Elvis Presley's hair is as iconic as his music. That high-volume, slicked-back look has influenced men for decades and still turns heads today.
This blog covers the best Elvis Presley haircut ideas, iconic styles, and simple tips to help you copy the look.
You will also learn how to style it at home and match it with your outfits.With years of studying men's grooming trends, I can say this style never goes out of fashion.
Whether you want the classic pompadour or a modern version, this guide has you covered.
What Is the Elvis Presley Haircut Called?
The Elvis Presley haircut is most commonly known as the pompadour.
It is a style where the hair on top is swept upward and back, creating strong volume above the forehead.
The sides are kept shorter and combed back neatly. Elvis wore his version with a deep shine and a bold wave at the front, making it his signature look.
The pompadour became a symbol of rock and roll in the 1950s and has remained one of the most recognized men's hairstyles in history ever since.
5 Elvis Presley Haircut Ideas
From the classic pompadour to a modern fade, there are more ways to wear this look than most people realize.
1. Classic Pompadour Elvis Presley Haircut
This is the style most people picture when they hear "Elvis haircut." The front hair is swept back into a full, rounded shape with clean sides. It works best on medium to long hair and suits formal occasions very well.
2. Modern Elvis Presley Haircut With Fade
This version keeps the top volume of the classic pompadour but adds a fade on the sides. The fade can be low, mid, or high depending on what you prefer. It feels current while keeping the Elvis character intact.
3. Short Elvis Presley Haircut for a Clean Look
This is a low-maintenance take on the classic style. The hair on top is kept short but still swept back neatly with clean, tight sides. A light pomade holds the shape without making it look stiff.
4. Textured Elvis-Style Pompadour
This version is looser and more natural than the classic. The front is still swept back, but the finish has movement and texture.
It works well for men with thick or wavy hair using a light to medium-hold product.
5. Messy Voluminous Elvis Hairstyle
This skips the strict shape and goes for a tousled, lifted finish instead. It works well for everyday wear and suits naturally thick hair.
A matte pomade or light wax gives the right hold without heavy shine.
Iconic Elvis Presley Haircut Styles (Visual Ideas)
Elvis wore several different looks across his career, and each one still holds up as a style reference today.
Early Natural Elvis Hairstyle
In his early years, Elvis kept his hair loose and swept back with a natural wave at the front. It was not overly shaped or polished.
This raw, simple look is a great starting point for a more relaxed version of the style.
Hollywood Polished Pompadour
As Elvis became a film star, his hair became sharper and more refined. Every strand was shaped with care and held firmly in place.
This is the version most people associate with his peak years in the late 1950s.
Elvis Presley Haircut Army (Short Variation)
When Elvis joined the army in 1958, his famous hair was cut short. The result was a neat, tight, and very clean look. It is the easiest version to maintain and works well on most face shapes.
How to Get the Elvis Presley Haircut
Getting this look right starts at the barber chair and comes together with the right tools and technique at home.
What to Tell Your Barber
Ask for a pompadour with tapered or faded sides and enough length on top to sweep back. Bring a reference photo to make communication easier. Most barbers know the style, but a clear visual always helps.
Ideal Hair Length and Layering
The hair on top should be at least 4 to 6 inches long for the classic look. The sides can be tapered or faded depending on your preference. Light layering on top helps the hair hold its shape without going stiff.
Step-by-Step Styling for Volume and Shape
Start with damp hair and work a small amount of pomade evenly through it. Use a wide-tooth comb and a blow dryer on medium heat to lift and shape the front section upward. Finish with a fine-tooth comb, smooth the sides back, and let the hair cool completely.
Key Tools and Products (Pomade, Comb, Dryer)
A water-based pomade, a fine-tooth comb, and a blow dryer with a concentrator nozzle are the three things you need. Choose strong-hold pomade for a shiny finish or light wax for a more textured result. The concentrator nozzle helps direct heat right where you need it.
How to Match the Elvis Presley Haircut With Your Fashion Style
The right outfit makes the Elvis haircut look even sharper, and there are more pairing options than you might think.
Rock 'n' Roll Outfits (Leather Jackets, Boots)
Pair the pompadour with a fitted leather jacket, dark jeans, and Chelsea boots for the full rock and roll look. Elvis himself wore this combination and it still works today. It is simple, strong, and always gets attention.
Smart Casual Looks With Pompadour
A button-down shirt, slim chinos, and clean leather shoes pair well with the pompadour. The neat shape of the hair adds polish to a casual outfit. This works for dates, light office settings, or weekend plans.
Vintage Fashion Pairing
Go full retro with high-waisted trousers, a tucked-in shirt, and loafers or saddle shoes. This combination is great for themed events or retro parties. Keep the hair sharp and the outfit fitted for the best overall result.
Modern Street Style With Elvis Haircut
Pair the textured or messy pompadour with a plain sweatshirt, slim joggers, and white sneakers. The contrast between a retro hairstyle and a modern outfit creates a cool, relaxed look. This pairing works best when the hair is not too stiff or heavily styled.
Styling Tips to Perfect the Elvis Presley Haircut Style
Get the technique and product choice right and this style will hold all day without much effort.
- Always blow dry damp hair upward from the roots to build volume before the hair sets
- Apply pomade before drying, not after, so the hold locks in from the start
- Use a fine-tooth comb for the final pass to smooth the sides and clean up the shape
- Match the product to your hair type as thick hair needs strong hold and fine hair needs light wax
- Avoid touching the hair once styled since the oils from your hands break down the hold fast
Conclusion
The Elvis Presley haircut is one of those styles that never really fades. I tried the pompadour a few years back and it took me a couple of tries to get the volume right.
Once I found the right pomade and nailed the blow dry technique, it all clicked. From the classic look to the modern fade version, there is something here for every man.
Pick a style from this blog, try it at your next barber visit, and see how it feels. Drop a comment and let me know which one you went with.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Elvis Presley Haircut Still Trendy Today?
Yes, it is still one of the most requested classic styles in barbershops today. The pompadour has held its ground across decades and continues to look sharp on modern men.
Can It Suit All Face Shapes?
It works best on oval, square, and heart-shaped faces. Men with round faces can add height at the top with a taller pompadour to create better balance.
Is It High Maintenance?
It does need daily styling to look its best. With the right products and a solid routine, most men get it done in under 10 minutes each morning.
How Long Does Styling Take?
Beginners may take around 15 to 20 minutes at first. With regular practice, the whole process comes down to about 5 to 10 minutes.
What Products Work Best for the Elvis Pompadour?
A water-based pomade with medium to strong hold is the most popular choice. Pair it with a comb and a blow dryer for the best shape and longest hold through the day.
