The pompadour is a bold hairstyle, perfect for those looking to add height, volume and drama to their look. This classic style has evolved over the years, from the rockabilly-inspired pompadours of the 1950’s to modern interpretations with a variety of fades and textures. The pompadour is an excellent choice for all hair types, including straight, wavy and curly as it can be adapted to suit different preferences and face shapes.
What is the Pompadour?
The pompadour is a voluminous hairstyle where the hair is swept upwards and back, featuring more volume at the top and shorter at the sides, which creates a dramatic, elevated look. This is an extremely versatile style and can be interpreted into many variations, including fades, undercuts and textured finishes.
The Difference Between the Quiff and Pompadour
Both the quiff and the pompadour feature volume at the front, however the pompadour is characterised by more height and a backward sweep, whereas the quiff is often more forward-facing with less volume at the back. The quiff is slightly more subtle compared to the bold, dramatic pompadour, making it ideal for those who want volume but a more laid-back look. The pompadour is perfect for someone looking for a statement hairstyle, while the quiff offers a more relaxed, everyday style.
The Origins of the Pompadour
The pompadour originated in the 18th century, named after Madame de Pompadour, the mistress of King Louis XV of France. The style became popular in the 1950s, particularly among rockabilly musicians and icons like Elvis Presley, who made the pompadour a symbol of rebellion and rock ‘n’ roll. The pompadour has evolved over the years, from vintage looks to more versatile hairstyles that work for men and women alike.
Key Considerations for a Pompadour
Hair Type
Choosing the right pompadour style all comes down to hair texture. Those with straight hair can easily achieve a sleek, structured pompadour whilst those with curly hair may need added volume and texture to create a balanced look. Here at Rush, our stylists can customise the height and volume of the pompadour depending on your hair type for the best results.
Face Shape
Different variations of the pompadour can compliment various face shapes. For round faces, opting for a heightened pompadour will help elongate the face whilst square or angular faces will benefit from softer, rounded edges. Experimenting with slight modifications to the pompadours shape will enhance facial features.
Lifestyle and Maintenance
When selecting a pompadour style, it is important that the style aligns with your daily grooming routine. The classic pompadour needs minimal maintenance so is great for those with less time in their grooming routine. Whereas, the modern pompadour is a more bold look and may require regular touch ups.
Volume and Shape
Maintaining the volume at the top of your head is extremely important for a pompadour. Using styling products such as a mousse or volumising spray will help create height and hold. Going for regular trims will help keep the pompadour shape and also keep layers defined and sharp.
Styling Preferences
Consulting with your stylist about how much volume you prefer and whether you’d like a more structured or relaxed pompadour will allow the style to be tailored specifically to you. The pompadour can be adapted to suit both formal and casual styles, depending on your styling preferences.
Top 19 Pompadour Hairstyles
1. Classic Pompadour
A classic pompadour features hair swept upwards and back, away from the face with a voluminous, rounded shape at the front. This timeless classic is often associated with the 1950’s and celebrities such as Elvis Presley. The sides are typically shorter, often tapered or faded whilst the top is kept longer. Seen on celebrities such as David Beckham.
Best for – this style is best for those with fine, straight hair and looks best with a well-groomed beard.
Styling Tip – focus on the front and direct the hair up and backwards to achieve the most volume.
2. Disconnected Pompadour
This variation of the classic pompadour features the back of the hair and sides cut significantly shorter creating a distinct separation or disconnection from the longer hair on top. This style emphasises the height and length on top. Seen on celebrities such as Zac Efron.
Best for – the disconnected pompadour is best for those with thick, straight hair and round or square face shapes. The disconnection allows for the height and volume needed for the style to be effectively achieved.
Styling Tip – focus on creating a sharp contrast between the longer, styled top and shorter back and sides.
3. Short Pompadour
Unlike the classic pompadour which often has scissor cut sides, the short pompadour typically features faded or clipped sides. Whilst the hair on top is still swept upwards and towards the back, it’s generally shorter than the classic pompadour, resulting in a classic, more wearable look. Seen on celebrities such as Zayn Malik.
Best for – this style is great for someone looking for a modern take on the classic pompadour, especially those with more squarer face shapes as the added height can help balance facial features.
Styling Tip – focus on building height and volume at the front using a hairdryer and a round brush, use a strong hold product to maintain the shape.
4. Medium Fade Pompadour
The medium fade pompadour features a gradual fade on the sides and back that starts around the temple and blends into longer hair on the top. This style is a modern take on the classic style and is extremely versatile. Seen on celebrities such as Adam Lambert.
Best for – this style is best for those with thicker hair and can be adapted for any hair type.
Styling Tip – apply a thickening paste thoroughly to your roots for added volume.
