What is a Pompadour Haircut?
The pompadour haircut is a timeless men’s style featuring longer hair swept back on top with short, faded, or tapered sides. Popularized by Elvis Presley, the modern pompadour now includes undercuts and textured finishes for a cleaner, edgier look. It suits most hair types and adds instant height, volume, and structure. Whether worn classic or messy, the pompadour remains one of the most versatile and grooming-friendly haircuts for men.
Explore trending pompadour styles for men that balance classic charm and modern edge. Perfect for formal looks, casual outfits, or professional settings.
Trending Pompadour Haircut Styles
Modern Pompadour
The Modern Pompadour delivers a fresh, polished look with high volume and a smooth, sculpted finish. Blow-dry the top upward to create soft lift and natural bounce. Shape it by hand for a relaxed yet refined vibe. Style with Molding Paste for flexible hold and shine, and finish with Argan Oil to boost softness. This confident style feels bold, clean, and effortlessly cool.
Fade Pompadour
The Fade Pompadour delivers a clean, high-volume look with a fresh modern vibe. The fade on the sides keeps things sharp, while the top is styled tall for strong impact. Blow-dry upward to build shape, then use Molding Paste for hold and definition. Finish with Argan Oil to add healthy shine. This style feels cool, sleek, and easy to maintain.
Short Pompadour
The Short Pompadour gives a neat, stylish look with just the right amount of height. Hair is brushed back smoothly and blow-dried for soft lift and shape. Use Molding Paste to hold the volume and finish with Argan Oil for natural shine. This cut feels clean, light, and easy to wear, great for guys who want low-maintenance polish.
Classic Pompadour
The Classic Pompadour features a high, rounded front that smoothly flows back with polished volume. Hair is blow-dried upward, shaped with fingers, and styled for a sleek finish. Use Styling Cream to keep it soft and natural, then add Texture Powder for light hold and lift. This timeless style works best on oval and longer face shapes.
Pompadour Undercut
The Pompadour Undercut combines a clean skin fade with a tall disconnected, brushed-back top for a bold and modern look. Hair is blow-dried for volume, shaped by hand, and styled to create strong flow. Use Molding Paste for hold and structure, then finish with Argan Oil to smooth flyaways. This cut stands out with sharp edges and sleek texture.
Messy Hair with Pompadour
The Messy Pompadour adds casual texture and bold lift with a laid-back twist. The top is tousled with volume while the sides stay neat and tapered. Blow-dry while finger-shaping for a full, lived-in look. Apply Styling Cream to boost softness and finish with Texture Powder to enhance hold without stiffening the natural movement.
Curly Pompadour
The Curly Pompadour is all about soft volume and natural bounce. The top is left full and curly, while the sides are trimmed short to keep things clean. Blow-dry with your fingers to lift the curls, then use Curl Enhancing Cream for control. Finish with Texture Powder to add light hold and keep the shape all day.
Pompadour Side Part
The Pompadour Side Part blends timeless sophistication with a fresh, youthful edge. This style features voluminous, sleek hair swept back and over a clean side part, paired with a smooth fade for contrast. Blow-dry upward for lift, then shape with a strong hold molding paste to lock in structure.
Pompadour Low Fade
The Pompadour Low Fade mixes tall volume with clean sides for a sharp and stylish finish. The top is shaped upward using a blow dryer and fingers, then styled with Molding Paste for smooth hold. Use Argan Oil to tame any flyaways. This hairstyle works great for teens who want a neat look with modern flair.
Textured Pompadour
The Textured Pompadour brings height and movement to thick hair with a tousled, lifted front and neatly styled sides. Blow-dry upward using your fingers for volume, then lock it in with Molding Paste for control. Add Texture Powder for extra lift and a natural look. This style suits guys who want bold flow with a bit of messy charm.
Pompadour Slick Back
The Pompadour Slick Back keeps things smooth and sharp with its tight sides and clean, pushed-back top. Hair is blow-dried while brushing backward, then shaped with Styling Cream for a soft, polished finish. For stronger hold and a sleek texture, apply Molding Paste. This look is perfect for guys who want a neat style that feels bold and modern.
Long Pompadour
The Long Pompadour creates bold volume at the front with a clean, flowing shape that extends smoothly toward the back. Blow-dry upward while using your fingers to guide height and natural lift. Apply Styling Cream for control and a soft finish, then add a touch of Argan Oil to boost shine and tame loose strands.
