Sleek and Stylish Slick Back Hairstyles for Women – Top Hair Ideas for Every Occasion in 2024

lick back hairstyles have long been synonymous with sleek sophistication, perfect for everything from casual outings to the most glamorous events like prom, weddings, and parties. They offer a polished finish that can be adapted for short, long hair, and everything in between.

In this article, we explore 24 slick back hairstyles for women, perfect for any occasion in 2024. Whether you’re looking for a style for an official event or a quick tutorial for school, there’s a slick-back look for you.

Sleek Low Ponytail with a Slick Back Finish

The sleek low ponytail with a slick back is one of the most versatile hairstyles. The hair is tightly pulled back, creating a smooth and shiny finish that flatters all face shapes. This style works exceptionally well for long hair, but it can be adapted for shorter hair with extensions. It’s perfect for formal events like weddings or parties, adding a touch of elegance. It suits women with both natural hair and curly hair, and is ideal for keeping the hair off your face while still looking polished.

For a smooth finish, apply MoroccanOil Smoothing Lotion before brushing the hair back. Secure the ponytail with a clear elastic, and finish with a shine spray like Kenra Shine Spray for that glossy look. If your hair tends to frizz, especially black women with natural hair, use Eco Styler Gel to tame any flyaways.

Slicked-Back Bob with Subtle Waves

For those with short hair, the slicked-back bob with subtle waves offers a chic, modern twist. The hair is combed back for a slick effect, while the waves add soft texture. This look is perfect for women with curly hair or natural hair who want to embrace a polished yet textured look. It’s a great choice for parties or prom where a structured yet relaxed style is desired.

To achieve this look, start with a heat protectant like TRESemmé Heat Tamer Spray. Use a large-barrel curling iron to create subtle waves, then comb back the top sections of hair and set with Bed Head Manipulator Matte for texture and hold. Add a touch of MoroccanOil Glimmer Shine to enhance the waves without losing the slick back effect.

High Ponytail with a Polished Slick Back

The high ponytail is another classic slick back hairstyle for women. The hair is pulled up high on the head and slicked back to create a clean, defined look that works for long hair or those using extensions. This style is perfect for any festive event, from a prom to an official event, making you stand out with its sleek and dramatic appearance.

Use Got2B Ultra Glued Styling Gel to slick the hair back into the ponytail, and secure it tightly. Finish the look with a high-gloss finishing spray like TIGI Bed Head Headrush for that signature shine. For extra volume, you can tease the ponytail for added lift at the crown.

Slick Back Bun with a Center Part

A slick back bun with a center part is an ideal hairstyle for weddings or other formal festive events. It’s sleek, clean, and sophisticated, suitable for women with both long hair and shorter hair (with extensions). This style suits oval, heart, and square-shaped faces, and can be adorned with minimal accessories for a classic look.

For a polished finish, start with Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream to smooth the hair. Part the hair down the middle, then pull it back into a tight bun at the nape of the neck. Use L’Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray to hold everything in place while adding a touch of shine.

Straight Hair with a Glossy Slick Back Look

A straight, slick back hairstyle is perfect for long hair, offering a timeless, minimalist look. This style is ideal for formal events like prom, a wedding, or official events where a sleek, modern appearance is desired. Black women with natural hair can also achieve this look with a proper blowout and flat ironing.

Begin by applying Redken Diamond Oil Glow Dry to damp hair before blow-drying it straight. Use a flat iron for extra sleekness, and finish with John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum for a glossy, smooth finish.

Slick Back Pixie Cut with Glossy Shine

A slick back pixie cut is perfect for women with short hair who want to keep their look polished and sophisticated. The sleek finish gives the pixie cut a modern edge, and it works exceptionally well for black women with natural hair as well. This style is ideal for official events or any formal occasion where you need a chic, no-fuss hairstyle.

