55 Best Quiff Hairstyles for Men (2026 Guide) | Classic & Modern Quiff Haircuts
The most universal haircut for men that does not require regular touch-ups
The quiff hairstyle has remained one of the most popular men’s haircuts for decades, combining timeless style with modern versatility. It’s up there with the undercut and the pompadour. If you’re looking for a fashionable style that’s survived the test of time, then the quiff just might be for you. Quiff is suitable for a wide range of professional and casual situations.
One of the reasons the men’s quiff continues to be a barbershop favorite is its adaptability. It can be paired with a taper, fade, undercut, or scissor-cut sides, and it works equally well with straight, wavy, and curly hair. From short quiffs that require minimal styling to bold, high-volume modern quiffs, this hairstyle offers countless ways to customize your look while maintaining a clean, sophisticated appearance.
Another benefit that the quiff hairstyle gives you: While the quiff is widely seen in the men’s fashion world, you probably don’t see too many quiffs in your everyday life. That’s because it’s more of a fashion style and less of a casual style. This means if you choose to rock the quiff, you’ll immediately stand out with your style.
Choosing the right quiff hairstyle depends on several factors, including your hair type, hair length, face shape, and daily styling routine. Some variations emphasize texture for a relaxed, casual finish, while others create sleek volume for a more refined appearance. The right products and styling techniques also play an important role in helping your quiff hold its shape throughout the day.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best quiff hairstyles for men, learn how to choose the right variation for your features, and find expert tips on styling and maintaining your haircut. Whether you’re looking for a classic quiff, a textured quiff fade, or a modern interpretation of this iconic style, these haircut ideas will help you find the perfect look for your next visit to the barber.
Classic Quiff
This long and lush classic quiff is the perfect style for guys looking to make a statement. No, that statement isn’t just “look at me!”
Stranded Quiff with Tapered Side
Quiffs and lots of volumes go hand in hand. This tall quiff makes a bold statement that will set you apart.
The Modern Quiff
The modern quiff is today’s answer for a classic, clean hairstyle with a little personality to it. A sharper fade on the sides and back will give you a sharp, modern look, while a less pronounced fade will have a more relaxed feel.
How To Style the Modern Quiff – Towel dry hair, leaving it slightly damp. Rub some pomade or wax onto your fingertips and run it through your hair, teasing the front up and combing the rest back. If you want a little more volume, add a little mousse. Finish by blow drying the quiff into place.
The Curly Quiff
The curly quiff is basically the long quiff for guys with curly hair. The effect is less sleek and polished, but more artistic and relaxed.
How To Style the Curly Quiff – Style the curly quiff as you would a regular quiff. However, you may need to use a wide-toothed comb to manipulate the hair more easily. And if you want curls on top of your quiff, make sure you don’t flatten them with product or blow drying.
Long Blowdried Quiff
The long quiff is a much more dramatic look for a contemporary, well-groomed man. Like the previous styles, the sides are kept short, but the hair on the top is kept longer. This gives it significantly more volume. Typically, the longer your hair, the more time it takes to style, and this rings true here. But the final result is well worth it.
How To Style the Long Quiff – The styling process is almost identical to that of the basic quiff, but there are two important differences. First, you might need to use a higher heat due to the amount of hair involved. Second, you might need a little more product to give your longer hair the hold it needs.
The Side Quiff
The side quiff hairstyle is essentially a modern quiff with a pronounced part. You can simply part your hair, or, for more definition, your barber can cut a hard part into your hair. This variation on adds a nice dapper touch to this hairstyle.
How To Style the Side Quiff – Start out as if you’re styling a modern quiff, but pull your hair over to one side so there’s a definitive line separating your top and side. Apply a little hairspray and press your fingers along the line. Finish the look by combing the rest of your hair in the opposite direction of your part.
Related
The Breezy Quiff with Side Part
The clever proportioning of quiff volume to side volume accentuates an already handsome face shape in this unique haircut.
Dyed Highlights with Hand Brushed Up
Hand brushed styles are a favorite for anyone who’s adjusting their style on the go. Whether it’s right off the field or out of the ring, you won’t be needing any implements to fix this cut.
Simple Quiff with Beard
This easy quiff really is taking things “back to basic.” Needless to say, a basic quiff is still a good quiff — especially when paired with cool sunglasses and fresh facial hair.
Finger Combed Quiff with Undercut
Here’s another example of a quiff that’s nothing too extreme. The undercut style is smooth and sexy, and works for any occasion.
Those Floppy Thin Strands
When a quiff gets long, strands tend to hang loose from the sides. Why not take advantage of that with this laid-back style?
