The sleek, behind-the-ear hairstyle is a symbol of understated elegance and sophistication. It’s a versatile look that transitions effortlessly from a professional daytime setting to a chic evening event. Achieving this polished finish is simpler than it seems and relies on the right technique and a few key styling aids. Whether you have medium or long hair, this style can frame your face beautifully, highlighting your features while keeping your look neat and intentional. This guide will walk you through creating that flawless, smooth tuck with a lasting hold.
Preparing Your Hair and Tools
The foundation of a perfect sleek style is well-prepared hair. You can start with either freshly washed and completely dry hair or second-day hair, which often has more texture and grip. If your hair is too soft and slippery, a light mist of texturising spray can provide the necessary hold. Before you begin styling, ensure your hair is brushed through and free of any tangles. Gather your essential tools: a fine-tooth comb for precision, a strong-hold styling gel or pomade for smoothness, bobby pins that match your hair colour for discreet securing, and a firm-hold hairspray for the final touch.
Choosing Your Styling Product
The choice between a gel and a pomade depends on the finish you desire. A styling gel typically provides a stronger hold and a shinier, 'wet look' finish, which is excellent for a more dramatic, high-fashion appearance. A wax-based pomade, on the other hand, offers a more flexible hold with a satin or matte finish, giving a slightly softer and more natural, yet still controlled, look. For this particular sleek style, a gel is often preferred for its ability to tame all flyaways and create a mirror-like surface.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Tuck
With your hair prepped and tools at the ready, you can now create the elegant behind-the-ear style. Precision and patience are key to achieving a professional-looking result at home.
Step 1: Create a Sharp Parting
Using your fine-tooth comb, decide on your parting. A deep side part creates a classic, glamorous effect, adding a touch of drama and asymmetry. A centre parting offers a more modern, symmetrical, and minimalist feel. Use the end of your comb to draw a clean, straight line from your hairline back towards the crown. Once you've established the part, comb the hair on both sides down flat in the direction it will be styled.
Step 2: Apply Product and Smooth the Hair
Squeeze a small amount of styling gel onto your fingertips. Start with one side of your parting. Apply the gel from the roots, combing it through the first few inches of hair. The goal is to create a sleek surface without making the entire length of your hair stiff. Use the fine-tooth comb to distribute the product evenly and smooth down any bumps or flyaways. Comb the hair downwards and back, directing it towards the area behind your ear.
Step 3: Secure the Tuck
Once one side is perfectly smooth, gently pull the section of hair back and tuck it neatly behind your ear. To secure it, use two bobby pins. For an invisible and extra-strong hold, slide the first pin in horizontally, pointing towards your face. Then, slide the second pin over the first in an 'X' shape. This criss-cross technique locks the hair in place. Make sure the pins are hidden by the rest of your hair. Repeat the process on the other side if you are styling both sides back.
Variations and Finishing Touches
While the classic sleek tuck is beautiful on its own, you can easily adapt it to suit your personal style or the occasion. For a bolder 'wet look', be more generous with the gel, extending it further down the hair shaft and combing it through for a high-gloss effect. If you prefer some volume, you can gently backcomb the hair at the crown before sleeking down the sides. This creates a pleasing contrast between the height on top and the flat, smooth sides. You can also elevate the style by using decorative clips or embellished barrettes instead of hidden bobby pins. Once you are happy with the shape, give your hair a final, light misting of strong-hold hairspray to lock everything in place and protect against humidity. This will ensure your elegant style remains flawless throughout the day or night.
