27 Slicked-Back Hairstyles That Look Effortlessly Sleek

In a world where style meets substance, few hairstyles strike the perfect balance between sophistication and modernity quite like the slicked-back look. Whether you’re channeling boardroom-ready polish or red-carpet-ready glamour, slicked-back hairstyles offer a timeless appeal with a fresh, contemporary edge. This versatile style has evolved far beyond its classic roots — today’s iterations range from ultra-glossy and razor-sharp to softly textured and effortlessly undone, making it ideal for any occasion, hair type, or face shape.

From sleek low buns and high ponytails to wet-look finishes and braided twists, 27 Slicked-Back Hairstyles That Look Effortlessly Sleek brings you the most inspiring and wearable takes on this ever-evolving trend. These looks prove that slicked back doesn’t mean stiff or overly styled — instead, they embrace movement, shine, and a touch of attitude that elevates your entire aesthetic.

Whether you’re rocking natural curls, straight strands, or anything in between, this curated collection showcases how to wear the slicked-back trend with confidence, grace, and a modern twist. Ready to discover the ultimate blend of chic and easy? Let these 27 stunning styles inspire your next polished yet perfectly pulled-together look.

Classic Slick Back

There’s something so effortlessly cool about the ability to arrive on the red carpet with a signature slicked-back hairstyle, as seen here on Alessandra Ambrosio. However, it’s important to note that most slicked-back styles are not as low-maintenance as they appear. “The celebrities that do this look on the red carpet know they are not made for movement,” celebrity hairstylist, Joseph Maine says.

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Twisted Buns

Hailey Bieber’s take on the slicked-back ‘do brings romance to the table with a deep side part and twisted-back baby buns. Fuse this trend with a hair bow to add a coquette spin to the look.

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Wet Hair

When combining an over-the-top gown and a bold, dark lip color, it’s no surprise that Lizzo opted for a “wet” hairstyle to complete the look. The understated nature of this hairstyle keeps the focus on her dress and makeup, preventing this dramatic fashion statement from becoming too busy.

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Pulled-Back Curls

The slicked-back look can easily be achieved with any and every hair type, no matter the texture. Here, Marsai Martin strikes a balance between sleek and voluminous, pulling back her roots while allowing the rest of her natural curls to shine in a ponytail.

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Sky-High Coif

Slicked-back hairstyles can sometimes seem repetitive, which is why this multi-direction voluminous moment from Selma Blair is one of our favorites. While her bob may not be packed with length, the actress makes the most of her layers with this coiffed style.

Byrdie Tip

DePaca recommends adding some texture with hairspray to achieve more volume.

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Voluminous Roots

Estelle’s look proves you don’t have to sacrifice volume for sheen. For a gravity-defying slicked-back hairstyle, you’ll want to use plenty of hairspray, a blow dryer, and teasing to get height at the roots. When drying, be careful not to dent the hair, as that will stand out once the style is set.

Byrdie Tip

Maine recommends using creaseless clips to set the look without denting the hair.

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Sleek Pixie

Seriously sleek hair isn’t just for those with longer strands. Here, Grace Elizabeth demonstrates how well this style translates to super short, pixie-cut lengths. When attempting to slick back short hair, it’s easy to overdo it on products. “When I apply product, I always use a very small amount and then add as needed. Less is always better than too much,” hairstylist, Jonathon DePaca says.

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Slicked-Back Bob

The key to any slicked-back hairstyle is using the correct products. “So much of the red-carpet look starts with the prep,” Maine says. “Moisturizing products in the prep will help create that texture. Use an anti-frizz treatment, spray all throughout, and blow-dry.” You can still add a wave or curl afterward, Maine adds. “If you’re looking for a drier finish [as seen on] Gal Gadot, using a flexible hairspray is perfect.”

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Loose Ends

For a combed-back wet look similar to Petra Němcová, it is important to consider the rest of your look. This same style with a darker outfit or bolder makeup might have appeared busy, but the appearance of heavy-weighted hair, as seen above, does wonders for her ensemble.

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Deep Part

Slicked-back styles don’t always have to look “wet,” but if that’s the look you’re going for, you may want to focus on specific styling products. “If you like a more wet or glossy look, using a hair serum will add some hold and give it that glossy finish without using something heavy like gel or drying out your hair as a regular hairspray might,” Maine says.

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Front and Center

Sleek can still be shiny without the weight of a hair gel. Maine says using hairspray is always best when attempting slicked-down styles like Constance Wu’s stylish center part. This allows you to tame flyaways for a smooth finish.

