For a sharper finish, get the hair clippered on the sides – the higher it’s clippered the more dramatic the result will be. When choosing this style it’s important to decide if you want to have scalp exposure or scalp coverage through the sides and back, as this will determine what grade the stylist will use on the clippers.

For the length on top, the hair can be point cut to prevent the hair from becoming too heavy. You can also personalise the haircut with some internal texturising, which will help naturally support and push the hair back. This can be done by your stylist with scissors or a razor.

To give this haircut a modern edge, some clients choose to alter the balance of it by having the parting side cut higher. This results in exaggerated length through the front, which in turn gives the appearance of longer hair on top that looks more disconnected from the back/sides.

The Lookbook

Here are a few examples of classic and modern slick side partings:

The Products

In most cases you shouldn’t dry the hair too much before applying product – this can create volume and make it harder to define the parting.

To create a nice crisp finish, towel dry the hair and apply your choice of a wet pomade (I recommend American Crew Pomade) for medium shine and hold or a stronger grooming/styling cream (again, American Crew do a good one) for a stronger shine and hold.

Make sure you rub it in your hands well before working it into the hair as it has probably been a while since many of you have used shine products. Start off with a small amount and work it into the sides of the hair – you can always add more if required. This approach will help avoid making the hair look too greasy, which will force you to start the whole process again.

• American Crew Pomade 85gm
• American Crew Grooming Cream 85gm
• Kent Tortoiseshell Effect Fine Pocket Comb – Medium 7t
• Slick Pomade Baxter Of California
• Mop Glisten High Shine Pomade 75g
• Paste Mr Natty
• Smooth And Finish Creme Tommyguns
• Bumble & Bumble Grooming Creme 150ml
• Redken Water Wax 03 50ml

Not So Slick

As mentioned in the introduction, opting for more texture on top is the alternative to the new slick side parting. You’ve got wave in your hair? Embrace it, enhance it! We’re still seeing shorter back and sides but if you want length and volume on top then go for it.