25 Classic 50s Hairstyles for Men That Still Look Sharp Today

The 1950s were a golden era for men’s grooming, giving rise to iconic hairstyles that still influence modern style. From slick pompadours to tidy crew cuts, these timeless looks combined precision, masculinity, and charm and they’re making a bold return in 2025.

Whether you’re channeling old Hollywood or looking for a clean, structured cut, here are 25 classic 1950s men’s hairstyles that still look sharp and stylish today.

Why 50s Hairstyles Are Back in Style

• Timeless masculinity: Sharp lines and defined styles never go out of fashion
• Cultural nostalgia: TV, movies, and vintage fashion have revived interest in retro grooming
• Modern twist: These cuts are being updated with fades, texture, and new styling techniques
• Low-maintenance options: Many 50s hairstyles require little daily styling
• Perfect for formal and casual wear: Versatile enough for suits or streetwear

25 Classic 50s Hairstyles for Men In 2025

1. Classic Pompadour

The Classic Pompadour is one of the most iconic hairstyles of the 1950s, immortalized by Elvis Presley. Characterized by a voluminous, slicked-back front and shorter sides, the modern version retains the retro flair but softens the shine with matte pomade and adds sharpness through tight fades or tapers. It’s bold, masculine, and continues to dominate red carpets and formal events.

• Key Features:
  
  • Voluminous front with slicked-back styling
    
  • Shorter sides faded or tapered for a modern touch
    
  • Works well with medium to thick hair
    
  • Signature retro silhouette
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Blow-dry hair upward using a round brush for lift.
    
  • Apply matte pomade or volumizing paste to shape the pomp.
    
  • Use a comb for smooth control and a sleek finish.
    
• Best For:
  
  • Men with medium to thick straight or wavy hair
    
  • Those looking for a timeless yet statement style
    
  • Oval, square, or heart-shaped faces
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Rock ‘n’ roll
    
  • Classic rebel
    
  • Sharp and polished

2. Side Part (Gentleman’s Cut)

The Side Part, also known as the Gentleman’s Cut, is a refined, tidy hairstyle that epitomized mid-century men’s grooming. This 1950s staple is all about precision, class, and simplicity. Today’s version incorporates subtle fades or tapers while keeping the signature deep part that brings structure and charm to any look.

• Key Features:
  
  • Defined side part with a clean silhouette
    
  • Tapered or faded sides for modern polish
    
  • Slicked or combed styling with medium hold
    
  • Low maintenance yet high impact
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a light pomade or cream to keep hair in place without stiffness.
    
  • Comb along the natural part line for precision.
    
  • Keep the neckline and sideburns trimmed cleanly.
    
• Best For:
  
  • Men who prefer clean, professional looks
    
  • All hair types, especially straight or wavy
    
  • Square, oval, or diamond face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Sophisticated
    
  • Timelessly masculine
    
  • Polished and put-together

3. Slicked Back Undercut

The Slicked Back Undercut channels classic 1950s rebellion think James Dean or Marlon Brando. This cut keeps the top long and combed back with strong hold, while the sides are sharply clipped or faded. The modern version often uses a skin or low fade to create striking contrast, making this style both retro and powerfully current.

• Key Features:
  
  • Long top slicked straight back
    
  • Undercut or skin fade on the sides
    
  • Clean neckline and sideburns
    
  • Inspired by vintage counterculture
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a high-hold pomade or gel for a sleek, wet finish.
    
  • Blow-dry back before applying product to lock in volume.
    
  • Comb thoroughly for precision.
    
• Best For:
  
  • Medium to thick straight hair
    
  • Men wanting a bold yet classic edge
    
  • Square or oval face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Rebel cool
    
  • Vintage tough
    
  • Sleek and assertive

4. Ivy League Cut

The Ivy League Cut is the quintessential clean-cut 1950s style neat, intellectual, and effortlessly polished. With slightly longer hair on top and neatly tapered or faded sides, it allows for a combed part or brushed-forward styling. The cut gives off collegiate confidence while remaining highly adaptable for modern life.