Use American Crew Pomade to slick the hair back, ensuring that it stays in place while providing a high-gloss finish. Follow with Oribe Shine Light Reflecting Spray to enhance the glossy effect and keep the look sleek throughout the day.

Slicked-Back Curls for a Defined Finish

For curly hair, a slicked-back curls hairstyle provides both structure and texture. This look is perfect for black women embracing their natural hair while adding a touch of sleek sophistication. This style works for both casual and formal festive events, making it a versatile choice for any occasion in 2024.

Use DevaCurl SuperCream to enhance your curls while keeping them defined. Then, use Eco Styler Gel to slick back the sides, allowing the curls to shine at the top. Finish with Ouidad Curl Immersion Hi-Defining Custard to lock in moisture and prevent frizz.

Long Slick Back Hair with a Wet Look

A long, slick back wet look hairstyle offers a bold and edgy vibe, perfect for a party or prom. The wet look finish gives the style a modern twist, making it ideal for women with long hair who want to stand out. This look works best on black women with natural hair as well, creating a striking appearance.

To achieve the wet look, apply Bumble and Bumble Bb. Gel to damp hair, then comb it back to create the sleek, wet effect. Finish with Ouai Hair Oil for added gloss and to lock in the wet finish without making the hair feel greasy.

Slick Back Half-Up Half-Down Hairstyle

The slick back half-up half-down hairstyle is perfect for women who want the best of both worlds. The top section of the hair is slicked back, creating a clean and polished look, while the bottom remains loose, showcasing the hair’s natural texture or soft curls. This style works well for both black women with natural hair and those with long hair. It’s ideal for festive events or more casual official events.

To achieve this style, start with Oribe Super Shine Light Moisturizing Cream for sleekness and manageability. Use Bumble and Bumble Bb. Gel to slick back the top portion, securing it with a clear elastic band. Finish the look with Ouai Wave Spray to add a touch of volume to the loose hair, making it perfect for both straight and curly hair.

Slicked-Back French Twist for a Sleek Look

The slicked-back French twist is a timeless, sophisticated updo that’s perfect for formal events such as a wedding or prom. It’s a sleek style that complements long hair, although shorter hair can also achieve this look with extensions. The hair is gathered and twisted upwards, with the sides slicked back for a polished finish. This style works especially well for women with straight or slightly wavy hair.

Use Living Proof Style Lab Flex Hairspray to smooth the hair back, then twist the hair upwards and secure with bobby pins. For a high-shine finish, apply MoroccanOil Glimmer Shine to ensure the hair looks glossy and elegant all night.

High Slicked-Back Bun with Volume

The high slicked-back bun adds volume to a classic updo, perfect for women attending formal official events or festive events like weddings and prom. This style is ideal for those with long hair or medium-length hair that can be pulled into a voluminous bun. Black women with natural hair can create a stunning slicked-back look with this bun, embracing their natural volume and texture.

Start by applying Redken Smooth Lock Stay Sleek Leave-In Cream to keep hair smooth while slicking it back. Gather the hair into a high ponytail and twist it into a voluminous bun. Use L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray to hold the style in place and give it a glossy finish.

Slick Back Short Bob with Gelled Finish

For women with short hair, the slick back bob with a gelled finish is both edgy and sophisticated. The hair is slicked back completely, creating a wet look that’s ideal for a party or official events. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want to make a bold statement while keeping the overall look minimalistic.

To achieve the perfect gelled finish, apply American Crew Firm Hold Gel to damp hair and comb it back. Use Ouai Hair Oil to enhance the shine and create that sleek, wet look. This style is particularly great for women with fine hair, as it adds structure and control.

Slicked-Back Hair with Shaved Sides

The slicked-back hair with shaved sides is a daring look for women who want something bold and edgy. The shaved sides add a rebellious touch, while the top is slicked back for a sleek, polished finish. This look works best for black women with natural hair or curly hair, as it allows you to showcase both texture and sleekness.