5. Curly Pompadour
This style uses natural curls to create the signature height and volume of a pompadour, rather than relying on sleek, straight styling. It features curls on top, styled upwards and backwards. The key is to embrace the natural curl pattern, rather than trying to straighten it. Seen on celebrities such as Mark Ronson.
Best for – this style is best for those with curly hair who want to embrace their natural texture.
Styling Tip – build volume at the front by using a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer to enhance your natural curls.
6. Long Trim Pompadour
This versatile style can be adapted to many different looks including slicked back to a more loose, textured appearance. The focus is on creating volume and a swept-back, rounded shape in the front. Seen on celebrities such as Bruno Mars.
Best For – this style is best for those with oval, square and round face shapes as the volume on top helps balance the proportions of the face.
Styling Tip – focus on building volume at the front while keeping the sides and back neat and tapered.
7. Razor Faded Pompadour
This style features long hair on the top, styled into a classic pompadour shape with the sides and back shaved down to the skin to create a high contrast. This is a popular choice for those who want to combine traditional styling with a modern twist. Seen on celebrities such as Michael B Jordan.
Best For – this is best for those with medium to thick hair as it requires sufficient volume on top to create the signature shape.
Styling Tip – finish with a pomade for shine and hold, especially on the sides to create a sleek look.
8. Modern Pompadour
The modern pompadour is a contemporary version of the classic but incorporates a more relaxed and textured finish compared to the overly polished classic pompadour. This style still features more volume on top but features a slightly messier and undone look. Seen on celebrities such as Harry Styles.
Best for – this style is great for those with square and oval faces as the height and volume can accentuate the angles.
Styling Tip – maintain a good length on top and use your fingers to create texture.
9. Pompadour With Low Fade
The pompadour with low fade features the classic pompadour shape with gradual blending of hair length. The low fade starts close to the hairline above the ears, this creates a subtle, clean transition between the longer hair on top and shorter hair on the sides and back. Seen on celebrities such as Justin Timberlake.
Best for – this style is great for those with round faces as it can create a more elongated appearance.
Styling Tip – use a comb to further define the pompadour’s shape to create a smooth, sculpted look.
10. Wavy Pompadour
The wavy pompadour offers a softer, more relaxed look whilst still maintaining a sense of height and style. By working with natural waves, it will create a voluminous yet controlled shape on top, with the sides neatly faded. Seen on celebrities such as Nick Wooster.
Best for – this style is great for those with wavy hair, especially 2A to 2C as it thrives on the natural wave pattern.
Styling Tip – use a hairdryer and round brush to create height and direct the hair backwards.
11. Slicked Backed Pompadour
This style features a voluminous section of hair swept back from the forehead, often with shorter sides and back emphasising volume on top while maintaining a sleek, polished appearance. Seen on celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio.
Best for – naturally straight hair is the easiest to style into a slicked back pompadour, especially those with thicker hair as it will hold the style the best.
Styling Tip – using a pomade or wax will help define the style, use your fingers to run this through your hair.
12. Hard Part Pompadour
The hard part pompadour features a modern twist on the classic pompadour. It combines the traditional volume and sweep of the style, with a clean, angular break created by the hard part. The hard part is cut or shaved into the hair and the hair on top is styled upwards and back. Seen on celebrities such as Cole Sprouse.
Best for – this style is best for those with oval and round faces as it compliments the balanced proportions of these face shapes.
Styling Tip – slick down the sides with pomade to ensure a clean separation from the top.
13. Textured Relaxed Pompadour
In comparison to the classic pompadour, this style features a more natural, tousled look which emphasises volume and movement in the hair on top with a slightly messy and undone finish. Seen on celebrities such as Harry Styles.
Best for – this style is great for those with thicker hair as it allows for more volume. It is also best for those looking for a style with minimum styling.
Styling Tip – avoid using a comb for a too structured look, instead, use your fingers to shape the waves and add volume.
14. Short Pompadour with High Fade
This modern variation of the classic pompadour features a dramatic contrast between the long, styled hair on top and the closely shaved sides and back. The high fade involves a gradual reduction in hair length from top down to the scalp. Seen on celebrities such as Justin Timberlake.
Best for – this style is great for those with round faces, the high fade creates the illusion of length and angles, making them appear more chiselled.
Styling Tip – blowdry hair upwards and backwards and use a round brush to create lift and shape.
15. Loose Pompadour with Shaved Sides
A loose pompadour with shaved sides is characterised by its short sides and slightly tousled top that is styled into a loose, less structured pompadour shape. This bold look offers a strong contrast between the short sides and longer top. Seen on celebrities such as Nick Jonas.
Best for – this style works best for those with thick, straight hair as it is easier to style and can maintain the volume needed for a pompadour.
Styling Tip – consider a textured cut on top to enhance the loose, undone look.
16. Side Part Pompadour
The side part pompadour features a prominent, elevated section of hair at the front, which is brushed back and upwards from a side part, creating a distinct separation. The sides and back are usually tapered or faded, adding to the overall sharpness. Seen on celebrities such as Alex Turner.
