The pompadour fade, where modern meets classic, is a timeless men's haircut that involves tapering the sides short with longer hair on top, brushed up and back to create the signature style. A stylish faded pompadour hairstyle offers a versatile, voluminous look that blends sophisticated charm with contemporary edge, making it a popular choice for any occasion.

From short to long, the iconic structured style naturally pairs well with a clean-cut taper fade, adding low-maintenance contrast and dimension.

Below, we've gathered some of our favorite pompadour fade haircuts for men who want inspiration before visiting their barber.

Timeless Pompadour Fade Variations

Low Fade Pompadour

A low fade pompadour combines classic volume with subtle, faded sides to create precise lines around the head. The fade transitions effortlessly from the temple to the nape for a chic look. Create the iconic curve at the front of the head by fashioning the hair up and back with heat and a round brush. Secure the style in place with a pomade for a matte appearance or a strong-hold gel for a shinier, polished finish.

Pompadour Fade with Beard

This sleek and sharp take on the pompadour pairs extreme volume at the front of the head with a progressive fade across the back and sides. The top is swept and brushed backward to create a lifted look, which you can hold in place with a strong-hold styling product. You can add precise layers to the top and reduce the length toward the back of the head for extra dimension. A meticulously groomed, disconnected beard gives a dose of rugged masculinity.

Mid Skin Fade with Short Pompadour

Combining a mid skin fade with a short pompadour leads to a timeless and sleek look with versatility that works for any occasion. The pomp is relatively short and features plenty of shine with a classic comb texture, and the fade starting at the temple offers excellent contrast. Personalize the cut with a more voluminous pomp or a higher/lower taper.

Short Pompadour with Mid Skin Fade

A short pompadour can be combined with a fresh mid skin fade to enhance contrast, giving the expertly swept top a light, lifted look. The sides are cropped into a close shave near the ears to draw attention to the volume on top. Blow dry extra volume into the locks with mousse and finish with paste for a look that stays locked in all day. The sleek, almost pointed appearance makes this an excellent cut for guys with rounder faces, as it naturally elongates the features.

Undercut Pompadour

The undercut pompadour is a bold style that integrates volume with an edgy back and sides. The undercut provides a fresh dimension that differentiates this pompadour variation, enhancing the sharp contrast with a smooth cut. Push the hair backward and use a fine-toothed comb and a high-hold product to tame your strands into place. Regular clipper trims should keep the undercut looking crisp.

Mohawk Fade with Pompadour

A mohawk fade with a pompadour is a bold and daring blend of two iconic styles. Rather than a tall, uniform strip of hair, the cut features a tall, textured pomp that gradually transitions to shorter hair along the crown and ends at the nape. A burst fade creates a round pattern around the ears and defines the mohawk shape, which serves as an excellent canvas for various colors and designs.

Stylish Pompadour with Undercut

Men who appreciate high-contrast styles with breathtaking volume should rock their stylish pompadour with a daring undercut. Ask your barber to keep the hair long on top and buzz the sides short for a look that oozes attitude. You can gently curve the top back into a rounded pomp or add extra height through the roots with heat. A shaved line can be a striking finishing touch to edge up the style and accentuate the pompadour's signature shape.

Pompadour with Taper Fade

A subtle taper fade creates a clean, tidy appearance that instantly flatters a shorter pompadour. Leave some scissor-cut length at the temples and switch up the guard sizes as you move toward the ears and nape for a seamless finish. The graduated aesthetic frames the face and draws attention to the dynamic volume and careful layering on top. Heavy stubble can prevent this style from appearing too dull or clean-cut.

Long Pompadour Fade

A pompadour fade can be a stylish way to showcase long, thick locks with depth and movement. The neat fade starts relatively low on the head to keep the pompadour center-stage, but you can switch up your style with a bold high fade. The hair on top is smoothly swept up and back with a texturizing product and held in place with a strong-hold gel or pomade. Feel free to muss the front sections for a more relaxed look on off-duty days. A clean shave keeps the style boyish and playful, making this a perfect approach for younger men.

Modern Mullet Fade with Short Pomp

A modern mullet fade with a short pomp is an expressive style with a trendy twist. The textured pomp flows up and then curls back toward the layers along the crown, creating a compact yet high-impact style amplified by the burst fade. The natural waves in the back tumble over the collar, and the short beard adds a rugged, masculine element.

Pompadour with Drop Fade

An attractive and structured drop fade effortlessly blends into a voluminous pompadour to give the aesthetic striking proportion that won't overwhelm your look. Your barber should retain decent length on the sides before buzzing the hair below the temple and dropping behind the ear. The razor-sharp fade works against the timeless, lifted pomp and full beard to create a style loaded with visual interest.