Use Baxter of California Hard Water Pomade to slick back the top, while keeping the sides sharp and clean with a quality razor or trimmer. Apply Paul Mitchell Soft Style Soft Spray to give the top section a natural shine without making it too stiff.

Slick Back Braided Ponytail

The slick back braided ponytail is a versatile style perfect for both casual outings and formal events like weddings or prom. The hair is slicked back into a tight ponytail, and the ponytail is braided for added texture and interest. This look works well for women with long hair or medium-length hair and is perfect for showing off natural textures in a polished way.

Apply Living Proof Style Lab Blowout for a sleek finish, and slick the hair back into a high ponytail using Redken Shine Flash 02 Glistening Mist. Braid the ponytail and secure it with a clear elastic. Finish with Oribe Superfine Hair Spray to hold the style in place.

Slick Back Lob with Textured Ends

For a more relaxed yet still polished look, the slick back lob with textured ends is perfect. This hairstyle suits women with curly hair or natural hair, as it embraces the natural texture while keeping the front and sides sleek. The textured ends create volume and movement, making this look ideal for prom or other festive events. It’s especially flattering for those with oval or heart-shaped faces.

Start with Ouai Wave Spray to bring out the texture at the ends. Use Living Proof Perfect Hair Day 5-in-1 Styling Treatment to slick back the top and sides. Lightly tousle the ends with a curling wand for added movement and finish with Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray for a lasting hold.

Slicked-Back Finger Waves for a Vintage Look

The slicked-back finger waves hairstyle brings a timeless, vintage charm to any event. This look is perfect for women who want a refined and elegant style for festive events, weddings, or prom. The waves are tightly slicked against the scalp, creating a structured yet soft appearance that complements both long hair and short hair. This hairstyle is particularly flattering on black women with curly hair, as the natural texture adds depth to the waves. It suits women with heart, oval, and round face shapes.

To achieve this look, apply Bumble and Bumble Bb. Gel on damp hair for hold. Use a fine-tooth comb and your fingers to shape the waves, starting from the sides. Finish the look with Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray for a polished, long-lasting hold. Make sure to use a hair oil like Ouai Hair Oil to add extra shine and smoothness.

Long Slicked-Back Hair with Subtle Highlights

For those with long hair, a slicked-back hairstyle with subtle highlights offers a sleek and shiny look that enhances the natural beauty of your locks. The slicked-back effect showcases the subtle highlights, making it perfect for weddings, proms, and other festive events. This hairstyle is ideal for women with long, straight hair, though it can also work for those with wavy hair, especially if you use a flat iron.

Start by applying John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum to damp hair before blow-drying. For added shine, use Kerastase Elixir Ultime. If your hair is naturally wavy, straighten it with a flat iron, then comb it back for a sleek, glossy look. Finish with Oribe Superfine Hair Spray to lock in the style and add shine.

Slick Back Ponytail with Hair Extensions

The slick back ponytail with hair extensions is perfect for women who want a voluminous, long look without waiting for their natural hair to grow. This style is sleek, elegant, and ideal for official events or a stylish prom look. The extensions give the ponytail added length and volume while the slicked-back sides keep the look refined and polished. It works well for those with medium to long hair or short hair looking to add extensions.

To achieve this look, apply TIGI Bed Head After Party Smoothing Cream to smooth the hair, and use Kenra Platinum Silkening Gloss for extra shine. Clip in your preferred hair extensions and secure the ponytail with an elastic. Finish with Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Humidity Hairspray to maintain the sleek, glossy look throughout the day.

Slick Back Faux Hawk for a Bold Look

For a daring twist, the slick back faux hawk offers the illusion of a mohawk without the commitment. This style is perfect for women who want to add edge to their look for festive events, a party, or even a wedding. The sides are slicked back tightly, while the center section is styled to stand up for a bold, structured look. This hairstyle works well for black women with natural hair or those with curly hair.