Volumized Pompadour
The Volumized Pompadour makes a bold impact with thick, lifted front hair that smoothly curves back into a neat finish. Use a blow dryer and finger-shaping technique to build height and flow. Apply Molding Paste for structure, then add Texture Powder for a lightweight volume that holds all day. This look stands out with its clean edges and powerful presence.
Wavy Pompadour
The Wavy Pompadour shows off thick, flowing waves with natural bounce and clean faded sides. Hair is blow-dried and shaped by hand to boost height and flow without making it look stiff. Use Styling Cream to soften the texture, then lock in the waves with Texture Powder for light hold. This look adds a relaxed twist to a classic shape.
Pompadour Mullet
The Pompadour Mullet mixes vintage volume with edgy flow for a bold, trend-forward look. The front stands tall with blow-dried lift, shaped using finger styling for height and movement. The back flows longer with natural texture. Apply Molding Paste to define the top, then finish with Texture Powder to boost hold while keeping things soft and flexible throughout.
Pompadour Taper Fade
The Pompadour Taper Fade features a smooth blend on the sides with height and flow on top. The top is blow-dried for lift and shaped back using finger control to keep the volume strong. Use Styling Cream for softness and flexibility, then apply Texture Powder to boost the hold without weighing it down. A clean, polished style with natural movement.
Mid Fade Pompadour
The Mid Fade Pompadour mixes clean sides with tall volume on top. The mid fade blends smoothly into a thick, lifted top that’s shaped upward using a blow-dryer and fingers. For styling, work in some Molding Paste to get texture and firm hold, then finish with Argan Oil for shine. This style brings bold structure with effortless charm.
Pompadour Quiff
The Pompadour Quiff mixes tall volume in the front with soft, relaxed texture. Hair is blow-dried upward, then shaped back using your fingers for a smooth, casual look. Apply Molding Paste to keep the style in place, and finish with Texture Clay to add natural texture. This look feels bold, stylish, and easy to wear every day.
High Fade Pompadour
The High Fade Pompadour shows off a clean skin fade with a tall top that flows back with smooth volume. Blow-dry upward to build lift, then shape the hair using your hands. Use Molding Paste to keep everything in place, and add Argan Oil for a soft, shiny finish. It’s bold, fresh, and easy to wear.
Pompadour Asian
The Pompadour for Asian stands out with lifted volume at the front and smooth sides that fade cleanly into the skin. Hair is blow-dried upward for height, then shaped with fingers for a soft yet structured look. Use Molding Paste to hold the shape and Texture Powder to boost lift while keeping everything light and touchable.
Medium Pompadour
The Medium Pompadour is all about smooth height and clean sides. Blow-dry the top upward for volume, then shape it using your fingers. Apply Molding Paste to hold the style and finish with Control Cream for a soft, polished look. This hairstyle feels fresh and stylish, giving off confident energy with just the right touch of sharpness.
Pompadour Mohawk
The Pompadour Mohawk combines a tall, lifted top with short faded sides for a bold, trendy look. Blow-dry the top upward, shape it with your fingers, and add Texture Powder to boost volume. Use Molding Paste to lock the style in place. This hairstyle stands out with its cool height, clean sides, and confident finish.
Pompadour with Beard
The Pompadour with Beard creates a bold contrast between sleek hair and rugged facial texture. Hair is blow-dried up and back for volume, then styled with Molding Paste for strong hold and natural shine. Control Cream helps keep everything smooth and defined. Paired with a shaped beard, this look feels powerful, clean, and full of modern attitude.
Extreme Pompadour
The Extreme Pompadour stands out with extra height and a sharp finish. Start by blow-drying the hair upward to build volume. Use Molding Paste to shape the top and Texture Clay for strong hold at the roots. Smooth down the sides with Control Cream for a clean look. This hairstyle gives off bold, confident, and modern energy.
Skin Fade Pompadour
The Skin Fade Pompadour mixes clean sides with bold volume on top. The skin fade creates a sharp contrast, while the top is blow-dried upward and shaped with your fingers. Use Molding Paste for flexible hold and add Texture Clay at the roots for lift. This look brings movement, texture, and a fresh edge to everyday styling.
Disconnected Pompadour
The Disconnected Pompadour features a sharp contrast between the long, lifted top and tightly faded sides. Blow-dry the hair upward for volume, then use your fingers to shape it into place. Apply Molding Paste for strong hold and Styling Cream to control frizz. The Disconnected Pompadour gives a bold, clean look with plenty of height and movement.
