can a barber cut long hair

WHAT IS QUIFF HAIRSTYLE?

One of the most legendary men’s haircuts, the quiff has been making waves since the 1950s, securing its spot among timeless styles like the French crop, buzz cut, and short back and sides.

Blending elements of the pompadour, flat top, and even the mohawk, this bold, voluminous style commands attention while complementing a variety of face shapes, ages, and personal aesthetics.

Research also suggests it’s one of the most attractive hairstyles to women. In a survey conducted by styling brand Fudge, 28 percent of 2,000 women said they would be most likely to swipe right on a man sporting a quiff.

WHAT IS THE QUIFF?

The quiff is a classic men’s hairstyle that you’ve likely seen before. It’s defined by shorter hair on the sides and back, with a longer, voluminous top. While this description applies to several styles, what makes the quiff unique is how it’s styled.

The hair on top is lifted to create volume and then combed back, achieving a sleek yet textured look with a strong vertical focus at the front. The sharp contrast between the different lengths adds an edgy, modern appeal that shares similarities with the timeless pompadour.

Blending elements of the pompadour, flat top, and even the mohawk, the quiff makes a bold statement. Its versatility allows it to complement various face shapes, ages, and personal styles.

Research also suggests it’s one of the most attractive men’s hairstyles. In a survey by styling brand Fudge, 28 percent of 2,000 women said they were most likely to swipe right on a man sporting a quiff.

THE HISTORY OF THE QUIFF

Although the quiff had been around for years, it truly gained popularity after World War II as a rebellious response to the military buzz cuts and strict wartime styles. However, it became a cultural icon with the rise of rock ‘n’ roll, symbolizing youthful defiance.

“As a style, it has always represented rebellion, and it screams confidence,” says ReeRee Rockette, owner of Rockalily Cuts. “It’s a hairstyle that literally takes up more space, so it makes you stand out and gets you noticed.”

The quiff’s signature height often meant it would fall forward throughout the day, requiring regular upkeep. This maintenance became part of its charm, with Elvis Presley famously turning the act of fixing his hair into an effortlessly cool and flirtatious gesture—just as iconic as his hip shakes or microphone caresses.

Beyond fashion, the quiff also played a role in shifting male grooming culture. It encouraged men to take greater pride in their appearance, paving the way for the grooming revolution we see today. In short, the quiff didn’t just influence hairstyles—it helped change the way men approached personal style.

THE QUIFF VS. THE POMPADOUR

There’s often debate about how the quiff differs from the pompadour, another classic cut. In general, the quiff is a more understated version of the dramatic, top-heavy pomp worn by rock ‘n’ roll icons like Little Richard and later, Bruno Mars.

“In truth, there’s no black and white answer,” says Devon-based barber Tom Chapman, founder of The Lions Barber Collective. “A typical quiff features short back and sides, and longer hair on top that’s swept upwards and backwards at the front. But this can be messy, straightened, or brushed, making it a generally more versatile style. Pompadours are similar in that they take the hair off, up, and away from the face, but are usually glossier and very precise.”

While pompadours lift all the hair for a dramatic effect, quiffs primarily emphasize the forelock—the section just above the forehead—while the rest of the hair can remain relatively flat.

“Ask your barber for a tapered cut with plenty of length on top, and you can’t really go wrong,” Chapman advises.

BEST QUIFF HAIRSTYLES FOR MEN

Looking to update your hairstyle? Here are some of the best quiff hairstyles for men to inspire your next visit to the barber.

THE CLASSIC QUIFF

Timeless and effortlessly stylish, the classic quiff has remained a favorite for decades. Unlike modern variations, this version features a softer contrast between the longer top and shorter sides, creating a balanced look.

When getting this cut, ask your barber for around four to five inches of length on top, with slightly more at the fringe. The sides should be trimmed short but not disconnected, and a fade isn’t necessary.

For styling, go easy on the products to avoid weighing down your hair. After washing, towel dry and apply a matte paste as a pre-styler. Then, use a comb or your fingers while blow-drying to create volume. Finish with a light pomade for definition and shine—just rub a small amount between your palms and work it through your hair from front to back.

THE ROCKABILLY QUIFF

While the pompadour has been getting a lot of attention, the rockabilly quiff is a more relaxed and versatile choice. Worn by icons like James Dean and Elvis Presley, this vintage-inspired style remains effortlessly cool.

A classic rockabilly quiff typically features a side part, which can be either shaved in or combed. It’s lower in height compared to a pompadour, and the top is usually faded into the sides. Some variations also include a ducktail, where the side sections are curled inward at the back.