The Messy Quiff
Another take on the messy quiff, this hairstyle is characterized by tons of volume and texture. This is great if you have finer hair but still want a quiff.
Quiff Hairstyle
Simple and straightforward, this is a no-nonsense quiff that you simply can’t go wrong with. Longer sides add to the relaxed feel of this look.
Modern Tousled Quiff
This isn’t your typical quiff––instead, it’s an extremely stylish take on the original cut. The top is tousled for a wavy appearance.
Longer Quiff
Here’s another great quiff that’s versatile and comfortable. Medium in length, this quiff relies both on volume and texture, resulting in an even look.
Loose Stranded Quiff
Ever wondered what does a pompadour and quiff look altogether? Well, this is it, the thin long strands also give a brush-up tinge but don’t forget the classics, tapered sides balance that looks with longer temples to ace that retro feel.
Casual Temple Fade with High Volume
Is this temple fade or drop fade? or maybe both? In either case, it is a whole lot of panache. That being said, the top is close in the competition, it is dense yet it is one with thin hair. The side-swept pompadour gives it a perfectly retro feel whilst the sides being taper faded add up to it. Don’t miss the sharp line up.
Side Swept Quiff
Now that is what we call a dense top with long strands. This look is due to the puffed top which is the courtesy of pompadour. Plus, the medium-sized top strands are straight textured with sides being finely taper fade. The details are taken care of with that sharp line up.
Messy Quiff Haircut
Messy is the way to go but is it really messy though? Let’s break it down, the top is semi wavy plus it has medium length strands, that with sides being just tapered to maintain the volume. Lastly, the subtle side sweep keeps the hair managed in all sides of the head and also gives that tossed look.
Styled Side Quiff and Low Fade
Can this be any better? I would say no, the massively long quiff on the top with sides sleekly taper faded to give that clean look. But it doesn’t end there, the stubble beard enhances the look by balancing the whole face and lastly, the dye on the top is more than amazing.
Tangled Strands with Tapered Sides
The stranded look is always the best for quiff as it keeps the top quite open-ended and casual at the same time. The sides, however, can be tweaked as per preference, this one is a straight taper from hairline to ears, keeping the volume intact and check the temple, it doesn’t exist and how often do you find that?
Gentlemanly Side Sweep with Slight Fluff
Fluff with uniformity is quite neat, especially when done with thin strands like this. The top isn’t too long however it is not as short as the sides are. The sides are taper faded for maximum neat approach.
Low to High Quiff
This quiff is one of the classic examples of fashion and style. Neatly maintained throughout, the low fade starts it off and is kept clean through the use of skill and scissors. The top is kept a little shorter than the fringe so that you can add some volume to the style. Some matte clay works wonders, or some high-shine pomade brings back the retro style of the classics. While you may see this in movies and magazines, only a few are bold enough to sport it daily. But you are. Show everyone you’re the one they should look to for hairstyling tips.
The Frontrunner Quiff
The beauty of the quiff lies in its versatility. Wavy, thick, thin, straight, curly, you name it, and the quiff can adapt to hair type and facial structure. Here we see the high fade lending all the focus to the long flowing length up top. The top is pulled forward and up to give a flick to the fringe, adding some truly eye-catching style to the cut. This one will have even the most fashion-minded in your friend group complimenting you whenever you show up.
Quiff Hairstyle: Tall Natural Quiff
This style adds an element of sleek contrast to this gentleman’s style. Keeping his fringe grown longer and styled up and away to give space for his tattoos and mustache. The tattoos and stache give off a sense of edginess and ruggedness. The high fade is styled to create a boxy style that draws the eyes down to the face.
The Short Quiff
The short quiff is like the modern quiff, but it offers a younger, more casual feel. The top is cut much shorter at about 2-4 inches and typically is accompanied by a sharp fade or undercut on the sides. This cut is perfect for guys who want a clean cut look with minimal hassle.
The Messy Quiff
This is the perfect mesh of classy and casual. The same principals for any quiff still apply, but instead of primping, the aim is to get your hair roughly into shape without caring to make sure everything is sleek. The effect is a devil may care attitude while still looking well put together. This is the best way to look stylish without much effort.
How To Style the Messy Quiff – Do your basic quiff preparation, but instead of meticulously combing your hair into place, just comb some mousse with your fingers and blow dry. You can add a little hairspray in the front to keep hair from falling in your eyes.
The Undercut Quiff
The undercut quiff is another hybrid quiff hairstyle. It looks like a modern quiff on top, but the sides are completely shaved down, giving it an alternative edge. Perfect for the modern hipster.
