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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.

This version keeps all the key details while making the text smoother and more engaging! Let me know if you’d like any further tweaks. 

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.

90S HAIRSTYLES MEN ROCKED WITH CONFIDENCE

The ‘90s were a vibrant time for hair experimentation. With boy bands and iconic celebrities leading the way, men’s hairstyles entered a new era. If you’re seeking inspiration for your next haircut, check out some of the most popular hairstyles from that decade. Whether you prefer a full-on grunge look or a classic style, these trends are guaranteed to make a statement. So grab your gel and hairspray, and let’s take a nostalgic journey back to the ‘90s!

UNDERCUT

The undercut hairstyle features short sides with longer hair on top, creating a striking and versatile look. This style can be adapted in numerous ways, giving it a rugged and dynamic feel. Originally popularized by punk and grunge subcultures in the 1990s, the undercut was often paired with messy hairstyles, offering a distinctive edge for those wanting to stand out. Today, it remains a favorite among various groups, allowing individuals to style it in countless ways to reflect their personal tastes.

SHOULDER LENGTH HAIR

Shoulder-length hair is a versatile style that suits anyone, making it popular across all age groups. Its adaptability allows for various styling options, fitting any occasion, and it’s easy to maintain, requiring minimal time and effort.

This hairstyle gained prominence during the grunge subculture of the 1990s, often worn in a messy and unkempt fashion, featuring tousled waves or curls. This relaxed look mirrored the laid-back, casual vibe of the grunge scene. Today, shoulder-length hair remains a favorite among young adults and can be styled in a more polished or sophisticated way for formal events.

TRAM LINES/LINES IN HAIR

The Tram Lines hairstyle is a classic ’90s look for men characterized by straight, thin lines drawn down the center of the hair. This style was popular among both boys and girls and offered various styling options.

To achieve the Tram Lines hairstyle, begin by parting your hair in the middle. Next, use a comb or a toothbrush to create thin lines along the part with a black or brown gel or hairspray. You can adjust the thickness of the lines to your preference and even add curves for a more creative twist. Finally, finish with a spritz of hairspray to hold everything in place.

WGELLED HAIR

Gelled hair was a standout hairstyle in the 1990s, characterized by a spiky, mohawk-like appearance created with hair gel. This edgy look was commonly adopted by punk and metal bands, as well as their fans, embodying a messy and rebellious spirit. Achieving this style required significant time and effort, along with some practice; if not done correctly, it could result in clumps of sticky gel throughout your hair. While gelled hair gained immense popularity in the United States and Europe, it never quite resonated in Asia.

MOHAWK

The mohawk was an iconic hairstyle for men in the ’90s, characterized by shaving the sides of the head while leaving a strip of longer hair down the center. Maintaining this look requires time and patience, as regular shaving is necessary to keep the contrast between the shaved and unshaved areas consistent. One of the great aspects of the mohawk is its versatility; it works well with most hair types, including curly hair, allowing for a unique and expressive style.

FROSTED TIPS

The Frosted Tips hairstyle was a popular trend among young people in the 1990s. This look involved bleaching the tips of the hair blonde and using a frosting or shaping product to achieve a white or light-colored “frosted” effect. Associated with the grunge and skater subcultures, the style was often paired with baggy jeans, hoodies, and other casual clothing. Many celebrities and musicians embraced this trend during the ’90s, including icons like Kurt Cobain, David Beckham, and Justin Timberlake.

SPIKY HAIR

The spiky hairstyle features a series of tall spikes protruding from the top of the head. This look is particularly popular among teenagers and young adults and can be styled in various ways, including bowl cuts, mohawks, faux hawks, and more. Initially popularized in the ’90s by members of the punk rock subculture, the spiky hairstyle has since become more mainstream, appealing to people of all ages today. Its versatility allows for a range of creative expressions, making it a timeless choice.

THE HEARTTHROB

The Heartthrob hairstyle was a trendy look for young men and boys in the 1990s, characterized by its thick, voluminous appearance. This style was typically achieved by using plenty of hair gel or mousse to add height and volume. Often embraced by boys in the grunge subculture, the Heartthrob hairstyle became emblematic of the era, reflecting a carefree and rebellious spirit while showcasing a youthful charm.

GRUNGE

The grunge style emerged in the early 1990s as a messy and carefree look, popularized by young people who identified with the grunge subculture. This counterculture movement embraced alternative music, casual clothing, and anti-establishment attitudes. Grunge hair was often characterized as “unkempt” or “disheveled.” The style involved allowing hair to air-dry into its natural curly or wavy texture without brushing or styling it. The result was a deliberately careless and relaxed appearance, perfectly reflecting the ethos of the grunge movement.

SLICK BACK HAIR

The slicked-back hairstyle is a classic look that has stood the test of time. Suitable for both men and women, it creates a polished and professional appearance. Typically, the slicked-back style involves smoothing the hair to achieve a sleek and shiny finish, pulled tightly away from the face. While this look gained popularity in the 1990s within the grunge and punk subcultures, it continues to be a favorite among professionals and businesspeople today.

