What Is a Quiff Haircut?
A quiff haircut is a classic men’s hairstyle featuring short sides and a longer, voluminous top styled upward and swept back. Blending influences from the pompadour, brush-up, and vintage styles worn by icons like James Dean, Elvis Presley, and David Beckham, the quiff offers a bold yet versatile look. It works with straight, wavy, or curly hair, flatters oval, round, and square face shapes, and adapts to casual or formal occasions. Variations include messy textured quiffs, sleek polished styles, and faded or undercut versions, with styling aided by texturizing sprays, clay, or pomade.
Ready to upgrade your look? Explore the most popular quiff variations men are wearing right now.
Trending Quiff Haircuts For Men
Textured Quiff
The Textured Quiff combines volume, movement, and sharp detailing for a fresh, trend-forward look. Hair is blow-dried upward and slightly back to enhance height, while a light touch of Texture Clay separates strands for a natural, airy flow. The soft fade on the sides balances the fuller top, making this style perfect for young men who want a bold yet effortless finish.
Messy Quiff
The Messy Quiff blends relaxed texture with a sharp, youthful vibe, making it a favorite for trend-focused guys. This style uses layered length on top with a tousled, finger-shaped finish for natural volume and movement. Blow-dry while lifting the roots, then work in a Texture Clay for hold and definition. The faded sides keep it clean, while the textured top delivers effortless style.
Short Quiff
The Short Quiff delivers a fresh, youthful edge with its neat sides and textured top, making it a perfect go-to style for boys and teens. This look keeps hair tapered close on the sides while the top is blow-dried for lift and shaped with Texture Clay for a natural hold. A quick finger-styling routine adds effortless volume and movement.
Modern Quiff
The Modern Quiff delivers a bold yet refined look, blending height, smooth flow, and sharp fade for maximum style impact. This haircut features voluminous hair brushed upward and back, paired with a clean skin fade for contrast. Blow-dry for lift, then shape with Texture Clay to lock in hold and definition while keeping a natural, matte finish. Perfect for confident, trend-focused young men.
Quiff Cut
The Quiff Cut blends timeless style with modern energy, making it a go-to for trend-conscious young men. This look features voluminous, swept-back hair with a clean fade on the sides for contrast. Blow-dry upward for lift, then shape using a Strong Hold Styling Clay to lock in texture and definition, giving your Quiff Cut lasting height and a fresh, confident finish.
Quiff Undercut
The Quiff Undercut blends sharp contrast with stylish volume, making it a go-to for trend-focused young men. The sides are clipped down to a clean undercut, while the top is blow-dried upward for height and movement. Work in a small amount of texture clay for grip and definition, then finger-shape for a natural yet bold finish that lasts all day.
Curly Quiff
The Quiff Undercut blends sharp contrast with stylish volume, making it a go-to for trend-focused young men. The sides are clipped down to a clean undercut, while the top is blow-dried upward for height and movement. Work in a small amount of Texture Clay for grip and definition, then finger-shape for a natural yet bold finish that lasts all day.
Quiff Fade
The Quiff Fade blends sharp sides with a voluminous top for a clean yet stylish finish. This look keeps the fade tight around the ears while the top is blow-dried for lift and shaped with Molding Paste to add definition and flexible hold. Perfect for boys and teens, the Quiff Fade delivers modern confidence with an effortless, trendsetting vibe.
Classic Quiff
The Classic Quiff is a timeless yet trendy choice that blends sharp structure with natural flow. This style features voluminous, swept-back hair on top with a clean, skin-faded finish on the sides for a balanced and polished look. To achieve the perfect lift and hold, apply Molding Paste to damp hair, then blow-dry while finger-shaping for texture and movement that lasts all day.
Quiff Mid Fade
The Quiff Mid Fade combines clean, modern edges with bold, youthful height for a statement look. This style features a seamless mid fade that tapers into longer, voluminous hair on top, shaped with natural flow and lift. Use a Styling Cream for smooth hold, then blow-dry upward with finger-shaping to enhance movement and texture while keeping the finish lightweight.
Wavy Quiff
The Wavy Quiff blends casual texture with refined shape, making it a perfect pick for trend-focused young men. This style keeps the sides clean with a fade while the top flows in soft, tousled waves for natural movement. Blow-dry using a vent brush, then work in Molding Paste to enhance definition, add pliable hold, and keep your quiff looking fresh all day.