• Key Features:
  
  • Short, tidy sides with a longer top
    
  • Natural or defined side part
    
  • Polished without looking overstyled
    
  • Ideal for professional or academic settings
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a light pomade or cream to add control and shine.
    
  • Comb to the side or slightly upward for lift.
    
  • Regular trims will keep the shape sharp and clean.
    
• Best For:
  
  • Men with fine to medium hair
    
  • Those seeking a low-maintenance professional look
    
  • Oval, heart, or oblong face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Refined
    
  • Smart and stylish
    
  • Understated classic

5. Crew Cut

The Crew Cut is a timeless 1950s staple rooted in military tradition and admired for its sharp simplicity. With short length on top and even shorter sides, it’s a wash-and-go option that doesn’t sacrifice style. The cut’s clean lines and no-fuss upkeep make it ideal for men who want a classic look with minimal effort.

• Key Features:
  
  • Short, uniform length on top
    
  • Slight taper or fade on the sides
    
  • Extremely low maintenance
    
  • Strong, masculine silhouette
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Apply a small amount of matte cream or paste for texture, if desired.
    
  • Use clippers regularly to maintain clean edges.
    
  • Ideal for keeping things tight and tidy year-round.
    
• Best For:
  
  • All hair types, especially straight and wavy
    
  • Active men or those seeking simplicity
    
  • Square, oval, or rectangular face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Rugged
    
  • Practical
    
  • Clean-cut confidence

6. Butch Cut

The Butch Cut is a straightforward, utilitarian style that sits between a crew cut and a buzz cut in length. This 1950s classic emphasizes symmetry and neatness without the need for daily styling. It works especially well for men with straight or slightly wavy hair and is perfect for those who prefer a masculine look with zero fuss.

• Key Features:
  
  • Very short and even all around
    
  • Clipped close but not shaved
    
  • Minimal styling required
    
  • Great for hot climates or athletic lifestyles
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • No styling product needed just keep it trimmed regularly.
    
  • Maintain the shape with clippers every 2–3 weeks.
    
  • Optional: line-up or fade for a modern update.
    
• Best For:
  
  • Men with fine or straight hair
    
  • Those looking for an ultra-low-maintenance cut
    
  • Round, square, or oval faces
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Strong
    
  • Functional
    
  • Effortlessly masculine

7. Ducktail (DA Style)

The Ducktail, also known as the DA (Duck’s Ass) Style, was the ultimate bad-boy haircut of the 1950s. Hair is combed from both sides toward the center at the back of the head, forming a sleek ridge that resembles a duck’s tail. Often paired with a slicked pompadour in front, the ducktail is still favored today in rockabilly and retro circles for its bold attitude and nostalgic flair.

• Key Features:
  
  • Hair slicked back from both sides to meet at the nape
    
  • Requires longer hair on the sides and back
    
  • Signature ridge down the back resembling a duck’s rear
    
  • Typically styled with a shiny finish
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a strong-hold pomade or gel for sleek control.
    
  • Comb sides tightly back and form the center seam with precision.
    
  • Keep the neckline neat to define the ducktail shape.
    
• Best For:
  
  • Men with medium to long straight hair
    
  • Fans of retro, vintage, or rockabilly fashion
    
  • Oval or rectangular face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Rebellious
    
  • Retro rock ‘n’ roll
    
  • Attention-grabbing and slick

8. Flat Top

The Flat Top was a standout 1950s style adopted by everyone from military cadets to jazz musicians. With its straight, level top and sharply faded sides, the cut creates a bold geometric silhouette. Today, it’s seen with variations like skin fades, drop fades, or razor-sharp edges, keeping its crisp essence alive for a modern era.

• Key Features:
  
  • Flat, horizontal top with clean angles
    
  • Short or faded sides
    
  • Strong lines for a sharp, bold appearance
    
  • Works best with coarse or tightly curled hair
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Trim regularly to keep the top level and edges sharp.
    