Pompadour Taper Fade

The pompadour taper fade is a refined style with excellent structure and smooth, graduated sides, making it a classy choice for any modern man. A soft, textured pompadour works well with an elegant taper fade to achieve an effortlessly handsome look suitable for everyday wear and formal events. Parting the hair slightly draws attention and offers a sophisticated touch look, softening sharper features. Carve out your part carefully with a fine-toothed comb and push the locks backward to form the pomp's classic curvature. The masterful pomp can be held in place with a strong pomade, while some facial hair can balance the height on top.

Short Hard Part Pompadour Fade

An attractive short pompadour fade with a modern hard part is a versatile hairstyle that creates boundaries, disconnecting the bouffant top and sleek sides. Use a high-hold styling product to brush the slightly combed-over pomp away from the hard part. Ask your barber for a thin or thick shaved line to determine the definition of your part.

Fresh Long Pompadour with Mid Skin Fade

A long pompadour with a mid fade offers a clean and precise look with eye-catching volume at the front of the head. The hair is styled forward and curved back to create a 1950s-inspired finish. You'll need to secure the locks with a strong-hold product; otherwise, this top-heavy style will flop. The fade is precise, with an almost buzzed look at the base that melts into the meticulously sculpted top.

Pompadour Taper

A timeless pompadour taper can be a flattering and chic hairstyle for guys who want classy and short low-maintenance sides to complement their longer hair on top. Tell your barber to use a number two or three clipper guard to leave some length, giving you a chic, blended taper that melts into the rounded top. A texturizing pomade and some heat will allow you to control the style and maintain the lift all day. You can work product through the rest of the hair for a slightly looser, natural finish.

Modern Faded Pompadour

The modern faded pompadour is a winning look for any gentleman wanting something perfectly sculpted with a distinctive, rounded appearance. The voluminous top seamlessly transitions into the low, faded sides, giving the style a contemporary finish that feels clean and well-groomed. This cut doesn't have as much movement as other pompadours and is secured in place with strong-hold products for a sleek, solid finish. Feel free to keep the top slightly shorter for a neater, everyday look that won't pull focus in the boardroom.

Modern Pompadour with Drop Fade

A modern pompadour looks stylish with a drop fade, offering a neat, wearable style with subtle contrast. The drop fade creates a defined transition from the extended top while drawing attention to the cheekbones. Heat, a round brush and a medium-hold product will keep the voluminous top in place without making it look over-styled. Light tousling through the front will give your pomp a slightly more relaxed feel when you're off the clock.

Faded Undercut with Long Pompadour

A longer pompadour hairstyle can be an awesome look that pairs a faded undercut with an enhanced brushed-back top for a voluminous finish. The longer hair in the front extends outward from the forehead to create an edgy, rounded shape that tapers off as the hair moves backward. Wear it messy and textured or create a sleek, matte look by brushing the hair back and securing it with pomade or wax. Regular trims along the sides will maximize contrast and keep the look fresh.

Pompadour with Mid Fade

A mid fade is a balanced haircut for guys wanting a modern pompadour with visual interest. Shorter to medium-length hair is perfect for creating a lifted pomp without distracting from your features. A longer pomp is ideal if you're after a striking, avant-garde style that leans retro.

Comb Over Pompadour Fade

A comb over pompadour fade is a stylish professional men's hairstyle that balances sleek contrast with class for a classically handsome appearance. To style, brush your hair to the side with a wide-toothed comb, leaving defined marks across the top for extra texture. The structured fade adds a polished touch to the look, keeping all eyes on the lifted top. Get a shaved line, blended beard and lineup for a well-groomed vibe that oozes masculine energy.

Textured Pompadour Fade

Faded sides breathe life into a textured pompadour by creating instant contrast between different sections of hair. Grow your hair out enough to bring lift at the front and blow dry the hair using texturizing mousse or sea salt spray. If your hair is thick, this should be enough to keep your locks texturized and secure. Guys with thinner hair will want to grab a pomade or wax to artfully style stray hairs into place.

Pompadour with Skin Fade

Bold and undeniably edgy, a pompadour skin fade pairs a seriously voluminous pomp with near-shaved sides for a badass look that commands attention. This quintessentially masculine style works exceptionally well on thick hair, and you can throw in a shape-up and beard to support this sharp look. Ask your barber to use a cut-throat razor around the sides and nape to take your fade down to the bone.

