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 AWE-INSPIRING ASYMMETRICAL BOBS HAIRCUTS FOR AN EDGIER STYLE

The asymmetrical bob, with its shorter length on one side, adds a contemporary edge to the classic cut. Ideal for those looking to stand out, the length and angle can be customized to suit your face shape or highlight your favorite features. Here are some top asymmetrical bob styles to inspire your next look!

Twist on the Inverted Bob

Embrace this bold cut and color combo for a striking final look. The hair is stacked in the back and sharply angled forward into a chin-length chop, with a sleek, short fringe that contrasts with the edgy waves and sharp angles. Perfect for showcasing natural texture, this style works beautifully on everything from straight and slightly wavy hair to more defined curls. You’ll love the transformation!

Silver Sophisticate

The cool taupe, cloud gray, and pewter shades evoke the mood of a stormy sky, bringing a fresh, modern twist to a timeless style. This youthful yet refined palette enhances the look, particularly complementing blue eyes. Choppy layers provide a tailored finish, reducing weight while adding volume for maximum versatility.

Bob with Swing Bang

This flicked, eye-grazing fringe adds beautiful movement to the cut, while girly touches like champagne highlights, a glossy shine, and soft, blurred edges enhance its charm. The bangs and dimensional color bring a playful, flirty vibe, and the choppy ends break up the strong geometric lines. Tucking one side behind the ear creates a subtle contrast to the overall fullness for a more dynamic look.

Wavy Side Swept Bob

Loose waves swept dramatically to one side give this bob a modern edge, with blonde highlights accentuating the uneven choppy texture. If you have similar features to the girl in the photo, such as low contrast between your skin tone and eyes, the exposed roots will keep the look from appearing washed out, adding depth and dimension to the style.

Asymmetrical Femme Fatale

Want to channel the vibe of a fierce female lead or a comic book heroine? Opt for an asymmetric bob with sharp tips, a sleek finish, and a deep ebony hue. Straightening the hair with an iron creates a polished look, while a side part softens the style’s intensity. The final result is both seductive and bold, sure to boost your confidence.

Cotton Candy Bob with Shaved Side

Thick, healthy hair serves as the perfect foundation for an asymmetrical bob. This bold look takes shocking pink to the extreme, making a statement. The dramatic, forward-swept side bangs paired with a buzzed side that reveals the model’s natural hair color create a striking and edgy contrast, adding to the overall impact of the style.

Shoulder Length Ombre Bob

Hand-painted caramel highlights on dark hair soften the sharp lines of this extra-long asymmetrical bob. The length gradually increases toward the front, creating a dynamic, swingy effect. This style is ideal for those who love the asymmetrical trend but prefer to keep more length for a sleek, modern look without going too short.

Classic Straight Black Bob

This bob combines two popular lengths—chin-length on one side and collarbone-length on the other—for a stylish asymmetrical twist. Its classic straight lines and softly turned-in edges pay homage to the original bob of the 1920s, elegantly framing the face for a timeless yet modern look.

Fiery Red Angled Bob

This layered, angled cut adds a fun and funky vibe to the girl’s unique coloring. The expertly angled foxy red bob highlights the contrast between darker roots and brighter ends, creating depth and dimension. The result is a bold, playful look with easy movement that captures attention effortlessly.

Stacked Haircut for Thick Hair

Transitioning from long to short hair is a significant commitment, but it can be incredibly rewarding, especially if long locks are weighing down your features. Face-framing layers enhance smaller face shapes, providing structure and revitalizing a previously uninspired style for a fresh, flattering look.

Asymmetrical Golden Girl

What could be more lovely than this long bob featuring warm blonde tones, loose curls, and bright tendrils? To add volume at the roots, flip your hair to the opposite side of your usual part. For a relaxed, tousled look, flip your head upside down and spritz in a workable spray to create that effortless disheveled effect.

Rooty Blonde Peekaboo

For those with an eclectic sense of style, an uneven bob is a fantastic choice. Its unique proportions add an artistic flair, making it ideal for anyone seeking a perfectly imperfect look. The flicked tips and dramatic light-to-dark fade serve as bespoke details that enhance this striking hairstyle.

Sleek and Shiny Asymmetrical Bob

Showcase your shimmering strands with a stunning angled cut that flatters a variety of face shapes. The back is slightly shorter, drawing attention forward and subtly elongating the face. This style is an excellent choice for the workplace, striking a balance between chic and fashion-forward without being too flashy.

Sharp Choppy Bob

This short bob embodies the ultimate low-maintenance chic style with its effortlessly mussed-up bedhead appearance. It’s perfect for those with wavy or fine straight hair, requiring minimal daily styling for easy upkeep. Falling asleep with wet hair and rolling out of bed has never looked this good!