  • Use styling gel or wax for hold if needed.
    
  • Ask your barber for a drop or high fade to modernize the look.
    
• Best For:
  
  • Men with thick, coarse, or textured hair
    
  • Those seeking a bold and structured look
    
  • Square or oval face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Bold and geometric
    
  • Retro-cool
    
  • Military meets music

9. Short Waves

The Short Waves style reflects how men in the 1950s embraced natural texture without sacrificing neatness. Hair was kept short all around, allowing natural waves to show through on top while tapering the sides and back for a tidy, balanced silhouette. This look blends classic grooming with a relaxed feel perfect for guys who want vintage appeal without too much product or effort.

• Key Features:
  
  • Short length with visible natural waves
    
  • Tapered or faded sides
    
  • Low-maintenance texture with a clean outline
    
  • Works with wavy or curly hair
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Apply a light styling cream or sea salt spray to enhance waves.
    
  • Use a soft brush or comb to guide hair into place.
    
  • Keep the sides tapered or trimmed close for contrast.
    
• Best For:
  
  • Naturally wavy or curly hair types
    
  • Men seeking a vintage cut with modern ease
    
  • Oval, round, or square face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Effortlessly classic
    
  • Softly masculine
    
  • Clean and approachable

10. Brushed Back Waves

The Brushed Back Waves hairstyle was a 1950s go-to for men with textured or voluminous hair. The look involved brushing hair back smoothly while letting natural wave patterns peek through, topped off with a glossy shine using traditional pomades. Today, it’s making a comeback with updated products that offer control without the greasy feel.

• Key Features:
  
  • Medium length brushed backward
    
  • Visible wave texture throughout
    
  • High-shine or semi-gloss finish
    
  • Suits naturally voluminous or wavy hair
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Apply a shine pomade or gel for that authentic glossy finish.
    
  • Use a vent brush to guide waves backward while blow-drying.
    
  • For a modern touch, opt for a semi-matte product to reduce greasiness.
    
• Best For:
  
  • Wavy or voluminous hair types
    
  • Men looking to elevate their natural texture
    
  • Heart, oval, or oblong face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Vintage charm
    
  • Smooth and polished
    
  • Confident and well-groomed

11. Buzz Cut with Line-Up

The Buzz Cut with Line-Up may feel modern, but its roots run deep into the disciplined military styles of the 1950s. Back then, simple and sharp was the standard and this look delivers exactly that. The buzz cut keeps things ultra-short and uniform, while the clean, razor-sharp line-up around the hairline and temples adds a contemporary twist that still fits the era’s clean grooming ethos.

• Key Features:
  
  • Extremely short length, clipped evenly all over
    
  • Defined hairline with razor-edged precision
    
  • Minimal styling required
    
  • Crisp, structured finish
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • No product needed just regular clipper maintenance
    
  • Keep the edges fresh with biweekly line-ups
    
  • Add a fade or taper to modernize it slightly
    
• Best For:
  
  • All hair types
    
  • Men looking for an ultra-low-maintenance style
    
  • Oval, round, or square face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Military precision
    
  • Clean and confident
    
  • Sharp minimalism

12. Mini Quiff

The Mini Quiff is a subtle nod to the era’s love for height and volume, offering a low-profile alternative to the bold pompadour. This 1950s-inspired style flips the front of the hair upward for a slight lift, while keeping the sides neat and tight. It’s ideal for shorter hair lengths or conservative settings, blending retro charm with understated cool.

• Key Features:
  
  • Small lift at the front
    
  • Short back and sides
    
  • Sleek and balanced with mild volume
    
  • Ideal for guys with shorter cuts
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Blow-dry the front upward with a round brush
    
  • Use a lightweight wax or volumizing mousse for hold
    
  • Tame sides with a comb or touch of pomade
    
• Best For:
  
  • Men with short to medium hair
    
  • Subtle vintage fans or professionals
    
  • Heart or oval face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Understated retro
    
  • Clean with character
    
  • Effortlessly classic

13. Slick Side Comb Over

The Slick Side Comb Over was a 1950s essential neat, intentional, and always well-groomed. With a sharply defined part and hair combed neatly to the side, this look was a staple among businessmen, students, and gentlemen alike. Comb lines were deliberate, and the shine was non-negotiable, often achieved with petroleum-based pomades.

