Slicked back hairstyles continue to be one of the trendiest styles out there and it’s easy to see why. They’re extremely chic and can pull your look together, whether you want something more casual for running errands or need a sleek look for an event. It’s also the perfect hairstyle for second or third day hair when you don’t have time for a wash. The sleek look works for a ponytail, half up look, bun, or with your hair down. All you have to do is find your signature style. Here are 9 slicked back hairstyles for women you’re going to love!
5 Tips and Products for the Perfect Slicked Back Look
1. Prep your hair
If you want to create a slicked back bun or ponytail, prep your hair with a leave-in conditioner to smooth frizz and flyaways. Spray it in from roots to ends to condition your strands and add some heat protection. You may also want to straighten your hair with a flat iron if it’s textured and you’re looking for a super smooth look.
2. Part the top section of your hair
This is a key part of the slicked back look that many people miss, but you need to section off the top part of your hair away from the rest of your locks. Clip it on the top of your head to get it out of the way, then brush the rest of your hair with a paddle brush.
3. Brush it into a ponytail
Brush the bottom section of your hair into a ponytail, making sure it’s smooth and there aren’t any lumps or bumps. Before tying it with an elastic, use a hair wax stick to slick it back as much as possible. Once it’s totally sleek, you can set it in place with a hair elastic.
4. Part your hair
Now it’s time to take the top section of your hair out of the clip and create your part. Middle parts are still very much on trend, but side parts have made their way back to the beauty forefront as well. Use a tail comb to create your parting, then pull your hair back, joining it to your ponytail. Use your wax stick and a boar bristle brush to slick your hair back exactly how you want it to look.
5. Finishing touches
Leave your hair in a ponytail, place it into a bun, or create a braided ponytail going down your back. The great thing about a slicked back look is that it works with pretty much any hairstyle! Finish off with a good dose of hairspray to set everything in place.
9 Slicked Back Hairstyles for Women
1. Casual Slicked Back Bun
The slicked back bun has become a cool girl staple. Perfect for running errands, heading to a Pilates class, or walking your dog, if you’re in a pinch, a slicked back bun offers a quick and easy way to throw your hair up while looking extremely chic.
2. Slicked Back High Ponytail
If you want to add some sleekness to your high ponytail, this slicked back look is the way to go. Slick back the top of your hair and add a wave to your ponytail with a flat iron to elevate the look. It’s perfect for a night out on the town.
3. Slicked Half Up Half Down Look
If you don’t want to wear your hair up but still want it out of your face, opt for a slicked back half up half down look. It’s super elegant and really brings attention to the face. Make sure to apply a generous amount of gel or styling cream to the top half of your hair to ensure it stays in place.
4. Slicked Back Low Ponytail
A slicked back low ponytail is incredibly chic and although the look itself is simple, you can dress it up with accessories and a bold lip. We love how it’s paired here with a low cut dress, but it would work just as well with a nigher cut top like a mock neck or turtleneck.
5. Slicked Back Messy Bun
For a quick and casual look, this slicked back messy bun is super easy to create. Slick back the top of your hair by following the directions above, place your hair in a ponytail, then style it up into a messy bun. It’s perfect for when you’re low on time, but want something chic.
6. Slicked Back Braid
A slicked back braid is another simple yet trendy look. Slick back your hair as you would for a high ponytail, and instead of leaving it in a pony, braid it down your back. Secure the bottom with an elastic and you have a super sleek look.
7. Slicked Back Hair Down Look
If you have an event to go to, turn heads with a slicked back hair down look. You’ll want to start with clean, damp hair for this look, and prep it with smoothing balm before blow drying with a round brush to prevent frizzing. Apply a shine cream from the roots through to your mid-shaft and use a brush to set your hair in place. Finish off with a generous spray of hairspray, focusing on your roots and mid-shaft.
8. ‘Clean Girl’ Slick Bun Tutorial | daisy louisa
If you’re more of a visual learner, check out this tutorial where she shows you exactly how to get the ‘clean girl’ slicked back bun. It’s super quick and easy, so you can do it on the regular and is an extremely versatile look. You’ll need products like a boar bristle brush, hair wax stick, and the got2b Glued Hairspray.
9. How To: Sleek Ponytail Tutorial | Sloan Byrd
This tutorial walks you through the products, tools, and technique to get a chic slicked back ponytail. It’s super detailed yet simple and will help you get the look in minutes. She uses products like the TRESemmé Extra Hold Hairspray, a leave-in conditioner, and the Sol de Janeiro Nourishing Hair Oil. Follow her tips and steps to get the sleek look.
We hope you loved these tips on how to create the perfect slicked back look, whether you want to wear it up, down or somewhere in between.
This post contains affiliate links.
Did you enjoy this round up of slicked back hairstyles for women? We’d love it if you shared this post on Pinterest!
Looking for more hair tips and tutorials? Make sure to follow our Beauty Board on Pinterest!