With deep ties to the rock and roll era, this cut is as smooth and slick as it is suave and sophisticated.

Its bold impression is serious, yet still vividly fun; perhaps it’s a good reason as to why the pompadour has always been a popular choice.

Aside from product alone, the pompadour can be seen in any modern barbershop along with fades and uncombed sides. Even the front by the forehead can take on a messy or wavy appearance.

We wanted to break down the main types of pompadour for you and show you some great examples. Let’s take a look!

History of the Pompadour Haircut

It’s no surprise the pompadour ranks as one of the most popular men’s hairstyles at the barbershop. The cut dates back to the 1950’s and 1960’s where it took the spotlight in everything from automotive racers to folk music singers and more. Even famous actors like James Dean sported the pompadour, not to mention, the president Ronald Regan too.

Yet, you might be even more surprised to know this style actually started over three-hundred years ago by Jeanne-Antoinette Posson. She was the mistress of King Louis XV and known as the “Madame de Pompadour”. It wasn’t truly until the late 1950’s before this haircut would become treasured by males, though some still claim it started in the 1920s.

What’s clear however, is there’s no doubt about its massive surge in popularity with the birth of rock and roll. When Elvis Presley rocked the style in 1956, it rose to fame just as fast as he did. Soon after younger males of the working class took an interest in the cut; aka the greasers or rockabilly gentlemen.

Unlike most trends the style kept evolving over the years especially with bands, shifting from the jellyroll to the quiff and more. Sure, it lost its peak over the years however, the idea behind this haircut hasn’t changed a bit. In a sense, it is a symbol of both sexuality and sensuality all while being masculine, clean and rugged. It’s a showcase of free-spiritedness and makes a bold statement about a man’s personality.