• Key Features:
  
  • Defined side part
    
  • Hair combed neatly across
    
  • Visible comb lines for structure
    
  • High-shine finish
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a strong-hold gel or traditional pomade for a glossy look
    
  • Comb hair to the side with even spacing for visual texture
    
  • Keep part sharp using a tail comb or edge trimmer
    
• Best For:
  
  • Straight or slightly wavy hair
    
  • Professional or formal settings
    
  • Oval, square, or rectangular face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Polished and professional
    
  • Vintage discipline
    
  • Sharp and intentional

14. Taper Fade with Side Part

The Taper Fade with Side Part blends classic and contemporary perfectly. While fades weren’t a 1950s term, the side part absolutely was. This modern evolution keeps the old-school vibe up top with a clean part while tapering the sides for a sleek and current finish. It’s ideal for men who want to keep the essence of the ‘50s while embracing a sharper, updated edge.

• Key Features:
  
  • Side-parted top
    
  • Gradual taper or low fade on the sides
    
  • Balanced mix of retro and modern
    
  • Clean neckline and temples
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a matte pomade or styling cream to avoid excessive shine
    
  • Keep the part precise and edges trimmed
    
  • Ask your barber for a low taper fade for the most authentic modern blend
    
• Best For:
  
  • All hair types, especially fine or straight
    
  • Men who like vintage with a modern twist
    
  • Oval, heart, or angular face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Classic meets current
    
  • Sharp sophistication
    
  • Clean-cut with flair

15. High and Tight

The High and Tight is a classic military-style haircut that was widely worn in the 1950s, especially among servicemen and law enforcement. With extremely short or faded sides and a slightly longer top, this cut is all about clean lines and masculine precision. It remains a staple for men seeking a bold, low-maintenance look that exudes discipline and strength.

• Key Features:
  
  • Very short sides often skin faded or clipped tight
    
  • Slightly longer hair on top (but still short)
    
  • Strong, structured silhouette
    
  • Extremely low upkeep
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • No styling product required just regular trims
    
  • Use a clipper guard #1 or #2 on sides for a crisp effect
    
  • Optional: shape up the hairline for a modern touch
    
• Best For:
  
  • Coarse or straight hair
    
  • Active or professional lifestyles
    
  • Square, oval, or round face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Military sharp
    
  • Strong and practical
    
  • Effortlessly masculine

16. Medium Length with Side Sweep

Channeling the elegance of Hollywood icons like Cary Grant, the Medium Length with Side Sweep hairstyle brings suave 1950s charm to life. This style keeps the hair longer than most traditional cuts, parted and swept softly to one side. It’s refined, romantic, and ideal for formal occasions or for any man wanting to elevate his look with vintage flair.

• Key Features:
  
  • Medium length on top and sides
    
  • Defined side part with sweeping motion
    
  • Smooth and refined texture
    
  • Classic, gentlemanly silhouette
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a light hold cream or mousse to maintain volume without stiffness
    
  • Comb with a wide-tooth comb for a softer, natural sweep
    
  • Blow-dry for a fuller look, especially at the crown
    
• Best For:
  
  • Wavy or straight hair
    
  • Men with medium-length hair who want structure without sharp edges
    
  • Oval, heart, or diamond-shaped faces
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Sophisticated and romantic
    
  • Golden-age Hollywood
    
  • Effortlessly refined

17. Greaser Cut

The Greaser Cut was the rebellious heart of 1950s youth culture. Worn by bad boys and rock ‘n’ roll icons, this style features slicked-back hair with longer sides, often paired with high-shine pomade and a defiant attitude. Whether you’re channeling James Dean or a modern-day throwback, this look screams retro cool.

