradually tapering the hair on the sides and back from short to shorter or bald. This creates a smooth transition between the top and the sides, making the pompadour blend in more. This style is subtle and refined, but also allows for more customization in terms of the length and shape of the fade.
• Curly Pompadour: This is a variation of the pompadour haircut that works well for men with curly or wavy hair. It features curly hair on top that is styled with some volume and movement. The sides and back can be cut short or left longer, depending on the preference. This style is fun and playful, but also requires some products to keep the curls in place.
• Side Part Pompadour: This is a variation of the pompadour haircut that involves creating a side part on one side of the head and combing the hair on top to that side. This creates an asymmetrical look that adds some flair to the pompadour. The sides and back can be cut short or left longer, depending on the preference. This style is classic and charming, but also requires some precision to make the part neat.
• Slicked Back Pompadour: This is a variation of the pompadour haircut that involves combing all the hair on top back without creating any height or volume. This creates a sleek and smooth look that emphasizes the shape of the head. The sides and back can be cut short or left longer, depending on the preference. This style is simple and elegant, but also requires some products to keep the hair in place.
• Messy Pompadour: This is a variation of the pompadour haircut that involves styling the hair on top with some volume and texture, but without any defined direction or shape. This creates a casual and carefree look that adds some personality to the pompadour. The sides and back can be cut short or left longer, depending on the preference. This style is easy and effortless, but also requires some products to add some hold and definition.
• Short Pompadour: This is a variation of the pompadour haircut that involves cutting the hair on top very short, but still long enough to be styled upwards. This creates a minimal and modern look that accentuates the facial features. The sides and back can be cut short or left longer, depending on the preference. This style is low-maintenance and practical, but also stylish and trendy.
• Long Pompadour: This is a variation of the pompadour haircut that involves leaving the hair on top very long, but still styling it upwards and backwards. This creates a dramatic and extravagant look that draws attention to the pompadour. The sides and back can be cut short or left longer, depending on the preference. This style is high-maintenance and flamboyant, but also impressive and unique.

How to Cut a Pompadour Haircut

The pompadour haircut can be cut by a professional barber or by yourself at home, depending on your skill level and confidence. Here are some general steps to follow for cutting a pompadour haircut:

Tools and Preparation

To cut a pompadour haircut, you will need the following tools:

• A pair of hair-cutting scissors
• A pair of clippers with different guards
• A fine-toothed comb or a rattail comb
• A pair of hair clips
• A mirror
• A towel
• A spray bottle with water

Before you start cutting, make sure that your hair is clean and dry. If your hair is too long, you may want to trim it down to approximately 4 in (10 cm) on the top, and 2 in (5.1 cm) on the sides. Then, create two deep side parts that join in a V in the back of the head using your comb. Gather the hair between the parts, and secure it with clips. This will separate the top section from the sides and back sections.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Cut a Pompadour Haircut

To cut a pompadour haircut, follow these steps:

1. Start with the sides and back sections. Choose a clipper guard that matches your desired length for these sections. For example, you can use a #3 guard for a medium length, or a #1 guard for a very short length. Attach the guard to your clippers, and turn them on.
2. Hold the clippers with the blade facing up, and start from one temple. Run them up along the side of your head until you reach the bottom of the side part. Repeat this motion until you have trimmed all the hair below the side part on that side.
3. Move to the back section, and repeat the same process. Run the clippers up from the nape of your neck until you reach the bottom of the V-shaped part. Repeat this motion until you have trimmed all the hair below the V-shaped part on the back.
4. Move to the other side section, and repeat the same process again. Run the clippers up from the other temple until you reach the bottom of the other side part. Repeat this motion until you have trimmed all the hair below the side part on that side.
5. If you want to create a fade or an undercut effect, you can switch to a shorter clipper guard, such as a #2 or #0 guard, and trim the lower half of the sides and back sections again. This will create more contrast between these sections and the top section.
6. Move on to the top section. Remove the clips that hold this section, and comb it forward over your forehead. Then, use your scissors to trim off any excess length from your bangs. You can use your fingers or your comb as a guide to measure how much hair you want to cut off.
7. Comb your hair back again, and lift it up with your fingers or your comb at an angle of about 45 degrees from your head. Use your scissors to cut off any excess length from this section as well, following a horizontal line across your head.
8. Repeat this process for each subsection of your top section, moving from front to back until you reach your crown. You can adjust the angle and length of each subsection according to your preference, but make sure that they blend well with each other.

10. Check your haircut from different angles using a mirror or a camera. Make sure that it is even and symmetrical, and that there are no gaps or uneven spots. If you find any, use your scissors or your clippers to fix them.
11. Clean up any stray hairs from your neck, ears, and forehead using your clippers or a razor. You can also trim your sideburns and your beard if you have them, to match your pompadour haircut.
12. Congratulations, you have successfully cut your own pompadour haircut!