For styling, pomade is your best friend. Warm it up between your hands, smooth it through your hair, and comb everything into place. A hairdryer can help set the style, and a comb is essential for achieving a polished finish.

THE UNDERCUT QUIFF

For a modern and edgy twist, the undercut quiff blends vintage appeal with contemporary sharpness. This style relies on the contrast between the long top and short, disconnected sides, creating a bold, statement look.

To achieve this cut, ask your barber to disconnect the sides from the top at your recession point, extending to the back of your ear. You can choose either a soft taper or a sharp fade for the undercut, depending on how dramatic you want the contrast to be. The top should be textured and left long enough for a voluminous quiff.

For styling, start with a salt spray on damp hair and use a round brush while blow-drying to build volume. Finish with a matte clay for a textured, separated look.

THE PSYCHOBILLY QUIFF

The psychobilly quiff, also known as the wedge quiff, is a bold, punk-inspired take on the style. With its sharp, sculpted shape and shaved sides, this look is a fusion of rockabilly and mohawk aesthetics.

This extreme style involves shaving the back and sides down to a zero, leaving only a high, gravity-defying quiff at the top. It’s a high-maintenance choice that may not suit all workplaces, but a looser, less structured version can make it more wearable.

To style, you’ll need strong-hold pomade, a hairdryer, and a comb. Every strand should be coated with product to help maintain height, and a finishing spray can provide extra hold against gravity.

THE TEXTURED QUIFF

If you prefer a more relaxed, effortless look, the textured quiff is a great option. Worn by style icons like David Gandy, this version is less polished and more natural, making it perfect for men with wavy or unruly hair.

For this cut, ask your barber to clipper the sides short with a fade, while the top is point-cut with scissors for an uneven, textured finish.

Styling starts with a texture powder or volumizing spray at the roots to add depth. Then, warm a small amount of styling paste or soft clay between your hands, twist sections of the hair at the sides, and push the quiff upward until you achieve your desired look.

THE SIDE-PARTED QUIFF

A simple way to give a quiff a more polished and refined look is by incorporating a side part. While this can be done with most types of quiffs, if you’re aiming for a consistently sharp style, it’s best to mention it to your barber.

To achieve this look, celebrity hairstylist Asgar Saboo recommends using your palms to smooth styling product into the sides of your hair. Then, comb the top section away from the part to create a clean divide, lifting and shaping the fringe as desired.

For a sleek, structured finish, use a comb to perfect the shape. If you prefer a more relaxed, rugged effect, simply tousle it with your hands. You can also customize the overall vibe by selecting the right styling product—high-shine options give off a classic Ivy League feel, while matte products create a more casual and contemporary look.

THE SLICKED-BACK QUIFF

Channel a sleek, 1960s-inspired look with a slicked-back quiff—so polished, you could practically check your reflection in it.

This retro take on the modern quiff adds a sophisticated edge and works well for both everyday and formal occasions. Achieving the perfect shine, however, requires a generous amount of styling product and careful application. Once your hair is evenly coated, use a comb to sculpt the ideal shape.

For an extra touch of drama, consider adding a side part to this already eye-catching style. While it’s best suited for thick, wavy hair, even those with finer hair can pull off a slicked-back quiff with the right products and technique.

THE FADED QUIFF

For a modern twist, pair your quiff with a classic taper or fade. Unlike the dramatic contrast of an undercut quiff, the fade here is more subtle and gradual, creating a clean, professional look with a hint of sophistication.

This style is particularly popular among the preppy crowd and makes an excellent choice for daily wear, as it requires minimal styling. A quick application of product, a simple run-through with your fingers, and you’re good to go.

The faded quiff works well for a variety of hair types, including fine or thin hair. Whether worn slicked back or slightly tousled, this cut is a versatile option for those seeking a polished yet effortless look.

THE LONG HAIR QUIFF

Not ready to sacrifice your length for a quiff? The good news is, you don’t have to. Men with longer hair can still rock a quiff by keeping the sides and back shorter while allowing the top to grow out.

Styling a long-hair quiff requires extra effort, but with a strong-hold product and a blow dryer, you can achieve impressive volume. When properly slicked back, this style appears sharp and refined.

To highlight the contrast between the longer top and shorter sides, tuck your hair behind your ears. On days when you prefer a more relaxed look, let your hair hang naturally for a curtain-inspired or eBoy aesthetic.

THE CURLY QUIFF

Curly-haired guys can absolutely pull off a quiff—it just takes a slightly different approach. A curly quiff tends to have a more tousled, effortless appeal and pairs exceptionally well with facial hair. The same applies to wavy-haired men looking for a stylish, textured cut.