• Key Features:
  
  • Medium to long hair slicked straight back
    
  • Longer sides not faded styled with volume
    
  • High-gloss finish
    
  • Inspired by 1950s rock and rebellion
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a strong-hold oil-based pomade for authentic shine
    
  • Comb back while wet, and shape with fingers for added volume
    
  • Don’t fade the sides keep length for that classic greaser silhouette
    
• Best For:
  
  • Thick, straight, or slightly wavy hair
    
  • Men wanting a vintage, edgy vibe
    
  • Square or angular face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Retro rebel
    
  • Rock ‘n’ roll attitude
    
  • Bold and unapologetic

18. Hard Part Combover

While the Hard Part Combover is a modern invention, it pays homage to the clean side parts of the 1950s. Instead of a natural parting, the line is shaved in with clippers for razor-sharp contrast. It’s the perfect blend of old-school polish and 21st-century sharpness ideal for men who like precision.

• Key Features:
  
  • Clean combover with a shaved hard part
    
  • Short to medium length on top
    
  • Often paired with a taper or low fade
    
  • High-definition separation between sections
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a matte pomade or styling clay for a modern finish
    
  • Define the hard part regularly at the barber to keep it crisp
    
  • Comb the top section sideways and slightly back for volume
    
• Best For:
  
  • Straight or wavy hair
    
  • Men who want a classic shape with contemporary sharpness
    
  • Oval, heart, or rectangular face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Clean-cut meets bold
    
  • Structured and stylish
    
  • Business with edge

19. Neat Comb Over with Taper

The Neat Comb Over with Taper is a refined nod to 1950s professionalism. This look features a side-swept top paired with tapered sides and back, offering a clean silhouette that’s ideal for business and formal occasions. It’s a style that’s aged beautifully structured, elegant, and effortless to maintain.

• Key Features:
  
  • Side-swept top with subtle volume
    
  • Tapered nape and temples for a clean finish
    
  • Works well with a natural or defined part
    
  • Smooth, polished appearance
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Apply a light to medium-hold pomade for shine and hold
    
  • Comb top sideways with a gentle lift for body
    
  • Maintain the taper regularly for a sharp finish
    
• Best For:
  
  • Straight or slightly wavy hair
    
  • Professionals or formal dressers
    
  • Oval, square, or round face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Timeless and tidy
    
  • Business classic
    
  • Clean-cut and polished

20. Short Back and Sides

The Short Back and Sides is the quintessential 1950s barber cut tight, tidy, and universally flattering. With short hair at the back and sides and a modest top, this style became the era’s standard for schoolboys, servicemen, and everyday gents alike. Add a touch of shine, and it becomes a no-fuss classic that’s still relevant today.

• Key Features:
  
  • Closely clipped back and sides
    
  • Short, lightly styled top
    
  • Traditional and conservative shape
    
  • Easily adapted to most hair types
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a light shine pomade to smooth the top
    
  • Keep the sides tight with regular trims
    
  • Brush forward slightly or part subtly for direction
    
• Best For:
  
  • All hair textures
    
  • Low-maintenance grooming routines
    
  • Men of all ages and face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Old-school clean
    
  • Practical and dependable
    
  • Effortless neatness

21. Side Swept Pompadour

The Side Swept Pompadour is a refined fusion of two iconic 1950s styles: the structured side part and the voluminous pompadour. This hybrid look offers both height and direction, making it one of the most flattering styles for modern men who want retro flair with a bit of control. It’s ideal for events or day-to-day sharpness with character.