Pompadour Afro
The Pompadour Afro brings together classic shape and natural texture for a bold, modern look. The top is styled high with soft, rounded volume, while the sides stay neatly trimmed for contrast. Blow-dry gently with a diffuser, then shape using your fingers. Apply Texture Clay for hold and leave-in conditioner to keep curls healthy and defined.
Burst Fade Pompadour
The Burst Fade Pompadour mixes bold height with a smooth curved fade around the ears. The top is blow-dried upward for volume, then shaped with fingers to add texture and lift. Use Molding Paste to hold the style in place and Texture Powder to boost fullness. This cut gives a fresh, standout look with clean edges and strong personality.
Blonde Pompadour
The Burst Fade Pompadour mixes bold height with a smooth curved fade around the ears. The top is blow-dried upward for volume, then shaped with fingers to add texture and lift. Use Molding Paste to hold the style in place and Texture Powder to boost fullness. This cut gives a fresh, standout look with clean edges and strong personality.
Pompadour Drop Fade
The Pompadour Drop Fade mixes high volume on top with a smooth fade that curves low around the ears. Hair is blow-dried upward and shaped by hand to build natural height and texture. Use Molding Paste for flexible hold and Texture Powder for added lift. This style feels sharp, bold, and modern, great for standing out with effortless confidence.
Pompadour vs Other Haircuts
Pompadour vs Comb Over
The Pompadour vs Comb Over comparison comes down to direction and vibe.
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The pompadour lifts hair up and back for bold height and volume, styled with a blow-dryer and Molding Paste for shape and structure.
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The comb over sweeps hair to the side for a more classic, side-parted finish that feels neat and polished.
Both styles offer movement, but the pompadour is bolder and more dramatic, while the comb over leans clean and professional.
Pompadour vs Quiff
When comparing the Pompadour vs Quiff, it’s all about shape and styling texture.
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The pompadour pushes hair straight up and back for a smooth, controlled silhouette using Molding Paste and a round brush.
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The quiff creates volume too, but with a looser, messier bend, shaped by hand with Texture Clay for a lived-in, casual look.
Both hairstyles add lift and edge: the pompadour is sleek and refined, while the quiff is playful and effortlessly cool.
How to Choose the Right Pompadour
Choosing the perfect pompadour starts with understanding your hair type and face shape. Use this guide to find a style that fits you best.
Hair Type
Choose a pompadour that suits your hair texture:
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Thick hair provides natural lift and is ideal for bold, voluminous pompadours.
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Fine hair works best with shorter, tighter styles that hold shape without weighing down.
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Wavy or curly hair adds natural movement, just blow-dry gently and apply a styling cream to control the shape while keeping the texture defined.
Face Shape
Pick your pompadour based on face shape for the most flattering look:
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Round faces benefit from taller pompadours that add vertical height and slim the profile.
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Square faces pair well with softer, more rounded volume to balance strong angles.
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Oval faces can pull off most pompadour styles with ease.
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Long faces should stick to lower-volume styles to avoid adding visual length.
How to Ask Your Barber for a Pompadour
Getting the perfect pompadour starts with clear communication. Use these tips to guide your consultation and avoid common misunderstandings at the barbershop.
Show a Reference Image
Bring a clear photo of the pompadour you want. Visuals help your barber understand the exact length, height, and fade you prefer avoiding miscommunication. This ensures your pompadour matches your expectations and suits your hair type.
Avoid Mistakes
Avoid vague requests like “just a trim.” Instead, explain top length, side style (fade, taper, or undercut), and fringe shape. Don’t skip asking for advice based on your face shape and hair texture this keeps your pompadour balanced and flattering.
How to Style a Pompadour
Styling a pompadour takes the right technique and tools. Follow these simple steps to build volume, create structure, and keep your look lasting all day.
Prep the Hair
Start with clean, towel-dried hair. Wash with volumizing shampoo and conditioner to remove buildup. Clean hair boosts product effectiveness and helps your pompadour hold its shape with more lift and definition.
Pomp Up the Volume
Spray sea salt spray or apply volumizing mousse while hair is damp. These pre-styling products add grit and lift, giving your pompadour height, texture, and a fuller appearance before blow-drying.