The Rockabilly Quiff
This is the father of all men’s quiff hairstyles. Think of Elvis or John Travolta in Grease. The longer top is combed and styled up out of the face with a bit of height. It’s also combed into a point or curled forward in the front. A variation of the rockabilly quiff is the Morrissey quiff, which has shorter sides and is done up a little looser.
How To Style the Rockabilly Quiff – Apply product evenly into hair. Comb it up out of the face, and blow dry into shape. For a touch of vintage rockabilly, take a lock of hair from the front of your head, curl it with your finger, and pull it forward onto the forehead.
Johnny Depp's Messy Quiff
This crazy quiff hairstyle is as crazy as the pirate himself! It’s long, spiky, and funky — what more could you wish for?
Hand Brushed Fade
The quiff is yet another hairstyle that shines when paired with tapered or faded sides. This contrast in length also plays on the face shape.
Neat Quiff Hairstyle
A neat quiff is the perfect option for when you need something a little more restrained. It’s still incredibly stylish, but it’s now something you could wear to the wedding.
Broken Quiff with Layers
Layering any hairstyle can be a lot of work, but this painstakingly architectured quiff shows you just how worth it that can be.
Brad Pitt's Casual Top
Think of this messy, tangled style as a loose quiff. Strands of hair fly in every direction, yet the overall look is intentional and stylish.
Brushed Quiff Blonde
Not all quiffs have to be neat and tidy. This messy, side-brushed quiff proves that you can still sport a quiff and rock the “just rolled out of bed” look.
Messy Blow Out
If you’ve got thick, coarse hair, then this quiff is for you. The quiff itself is blown out in multiple directions, creating lots of motion.
Elegant Quiff Hairstyle
This suave, gentlemanly quiff adds a touch of class and refinement, elevating this trendy hairstyle from casual to formal.
Winged Wavy Quiff
For a one-of-a-kind look, try out this winged quiff style! The hair in the back is shaped upward into two wings, framing the quiff in the middle.
Irregular Top with Taper Fade
If you’re a fan of that finger combed look, try out this haircut. The quiff is finger brushed to create distinct pillars that angle upward.
Brushed Back with High Volume
Here’s a neat, even look that’s fashionable and timeless. A taper keeps the sides organized and draws attention to the high-volume quiff.
Textured Quiff
If you have thick hair, and if you’re after maximum texture, this look is for you. The quiff is extremely textured, featuring a matte finish that unifies the style.
Hand Brushed Layers with Taper Fade
This quiff toes the line between neat and messy, resulting in a windswept appearance. The fade and subtle line up round out the style.
Open Quiff with Layers
This long, flowy quiff utilizes layers to create a very full-bodied style. At the same time, it’s very casual.
Disconnected Undercut with Quiff on Top
This extra-tidy quiff takes inspiration from retro styles. The extreme disconnect emphasizes the quiff and adds even more flair.
Wavy to Curled Top with Taper Fade
What can we say about this stranded textured quiff? The side sweep texture with sides being taper faded is what makes this a great one. Moreover, the temple is finely faded with a pointy beard connect. Next up, the line up is straight yet partly faded. Plus, the balancing beard is pretty cool ha!
Brushed Up Quiff
This quiff has a flavor of pompadour and the unified look makes this one pop real nice. The thin hair makes it easy to have this look and have sides tapered where it doesn’t squeeze the face instead makes the whole look lift. Lastly, the beard to make it balanced with a good trim.
Slight Wavy Texture with Clean Quiff
This is what a good hard part with side sweep does to you. That plus the semi wavy texture with a sleek taper fade on the sides makes all the justice to the face with that blend of stubble beard with chin strap beard. Not to forget, the top is dense in volume in spite of thin hair strands.
High Volume Quiff
Long face structure often goes will longer strand but this is whole another level, the top has medium length strands with sides being tapered with an undercut. That’s not it, the stubble beard tops the whole look by balancing the face just fine. Lastly, don’t forget the shiny dye that makes the top pop.
Skin Fade Quiff
If “I know I look cool” had a face, this would be it. The top is casual and retro at the same time with longer strands and sides being undercut taper faded. The subtle side sweep makes it all fun and jazz. Add the quiff making it almost perfect. The stubble beard, in the end, gives it that perfect closure.
Brushed Up Quiff Haircut
Not just another day with this, not just another hairstyle. The subtle undercut with sides being tapered with a blended beard is what makes this stand out. Next up the top is side swept with that thick volume with shiny dye is what all it makes it pop. Also, don’t miss the slight widow’s peak.