• Key Features:
  
  • Voluminous top with a distinct side sweep
    
  • Blended sides can be tapered or left longer for authenticity
    
  • Combines classic shape with modern polish
    
  • Versatile across formal and casual wear
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a volumizing mousse or pomade to lift the front
    
  • Blow-dry while brushing back and to the side for shape
    
  • Lock the look with a light hairspray for all-day hold
    
• Best For:
  
  • Thick or medium-density hair
    
  • Men who enjoy a mix of retro style and modern structure
    
  • Oval, heart, and square face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Dashing and defined
    
  • Vintage with an edge
    
  • Confidently classic

22. Tidy Waves with Shine

The Tidy Waves with Shine look was a 1950s essential for men with natural wave or texture. With the help of pomade, waves were slicked and shaped to emphasize control without eliminating movement. Today, this style still works wonders, giving your waves a structured, glossy finish that speaks to timeless grooming.

• Key Features:
  
  • Natural waves styled flat or lightly lifted
    
  • High-shine finish from traditional pomade
    
  • Neatly shaped sides and back
    
  • Defined texture with controlled edges
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Apply a shine-heavy pomade or cream to damp hair
    
  • Comb waves into shape following natural direction
    
  • Use a boar bristle brush for a smooth, old-school finish
    
• Best For:
  
  • Wavy or curly hair
    
  • Men who want texture with polish
    
  • Classic and formal aesthetics
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Polished and natural
    
  • Gentlemanly waves
    
  • 50s cool meets modern grooming

23. Clean Mid-Length Taper

The Clean Mid-Length Taper was a quiet staple of the 1950s neat, professional, and effortlessly stylish. It features medium-length hair on top that tapers gradually toward the sides and neckline, offering a balanced, structured look without rigid lines. Perfect for men who want timeless polish with a natural flow.

• Key Features:
  
  • Medium length on top with gradual tapering
    
  • Smooth blending around the ears and neckline
    
  • Soft edges rather than hard lines
    
  • Minimal product needed for everyday wear
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a light styling cream or mousse for touchable control
    
  • Comb the top back or to the side depending on the occasion
    
  • Schedule regular taper trims to maintain shape
    
• Best For:
  
  • Straight, wavy, or fine hair
    
  • Men who prefer understated structure
    
  • Oval, rectangular, or oblong face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Quietly classic
    
  • Understated elegance
    
  • Smooth and versatile

24. Widow’s Peak Style

Rather than concealing a widow’s peak, men in the 1950s often embraced it as a distinguished feature. The Widow’s Peak Style made this natural hairline the focal point often styled with a slicked back or deep side part. Today, it remains a smart choice for adding definition and intentionality to your hairline.

• Key Features:
  
  • Emphasizes the natural widow’s peak
    
  • Usually paired with side part or slick back
    
  • Accentuates hairline angles for a bold frame
    
  • Works with short to medium top length
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a medium-shine pomade for controlled direction
    
  • Part slightly off-center to follow the peak’s natural flow
    
  • Keep the hairline edged up for sharpness
    
• Best For:
  
  • Men with a natural widow’s peak
    
  • Those seeking structure or facial framing
    
  • Square, oval, or heart-shaped faces
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Bold and distinguished
    
  • Classic with character
    
  • Confident precision

25. Executive Contour

The Executive Contour was the go-to hairstyle for mid-century businessmen and professionals. With tight, tapered sides and a slicked, controlled top, it projected confidence, discipline, and class. Today, it remains a staple in barbershops for men who want to look sharp without shouting for attention. Think Don Draper vibes clean, masculine, and put-together.

• Key Features:
  
  • Short, tapered sides with clean edges
    
  • Slicked top, typically combed back or with a slight part
    
  • Balanced shape neither too flat nor too voluminous
    
  • Signature of professional grooming
    
• Styling Tips:
  
  • Apply a medium or high-shine pomade to damp hair
    
  • Use a fine-tooth comb for precise contouring
    
  • Blow-dry with a slight lift at the front for extra volume if desired
    
• Best For:
  
  • Straight or slightly wavy hair
    
  • Business settings or formal occasions
    
  • Oval, square, or heart-shaped faces
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Polished professionalism
    
  • Mid-century masculine
    
  • Confident and classic