How to Style a Pompadour Haircut

The pompadour haircut can be styled in different ways, depending on the occasion, the mood, and the preference. Here are some general steps to follow for styling a pompadour haircut:

Products and Techniques

To style a pompadour haircut, you will need the following products:

• A hair dryer
• A round brush or a vent brush
• A comb or a rattail comb
• A pomade, a wax, a gel, or a mousse
• A hairspray (optional)

Before you start styling, make sure that your hair is clean and damp. You can use a towel to remove excess moisture from your hair, but do not rub it too hard, as this can damage your hair and cause frizz.

Tips and Tricks to Style a Pompadour Haircut

To style a pompadour haircut, follow these tips and tricks:

1. Start by applying some product to your hair. Depending on the type of product you use, you may need to warm it up in your hands first, or apply it to wet or dry hair. Generally, pomades and waxes are better for dry hair, while gels and mousses are better for wet hair. Use a small amount of product at first, and add more if needed later. You can also mix different products to achieve different effects.
2. Use your hair dryer and your brush to blow-dry your hair upwards and backwards. This will create volume and lift for your pompadour. You can also use your fingers to tousle your hair for more texture. If you want more height, you can use your comb to tease your hair at the roots.
3. Use your comb or your fingers to shape your pompadour according to your preference. You can make it more rounded or more angular, more smooth or more messy, more forward or more backward. You can also create a side part or a quiff if you want.
4. Use some hairspray to lock in your style and add some shine if you want. You can also use some more product to touch up any areas that need more definition or hold.
5. Enjoy your stylish pompadour haircut!

40 Best Pompadour Hairstyles & Haircuts For Men

Here are 40 examples of pompadour hairstyles and haircuts for men that you can try in 2023:

Classic Pompadour haircut

The classic pompadour is the original and most traditional version of the pompadour haircut. It features long hair on top that is combed back and up with a lot of volume and shine. The sides and back are kept neat and slicked down with pomade or gel.

This style is elegant and sophisticated, but also requires a lot of maintenance and styling products.

Modern Pompadour haircut

The modern pompadour is a more contemporary and relaxed version of the pompadour haircut. It features shorter hair on top that is styled with less volume and more texture. The sides and back are usually faded or undercut to create contrast and definition.

This style is easier to style and manage, but also more versatile and edgy.

Undercut Pompadour haircut

The undercut pompadour is a variation of the pompadour haircut that involves shaving the sides and back very short or bald, leaving only a strip of long hair on top. This creates a sharp contrast between the top and the sides, making the pompadour stand out more.

This style is bold and daring, but also requires regular visits to the barber to keep the undercut clean.

Fade Pompadour haircut

The fade pompadour is another variation of the pompadour haircut that involves gradually tapering the hair on the sides and back from short to shorter or bald. This creates a smooth transition between the top and the sides, making the pompadour blend in more.

This style is subtle and refined, but also allows for more customization in terms of the length and shape of the fade.

Curly Pompadour haircut

The curly pompadour is a variation of the pompadour haircut that works well for men with curly or wavy hair. It features curly hair on top that is styled with some volume and movement. The sides and back can be cut short or left longer, depending on the preference.

This style is fun and playful, but also requires some products to keep the curls in place.

Side Part Pompadour haircut

The side part pompadour is a variation of the pompadour haircut that involves creating a side part on one side of the head and combing the hair on top to that side. This creates an asymmetrical look that adds some flair to the pompadour. The sides and back can be cut short or left longer, depending on the preference.

This style is classic and charming, but also requires some precision to make the part neat.

Slicked Back Pompadour haircut

The slicked back pompadour is a variation of the pompadour haircut that involves combing all the hair on top back without creating any height or volume. This creates a sleek and smooth look that emphasizes the shape of the head. The sides and back can be cut short or left longer, depending on the preference.

This style is simple and elegant, but also requires some products to keep the hair in place.

Messy Pompadour haircut

The messy pompadour is a variation of the pompadour haircut that involves styling the hair on top with some volume and texture, but without any defined direction or shape. This creates a casual and carefree look that adds some personality to the pompadour. The sides and back can be cut short or left longer, depending on the preference.

This style is easy and effortless, but also requires some products to add some hold and definition.

Short Pompadour haircut

The short pompadour is a variation of the pompadour haircut that involves cutting the hair on top very short, but still long enough to be styled upwards. This creates a minimal and modern look that accentuates the facial features. The sides and back can be cut short or left longer, depending on the preference.

This style is low-maintenance and practical, but also stylish and trendy.

Long Pompadour haircut

The long pompadour is a variation of the pompadour haircut that involves leaving the hair on top very long, but still styling it upwards and backwards. This creates a dramatic and extravagant look that draws attention to the pompadour. The sides and back can be cut short or left longer, depending on the preference.

This style is high-maintenance and flamboyant, but also impressive and unique.

Conclusion about Pompadour Haircut

The pompadour haircut is one of the best hairstyles for men who want to look stylish and confident. It has a rich history and a wide range of variations that can suit any taste and occasion. Whether you want to go for a classic, modern, or creative look, you can find a pompadour haircut that works for you.

