Barbershop Blog

The Iconic Pompadour

Believe it or not, the pompadour was actually a woman’s hairstyle originating in seventeenth century France. The pompadour was worn high and sometimes padding and fillers were even used to obtain more height. The most iconic pompadour in men’s hairstyling would have to be that of circa nineteen fifties, nineteen sixties and worn by none other than rock legend, Mr Elvis Presley. 

The Modern Day Pompadour

The difference between the classic hairstyle and today’s pompadour is the skin fade. Today’s barbers are well versed is both classical hairstyles and modern techniques, it is the blending of the this new and old that creates the much loved and contemporary version of the hairstyle. When the pompadour is worn with a skin fade, it creates a very edgy look and is definitely not as soft as the classic.

What To Ask Your Barber

Most barbers will know what you mean when you ask for a pompadour, but not all, so best to bring along a picture if you have one. To get the pompadour with a skin fade you want to ask your barber to keep plenty of height and length in the fringe, then taper the hair shorter through the rest of the top towards the crown. For the back and sides you want a skin fade and you want to specify how high up you’d like that fade. A low or mid fade works best for this hairstyle as they both drop down around the back of the head and leave enough length in the transition areas.

Styling Your Pompadour

To style your pompadour you are going to need a quiff roller, hairdryer and some wax or pomade. Additionally, some volumising powder, hairspray and wide toothed comb will be very beneficial. Start by building some height in the fringe with the hairdryer and roller. Apply powder and rake through the hair with your fingers. Rub a high shine wax or pomade between your hands and then pull through the hair. Use a wide toothed comb or your fingers to finish styling the look. Apply a little hairspray for additional hold and height.

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