Quiff Hairstyle: Long Top with Side Brush
Thin hair is not always too thin, this way introducing a slight volume makes it thicker. The side-swept with medium-length strands makes it look longer than it is and the sides are taper faded. The temple is faded with an undercut on the side part. Next, the thick textured beard is what balances the face and gives that whole look.
Ben Hardy's Natural Quiff
Hardy as a whole knows how to style him well, his face structure is perfect for this quiff and the quick fluff on the top makes it just perfect. The sides, however, being thin are quite under control without being too tapered or skin faded. Next up, the clean gents look is all it takes to pull this one-off.
Loose Quiffed Elephant Trunk
Elephant trunks are getting modern day by day and this is a prime example of panache plus retro. The top is quiffed with a unified look overall. The line-ups have been detailed quite well plus the light stubble makes the day.
Neat Semi Waved Brush Up
Receding hairline is not a big deal when done right, hence this look makes it a point. The top is quite puffed with sides being taper faded with that cheeky temple fade that comes in handy.
Clean Cut Undercut with Quiff
Quiffs are the universe’s gift to mankind. This haircut easily exudes confidence to the wearer, and though it takes a bit of prep time, it’s worth it. Throw in a clean-cut undercut for that modern feel to it.
What is the quiff hairstyle?
In terms of the cut, the quiff hairstyle is basically like the undercut: longer on top and shorter on the sides and back. The real difference is the top of the hair, which is styled upward and combed slightly back for a textured, eye-catching look. The styling process is vital here, and we’ll be going into detail on how you can get this contemporary look for yourself.
And like other voluminous styles, such as the disconnected undercut, the quiff is a high-contrast style. This means that the long hair on top provides a stark contrast to the short hair on the sides and in the back.
In terms of the look, the quiff is closely related to the pompadour. Both are voluminous styles that sweep the hair back. However, there are some important differences between the two. Guys who sport quiffs tend to focus on vertical volume at the front of the head, and this isn’t always the case with a pompadour. Lots of pompadours can be smaller and less extreme.
Another defining characteristic of the quiff is its somewhat messy nature. The hair at the front of the head is often slanted and takes on a wavy appearance. Pompadours, on the other hand, tend to be tighter and have a bit more slickness and shine to them.
Who Should Get a Quiff?
The quiff is one of the most versatile men’s hairstyles, making it a great choice for a wide range of hair types, face shapes, and personal styles. Because the hair is left longer on top and styled upward and back, a quiff creates volume and movement that can enhance your facial features while giving your haircut a modern, polished appearance. Choosing the right variation depends on your natural hair texture, density, and the amount of time you’re willing to spend styling your hair each day.
Straight Hair
Straight hair is ideal for a quiff because it’s easy to shape and holds clean, defined lines. Whether you prefer a sleek classic quiff or a textured modern version, straight hair provides the flexibility to achieve both polished and relaxed styles. A matte clay or lightweight pomade can help add texture while maintaining natural movement.
Thick Hair
Men with thick hair have the greatest range of styling options. The extra volume makes it easy to create a full, dramatic quiff that holds its shape throughout the day. Ask your barber to remove some bulk with layering or texturizing if your hair feels too heavy or difficult to style.
Fine or Thin Hair
A quiff can work surprisingly well for fine hair when it’s cut and styled correctly. Keeping the sides shorter creates the illusion of thicker hair on top, while volumizing products and blow-drying help maximize lift. A textured quiff often looks fuller than a sleek, heavily styled version because the added texture creates more visual density.
Wavy Hair
Natural waves add texture and movement that complement the relaxed look of a modern quiff. Instead of trying to straighten your hair, embrace your natural texture by using lightweight styling products that enhance definition while controlling frizz. A textured or messy quiff is often the easiest option for wavy hair.
Curly Hair
Curly hair creates a distinctive take on the classic quiff by combining height with natural volume. Keeping the curls slightly longer on top allows them to become a defining feature of the style, while faded or tapered sides keep the haircut balanced. Curl cream or a lightweight styling product can help define curls without weighing them down.
Consider Your Face Shape
The quiff suits most face shapes because it can be adapted to create balance. Men with oval and square faces can wear almost any variation, while those with round faces often benefit from extra height on top to create a longer, more angular appearance. If you have a longer or oblong face, avoid excessive height and instead choose a softer, lower-profile quiff that maintains proportion.
Think About Your Styling Routine
Although the quiff is versatile, it does require some daily styling to look its best. Most men can create the style in just a few minutes using a blow dryer and a quality styling product, but those who prefer a wash-and-go haircut may find shorter textured styles easier to maintain. If you’re willing to spend a little extra time each morning, the quiff rewards you with one of the most stylish and adaptable haircuts available.