For a more rugged, laid-back vibe, let your curls grow out for a messy quiff. If you prefer a sharper, neater style, opt for tapered sides to create a refined contrast. Either way, texture is the key feature, so embrace your natural curls.

When styling, follow the same basic steps as any quiff, but go easy on the blow dryer to maintain volume and definition. Use minimal product to keep your curls from looking weighed down or flattened.

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CONCLUSION

In essence, the quiff is more than just a hairstyle; it’s a statement. Its enduring popularity stems from its adaptability, allowing individuals to express their personal style while maintaining a classic and sophisticated look.

20 BEST BACK OF THE HEAD MEN’S HAIRCUTS

This is an excellent overview of the significance of the back of the head in men’s hairstyles! It emphasizes how a well-executed back can elevate an overall look, adding depth and framing the face beautifully. The inclusion of classic cuts like the taper and fade, along with modern customization options, creates a perfect balance between tradition and contemporary trends. Here are 20 of the most popular hairstyles for the back of the head.

ARTISTIC DESIGN

Artistic designs bring a playful and edgy flair to contemporary men’s haircuts, resulting in a distinctive look that truly sets you apart. The possibilities for these custom cuts are only constrained by your barber’s expertise and imagination. V-shaped designs have gained popularity among younger men looking to personalize their style at the back. Adding a shaved outline around the V enhances shading and creates a three-dimensional effect, while incorporating two additional shaved lines that align with the tops of the ears can produce a striking wing-like appearance.

Seamlessly Blended Back of the Head

A seamlessly blended back can enhance the hair’s natural texture, create the illusion of a longer neck, and highlight masculine facial features. When combined with a brushed-up fringe and abundant textured layers, this technique results in a contemporary style that elongates round or square faces, particularly when paired with a goatee. This versatile haircut is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a day on the golf course or attending a wedding.

Natural Undercut Back

A natural undercut back is a fantastic option for asymmetrical or shaggy styles that aim to elongate round or square face shapes. This look features a voluminous quiff at the hairline that curls back, merging with choppy layers that flow forward. The buzzed undercut elevates the hair on top, enhancing the height of the fringe. The short sides and back draw attention to the angular features at the temples, perfectly complementing a patchy short beard for a strikingly bold statement.

Bald Faded Neckline

A bald, faded neckline is ideal for fashion-forward trendsetters who prefer bold, statement-making styles. This fade can serve as a foundation for a side-parted faux hawk or enhance a buzz or crew cut. Additionally, a shaved line that extends from the back of the head to the jawline and beard can add visual interest, transforming an existing scar into a stylish feature.

Smooth Blended Nape


A smooth, blended nape demands a stylist experienced with a razor for a flawless finish. On top, slicked-back textured layers shine when styled with quality gel, contrasting sharply with the shorter sides. The razor drop fade starts high on the sides and gradually descends toward the nape, accentuating the lower jawline. Incorporating a well-shaped beard or goatee can further define the face, allowing for ample personalization.

Tapered Back with Shaved Line

A tapered back with a shaved line beautifully enhances curly and wavy cuts that might otherwise appear bulky. Brushed-back, layered waves flow smoothly from the top and sides, creating an appealing texture. The taper at the back fades to the skin at the neckline, visually lifting the haircut while maintaining a fuller look without added bulk. A single shaved line across the neck introduces a rugged touch, completing the style.

Angular Design

An angular neckline is a modern and expressive choice that offers great versatility. A thick, brushed-back faux hawk, ending in a sharp, off-center point at the nape, creates an edgy and dynamic silhouette. Incorporating three contrasting “streaks” on the side that seem to extend into the beard adds a clever twist. Textured, voluminous hair that flows upward and back, then gracefully descends toward the nape, commands attention and ties the entire look together.

Simple Tapered Neckline

A simple tapered neckline enhances a variety of men’s hairstyles with its blended and fresh appearance. Straight hair offers a cleaner look, while tapered curls and waves add texture. This technique is easy to maintain and works well with classic styles like a slick-back, a traditional gentleman’s cut, and numerous layered side-parted looks. As the hair grows out, the tapering helps keep the nape looking tidy.

Edgy Design

Edgy designs in hairstyles can range from a simple shaved line to intricate creations that reflect the stylist’s artistic skills. Some men choose these designs as a form of self-expression, while others use them to camouflage scars, transforming them into unique art. For example, a design resembling claw marks can be achieved with a thick diagonal line shaved into the back of the head, accompanied by four thinner, lighter lines beneath. It’s important to note that darker hair will make these designs stand out even more.