Start with Cantu Shea Butter Extra Hold Edge Stay Gel to slick back the sides, and use DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler to enhance the curls or volume in the middle. Use a little bit of Ouidad Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel to keep everything in place and finish with a shine spray.

MidJourney Prompt: A woman with a slick back faux hawk, indoors at a wedding, minimal makeup, wearing a modern evening suit, soft expression, warm indoor lighting.

High Sleek Ponytail with a Slick Back

The high sleek ponytail is a timeless favorite that is perfect for official events, weddings, or prom. This slick back hairstyle for women pulls the hair up high on the head, creating a dramatic, lifted look. It’s ideal for long hair, but can also be adapted for short hair with extensions. This style elongates the neck and adds elegance, making it perfect for formal settings.

To achieve this look, use John Frieda Frizz Ease Secret Weapon Touch-Up Crème to smooth flyaways and slick back the hair. Secure the ponytail with a strong elastic, and finish with Oribe Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray for a glossy finish that holds throughout the event.

Slick Back Chignon for a Classic Style

The slick back chignon is the epitome of classic elegance. This low bun style pulls the hair tightly back, creating a smooth, sleek finish, perfect for weddings, official events, or any formal occasion. It works especially well for long hair but can be adapted for shorter lengths using extensions. This hairstyle suits women with oval or heart-shaped faces, as it elongates the neck and accentuates the facial structure, giving a regal appearance.

To achieve this style, start by applying L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray to tame flyaways and give a smooth texture. Brush the hair back and twist it into a chignon at the nape of the neck, securing it with bobby pins. Use Ouai Finishing Crème to add a bit of shine and control any frizz. For extra hold, mist the style with TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hairspray.

Slicked-Back Hair with Wispy Bangs

For a more relaxed yet polished look, the slicked-back hair with wispy bangs combines sleekness with softness. The bangs provide a delicate frame for the face while the rest of the hair is pulled back in a smooth, slick finish. This style is perfect for women with short hair or long hair, and works especially well for black women with curly hair. It’s a versatile style that can be worn at proms, parties, or even more official events.

Use Bumble and Bumble Bb. Gel to slick back the hair, leaving the bangs soft and wispy. For added shine, apply Moroccanoil Glimmer Shine Spray to give the hair a glossy, smooth finish. You can also use a flat iron to lightly style the bangs for a more relaxed look.

Slick Back Updo with Braided Accents

The slick back updo with braided accents adds an intricate detail to a traditional slicked-back style. The braids offer texture and contrast to the smooth, polished finish of the rest of the hair. This look is ideal for festive events, weddings, and prom nights, giving a creative and elegant touch to your hairstyle. It works beautifully for black women with natural hair or curly hair.

Apply Cantu Shea Butter Coconut Curling Cream to enhance the braids’ texture while keeping the rest of the hair sleek with Got2B Glued Styling Gel. Braid small sections of hair and wrap them around the updo, securing with bobby pins. Finish with Sebastian Shaper Plus Hairspray for long-lasting hold.

Slicked-Back Side Part with Volume

For a glamorous and retro-inspired look, the slicked-back side part with volume offers a polished yet bold appearance. The deep side part adds drama, while the volume at the crown gives the hairstyle a lift, perfect for prom, a wedding, or official events. This style is ideal for women with long hair or medium-length hair and works particularly well for oval or round face shapes.

To create this look, start with Redken Full Frame 07 All-Over Volumizing Mousse at the roots for added volume. Part the hair deeply to one side and slick the sides back with Bed Head After Party Smoothing Cream. Use a round brush to add lift at the crown, and finish with John Frieda Frizz Ease Moisture Barrier Hairspray to keep everything in place.

Conclusion

Slick back hairstyles remain a staple in 2024, perfect for a wide range of occasions from school to festive events like weddings or prom. Whether you prefer a short or long hair look, there’s a slick back style that suits every woman. Experiment with these versatile hairstyles and let your polished, sleek look shine.

Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your favorite slick back hairstyle idea!