Slicked Back Pompadour with Undercut Fade

A timeless slicked-back pompadour is an attractive hairstyle that features sleek styling and cropped sides to make a bold statement. Adding an undercut fade showcases the full top while giving the entire look a modern flair. A high-shine pomade is crucial to keeping your hair locked in place with old-school texture. Lightly finger combing the hair will loosen your pomp for a more relaxed look, but you'll want to use a fine-toothed comb to achieve the sleekest style possible.

Brushed Back Pompadour with Low Taper

When paired with a subtle, low taper, the brushed-back pompadour combines classic elegance with modern bravado. The neat taper is expertly executed from right above the ear and blends into the voluminous brush back for a seamless transition. Blow dry the hair with a volume spray before working the hair back. Play around with light layering to give the back of your pomp extra movement.

Classic Side Part Pompadour

Working a side part into your pompadour exudes confidence and gives your voluminous style light structure. The hair on top is lifted, swept to the side and slicked down with a strong gel for a sleek aesthetic. Adding a clean and contemporary fade gives the look a modern vibe that keeps the pomp the central focus. A bushy beard balances this polished style for a slightly rugged look with boosted sex appeal.

Long Rockabilly Pompadour with Short Sides

If you have long locks, wear a rockabilly pompadour and short sides to honor the old-school Greaser style. The shorter sides bring this subculture cut into the twenty-first century, and the mussed, textured front and top give the style a cool and casual feel. Scissor-cut the sides for a relaxed approach or buzz them closer to the skin for a rebellious look.

Tousled Pompadour Fade

A tousled pompadour fade is a face-flattering cut that lets naturally thick hair shine with an impressive front quiff. The unique and playful hair in front is tousled upward and blends seamlessly into the faded sides. The slightly messy top offers an easygoing aesthetic that contrasts against the sharper fade to keep the style sophisticated. A sea salt spray or light-hold pomade should hold the top in place without adding weight.

Medium Pompadour with Razor Fade

Sharp and edgy, a razor fade gives a medium pompadour a ton of visual interest. You'll need minimal product to hold the pomp in place as it's roughly tousled upward. The razor fade creates an extreme transition between the sides and the volume on top, making this an excellent style for daredevils who want to make a strong statement.

Messy Pompadour with Low Fade

A messy pompadour with a low fade is a perfect mix of tousled, carefree, and stylishly handsome. The cut makes the most out of natural texture and thickness, with the pomp at the front blending perfectly into the hair at the crown. A low fade offers a more subdued transition between the top and sides, and a neatly trimmed beard balances the look.

Loose Textured Pompadour with Mid Fade

A loose, textured pompadour packs the same punch as a traditional pomp but foregoes the slicked-back approach for a more casual feel. Layers ensure a smooth transition from front to back, and a mid fade elevates the look. An optional shaved line adds creative distinction, and a short, angular beard starkly contrasts the cut's rounded shape.

Modern Pompadour with Mid Taper Fade

A modern pompadour with a mid tapered fade pairs head-turning volume with a subtle transition, making this stunning haircut a popular choice. The wavy pomp texture is refined and elegant, and the refreshing drop fade makes the cut attractive. A short goatee and stubble at the cheeks give a rugged, handsome edge.

Short Pompadour with Taper

A short pompadour with a taper is a versatile, contemporary take on a classic style. The textured brush-up in front highlights the hair's natural movement and beautifully blends into the short layers around the back. Rather than the traditional fade, the cut features a gentlemanly taper for a more understated look.

Timeless Pompadour with Low Skin Fade

A timeless pompadour with a low skin fade features a shapely profile and plenty of high-class shine without a single hair out of place. Styling is as simple as applying a strong-hold gel with plenty of shine and using a standard comb to lift and shape the hair. The fade creates the illusion of additional volume, and the complementary sharp edges along the temple, cheek, and jaw complete the style.

Parted Pompadour with Bald Fade and Design

A parted pompadour with a bald fade and design is an audacious and distinctive look for guys with outgoing personalities. The pomp sweeps over to one side from a prominent side part, and a quality styling gel holds it in place. A curved line starting at the temple about an inch from the part line is quirky and fun, and the full beard pulls everything together for a cohesive style.

Tousled Pompadour with Tapered Sides

A tousled and textured contemporary pompadour with low taper faded sides is an excellent hairstyle for men who want to show off their volume and flow with an elegant look. The windblown hair in front stands straight up, then falls back and off to the side, creating a captivating and youthful appearance. The parted taper eases the transition between the hair along the top and the ultra-short sides, and a clean-shaven face lends the cut boyish charm.