Low Fade Quiff
The Low Fade Quiff blends clean precision with a bold, youthful edge. Short faded sides gradually transition into a voluminous top styled upward for height and flow. The quiff’s natural texture adds movement, making it perfect for casual and smart looks. Blow-dry with lift, then finish with Styling Cream for flexible hold and a smooth, touchable finish that lasts all day.
Side Part Quiff
The Side Part Quiff blends timeless sophistication with modern edge, making it perfect for style-conscious young men. The neatly defined side part adds sharp structure, while the voluminous quiff on top delivers height and movement. Achieve this look by blow-drying upward for lift, then locking in hold with Styling Cream for smooth control and a polished, all-day finish.
Long Quiff
The Long Quiff Haircut combines bold height with effortless flow, making it perfect for young men who want a standout look. The sides are tapered low, while the top is left long and styled upward with defined movement. Blow-dry for lift, then work in some Styling Cream for a flexible hold and natural finish that keeps the quiff looking fresh all day.
Quiff Taper
The Quiff Taper blends sharp sides with a voluminous top for a bold, fashion-forward look. Hair is tapered neatly around the ears while the top is styled high with natural movement and defined texture. Use Styling Cream for a soft, flexible hold and finish with a touch of Texture Powder to enhance volume. Blow-dry upward, shaping with your fingers for a confident, standout style.
High Fade Quiff
The High Fade Quiff combines clean, high-contrast sides with bold top volume for a sharp, youthful edge. The fade starts high and blends seamlessly into thick, textured hair on top, styled upward and slightly back for movement. Blow-dry with a vent brush for lift, then work in Molding Paste for flexible hold and a natural, touchable finish that lasts all day.
Quiff with Beard
The Quiff with Beard blends sharp hair volume with a masculine, full-beard style for a balanced, modern look. The quiff’s height and flow are achieved by blow-drying upward and shaping with a Styling Cream for smooth control and natural shine. The neatly groomed beard enhances face definition, making this cut perfect for young men aiming for confident, trend-driven style.
Quiff Mullet
The Quiff Mullet blends retro attitude with a modern twist, making it a bold pick for young trendsetters. This style features voluminous quiff styling at the front with textured layers flowing into a subtle mullet shape at the back. Blow-dry upward for lift, then defined with Styling Cream for smooth hold and natural movement, giving this look its confident, laid-back appeal.
Burst Fade Quiff
The Burst Fade Quiff blends bold fade work with textured volume for a sharp yet relaxed vibe. The sides taper seamlessly into skin while the top keeps natural lift and movement. Style by blow-drying upward, then shaping with Sea Salt Spray for airy hold. Finish with Molding Paste to define strands and maintain a fresh, modern shape all day.
Medium Quiff
The Medium Quiff in this look blends effortless style with a fresh, modern edge. The top features medium-length hair styled upward and slightly back for natural volume and movement, while the sides have a clean, tapered fade that sharpens the overall profile. Blow-dry while lifting the roots, then work in Molding Paste for flexible hold and texture that lasts all day without stiffness.
Pompadour Quiff
The Pompadour Quiff blends the height of a pompadour with the sharpness of a quiff for a bold, high-impact style. The sides fade smoothly into the longer, voluminous top, styled upward and slightly back for a clean, confident look. Use Styling Cream for a soft hold and natural shine, then blow-dry with a round brush to lock in lift and texture.
Side Swept Quiff
The Side Swept Quiff blends timeless sophistication with a youthful twist, making it perfect for style-conscious teens and young men. This look features neatly combed volume on top, swept smoothly to the side for a clean yet dynamic shape. Achieve the sleek finish by blow-drying with a vent brush and locking the style in place using Styling Cream for control and natural shine.
Loose Quiff
The Loose Quiff blends casual flow with a bold, lifted front for a fresh, high-volume style. In this look, the sides are faded tight while the top stays long and textured for movement. Blow-dry upward using a vented brush, then work in some Styling Cream for smooth control and sea salt spray for a natural, airy finish that holds throughout the day.
Low Taper Quiff
The Low Taper Quiff blends clean, low taper sides with a textured, voluminous top that sweeps upward for a bold yet wearable style. Perfect for young men, this cut adds natural movement and shape. Blow-dry while lifting the roots, then work in Sea Salt Spray for volume and Molding Paste for definition that holds all day without stiffness.