Wavy Side Parted Bob

The gorgeous caramel highlights in this style beautifully enhance the loose, natural waves. You can achieve the look of this long asymmetrical bob by applying a bit of mousse and scrunching your hair or creating very loose waves with a large-barrel curling iron for added texture.

Layered A-Line Cut

This slightly edgy cut is a favorite, especially when paired with rich, dark brown hair. The surface layers help manage thick strands by removing bulk, while the deep side part beautifully complements the uneven lengths. If you have straight hair, this style is a perfect match for you!

Classic Chin-Length Bevel

In this image, the hair on the longer side gracefully falls below the jawline, grazing the collarbone and naturally flipping inward. For those who prefer an understated aesthetic, this variation offers a cute, timeless look with flattering unevenness. A panel of lighter color through the front piece draws attention to the elongated side and beautifully frames the face.

Layered Bob

Here’s another great example of how to revitalize thin, lifeless strands with artful layers. This stacked cut adds volume without the need for curls, incorporating short, spunky layers throughout the crown. It’s an excellent everyday style that maintains its shape with minimal maintenance, making it a perfect choice for a woman always on the go.

Pop of Color

Nothing captures attention quite like strong contours and bold colors. This vibrant fade accentuates the movement of the cut with rich shades of green. A one-length shape with asymmetry in the front serves as an ideal foundation for intricate tonal designs, while the tightly cropped nape reduces weight and enhances the hair’s swing.

Fake Asymmetry

If you’re looking for an asymmetrical bob without a permanent commitment, you can achieve this look on an angled bob with a simple side sweep and tuck. By wearing one side forward and tucking the other behind your ear, you’ll create a sultry and temporary asymmetric style that’s effortlessly chic.

Perfectly Sleek Asymmetrical Bob

If you have beautifully straight hair and are open to experimenting with length, consider trying this strikingly asymmetrical bob. While it has a bold and daring appearance, you can easily transform it into a cute style by tucking the shorter side behind your ear and adding a charming accessory, like a flower. This creates a softer, more playful look!

Wine-Red Waves

Asymmetrical bob haircuts offer incredible versatility. You can wear your hair naturally straight or use a flat iron for a sleek, glossy finish. Alternatively, embrace elegant loose curls or relaxed beach waves, like these, to add a touch of effortless charm to your look.

Cute Asymmetrical Bob

Asymmetrical bobs are excellent for balancing square face shapes, thanks to the visibly longer section that softens the angles. A deep side part significantly enhances this effect. Plus, if you have straight hair, styling an asymmetrical bob is a breeze—just use a hairdryer and a round brush to achieve a polished look effortlessly!

Wavy Bob with Dark Roots

Women with thin hair should incorporate layers into their asymmetrical style to add fullness. This look also features highlights that blend beautifully with darker roots for added dimension, while spiral curls enhance the overall volume, creating a stunning and lively appearance.

Asymmetrical Bob with a Fun Twist

This short asymmetrical bob truly stands out thanks to its trendy color block. If you find ombre and highlights to be passé and are seeking something completely fresh, consider this striking idea. A shine spray and a quick pass with a flat iron will elevate this asymmetrical bob, giving it an exceptionally glamorous and chic finish.

Yellow and Purple Bob

If you’re open to bold colors, why not combine a few for a truly eye-catching look? Contrasting yellow and purple create a stunning effect on this edgy asymmetrical bob. However, remember that vibrant hues require proper maintenance, so be sure to consult your colorist about the best shampoo to keep your locks bright for as long as possible. And don’t forget to check out a flat iron tutorial for styling tips!

Stacked Bob for Fine Hair

If you’re seeking an asymmetrical cut that flatters fine hair texture, consider this layered asymmetrical bob. The multiple layers effectively add volume and movement to fine strands. As a bonus tip: strategically placed highlights can further enhance the volume and depth of your hair, creating a lively and dynamic look.

Wavy Asymmetrical Bob

Asymmetrical bob haircuts can strike a perfect balance between edgy and cute, and this particular style leans towards the latter. Soft waves, a lack of sharp angles, a natural parting, and a beautifully blended ombre come together to create a charming, feminine look.

Simple Asymmetrical Cut

If you’re just starting to explore asymmetrical bob hairstyles, this style is a perfect entry point. It features a subtle difference in lengths and utilizes a deep side parting to balance the longer and shorter sections. This is an excellent way to upgrade your classic bob without making a drastic change to your overall look.

Sleek Style for Black Hair

This trendy haircut maintains the essence of a classic bob while adding a bold statement. The deep side part creates extra volume in the longer section, enhancing the overall shape. The shorter strands blend seamlessly into a striking asymmetry, especially when tucked behind the ear, giving it a chic and modern flair.

CONCLUSION

The asymmetrical bob is more than just a haircut; it’s a statement of individuality and style. With its daring design and endless possibilities, this versatile cut can complement a variety of face shapes and personalities. So, why wait? Embrace the asymmetrical bob and unleash your inner style icon.