Slicked-back hair is perfect for party season – here's how to nail it

Slicked-back hair is currently having a major moment. Spotted up and down the Autumn/Winter ’23 runway, scraped-back, polished buns turned heads at Carolina Herrera, Jason Wu and Julian Macdonald. Elsewhere, at Brandon Maxwell and Etro, hair was let loose and combed back with gel for a wet-look effect.

Proving to be just as popular off the runway, countless celebrities and fashion influencers have experimented with this style (Lizzo, Hailey Bieber, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and the Kardashian-Jenner clan are all fans).

To nail the look at home, legendary hair stylist Sam McKnight recommends lightly applying his Self Control Styling Gel to the roots before brushing the hair back to “smooth and flatten it.” The result? A “strong, powerful and sleek style.”

Slicked back hair is pretty versatile, and can take on several different styles – from a sharp, knotted chignon to a polished sky-high ponytail. For inspo, scroll on down to find our favourite interpretations that are perfect for party season and beyond.

Deep side part

Supermodel Rosie Huntington-Whiteley pairs a deep side part with a low twisted bun to create this smooth, sleek look. To tame flyaways and control frizz: “mist hairspray onto a soft bristle brush – a natural toothbrush is perfect (and a trick of the trade) – and smooth over those pesky hairs,” says McKnight.

Wet look ponytail

The Kardashian-Jenners have been fans of the slicked back look for some time. Our favourite take? This scraped-back, sky-high ponytail as seen on Kim Kardashian. To recreate this ‘do, apply a lightweight oil to damp hair before styling.

Coiffed updo

Even though the majority of your hair is scraped back, you can still experiment with a bold look at the front. Just look to Zendaya’s swept-over style for proof. Taking its cue from the ‘20s, this coiffed look is sophisticated and chic – to make it modern, be sure to saturate the hair in shine spray for a polished finish.

Wet crop

The beauty of a slicked-back look is that it works well on all hair lengths. Model Grace Elizabeth shows us just how cool this style looks on a super short, pixie cut. If your hair is naturally frizzy, McKnight recommends using a balm to de-fluff and smooth strands.

Half-up half-down

Can't decide between an up-do or a down-do? Go half and half à la Hailey Bieber. Feminine and pretty, this sleek style can be dressed up for going ‘out out’ with a plush velvet bow. “Using a comb, section from behind the ear to the other ear,” says hair stylist Neil Moodie. Next, “clip the bottom section out of the way and secure the top section into a high ponytail.”

Ballet bun

The balletcore fashion trend has made its way into beauty, and this knotted ballerina bun captures the aesthetic perfectly. To complete your look, pair this ultra-feminine hair with shimmery eyeshadow, radiant skin and soft pink lips.

Low bun

Short hair can get on the slicked-back bun action, too. Take inspiration from model Elsa Hosk, who wears her short hair tied back into a low knot that sits at the nape of the neck. Super stylish, this style will go with everything and anything in your wardrobe – promise!

Centre slick

You don’t have to comb your hair straight back for a sleek look. If you prefer a middle part, just slick it back from the sides like actress Simone Ashley – who’s opted for a sleek low ponytail. We love the flicked out eyeliner for added drama.

Glossy knot

Yep, it’s another slicked-back bun. Out of all the sleek styles, it seems that the bun is the one to watch. Styled by hair legend Patrick Wilson, Phoebe Dynevor’s glossy up-do is super flattering and can easily be re-created at home.

Wavy ponytail

If your hair is naturally wavy or curly, embrace it with a slicked-back ponytail that shows off your texture. To make sure the front section is smooth, use a soft bristle brush and cream or gel to really flatten the roots.

Side slick

A slicked-over side part is another key trend this season. “It looks best if it's super shiny,” says Moodie, “and it works incredibly well on a pixie or bob haircut.” His advice? “With the help of a comb, apply gel section by section, before drying the gel with a diffuser to set the look.”

Low key bun

It's not often we see Sofia Richie without slicked back hair. While the model can pull off any style, her go-to is typically a scraped back style that looks low-key yet cool. Ideal for everyday, we love the contrast between the sleek sides and messy bun at the back.

Structural slick

Slicked-back styles are not just for naturally-straight strands. Curly and textured hair types can sport sleek looks, too. Just turn your head to Yara Shahidi’s wavy ‘do that’s ultra-glossy yet voluminous. To try this style at home, prep the hair with a moisture-boosting hair mask.

Sky high ponytail

An easy way to elevate a humble ponytail is to take it sky high. As seen on the Kardashians, Hailey Bieber, Ariana Grande and most recently, Precious Lee – this up-do is seriously flattering and glamorous.

Sleek details

Instead of combing all your hair back into a bun or ponytail, tap into the trend with a minimal slicked-back detail. To mimic Anya Taylor-Joy's Golden Globes look, part your hair in the centre and use a tail comb to section one side of the front before twisting it back and securing with a bobby pin.