Blow-Dry for Shape
Use a blow dryer and round brush to lift hair upward and back. Direct airflow from roots to ends to build volume and structure. Focus on shaping the front into a defined pompadour curve.
Lock in the Style
Finish by applying pomade, clay, or putty to add hold and shine. Style with fingers or a comb, then mist with hairspray to keep your pompadour fresh, full, and in place all day.
How to Maintain a Pompadour
To keep your pompadour looking fresh and full, follow this maintenance guide that covers proper trimming frequency and styling habits for every hair type.
Regular Barber Visits
Visit your barber every 2-4 weeks to keep your pompadour’s shape clean and balanced. Regular trims prevent the sides from growing out unevenly and stop the top from getting too heavy or flat. Keeping the neckline and fade sharp also maintains that fresh-from-the-barbershop look.
Daily Hair Routine
Start your routine with a sea salt spray or volumizing mousse on damp hair for added lift. Blow-dry using a round or vent brush to shape the top backward. Then, apply matte clay or pomade for texture and control. Fine hair benefits from light products and lift at the roots, while thick or curly hair may need more hold. Finish with a touch of hairspray to lock everything in place all day.
Best Hair Products For a Pompadour
The right products make or break a pompadour. These styling and care essentials help you build volume, hold shape, and maintain a polished finish.
Styling Cream
Use styling cream to shape a soft, natural pompadour. It adds light hold, smooth texture, and control perfect for fine or wavy hair types.
Molding Paste
Molding paste gives your pompadour flexible hold and separation. Great for building volume and layering with a relaxed, touchable finish all day long.
Texture Clay
Texture clay provides strong hold and matte volume. Ideal for sculpting tall pompadours or messy textured styles without looking greasy or heavy.
Pomade
Pomade adds classic shine and firm hold to your pompadour. Perfect for slick styles and high-volume looks that stay sharp from day to night.
Sea Salt Spray
Use sea salt spray mist on damp hair to boost volume and create natural texture. It’s a great pre-styler for lifted, airy pompadour styles.
Texture Powder
Texture powder gives instant lift at the roots. Use it to refresh flat pompadours, add volume, and create structure without adding weight or shine.
Clarifying Shampoo
Clarifying shampoo deeply cleans product buildup from pomade or clay. Use weekly to keep your pompadour fresh, bouncy, and scalp healthy.
Hydrating Conditioner
Hydrating conditioner softens hair, controls frizz, and restores moisture. It keeps your pompadour smooth, manageable, and ready for heat styling or daily shaping.
FAQs: Pompadour Haircuts for Men
What is a pompadour?
A pompadour is a hairstyle where the hair is swept upward and back from the forehead, creating height, volume, and a sleek silhouette.
Is pompadour a hairstyle or haircut?
The pompadour is a hairstyle, not a specific haircut. It’s created through styling techniques applied to medium-length or longer hair on top.
What is the difference between a quiff and a pompadour?
A quiff lifts the front hair slightly and leans back casually. A pompadour has more volume, height, and a smoother, more polished look.
Who suits a pompadour?
Men with oval, square, or diamond face shapes suit pompadours best. The height adds balance and elongates round or shorter facial structures.
Is the pompadour attractive?
Yes, the pompadour is widely considered attractive. Its bold shape, clean styling, and timeless vibe make it a favorite among stylish men.
Are pompadours still in style?
Absolutely. Modern pompadours remain trendy, with updated fades, textured tops, and low-maintenance versions making them relevant for today’s fashion-conscious men.
How long does hair have to be for a pompadour?
You’ll need at least 4 to 6 inches of length on top to style a pompadour and create enough volume and structure.
How do I ask my barber for a pompadour?
Ask your barber for a pompadour with your preferred fade or taper. Mention the top length and if you want a classic or modern version.
How do I get a pompadour?
Wash, apply a volumizing pre-styler, blow-dry upward with a brush, then finish with pomade or clay to sculpt the pompadour’s signature shape.
What products should I use for a modern pompadour?
Use a sea salt spray for volume, a blow dryer for lift, and a matte clay or pomade for flexible hold and definition.
How can I make my pompadour last all day?
Apply a strong-hold pre-styler, blow-dry for structure, and lock it in with a matte-finish product to resist humidity and keep volume high.
Is a pompadour high maintenance?
A pompadour needs regular styling and trims. While modern versions are easier, the style still requires effort to maintain volume and shape daily.