No matter your hair type or personal style, there’s a quiff variation that can work for you. By choosing a version that complements your natural texture, face shape, and grooming routine, you’ll end up with a haircut that’s both flattering and easy to maintain.
What do I need for the quiff hairstyle?
The quiff hairstyle is a medium-length hairstyle because of the volume needed on the top of the head. 3 inches is a bare minimum for a good quiff. Going longer, from 4 to 6 inches, will give you massive volume and a taller quiff. Like the pompadour, the quiff allows for a variety of lengths, so experiment and find what works best for you.
You’ll also need high-quality products, and you can choose pomade, gel, or wax, depending on the exact type of style you’re going for. Pomade will give your quiff a shinier, slicker look to it. Gel and wax will accentuate the texture of your hair and also help to maximize and preserve volume.
You’ll need a fantastic blow dryer, which will play a vital role in shaping the quiff and setting it into place. A good blow dryer will also help to add a ton of volume and get the most natural texture out of your hair. A diffuser nozzle for your blow dryer can also help optimize the drying process for styles like the quiff.
Since the styling process is so crucial to forming a nice quiff, you won’t want to opt for anything less than the best. By using hair products and a blow dryer that perform well and are high quality, you’ll be ensuring you get the best quiff possible.
How to Ask Your Barber for a Quiff
Getting the perfect quiff starts with clear communication. While the quiff is defined by longer hair on top that’s styled upward and back, there are many variations, so it’s important to explain exactly how much length, texture, and volume you want. Bringing a reference photo is one of the easiest ways to ensure you and your barber have the same vision.
Leave Enough Length on Top
A quiff needs sufficient length to create height and movement. Most styles require at least 3 to 5 inches (7.5 to 12.5 cm) of hair on top, although longer versions may need even more. Tell your barber that you’d like to keep enough length in the fringe to style it upward and back rather than cutting it too short.
Choose the Right Sides and Back
The sides play a major role in the overall look of your quiff. If you prefer a clean, modern appearance, ask for a low, mid, or high fade. For a more classic style, request a taper or scissor-cut sides that blend naturally into the longer hair on top. The shorter the sides, the more the quiff will stand out.
Ask for Texture
Textured hair is easier to style and creates a fuller, more natural finish. If you like relaxed, modern hairstyles, ask your barber to add texture with point cutting or layering. This removes excess weight while making the hair easier to lift and shape.
Match the Cut to Your Hair Type
Your barber can tailor the quiff to your natural hair texture. Men with thick hair may benefit from weight removal to reduce bulk, while those with fine or thin hair should keep more length and avoid excessive thinning to maximize volume. If you have wavy or curly hair, ask your barber to work with your natural texture instead of trying to eliminate it.
Discuss Your Styling Routine
Be honest about how much time you’re willing to spend styling your hair each day. If you prefer a low-maintenance routine, your barber can recommend a shorter, textured quiff that’s easy to style with minimal product. If you enjoy blow-drying and using styling products, a longer quiff offers more volume and versatility.
Bring a Reference Photo
Photos are one of the best ways to avoid misunderstandings. A picture helps your barber see the exact length, fade, texture, and overall shape you’re looking for. If possible, choose a reference model with a similar hair type and density to your own for the most realistic results.
Ask for Product Recommendations
Before you leave the barbershop, ask your barber which products will work best for your hair. Matte clay is ideal for textured quiffs, pomade creates a smoother, shinier finish, and sea salt spray or volumizing mousse can add extra lift before blow-drying. Using the right products at home will make it much easier to recreate your new hairstyle every day.
With the right haircut and a clear conversation with your barber, styling a quiff becomes much easier. By discussing length, texture, fade preference, and your daily routine, you’ll leave the chair with a haircut that’s tailored to your hair type, complements your face shape, and fits your lifestyle.
How to style the quiff?
There are 3 steps to getting a great quiff:
-
- Step 1: Start with a freshly showered, towel-dried head of hair. Your hair should still be damp.
-
- Optional step: You can blow dry your hair at this point to add more volume. (Copy Step 3.)
-
- Step 2: Apply a small amount of product (about the size of your fingernail) to your hair and work it in evenly.
-
- Step 3: Blow dry your hair in the direction you want your quiff to go. You can use a comb to tease your hair higher and get more volume.
That’s it! While it seems simple, it’s a matter of experimentation. You’ll have to find the exact technique that works for you to produce a fantastic quiff. If you’re not getting results you like, try using a higher heat setting or a diffuser nozzle on your blow dryer.
Video
See this tutorial on how to style quiff style: