how to style your hair like elvis
Key Characteristics of Elvis Presley’s Iconic Hairstyle
Elvis Presley’s hairstyle is one of the most iconic and recognizable looks in the history of popular culture. His signature pompadour, with its voluminous height and slicked-back sides, became synonymous with his rock ‘n’ roll persona. The key characteristics of Elvis’s hairstyle include:
1. Height and Volume:
The most distinctive feature of Elvis’s hairstyle is its impressive height and volume. To achieve this look, hair is styled to stand tall on top of the head, creating a dramatic effect.
2. Slicked-Back Sides:
In contrast to the voluminous top, the sides of Elvis’s hair are slicked back close to the scalp. This creates a sleek and polished appearance that emphasizes the height and drama of the pompadour.
3. Sideburns:
Elvis was also known for his sideburns, which were an integral part of his overall hairstyle. The sideburns extended down towards the jawline, adding a touch of masculinity and framing his face.
These key characteristics are what make Elvis’s hairstyle so iconic and timeless. Recreating this look requires attention to detail and careful styling techniques.
Achieving the Pompadour Hairstyle: How to Style Your Hair Like Elvis
If you want to style your hair like Elvis and achieve that classic pompadour look, here are some steps you can follow:
1. Start with Clean Hair:
It’s important to start with clean hair as this will make styling easier and help your hair hold its shape better. Wash your hair with a good quality shampoo and conditioner before styling.
2. Apply a Volumizing Product:
To create the height and volume that Elvis’s hairstyle requires, apply a volumizing product to your damp hair. This could be a mousse, root-lifting spray, or volumizing powder. Work the product into your roots and distribute it evenly throughout your hair.
3. Blow Dry with a Round Brush:
Using a round brush, blow dry your hair while lifting it at the roots to create volume. Focus on the top section of your hair and direct the airflow upwards to add height. Use the brush to shape and guide your hair in the desired direction.
4. Backcomb for Extra Volume:
If you want even more height, you can backcomb or tease your hair at the crown area. Take small sections of hair and gently comb them backward towards the scalp to create volume and texture.
5. Slick Back the Sides:
Once you have achieved the desired height on top, use a comb or brush to slick back the sides of your hair close to your scalp. Apply some pomade or gel to help keep the sides sleek and in place.
6. Shape and Tidy Up:
Use a comb or your fingers to shape and tidy up any stray hairs or uneven sections. You can also use some hairspray to set everything in place and ensure long-lasting hold.
Remember that practice makes perfect when it comes to styling your hair like Elvis. It may take some time and experimentation to get the look just right, so don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t turn out exactly as you envisioned on your first attempt.
Recommended Hair Products for Styling Your Hair Like Elvis
When it comes to achieving an Elvis-inspired hairstyle, using the right hair products is crucial. To achieve the signature slicked-back look, you will need a strong hold pomade or gel. Look for products that provide a high shine finish to replicate Elvis’s iconic glossy locks. Some recommended hair products for styling your hair like Elvis include:
1. Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade
This classic pomade has been a favorite among rockabilly enthusiasts for years. It offers a strong hold and high shine, perfect for recreating Elvis’s sleek style.
2. Suavecito Firme Hold Pomade
This water-based pomade provides a firm hold without weighing down your hair. It is easy to apply and washes out effortlessly, making it ideal for everyday use.
Techniques and Tools for Recreating Elvis’s Hairstyle
To achieve an authentic Elvis-inspired hairstyle, it is important to master the techniques and use the right tools. Here are some tips to help you recreate his iconic look:
1. Backcombing
Backcombing, also known as teasing or ratting, is a technique used to create volume and height in the hair. This was often done at the crown of the head to achieve Elvis’s signature pompadour.
2. Round Brush Blowout
A round brush blowout can help add volume and shape to your hair before styling it into an Elvis-like quiff or pompadour. Use a round brush while blow-drying your hair in an upward motion to create lift at the roots.