DREADS

In the 1990s, black culture significantly influenced the fashion industry, largely driven by the rise of Hip Hop and R&B. As a result, men’s dreadlocks emerged as a popular hairstyle, becoming one of the most sought-after looks today. Originally rooted in Rastafarian culture in Jamaica, dreadlocks were embraced by men in the ’90s for their uniqueness, length, and versatility in styling. A prime example of this trend is Busta Rhymes, who showcased the distinctive look during that era.

AFRO

Afros are a hairstyle characterized by naturally curly hair with a tight, kinky texture. This look can be achieved by letting the hair grow out naturally or by employing specific styling techniques to create the desired shape. The afro was popularized in the 1970s by African American celebrities and athletes and continued to thrive in the 1990s, particularly among members of the hip hop and R&B subcultures. This iconic hairstyle celebrates natural texture and has become a powerful symbol of cultural identity and pride.

BLONDE HIGHLIGHTS

This style involved adding blonde highlights to the hair to create a striking effect. The key to achieving this look was ensuring the highlights were evenly distributed for a natural appearance. It was particularly flattering for men with light-colored hair. Often associated with grunge and metal aesthetics, this hairstyle provided a punk rock edge. Footballers in the ’90s embraced this look, further contributing to its popularity and making it a staple among young men during that era.

MULLET

The mullet was one of the most iconic men’s hairstyles of the 1990s, and its recent resurgence suggests that this haircut is here to stay. The key to rocking this look is to maintain longer hair on top while keeping the sides and back short. Mullets were commonly associated with country music stars, heavy metal fans, truck drivers, and anyone looking to rebel against mainstream fashion trends of the ’90s. This hairstyle became a symbol of individuality and nonconformity during that era.

FLAT TOP

When we think of the ’90s Flat Top, Will Smith’s portrayal in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air immediately comes to mind, as he became synonymous with this iconic hairstyle. The Flat Top was a popular men’s hairstyle during the ’90s, characterized by hair that is cut evenly around the head, laying flat on top. This look can be achieved with various hair lengths, textures, and styles, allowing for a sleek and straight appearance or a funkier, more eclectic 90s-inspired vibe. While the Flat Top was most commonly worn by men of African American descent, it can be styled by individuals of any race, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal.

CORNROWS

Cornrows are a traditional African hair braiding style that involves twisting or gathering hair into small, individual units or “rows,” which are then secured close to the scalp using thread, elastic bands, or pins. This versatile style can be worn in various ways, including mohawk-like looks, parallel rows, zigzag patterns, and intricate designs that incorporate beads or other decorative elements.

While cornrows were popularized by African Americans in the early 1990s, they are now embraced by individuals of all races and cultures. Often associated with hip-hop culture, cornrows can create an edgy or tough appearance when styled effectively, reflecting both artistic expression and cultural heritage.

CAESAR HAIRCUT

The Caesar haircut is a timeless style that traces its origins back to Julius Caesar. This classic look features short, cleanly trimmed sides and a squared-off fringe in the front, often styled with products like Brylcreem or hair gel to achieve a wet, shiny finish.

In the 1990s, the Caesar haircut gained significant popularity among men, largely thanks to musicians like Kurt Cobain and Eddie Vedder, who brought it into the mainstream. Today, the Caesar haircut remains a fashionable and professional choice for men, continuing to stand the test of time with its sleek and polished appearance.

CURTAINS HAIRCUT

The curtains haircut is a quintessential ’90s hairstyle for men that emerged from the punk rock and heavy metal subcultures in the early 1990s. Essentially a variation of the Mohawk, this style features longer hair on the sides and back, styled into “curtains.”

To achieve the look, you can either shave the sides and back of your head or use gel, mousse, or hairspray to create the curtain effect. Punk rockers and metalheads often accessorized their curtains haircuts with studs, spikes, or chains, enhancing the edgy aesthetic.

While this style was immensely popular in the early ’90s, it has since fallen out of mainstream fashion. However, it remains a staple for some punk rockers and metalheads today, reflecting their distinctive style and cultural identity.

BOWL CUT

The bowl cut is a hairstyle commonly worn by young boys, characterized by a straight, blunt cut across the forehead that creates a rounded shape resembling a bowl. The hair on the sides and back is typically cut short or shaved bald.

In the 1990s, the bowl cut gained popularity among young skateboarders and surfer boys seeking a low-maintenance and easy-to-manage style. It was regarded as a cool and “hip” look for kids, embodying the carefree spirit of youth culture during that era.

CONCLUSION

The 90s witnessed a remarkable era of men’s hairstyles, characterized by a blend of rebellion, individuality, and confidence. These hairstyles not only defined a generation but also continue to inspire contemporary trends, showcasing the timeless appeal of 90s fashion. As we look back on this era, we celebrate the men who rocked these hairstyles with such conviction, leaving an enduring legacy of style and self-expression.