Disconnected Undercut Fade

A disconnected undercut fade is a bold and edgy choice, particularly when combined with vibrant hair colors, shaved designs, or distinctive textures. Feathery strands that sweep upward and toward the face create a reverse ducktail, highlighted by a striking white-blonde hue. A sharp shaved line encircles the central mass of hair, marking the start of the fade, which transitions from dark, contrasting stubble to skin about an inch above the ear.

Simple Shaved Line Back Taper Design

A classic taper design never goes out of style, but incorporating a simple shaved line at the back allows you to express your personality and add dimension to your look. A few razor-cut lines on one side introduce texture, drama, and contrast, enabling you to play with a choppy top for a youthful vibe.

Skin Fade

The skin fade offers a sharp and precise look, resulting in a naturally smooth, blended cut that refreshes your neckline. In this style, your barber gradually blends the hair at the back of the head, using a shaver for a clean, polished finish. The top can be styled with mussed, layered textures for added depth. To keep the look sharp, maintain clean-cut lines to prevent an unkempt appearance as it grows out.

Low Fade

The low fade provides an elegant and versatile look, ideal for the business professional who prefers a subtle structure in their haircut. This fade tapers down from the ears, allowing for a textured top or classic quiff to take center stage without appearing overly edgy. Opt for a taper fade for a seamless skin blend, or choose a fresh blowout for an eye-catching style with added volume.

Cool Haircut Design in the Back

A cool haircut design in the back can feature intricate patterns, shaved lines, or stylish shapes, adding a unique flair to your style. Shaved lines at the nape provide a chic dimension, revitalizing classic layered haircuts. You can experiment with zig-zags, lightning bolts, tribal patterns, or even initials to express your creative edge. Additionally, a sharp lineup at the forehead introduces subtle angularity, balancing out bolder designs for a cohesive look.

Undercut Fade

An undercut fade creates a stylish statement by combining the gradual tapering of a fade with the sleekness of closely cropped or buzzed back and sides. For a retro vibe, comb the hair to one side using a strong-hold gel, or introduce a sharp, shaved line for a daring touch. You can style a slick back, pompadour, or faux hawk to emphasize the contrast between the longer top and the tapered back and sides, making the overall look even more striking.

Drop Fade

A drop fade is a contemporary haircut that features a curved taper on the sides and back, seamlessly blending into the neckline for a sleek look. This style adds effortless drama, enhancing simpler hairstyles with minimal effort. A mid fade works well to balance a longer, voluminous top, while a high skin fade creates an edgier framework for the overall appearance.

Taper Fade

A versatile taper fade is a low-maintenance haircut that complements both short and medium-length hairstyles, providing a sophisticated yet youthful appearance. The short, tapered neckline seamlessly blends down the back and sides, highlighting the longer, layered hair on top. This combination creates a polished look that exudes confidence and style.

Classic Taper

A classic taper provides a clean and polished look at the back of the head, resulting in an understated, blended style that flatters textured hair. This timeless taper pairs well with various classy and modern men’s hairstyles, including the stylish quiff, comb-over, or voluminous brush-back, all showcasing a refined, well-groomed flair. Regular trims are necessary to maintain the shape, but the gradual taper helps avoid noticeable harsh lines as it grows out.

Fresh Fade

A fresh fade is perfect for modern men who value sharp styles with strong contrast and a smooth, sleek appearance. By keeping a few inches of length on top, you can slick the hair back with pomade for a classy, high-shine finish that seamlessly blends into the neckline. A skin fade with a slight drop creates an angled silhouette that enhances masculine features, making this look both stylish and flattering.

Rounded Neckline

A rounded neckline is a classic haircut that softens sharp edges, resulting in a more gentle aesthetic. This sophisticated shape mimics the natural curvature of the back of the head and neck, creating a balanced and harmonious appearance that blends seamlessly with longer, brushed-back layers.

CONCLUSION

In the realm of men’s hairstyles, the back of the head often remains a canvas for creativity and individuality. From classic fades to modern undercut designs, the options are endless. The 20 best back of the head haircuts showcased in this article offer a diverse range of styles to suit every taste and preference.

Whether you’re seeking a clean, polished look or a more edgy and rebellious vibe, there’s a back of the head haircut that will complement your overall style. Remember, the key to finding the perfect hairstyle is to consider your face shape, hair texture, and personal preferences. Experiment with different styles and don’t be afraid to embrace your unique sense of fashion.