Asian Quiff
The Asian Quiff blends clean fade sides with a voluminous, textured top for a sharp yet youthful look. This style uses a blow-dryer and finger-shaping to lift the front, creating height and movement. Work in Texture Clay for a natural matte hold, then finish with a Styling Cream to define strands and keep the quiff fresh all day.
Slick Back Quiff
The Slick Back Quiff combines a refined vintage vibe with a modern twist, making it perfect for guys who want style and confidence in one look. Hair is swept back with defined volume and subtle waves, creating natural movement. Blow-dry with a vent brush for lift, then lock in shape with Molding Paste for medium hold and a touch of shine that lasts all day.
French Crop Quiff
The French Crop Quiff blends classic precision with modern flair, giving young men a sharp yet stylish edge. This cut features short, tapered sides with a textured, voluminous top styled forward and slightly upward for a quiff effect. Blow-dry using a vent brush for lift, then shape with Texture Clay to hold definition while keeping a natural, touchable finish.
Spiky Quiff
The Spiky Quiff is a bold, high-energy hairstyle that blends edgy volume with sharp texture. Short, faded sides contrast with the lifted, tousled top, giving it a rebellious yet stylish vibe. To style, blow-dry while lifting with your fingers, then work in Texture Clay for definition and a Styling Cream for lasting hold. Perfect for guys wanting a standout, trend-forward look.
Skin Fade Quiff
The Skin Fade Quiff blends sharp precision with youthful flair, making it a go-to choice for trendsetters. The sides fade seamlessly into the skin, while the top keeps medium-length hair styled upward with a natural quiff for added height and texture. Blow-dry with a vent brush, then work in Sea Salt Spray for volume and Styling Cream for controlled, soft hold that lasts all day.
Layered Quiff
The Layered Quiff delivers bold height and natural movement, making it a perfect statement look for style-conscious guys. Hair is cut in layers to add volume and flow, while a low fade sharpens the sides for contrast. Blow-dry upward for lift, then work in Texture Clay for control and separation that lasts all day without losing its lightweight feel.
Quiff vs Pompadour: Key Differences
The Quiff vs Pompadour debate comes down to styling height and shape. A quiff leans casual, with textured volume pushed upward and slightly forward, while the pompadour delivers a sleeker, more polished lift swept back. For both, blow-dry for structure, then use Styling Cream for flexible control or Texture Powder for added lift, ensuring a bold, trend-ready finish.
How to Choose the Right Quiff Haircut
Choosing the right quiff is all about balance. Consider your hair type and face shape to find the version that suits you best.
By Hair Type
Explain how straight, wavy, curly, or thick hair influences quiff height, texture, and styling ease. Recommend variations shorter textured quiffs for thick hair, layered quiffs for curly hair, and longer tops for fine hair. Suggest products like texture clay or lightweight mousse for lasting volume.
By Face Shape
Guide readers to match quiff styles with round, oval, square, or heart-shaped faces. Recommend added height for round faces, balanced lengths for oval, softer edges for square, and side volume for heart shapes. Highlight how each variation enhances facial proportions and personal style.
How to Ask Your Barber for a Quiff Haircut
Getting the perfect quiff starts with clear communication. Use these tips to explain your style, show visuals, and specify details so your barber understands exactly.
Use the Right Terminology
Use terms like “textured quiff,” “short quiff,” or “quiff with fade” when speaking to your barber. Specify fade type (low, mid, or high) and top finish sleek, voluminous, or textured for accuracy.
Show a Reference Photo
Bring a clear quiff haircut photo that matches your desired style. A visual helps your barber match fade height, top volume, and overall shape without guesswork or misinterpretation.
Discuss Hair Length & Volume
Tell your barber exactly how much length to leave on top, especially in the front. Specify preferred volume and whether you want a structured, sleek quiff or a casual, textured version.
How to Style a Quiff Haircut
Styling a quiff is all about volume and structure. Follow these steps to prep, shape, and finish your look with lasting hold and height.
Wash and Prep Hair
Wash with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to cleanse and lift the hair. Gently towel-dry until damp, ensuring excess water is removed. This creates a clean, lightweight base for styling without flattening the quiff’s natural volume.
Apply Pre-Styler
Spray sea salt spray or apply a lightweight pre-styler evenly from roots to ends. This adds grip, boosts texture, and builds a stronger foundation for shaping the quiff before blow-drying.
Blow-Dry for Volume
Using a round or vent brush, lift hair at the roots while blow-drying upward and backward. Keep airflow controlled to lock in height and structure that lasts all day.
