Let’s be real - the pompadour has been dominating men’s hair trends for the past few years. You’ve probably seen this iconic style everywhere, in long, short, and various styled versions, even if you didn’t know what it was called.
Where Did the Pompadour Come From?
Believe it or not, the pompadour originated as a women’s hairstyle. It was named after Madame de Pompadour, the mistress of King Louis XV, who made it famous in the 18th century. Back then, women would sweep their front hair into a voluminous bump and secure it with ties or pins.
The inspiration for one of the most popular men's hairstyles today actually comes from a woman in the 18th century.
“King” Elvis
The pompadour got a modern twist in the 1950s and '60s when legends like Elvis Presley, James Dean, and John Travolta rocked it. Fast forward to today, and the pompadour is back in full force, riding the wave of vintage-inspired fashion trends.
The Classic Pompadour
The classic pompadour is easy to spot - it’s defined by long hair on top and sides that are kept at a moderate length. The key to this look is the length of the hair.
To get the perfect classic pompadour, ask your barber to stick to scissors, avoiding clippers or razors. This creates a softer, more natural shape that hugs the head and gives that old-school feel.
The Modern Pompadour
Today's version of the pompadour has evolved, and you’ll often see celebrities like David Beckham and Justin Timberlake sporting a modern take. This style features shorter, often shaved sides, creating an undercut that contrasts with the long top hair. In some cases, the top hair can be so long that it reaches the nose or even the lips.
The hair is typically combed back, with a slight tilt to one side to emphasize the signature pompadour "bump." Balancing the length of the top and sides is crucial. For example, if your top hair is long, the sides should be kept slightly longer, not too close. If you're going for a close shave on the sides, trim the top to a more moderate length to keep things proportional.
How to Style a Pompadour
For the classic pompadour, pomade is your best friend, delivering that slick, shiny finish. If you're going for the modern version, feel free to experiment with different products, from pomades to waxes or clays.
For added volume, use a pre-styler along with a blow dryer before applying your main styling product. This helps to create that iconic pompadour bump.
Whether or not to use a comb depends on the look you're going for. If you want a neat, polished appearance, definitely grab a comb. But for a more natural, textured vibe, use your fingers to scrunch the hair as you style it.
Top Product Recommendations for Styling a Pompadour
Reuzel Grooming Tonic: Ideal as a pre-styler, apply to damp hair before blow-drying for volume and a rough texture.
Reuzel Pink Pomade: Perfect for a high-shine finish with a strong hold.
O'Douds Water-Based Pomade: Soft and flexible, this is great for a classic pompadour.
Hanz de Fuko Claymation: For volume and strong hold with a matte finish.
Hanz de Fuko Quicksand: Adds insane volume, especially for thinner hair, giving it a thickening effect.
The pompadour’s enduring popularity is a testament to its versatility and style. Whether you’re going for a classic or modern look, it’s a hairstyle that never fails to impress.
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