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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.

30 BEST FADE HAIRCUT FOR MEN IN 2025

The fade haircut is the epitome of fresh, fashionable masculinity, combining style and versatility effortlessly. Whether you’re into a textured, tapered, high, or low fade, or prefer something artsy or classic, there’s a fade haircut to suit every man. This style works exceptionally well for everyone, including Black men. Before your next trim, explore these top fade haircut ideas to find the perfect look for you.

MID FADE WITH DESIGN

This mid-skin fade features a striking sharp pattern with four consecutive arcs that gradually fade into each other. The top is styled with heavy texture, reminiscent of the popular European crop hairstyle, giving this haircut a distinctive and unique look.

Stylish Taper Fade

Here’s a tip for getting this hairstyle: consider whether you’re comfortable with a faded look. Many guys who have tried it end up loving it, as it can make a noticeable difference in your style. Typically, this look begins with a zero, but you can also start with a one or two if you prefer a less extreme fade.

Drop Fade on French Crop

This style features a masculine French crop with a drop fade. The layers sit just above the fringe, adding texture and movement to the look. The point-cutting technique enhances this cut, particularly with a short fringe that blends seamlessly into the textured hairline. If you have thick hair and a strong jawline, you might opt for a longer fringe. For finer or thinner hair, a blunt, short fringe would be a better choice.

Cute Kids’ Fade

This kids’ haircut is a sleek, short fade pomp. It works well with any hair type, provided your child has the confidence to rock it. For curly hair, use a high-shine pomade to achieve a polished, detailed look. For straight hair, opt for a dry paste to create a matte, textured finish.

Clean and Slick Fade

Introducing the ultimate gentleman’s cut: a sleek and polished fade haircut. This refined style features a low skin fade with a part on the left and a subtle sweep at the front top. The hair is styled back, creating a sculpted shape that subtly resembles a pompadour from the side.

A Fresh Comb Over Fade with a Hard Part

A sharp comb-over with a hard part paired with faded sides creates a sophisticated look. This hairstyle is particularly flattering for men with straight to wavy hair.

Spiky Medium Fade

Spiky medium fade hairstyles are not for the faint of heart. This bold cut makes a strong statement with its noticeable spikes and faded sides, which enhance its overall impact.

Clean Slick Pompadour Fade

You might be surprised by how soothing a haircut can be with this pompadour fade. The style features long, clean lines that flow from the front and fade smoothly towards the back. It’s a sleek and calming cut that pairs perfectly with monochromatic outfits. This pompadour fade is also one of the more popular choices among white men.

Piece-y Skin Fade

This faded cut features a full, rebellious top, capturing the essence of youthful spirit through hair. It maintains a playful look on top while adding a touch of maturity with the faded sides.

Faded Sharp Edges

This faded cut with sharp edges highlights a spiky style. Orienting the spikes horizontally gives the look a modern and approachable feel.

Classic High Skin Fade

This high-skin fade is perfect for guys with medium to low facial hair. It transforms the entire head into a canvas for sharp, clean lines, accentuating both the cheeks and the sides of the head.

Straight-Up High Fade Undercut

This undercut features a high fade, with a pronounced weight line and a rapid skin fade that makes the style stand out.

Sharp Temp Fade

Temp fade haircuts are ideal for men seeking short sides and a sharp, defined style. While this haircut suits any hair type, it particularly complements those with natural curls or waves.

Trendy High Top Fade

The high top fade is a timeless haircut that remains in style due to its distinctive and attention-grabbing appeal. Its unique look ensures it continues to make a statement.

Popular Boosie Fade

The Boosie fade is a highly popular hairstyle among Black men. Its short length makes it easy to style and maintain.

The Popular Burst Fade

The burst fade is a popular men’s haircut that tapers around each ear, making it an ideal choice for achieving a mohawk style.

Straight Up High Fade

This high fade features ample length on top for styling, while the short sides highlight and accentuate the overall look.

Scissor Fade

Consider a scissor fade if your hair tends to grow back unevenly with a clipper cut. The advantage of a scissor fade is that it’s tailored to your specific hair and head shape, customized according to your measurements and preferences.

Low Taper Fade with a Buzz Cut

A short low taper fade paired with a buzz cut is a clean, precise style that works well in professional settings when done right. This look is ideal for men already opting for a buzz cut. If you’re interested, consider asking your barber about combining a buzz cut with a burst fade for added flair.

The Beard Fade

Silver Brushed Up Cut

Sometimes the simplest cuts are the most striking, like this brushed-up silver fade. Clean and tidy, it’s been cut to a grade 1-2 with a fade starting at the temple. The fringe is left longer to create a brushed-up quiff. For that stylish silver fox look, use a volumizing spray while drying and apply some styling powder for a natural finish. Embrace your silver—it’s a timeless style that never goes out of fashion!

Simple Temple Fade

This temple fade on curls adds a cool twist to an otherwise simple hairstyle. The Brooklyn fade offers a sleek cut at the temples, with clean edges that create a smooth, polished finish.

Curly Hair Fade

If you have naturally curly hair, a fade will likely suit you well. For straight-haired men, using a curling iron and some styling cream can easily help you achieve the same look.

Sharp Razor Fade

For those with darker, thicker hair, a razor fade can create a striking look. Simply keep the skin to the midpoint and begin the blend, allowing for ample space to achieve a smooth transition. If styling is a challenge, this razored fade is a great option. To style, comb the hair from the crown area and tousle the front with a matte paste. This product will provide the desired texture without excessive shine.

Modern Mullet with Textured Top and Fringe

Mullets have made a bold comeback, especially with modern twists like this one featuring a textured top and fringe. This mullet fade is tapered around the temples, with the length left on top for added structure, while the back grows out to the client’s preference. The layered, texturized cut enhances movement for easy styling. For a natural finish, use a sea salt spray followed by styling powder.

Short Faux Hawk Fade Haircut

The mohawk is a classic cut that has evolved over the years. This short faux hawk fade is bold and attention-grabbing, with faded sides over the ears and length left down the center to form the hawk. A side fade is a great option if you want the hawk look without fully committing to a disconnected style, giving you a blend of both the hawk and a clean fade.

Messy Low Curly Fade Style

Skin fades are incredibly popular and come in various styles, like this messy low curly fade. These tight afro curls, when grown out, create volume that complements different face shapes. For round faces, the added volume on top can give the appearance of a longer face. This cut features a disconnect at the back and sides, allowing room for the curls to grow and add weight.

Brushed Back

If you’re looking for a fresh haircut, try this brushed-back style. Keeping the sides short and tidy is often a preferred choice, as it keeps hair off your ears and grows out well. If your hair naturally grows forward, you’ll likely need styling products. I suggest starting with a volume spray and blow-drying it in, followed by a matte paste for long-lasting hold throughout the day.

Side-Parted Fade

The side-parted fade is a sleek, dapper style that suits many. The fade rises just above the midpoint, blending at the back and disconnecting at the side part to create a classic comb-over. For the side part, there are a few options, but this version features a ‘hard part’ with a razored-in line. To keep the look sharp, I recommend visiting your barber every 2-3 weeks.

Undercut with Medium Sleek Hair

For those who prefer a longer look, an undercut with medium sleek hair is a great choice. This style features a high fade that’s disconnected from the longer top, allowing the hair on top to grow out. The fade is disconnected at the temples and blended at the back, giving a tidy and cohesive appearance. To maintain a natural look, use a light-hold product like hairspray.

CONCLUSION

Remember, the best fade for you depends on your hair type, face shape, and personal style. So, explore the options, experiment with different lengths and blends, and find the fade that makes you feel confident and stylish.