Shape the Quiff
With fingers or a comb, lift the front section upward and sweep it back. Adjust height for your desired style, slightly tousled for casual wear or sleek for formal occasions.
Set with Product
Work a small amount of clay, paste, or pomade through the hair from roots to tips for hold and definition. Finish with a light hairspray mist for all-day quiff control.
How to Maintain a Quiff Haircut
Keeping a quiff haircut looking fresh means more than styling. Here’s how regular trims and a simple care routine can maintain its shape and volume.
Regular Trims
Schedule trims every 4-6 weeks to keep sides neat and the top balanced for maximum volume. Maintain precise fades, tapers, and the quiff’s silhouette with a skilled barber, or do light side blending between appointments for a fresh, clean look.
Daily Hair Care Routine
Wash with shampoo suited to your hair type, condition for moisture, and protect before blow-drying. Use pomade, mousse, or Sea Salt Spray for lift and hold. Finish with clay, wax, or argan oil weekly to keep your quiff smooth and frizz-free.
Recommended Hair Products for a Quiff
From styling to maintenance, using the right products ensures your quiff stays lifted, textured, and healthy. Here are the must-haves for lasting results.
Texture Clay
Texture clay gives a quiff a strong, matte hold with added definition and volume. It keeps hair flexible and natural-looking, making it perfect for an all-day style without stiffness.
Molding Paste
Molding paste offers medium hold with a soft, touchable finish. It shapes a quiff while maintaining natural movement and enhancing texture for a versatile, all-day style.
Pomade
Pomade delivers sleek shine and firm hold, making it ideal for polished quiffs or retro-inspired looks that need lasting structure and a smooth finish.
Styling Cream
Styling cream provides lightweight control and subtle shine, keeping a quiff smooth, frizz-free, and easy to reshape throughout the day for a relaxed yet refined look.
Sea Salt Spray
Sea salt spray adds natural texture, volume, and a casual, tousled finish to a quiff without weighing hair down or leaving a sticky residue.
Texture Powder
Texture powder instantly boosts root lift, giving a quiff weightless volume and a matte finish that lasts all day without making hair feel heavy.
Hydrating Argan Oil
Hydrating argan oil nourishes and softens hair, keeping a quiff healthy, shiny, and manageable while reducing dryness, frizz, and split ends.
Clarifying Shampoo
Clarifying shampoo deeply cleanses to remove product buildup and excess oils, giving a fresh start for styling a clean, healthy quiff.
Hydrating Conditioner
Hydrating conditioner replenishes moisture, strengthens hair, and keeps a quiff soft, smooth, and resilient against daily styling stress.
FAQs About Quiff Haircuts
What is a quiff haircut for guys?
A quiff haircut is a men’s hairstyle where the hair on top is styled upward and backward, creating height and volume. It blends classic style with modern texture, making it versatile for both casual and formal looks while suiting a wide range of personal styles.
What face shape suits a quiff?
Quiffs work best for oval, square, and heart-shaped faces. The added height elongates features, while balanced sides help frame the face. This style can enhance strong jawlines and soften wider cheeks, making it a flattering choice for many men.
Is a quiff high maintenance?
A quiff requires moderate upkeep to maintain its height and structure. Regular trims, proper styling products, and quick daily touch-ups keep it looking fresh. While not overly time-consuming, it benefits from consistent styling to hold shape throughout the day.
What is a quiff vs pompadour?
A quiff features upward volume at the front with a relaxed texture, while a pompadour is sleeker and styled entirely backward for a polished finish. The quiff offers a casual, modern vibe, whereas the pompadour leans toward a more formal, classic look.
How to style a modern quiff?
Wash hair, apply a lightweight clay or pomade, and blow-dry upward for lift. Use fingers to create natural texture and finish with a light hold spray. This method keeps the quiff looking structured yet effortless all day.
How to ask for a quiff haircut?
Tell your barber your preferred top length, how short you want the sides, and if you’d like a fade or taper. Bring a clear reference photo to ensure the style matches your vision perfectly.
Are quiffs suitable for all hair types?
Yes, quiffs suit straight, wavy, and slightly curly hair. Fine hair benefits from volumizing products, while thick hair looks best with lightweight styling control to maintain shape without adding heaviness or stiffness.
Which styling products work best for a quiff?
Matte clay, pomade, or styling cream provide hold and definition for a quiff. Use sea salt spray for added volume and a light hairspray to lock the style in place without making hair stiff.