The world of hair fashion constantly evolves, with new trends appearing every year. Yet, some styles manage to remain relevant across decades because
The world of hair fashion constantly evolves, with new trends appearing every year. Yet, some styles manage to remain relevant across decades because of their simplicity, elegance, and versatility. In 2020, one of those styles dominated both mainstream beauty culture and high fashion runways: straight back hairstyles.
Known for their clean lines and facial-framing power, straight back hairstyles proved in 2020 that minimalism can be powerful. These styles ranged from tight, glossy finishes to more natural, textured approaches. The look worked for various hair lengths, textures, and even personalities. Whether you were working from home, attending a Zoom meeting, walking a red carpet, or heading to a casual outing, the straight back look was there—timeless, adaptable, and striking.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll revisit the straight back hairstyle movement in 2020, covering the top variations, styling techniques, hair care tips, and frequently asked questions to help you understand why this trend had such an impact.
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What Is a Straight Back Hairstyle?
At its core, a straight back hairstyle refers to any look where the hair is styled directly away from the forehead, combed or brushed backward toward the nape of the neck. The result is a sleek, face-framing silhouette that can be customized to look polished or relaxed.
While often associated with a neat, glossy finish, 2020 saw a much wider interpretation of this style—introducing volume, texture, waves, curls, and even braids into the mix.
Why Straight Back Hairstyles Ruled 2020
2020 was a year of reinvention, largely influenced by shifts in work culture and daily life. With people spending more time at home, many leaned into simple, low-maintenance looks that still offered sophistication. Here’s why straight back styles stood out:
- Easy to Achieve at Home
Whether you had professional tools or just a comb and gel, straight back hairstyles could be created without a salon visit. - Versatile for Any Occasion
From business meetings to date nights, this look could be dressed up or down easily. - Face-Defining and Flattering
Straight back styles pull hair away from the face, allowing natural features to shine. They accentuate bone structure and can visually elongate the face. - Timeless, Yet Modern
These styles echoed vintage glamour while also aligning with futuristic fashion trends.
Top Straight Back Hairstyles of 2020
Let’s take a detailed look at the most popular straight back hairstyles that made waves in 2020.
1. The Classic Slick Back
This was the “power look” of 2020. Using high-hold gel or pomade, hair is combed flat against the scalp and straight back to create a dramatic, polished effect. It’s often paired with bold makeup or minimalist outfits.
Best For: Short to medium hair lengths.
Styling Tip: Start with damp hair, apply gel evenly, and comb backward using a fine-tooth comb. Set with hairspray for hold.
2. Voluminous Straight Back
This version adds drama without losing softness. Instead of a tight finish, the hair is blow-dried with lift at the roots, adding fullness and a bit of bounce.
Best For: Medium to long hair with natural volume.
Styling Tip: Use a round brush while blow-drying. Apply mousse at the roots and dry hair back for lift.
3. Wet Look Straight Back
Inspired by runway trends, the wet look gives hair a damp, fresh-from-the-shower appearance—while still being highly controlled.
Best For: All lengths and textures.
Styling Tip: Use a generous amount of wet-look gel and a wide-tooth comb to create smooth, separated sections.
4. Straight Back Braids (Cornrows)
Although technically different from the sleek styling approach, cornrows braided straight back gained cultural prominence again in 2020. Protective, stylish, and full of historical significance, they stood out in fashion and film alike.
Best For: Natural, curly, or coily hair.
Styling Tip: Part hair evenly and use a rat-tail comb for clean lines. Braid tightly and secure the ends.
5. Low Straight Back Bun or Ponytail
Perfect for professionals or minimalists, this style pulls hair straight back and into a bun or ponytail at the nape. Sleek but soft, it’s ideal for long days or special events.
Best For: Medium to long hair.
Styling Tip: Apply smoothing serum before brushing hair into position. Use a boar-bristle brush for a refined finish.
6. Straight Back with Undercut
This bold, edgy style features shaved sides with longer top hair slicked straight back. It became especially popular among fashion-forward individuals in 2020.
Best For: Short to medium hair, all genders.
Styling Tip: Maintain undercut with regular trims. Use pomade or styling clay for control on top.
How to Style a Straight Back Look at Home
Creating a straight back style doesn’t require salon-level skills. Here’s how you can easily style your hair straight back at home:
Step 1: Clean and Prep
- Wash your hair thoroughly to remove any residue.
- Use a smoothing shampoo and conditioner to reduce frizz.
- Apply a heat protectant if you plan to use heat tools.
Step 2: Choose Your Styling Product
- For a wet or slick look: Use gel or pomade.
- For volume and texture: Use mousse or a root-lifting spray.
- For natural curls: Use curl-enhancing cream and light gel.
Step 3: Blow-Dry or Air-Dry
- Blow-dry hair while brushing it backward. This sets the direction and gives root lift.
- For curls or waves, use a diffuser and brush lightly back with fingers.
Step 4: Final Shape
- Use a comb to part and define lines.
- Smooth with hands or brush.
- Finish with hairspray or shine mist for a lasting effect.
Step 5: Optional Additions
- Add accessories (pins, clips, headbands) for flair.
- Consider braiding sections for a unique twist.
Hair Care Tips for Straight Back Styles
To maintain healthy hair while enjoying straight back looks, consider these care tips:
- Don’t Overuse Gel or Pomade
Use only as much as needed to avoid buildup. Wash hair thoroughly at least twice a week. - Moisturize Your Hair and Scalp
Especially with tight styles like braids, keeping your scalp hydrated is key. - Avoid Daily Heat Styling
Straight back styles can often be done without heat. Embrace air-drying when possible. - Use Satin or Silk at Night
Sleep with a silk pillowcase or hair wrap to reduce breakage and frizz.
Straight Back Styles for Different Hair Types
Every hair texture can rock this trend with the right technique:
Straight Hair
- Easiest to slick back.
- May need extra product to hold shape.
- Avoid making it too flat — use light texture spray for body.
Wavy Hair
- Great for textured straight back looks.
- Use a round brush and smoothing cream.
- Don’t over-brush to preserve wave pattern.
Curly Hair
- Can be slicked or styled naturally.
- Embrace the texture for volume-focused styles.
- Use curl cream + gel for control.
Coily/Kinky Hair
- Ideal for cornrows or protective braid styles.
- Keep scalp moisturized.
- Use edge control to smooth baby hairs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does it take to style hair straight back?
A: For most people, it takes 10–20 minutes, depending on hair type and length. Braided versions take longer—up to an hour or more.
Q2: Can I wear a straight back hairstyle every day?
A: Yes, but rotate between slick and natural versions to avoid overuse of styling products or tension on the scalp.
Q3: Are straight back styles suitable for short hair?
A: Absolutely. Short hair can be slicked back or textured back with pomade or styling paste.
Q4: How can I prevent product buildup?
A: Use a clarifying shampoo once a week, and avoid layering multiple heavy products.
Q5: Is this style appropriate for formal occasions?
A: Definitely. The sleek bun, low ponytail, and classic slick back are highly popular for weddings, galas, and corporate events.
Final Thoughts
Straight back hairstyles were more than just a trend in 2020—they were a symbol of functional beauty and effortless power. From the red carpet to the home office, this style offered a practical, fashionable solution to the ever-changing demands of the year.
The appeal lies in its flexibility: it can be clean or messy, sleek or textured, relaxed or structured. Regardless of your hair type, face shape, or personal aesthetic, there’s a straight back hairstyle that fits.
Whether you prefer the sharp sophistication of a slick back, the bold expression of cornrow braids, or the understated charm of a low ponytail, straight back styles continue to stand the test of time.
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