James Dean's Pompadour style. James Dean , an American Legend, was born on February 8th, 1931, in Marion, Indiana, USA. He was a great actor. He is also well-known for his distinctive pompadour hairstyle. The style is created by combing the sides back & blending it into the top, while combing the front straight up & creating a soft curl above the forehead. If you want to get a dry look, you can use a non-shine pomade.