Master the classic quiff with our step-by-step guide + styling ideas
Everyone loves a good quiff. Find out how to recreate this iconic style at home with our step-by-step guide and vlogger videos.
You Will Need
Ah, the quiff. This much-loved men’s hairstyle is favoured by many a dapper gent (David Beckham, David Gandy and George Clooney, to name just a few). And we can’t say we’re surprised, because not only is this ‘do super versatile, it’s also quite low-maintenance when it comes to styling.
But don’t worry if you’re new to the hair game, because we’re here to help! Ahead, we’ve put together a quick and easy guide to help you rock this look and take your quiff to hair-raising new heights.
The quiff: Your complete style guide
Prep your hair.
Start by making sure your hair is ready for styling by washing it with the TIGI Bed Head For Men Charge Up Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner.
This will help to cleanse your hair and scalp, while also making it appear thicker and fuller.
Use styling product.
Once, your hair is clean and towel dried, it’s time to apply your styling product.
Grab your pot of VO5 Extreme Style gelWax and scoop out a small amount of product (we suggest a fingertip-sized amount).
Work the product into your hair.
No matter how thick or long your hair is, remember to only take a small amount of wax to start with. Why? Because it’s much easier to add more product into your hair than it is to wash it out and start all over!
So, once you’ve got the right amount of product, warm the wax between your palms, coating them evenly. Then, rake your hands through your mane, gently working the gel wax through your hair.
Final look.
Now you’ve applied your product, you’re ready to start styling your quiff. If you’re looking to exude cool, contemporary vibes, then try the modern brush-up on for size.
This versatile ‘do perfectly tows the line between casually groomed and modern sophistication. Simply grab a natural bristle hair brush or styling comb, and work your hair up and back.
Tame any annoying flyaways by slicking down stray hairs with a tiny bit of product if needed. And that’s all there is to it!
Tip: To create a look with masses of height and fullness, use a hair dryer along with a vent brush to create volume and extra lift. That’s what the quiff is all about, after all!
Loved this easy quiff hairdo? Then learn how to create a relaxed quiff with vlogger Luke Franks below:
5 alternative ways to rock a quiff
1. The modern pompadour
Before you write this statement-making, retro style off, hear us out. This is a modern take on the pompadour, so instead of imagining the oversized Elvis quiff, think more of Bruno Mars or David Beckham.
Start by taking a 10 pence piece amount of the Toni&Guy Men’s Mattifying Putty, rub it into your hands, then apply throughout your hair. Comb your hair back, softly slanting the sides towards the middle of your crown to create an angled peak.
To finish, take the comb and gently tease the front of your hairline to create height. And hey presto, you’ve created the pomp (AKA modern pompadour).
2. The slick quiff
Having been a men’s hairstyle staple for decades, you’ll be pleased to know that a groomed, wet-look quiff has now been runway-approved, too. Trust us: this super slick style will look great at a formal event when paired with a 3-piece suit and Oxfords.
To achieve it, first blowdry the top of your hair to create volume for your quiff. Then apply some VO5 Wet Look Styling Gel with your fingers, before using a comb to evenly distribute the product and to create a deep side parting. Keep combing until you’ve achieved a perfectly smooth, sleek look, without any stray hairs.
Top tip: Remember to run the comb lightly over the quiff section of your hair as you style it, as being too heavy-handed can result in it becoming flat.
3. The undercut quiff
A contemporary take on the classic quiff, this version refreshes the traditional look with its short, undercut sides. Edgy and elegant, this cut is just perfect for style-conscious men and can be achieved by asking your barber for shaved-down sides with plenty of length on top.
Editor’s tip: Style your quiff using the Lynx Adrenaline Super Hold Cream Gel to give your ‘do some extra staying power.
4. The short quiff
While a little length is definitely necessary to achieve the look, if you have shorter hair and fancy playing with quiffs, don’t feel you have to miss out!
The results won’t be quite as voluminous or dramatic, but you’ll still be able to create a bit of texture. By working the VO5 Thicken Up Lifting Paste through the top section of your hair, you’ll instantly achieve a more dishevelled, casual-looking ‘do.
5. The curly quiff
You don’t have to fight your natural texture to rock a quiff, as there are practical ways to style your mane, even if you have unruly curls or waves. The key to nailing this look is getting frizz under control and retaining definition.
Begin with wet hair and lightly spray with the VO5 Sculpted Hold Mega Hold Gel Spray. This should help control any frizz, while maintaining and enhancing your curls.
Next use a hairdryer to dry your mane, gently running your fingers from the crown to the front of your head until you get your desired shape.
Congratulations, you’ve now mastered this timeless men’s style in not just 1 but 5 different ways! Now go check out the top men’s Instagram hair trends for 2017 and see which style you can nab for the season ahead.