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Shiny Mullet

It’s possible to achieve an unbelievably shiny slicked-back hairstyle—like Saweetie’s mullet. “For a slick and effortless hairdo, I highly recommend any product that brings shine to the hair or a product that helps to smooth the texture and control frizz,” DePaca says.

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Textured Slick Back

Slicked-back hairstyles are not only for straight strands. Yara Shahidi’s curly ponytail comes with sleek yet wavy roots—a perfect way to embrace this style without sacrificing your natural texture. “Using the right products will help keep the curly texture in your hair while slicking it back,” Maine says.

Byrdie Tip

Those with curly or wavy hair will want to use more hydrating products like leave-in conditioners or hair masks before applying hold products like gel or hairspray.

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Up and Back

Slicked-back updos are an ultra-chic option for formal events. “My first tip would be having good tools to perform the look—like brushes, products, et cetera,” DePaca says. “My second technique would be to create tension for a strong hold. Once the hair is pulled back, add a veil of hairspray and brush very lightly through to control any fuzz and create a nice and polished result.”

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Statement Bangs

Just because the bulk of your hair is slicked back doesn’t mean you can’t experiment with bold styling in the front. We love a side-swept bangs moment, as demonstrated by Anitta. The wispy piece here creates visual intrigue on an otherwise dialed-back hairdo.

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Side Slick

Sleek styles don’t always require combing your hair straight back. Feel free to part your hair as usual with a side or middle part, then smooth it down on the sides. This is an excellent option if you have shorter hair, or want to create a low bun or ponytail.

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Tucked Ends

Ease your way into the slicked-back trend with some sleek roots. “A great tip is hiding the front panels of your hair,” Maine says. “Do this by starting with a middle part, taking the front panels of hair (as if you were creating a triangle), following it back behind the ears, and making a ponytail at the nape of the neck. This will help keep those parts that might normally be a pain to keep tucking behind the ear in place without a bunch of bobby pins.”

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High Ponytail

A structured high ponytail is a great complement to any slicked-back look, but it’s important to start with an even base. DePaca recommends smoothing out any fuzz or frizz. Then, prep your hair with a nice blowout a day ahead and add shine with a serum or gloss.

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Structural Slick

Slicked back does not necessarily mean flat. Megan Thee Stallion’s red-hot geometric updo is the perfect example of a sleek look that still manages to pull off lots of volume. Dramatic, smooth side bangs add movement to the structural look.

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Low Chignon

The chignon is a timeless way to wear the slicked-back look, whether on the red carpet or on a casual day. “It’s not only one of my favorites, but it’s a very simple way to look extremely elegant,” says DePaca. “The chignon has always been here, and it will always be around.”

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Half Up, Half Down

Jennifer Lopez is the reigning queen of slicked-back hairstyles. While we usually see her golden blonde hair in a high ponytail or bun, the singer switched it up with a half-up, half-down hairstyle. Here, she keeps the top half of her hair sleek and smooth, adding volume to the look with a tall ponytail.

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Slicked Back With a Wave

Need inspo on how to spruce up a slicked-back bun? Take notes from Florence Pugh, who added a dramatic wavy accent to the look. You can achieve this by combing your hair back and leaving a chunk of hair loose. Once complete, use a fine-tooth comb or brush to create a wave effect, sealing it with gel and/or hairspray of your choice. If needed, use bobby pins to hold it into place.

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Subtly Slick

The “wet” hair look doesn’t need to look, or feel, drenched. The key is to use lightweight products that still give off the effect, as seen on Alexa Chung. We recommend relying on oil, a dime-size bit of gel, and hairspray to recreate Chung’s deep-parted ‘do.

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Swirly Sleek

Slicked-back hairstyles don’t have to be one and done. For times when you want to switch things up, we suggest throwing in a cutesy swirl to the mix.

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Extra Long Length

Buns aren’t the only way to achieve a sleek look. We love how Normani nails the trend with slicked-down edges and a sky-high, and extra long, ponytail.

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Face-Framing Pieces

A slicked-back ponytail with wavy, face-framing pieces is a quick and easy way to give your look some character without much effort.

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Retro and Sleek

Retro-inspired hairstyles are on the rise, giving us much-needed inspo to spruce up the classic slicked-back look. While it might take time to DIY the above look at home, we’re here for these red-carpet gelled swirls.