All you need is some tools, some products, and some skills to cut and style your own pompadour haircut at home. Or, you can visit your barber and ask for a professional pompadour haircut that will make you stand out from the crowd. Either way, you will rock a pompadour haircut!

FAQ’s about Pompadour Haircut

What is a pompadour haircut? 

A pompadour haircut is a style that features short hair on the back and sides with long hair on top that is swept up and back to create a voluminous and stylish look. The pompadour haircut can suit any face shape, hair type, and personality, as it has many variations and ways to style it. The pompadour haircut is named after Madame de Pompadour, a mistress of King Louis XV of France, who popularized a similar hairstyle in the 18th century.

How to cut a pompadour haircut? 

The pompadour haircut can be cut by a professional barber or by yourself at home, depending on your skill level and confidence. Here are some general steps to follow for cutting a pompadour haircut:

• Start with hair that’s at least 4 in (10 cm) long on the top, and 2 in (5.1 cm) long on the sides.
• Create two deep side parts that join in a V in the back of the head using a comb.
• Gather the hair between the parts, and secure it with clips.
• Shave just under the parts using clippers and a comb to create a baseline.
• Blend the hairline up to the bottom of the baseline with #3 clippers.
• Remove the clips that hold the top section, and comb it forward over your forehead.
• Trim off any excess length from your bangs using scissors.
• Comb your hair back again, and lift it up at an angle of about 45 degrees from your head.
• Cut off any excess length from the top section as well, following a horizontal line across your head.
• Check your haircut from different angles using a mirror or a camera, and fix any uneven spots.
• Clean up any stray hairs from your neck, ears, and forehead using clippers or a razor.

How to style a pompadour haircut? 

The pompadour haircut can be styled in different ways, depending on the occasion, the mood, and the preference. Here are some general steps to follow for styling a pompadour haircut:

• Start by applying some product to your hair, such as pomade, wax, gel, or mousse.
• Use a hair dryer and a brush to blow-dry your hair upwards and backwards. This will create volume and lift for your pompadour.
• Use a comb or your fingers to shape your pompadour according to your preference. You can make it more rounded or more angular, more smooth or more messy, more forward or more backward. You can also create a side part or a quiff if you want.
• Use some hairspray to lock in your style and add some shine if you want. You can also use some more product to touch up any areas that need more definition or hold.

How long does a pompadour haircut last? 

A pompadour haircut can last for several weeks or months, depending on how fast your hair grows and how well you maintain it. Generally, you will need to visit your barber every 2 to 4 weeks to keep your pompadour haircut looking fresh and sharp. You will also need to style your pompadour haircut every day using a hair dryer, a brush, and some products to keep it in shape

What face shape suits a pompadour haircut? 

A pompadour haircut can suit any face shape, as long as it is proportionate and balanced. However, some face shapes may benefit more from certain variations of the pompadour haircut than others.

For example, if you have a round face, you may want to opt for a high and tight pompadour haircut that adds height and length to your face. If you have a square face, you may want to choose a low and loose pompadour haircut that softens your angles and adds some movement to your hair. If you have an oval face, you may want to try a medium and textured pompadour haircut that adds some volume and interest to your hair

What products do I need for a pompadour haircut? 

The products you need for a pompadour haircut depend on the type and length of your hair, as well as the style and finish you want to achieve. Generally, you will need a pre-styling product, such as a mousse or a spray, to protect your hair from the heat of the hair dryer and to add some volume and lift to your hair.

You will also need a styling product, such as a pomade, a wax, a gel, or a clay, to shape your pompadour haircut and to add some hold and shine to it. You may also need a finishing product, such as a hairspray or a serum, to lock in your style and to add some extra shine or smoothness to it

How do I maintain my pompadour haircut? 

To maintain your pompadour haircut, you will need to follow some basic steps every day and every week. Here are some tips on how to maintain your pompadour haircut:

• Wash your hair regularly with a mild shampoo and conditioner that suit your hair type and scalp condition. Avoid washing your hair too often or too harshly, as this can strip away the natural oils and moisture from your hair and scalp.
• Dry your hair gently with a towel or a t-shirt, and avoid rubbing or twisting it too much. This can damage your hair cuticles and cause frizz and breakage.
• Apply some pre-styling product to your damp hair, and distribute it evenly with your fingers or a comb. This will prepare your hair for the blow-drying process and add some volume and lift to it.
• Use a hair dryer and a brush to blow-dry your hair upwards and backwards. This will create the shape and height of your pompadour haircut. You can also use your fingers to tousle your hair for more texture.
• Apply some styling product to your dry hair, and work it through with your fingers or a comb. This will define and hold your pompadour haircut in place. You can also use some more product to touch up any areas that need more definition or hold.
• Apply some finishing product to your styled hair, if desired. This will add some extra shine or smoothness to your pompadour haircut.
• Visit your barber every 2 to 4 weeks to trim the sides and back of your pompadour haircut. This will keep it neat and tidy, and prevent it from looking overgrown or uneven.