Tips for Combing and Shaping Your Hair to Achieve an Elvis-Inspired Look
Combing and shaping your hair correctly is essential for achieving an Elvis-inspired look. Here are some tips to help you perfect your hairstyle:
1. Use a Fine-Tooth Comb
A fine-tooth comb will help you create clean, defined lines in your hair. Use it to comb through your hair in the direction you want it to lay, whether it’s slicked back or styled into a quiff.
2. Apply Heat
If you’re aiming for a pompadour or quiff, using heat can help set the shape of your hair. After styling, use a blow dryer on low heat to lock in the desired shape.
Recreating Different Hairstyles from Different Eras of Elvis’s Career
Elvis’s hairstyle evolved throughout his career, and recreating different hairstyles from different eras can be a fun way to pay homage to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Here are some iconic hairstyles from different eras of Elvis’s career:
1. The Pompadour (1950s)
- Slick back the sides of your hair using pomade or gel.
- Create volume at the crown by backcombing and shaping it into a pompadour.
- Smooth down any flyaways with a fine-tooth comb.
2. The Sideburns and Tousled Bangs (1960s)
- Grow out your sideburns for an authentic ’60s look.
- Tousle your bangs with some texturizing spray for a slightly messy, rock ‘n’ roll vibe.
- Style the rest of your hair in a slicked-back manner or leave it slightly tousled for a more casual look.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Styling a Quiff like Early Years Elvis
The quiff was one of Elvis’s most iconic hairstyles during his early years. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve this look:
1. Prep your hair
Start with clean, towel-dried hair. Apply a volumizing mousse or spray to add texture and volume.
2. Blow-dry your hair
Using a round brush, blow-dry your hair while lifting at the roots to create volume. Direct the airflow upwards to achieve height.
3. Backcomb the crown
Take a section of hair at the crown and backcomb it gently using a fine-tooth comb. This will create volume and lift.
4. Smooth out the top layer
Gently smooth out the top layer of hair with a comb or brush, being careful not to flatten the backcombed section.
5. Style into a quiff
Taking the front section of your hair, push it forward and upward to create the characteristic quiff shape. Use pomade or gel to hold it in place.
Hair Length and Texture Requirements for an Elvis-Like Hairstyle
The length and texture of your hair play an important role in achieving an Elvis-like hairstyle. Here are some guidelines:
1. Hair Length
To recreate Elvis’s signature styles, your hair should ideally be at least 3-4 inches long on top. This will provide enough length to create volume and shape.
2. Hair Texture
Elvis had thick, straight hair, which made it easier to achieve his iconic looks. However, with the right techniques and products, individuals with different hair textures can also achieve similar styles.
Tips for Maintaining Volume and Height in an Elvis-Style Pompadour
Maintaining volume and height in an Elvis-style pompadour is essential for an authentic look. Here are some tips to help you keep your hairstyle intact:
1. Use a Strong Hold Hairspray
After styling your pompadour, spray it generously with a strong hold hairspray to lock in the shape and prevent it from falling flat throughout the day.
2. Sleep with a Silk or Satin Pillowcase
To preserve your pompadour overnight, sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase. These materials create less friction than cotton, reducing the chances of your hairstyle getting flattened while you sleep.
Finding Visual References and Tutorials on Styling Your Hair like Elvis
If you’re looking for visual references and tutorials on styling your hair like Elvis, there are several resources available:
1. Online Image Galleries
Browse online image galleries dedicated to Elvis Presley’s hairstyles. These galleries often provide a wide range of photos showcasing his different looks from various eras of his career.
2. YouTube Tutorials
YouTube is a great platform for finding step-by-step tutorials on styling your hair like Elvis. Many hairstylists and enthusiasts share their techniques and tips, making it easier for you to recreate his iconic hairstyles.
In conclusion, by following the tips and techniques mentioned in this article, anyone can easily achieve Elvis-inspired hairstyles.