Best for – the side part pompadour is a great choice for those with square face shapes as it can help soften strong jawlines.
Styling Tips – use a sea salt spray to add volume and grip, this will help achieve the desired height and hold.
17. Undercut Pompadour
This stylish cut combines the classic, voluminous pompadour style with a modern undercut where the sides and back are significantly shorter than the top, creating a striking contrast which emphasises the height and volume of a pompadour. Seen on celebrities such as David Beckham.
Best for – this style works well for most face shapes, especially square and oblong as it can soften harsh angles.
Styling Tip – add a pre-styling product such as mousse to add extra volume before blow-drying.
18. Medium Pompadour
The medium pompadour features elevated and voluminous hair at the front with a gradual fade into the shorter sides and back. The key is the balance between the height on the top and the taper fade on the sides and back. Seen on celebrities such as Chris Evans.
Best for – this style is best for those with medium to thick hair as it is perfect for creating the volume needed for a pompadour.
Styling Tip – apply a pomade to hold in place and use your fingers to refine the shape.
19. Low Fade Pompadour
The low fade pompadour combines a pompadour on top with low fade on the sides and back, the fade starts low closer to the natural hairline and gradually blends the shorter hair on the sides into the longer hair on top. Seen on celebrities such as Adam Levine.
Best for – this style is great for those looking for a classic look with some added volume, it is extremely versatile and can be worn casually and in professional settings.
Styling Tip – blowdry the sides back and down, following the natural direction of hair growth.
What Should I Ask My Barber For?
Clear communication is extremely important when requesting a pompadour at Rush. Bringing along reference photos allows the stylist to see the specific pompadour style you are after, whether it is a classic pompadour, modern variation or with a fade. It is also important to discuss how much volume you want and the type of fade or undercut you’d prefer to have. Tailoring this to suit your hair texture, face shape and personal style will give you the best end results.
Styling Your Pompadour
The pompadour is extremely versatile and can be styled for both a polished and textured looks. Using a high-hold pomade or gel for a more polished finish will help keep the hair sleek. Whereas, for a more textured, voluminous look, apply a sea salt spray or volumising mousse and blowdry the hair upwards for added height and body. For a more natural, effortless finish, use a light styling cream or wax and finish with a flexible-hold hairspray.
Tips for Maintaining a Pompadour
Regular Trims
Pompadours require regular trims to maintain shape and volume, especially when it comes to the sides and back. Getting your pompadour refreshed every 3-6 weeks will have it looking its best.
Use the Right Styling Products
Using high-quality pomades or waxes to style the top will hold the hair in place without weighing it down. For textured hair, use a mousse or texturising cream to enhance the natural curl pattern. Using a heat protectant before styling will help avoid any heat damage.
Protect the Shape
Introducing a satin pillowcase into your night time routine will help prevent frizz and keep your pompadour in shape overnight.
Book Your Pompadour Appointment at Rush
If you are ready to change up your style, book in to your closest Rush salon to help choose the best pompadour style for you.
FAQ's
What is a pompadour hairstyle?
A pompadour hairstyle is a classic hairstyle, characterised by hair swept upwards and backwards from the forehead, creating volume and a distinct shape. It is typically styled with shorter sides and back with longer hair on the top.
What is a modern pompadour?
The modern pompadour is a contemporary twist on the classic pompadour, it typically features a more textured, less overly slicked back look than the traditional version.
What is the difference between a quiff and a pompadour?
The main difference between a quiff and pompadour lies in the styling direction and volume. A quiff is styled upwards and slightly back which creates a relaxed and textured look. Whereas, a pompadour is styled upwards and backwards which creates a more dramatic and structured appearance.
What face shape suits a pompadour?
The pompadour generally suits all face shapes, especially those with oval, square and round face shapes. The style can help balance proportions and create a more defined look. A pompadour can be adapted to other face shapes, for example, those with long or rectangular faces may need to avoid excessive height and consider more volume on the sides.
How do I style my pompadour at home?
When it comes to styling your pompadour at home, use a hairdryer and round brush to lift the hair at the roots to create volume. Direct the hair upwards and backwards, shaping this how you desire. Smooth down the sides with a pomade or wax and adjust the front to create the desired curve and shape.
Can I get a pompadour with curly hair?
Yes, a pompadour can be achieved with curly hair. Working with the hair’s natural texture is extremely important, ensuring the sides and back are shorter than the top to create the contrast needed for a pompadour. Use products that enhance curls and provide hold like a mousse or curl cream and use a hairdryer with a diffuser to create volume when drying.
How often should I trim my pompadour?
Typically, a pompadour needs trimming every 3-6 weeks to maintain the shape and style. Depending on how fast your hair grows and how defined you want the style to be, you may need more or less frequent trims.