Big Pompadour with Low Taper Fade

A big pompadour with a low taper fade features an impressive shape and stunning height. The pomp falls slightly forward from the hairline before curling upward and back, and as the layers along the crown become shorter, they visually lift the hair on top. The taper fade eases the transition between lengths, and a thicker beard at the chin riffs on the style.

Short Modern Pompadour with Mid Fade and Beard

Precise layers in a short modern pompadour with a mid fade and beard highlight natural texture and movement in a toned-down yet still attention-grabbing look. The fade is subtle from the crown to temple height, but it quickly changes to the skin at the nape and above the ears. The shapely beard that is slightly fuller along the lower jaw and chin mimics the timeless style.

Pompadour with Undercut Fade

A striking pompadour with an undercut fade commands attention with its incredible texture and shine. The tall, slightly side-swept pomp is the main attraction, and the undercut amplifies the height. The hair fades to the skin above the ear and through the sideburns, which pairs nicely with a pleasant, short beard. The clean edges at the hairline and cheek unify the style.

Pompadour with Bald Fade

A pompadour with a bald fade utilizes an abrupt transition to create the illusion of extreme height and volume. The cut's sleek and polished finish requires little maintenance, especially for men with straight hair. Use a pomade with ample shine and a wide-tooth comb to create the lift and texture that makes the look so appealing.

Slicked-Back Pompadour with Disconnected High Fade

A slicked-back pompadour with a disconnected high fade is edgy and elegant at the same time. The volume at the top contrasts beautifully with the strands that tumble over the back of the head, and a prominent part line on either side lends the cut structure and shape. Personalize the look with a more subdued fade, longer hair at the back, or bold colors.

Pompadour with Low Taper Fade

The quintessential pompadour takes on a mellower appearance with the addition of a low taper fade. The hair sweeps upward and back in the front while the sides follow the curvature of the head, leading to a captivating and uniform profile. The edges at the temple and behind the ear seek to follow the cut's shape for a refined finish.

Modern Pompadour with Undercut Fade and Line Up

A modern pompadour with an undercut fade and line-up mimics the appearance of a flat top with its nearly level surface. The magic happens in the barber chair, where precise layers must come together for a flawless finish. The undercut fade adds lift while the line up synthesizes a smooth profile.

Pompadour Fade with Hard Part

A hard part pompadour fade is a classic gentleman's style that produces a cohesive, handsome look suitable for any business professional. The longer hair in front moves upward and then over from a deep and prominent side part, and the abrupt fade at the sides draws the eye upward. The short, faded beard polishes the cut for an aesthetic that works well in casual and formal settings.

Short Pompadour with Mid Fade and Long Beard

A charming short pompadour with a mid fade is an attractive and rugged men's hairstyle that features a bold long beard for balanced dimensions. The pomp is relatively simple; it flows up and back from the hairline, then abruptly fades to stubble about an inch above the ear. A thick, slightly wavy beard is wider than the jaw and creates a powerful presence, while the mustache, with its outwardly curled tips, offers a hipster vibe.

Classic Sleek Pompadour with Low Drop Fade

A classic sleek pompadour is a vintage style from a 1950s greaser handbook. It features a mind-blowing sheen and incredible texture that requires a generous amount of styling gel and a comb. The fanned-out appearance at the sides flows around to the back of the head, creating a daring v-shape. The pomp stands tall and proud before blending in at the crown.

Classy Pompadour with High Tapered Sides and Beard

A classy pompadour with high tapered sides and a beard is versatile enough to wear anywhere, whether it's poker night or a best friend's wedding. The high taper at the sides tames the boldness of the pomp, which flows upward and inward for a beautifully rounded profile. A full beard with thick stubble at the neck is sexy and masculine.

Layered Pompadour with Drop Fade

A contemporary layered pompadour with a drop fade is a youthful and fresh cut that foregoes wet-like shine in favor of stunning character and subtle highlights. Adding a few dark caramel or chocolate-colored streaks can pull attention upward and put focus on the texture, letting the asymmetrical drop fade round out the appearance.

Long Pompadour with Low Fade

This square-shaped, long pompadour with a sleek low fade transforms the style's traditional look to achieve a more aggressive, masculine look. The hair stands straight up in the front and gradually “falls” as it moves backward. The fade starts subtly, but it becomes more abrupt at the temples. A short beard with clean, crisp edges balances the look and gives it a masculine edge.

Textured Slick Back with Undercut Fade and Pomp

A textured slick back featuring an undercut fade and pomp is a flirty and stylish option for guys who like to stand out. The slicked-back pomp features a few streaky highlights that amplify its texture, and since the hair at the back is longer, it falls over the undercut for playful flair. The high skin fade creates more height on top, and the short beard that lies low on the jaw completes the look.