You’re fresh back from the barbershop with a game changing new haircut. You went with the timeless classic, popularised in the 50s and 60s, and sported by the King of Rock himself. The pompadour. Elvis might have had someone on hand to help him make it, though. So, the next morning, how do you style a pompadour?
The pompadour does take a little bit of time to get right, you’ll also need a little experience with waxes and pomades. They come in a few varieties, cut into fades and undercuts, messy or textured and slicked back or combed over. With around 3-5 inches of hair on top, and short at the sides, your focus should be on the front, where it needs volume.
What is a pompadour hairstyle?
The pompadour is a hairstyle known for its striking silhouette, featuring voluminous hair swept upwards and back from the forehead. Its defining characteristics include shorter or tapered sides, contrasting with the bold height and shape of the top.
The pompadour’s origins can be traced back to 18th-century France, where it was popularised by Madame de Pompadour, a mistress of King Louis XV. Initially a women’s hairstyle, it became prominent in men’s grooming during the mid-20th century. Elvis Presley propelled the pompadour into cultural significance, making it a hallmark of the rock ‘n’ roll era.
Since then, it has evolved into a modern favourite, with variations ranging from polished and sleek to casual and textured. Whether you prefer a classic appearance or a more contemporary twist, the pompadour remains a timeless choice for those who want their hairstyle to stand out.
How to style your pompadour
Styling a pompadour requires the right products, tools, and techniques to achieve its signature volume and hold. It’s a step-by-step process that ensures your hair stays sleek, structured, and full of life.
Start with clean, damp hair as your base. Use a lightweight shampoo and conditioner to add body without weighing your hair down, and towel dry until slightly damp.
1. Apply the right product
Choose a pomade or wax depending on the finish you prefer. For a shiny, classic look, opt for pomade; for a matte, textured style, use wax. Warm a small amount in your hands and evenly distribute it through your hair, focusing on the roots and the front section.
2. Blow-dry for volume
Use a round brush to lift the front section of your hair as you blow-dry. Direct the airflow upwards to create height, shaping the pompadour while drying. Finish with a cool setting to lock in the volume.
3. Shape the pompadour
Comb or brush the top section of your hair backwards and upwards, creating the signature height. Smooth the sides back for a sleeker look or leave them slightly tousled for a more casual finish. Adjust the front to achieve the desired curve and shape.
4. Set the style
For lasting hold, apply a finishing layer of hairspray or a stronger pomade. Use a comb with slightly damp teeth for a glossy, refined finish, or your fingers for a more natural texture.
Tips for maintaining your pompadour
Keeping your pompadour looking sharp isn’t just about the initial styling, it’s also about maintaining its shape and health. With proper care, your pomp will stay impressive day after day.
Your style will benefit from regular trims to keep the sides neat and the top manageable. Schedule a visit to your barber every 2–4 weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows. This ensures your haircut retains its proportions and doesn’t lose its structure.
Choose the right products for your hair type. If you have thick or coarse hair, opt for stronger hold products to ensure your style stays in place throughout the day. For finer hair, a lighter product may work better to avoid weighing it down. Keep your hair healthy with regular conditioning treatments to maintain its strength and volume, and avoid excessive heat styling, which can damage the hair over time.
With consistent care and the right techniques, your pompadour will remain a stylish and bold statement.
Why the pompadour remains a favourite
The enduring appeal of the pompadour is due to its versatility and boldness. It’s a style that can be adapted to suit special events, casual outings or anything in between. Pair it with a fade for a modern twist or stick to the classic slick-back for a vintage feel.
If you fancy a new look, and perhaps even your first pomp, you can click here to book to see one of our barbers. With Chaps & Co, you can book a haircut online and achieve the look you’re after.
You’re fresh back from the barbershop with a game changing new haircut. You went with the timeless classic, popularised in the 50s and 60s, and sported by the King of Rock himself. The pompadour. Elvis might have had someone on hand to help him make it, though. So, the next morning, how do you style a pompadour?
The pompadour does take a little bit of time to get right, you’ll also need a little experience with waxes and pomades. They come in a few varieties, cut into fades and undercuts, messy or textured and slicked back or combed over. With around 3-5 inches of hair on top, and short at the sides, your focus should be on the front, where it needs volume.
What is a pompadour hairstyle?
The pompadour is a hairstyle known for its striking silhouette, featuring voluminous hair swept upwards and back from the forehead. Its defining characteristics include shorter or tapered sides, contrasting with the bold height and shape of the top.
The pompadour’s origins can be traced back to 18th-century France, where it was popularised by Madame de Pompadour, a mistress of King Louis XV. Initially a women’s hairstyle, it became prominent in men’s grooming during the mid-20th century. Elvis Presley propelled the pompadour into cultural significance, making it a hallmark of the rock ‘n’ roll era.
Since then, it has evolved into a modern favourite, with variations ranging from polished and sleek to casual and textured. Whether you prefer a classic appearance or a more contemporary twist, the pompadour remains a timeless choice for those who want their hairstyle to stand out.
How to style your pompadour
Styling a pompadour requires the right products, tools, and techniques to achieve its signature volume and hold. It’s a step-by-step process that ensures your hair stays sleek, structured, and full of life.
Start with clean, damp hair as your base. Use a lightweight shampoo and conditioner to add body without weighing your hair down, and towel dry until slightly damp.
1. Apply the right product
Choose a pomade or wax depending on the finish you prefer. For a shiny, classic look, opt for pomade; for a matte, textured style, use wax. Warm a small amount in your hands and evenly distribute it through your hair, focusing on the roots and the front section.
2. Blow-dry for volume
Use a round brush to lift the front section of your hair as you blow-dry. Direct the airflow upwards to create height, shaping the pompadour while drying. Finish with a cool setting to lock in the volume.
3. Shape the pompadour
Comb or brush the top section of your hair backwards and upwards, creating the signature height. Smooth the sides back for a sleeker look or leave them slightly tousled for a more casual finish. Adjust the front to achieve the desired curve and shape.
4. Set the style
For lasting hold, apply a finishing layer of hairspray or a stronger pomade. Use a comb with slightly damp teeth for a glossy, refined finish, or your fingers for a more natural texture.
Tips for maintaining your pompadour
Keeping your pompadour looking sharp isn’t just about the initial styling, it’s also about maintaining its shape and health. With proper care, your pomp will stay impressive day after day.
Your style will benefit from regular trims to keep the sides neat and the top manageable. Schedule a visit to your barber every 2–4 weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows. This ensures your haircut retains its proportions and doesn’t lose its structure.
Choose the right products for your hair type. If you have thick or coarse hair, opt for stronger hold products to ensure your style stays in place throughout the day. For finer hair, a lighter product may work better to avoid weighing it down. Keep your hair healthy with regular conditioning treatments to maintain its strength and volume, and avoid excessive heat styling, which can damage the hair over time.
With consistent care and the right techniques, your pompadour will remain a stylish and bold statement.
Why the pompadour remains a favourite
The enduring appeal of the pompadour is due to its versatility and boldness. It’s a style that can be adapted to suit special events, casual outings or anything in between. Pair it with a fade for a modern twist or stick to the classic slick-back for a vintage feel.
If you fancy a new look, and perhaps even your first pomp, you can click here to book to see one of our barbers. With Chaps & Co, you can book a haircut online and achieve the look you’re after.
