The quiff hairstyle’s rise to fame began in the 1950s, gaining popularity from celebrities like Rock Hudson, James Dean and a slew of rockabilly musicians. Over the years there have been many variations of this style and it’s easy to see why. This incredibly versatile hairstyle for men can be worn neat and conservative or wild and dripping with rock ‘n roll sex appeal. It’s a bold style and it takes a bold man to wear it. In 2012, the quiff is back and it requires the same devil-may-care attitude it did when the King rocked it.
Recently we have seen the quiff grace the famous heads of celebrities like David Beckham, Bruno Mars, and Robert Pattinson to name a few. This style has also been prevalent in several fashion shows including Louis Vuitton’s spring/summer 2012 runway. So how exactly can your average Joe pull off such an audacious look?
Is The Quiff Hairstyle For You?
This ‘do works with just about any face shape but it won’t hurt if you’re one of those lucky guys with defined cheekbones and jaw lines you can cut glass with. The quiff is ideal for wavy hair but can be problematic if you are thinning in front so avoid it if you’re a little sparse up top. This style also requires some maintenance so if you’re not keen on styling every day, it’s not for you. However, if you are willing to put in the work, this style is sure to turn some heads and grab some positive attention.
How To Ask For It
Bruno Mars Quiff Hairstyle
If you’re thinking about going this route with your hair, you may be wondering how to ask your barber for this style. The simplest way is to find a photo of exactly what you want and bring it in. This gives your barber a precise visual idea of what you want.
Have your barber taper the sides with clippers or shears (clippers if you want the sides drastically shorter than the top and shears if you want a more blended look) and leave the top long. Depending on how wild you want to go with this cut, you may need to grow out the top portion a bit. I know it’s tempting but DO NOT skip your haircuts during the growth stage. Your barber will need to shape your mane as it grows out to achieve this look. Make sure he or she puts a lot of texture in the top. This is what gives it that wild messy look.
Now that you have the cut you need to learn how to style it. Check out my styling tips below to score the perfect quiff.
How to Style
- Shampoo and towel dry hair then apply a wet styling product such as sea salt spray, gel or mousse evenly throughout. But don’t go overboard. Men have a tendency to use too much product, which can weigh hair down and make it difficult to style. You really only need about the size of a nickel in your palm.
- Next, grab a dryer (I know what you’re thinking guys, but trust me you need it and you don’t have to tell anyone) and rake hair to one side with your fingertips. When it’s about 50% dry, switch sides and rake in the opposite direction. To finish, give a quick blast to the front while raking hair back.
- When you’ve finished drying, personalize your style with a finishing product. If you want a matte finish, use a styling clay or putty. If you want a little shine, go for a styling cream (I like American Crew Forming Cream). Place the product on your fingertips and lightly run them through your hair.
Product Recommendations
- Unite Session Whip Volume Foam
- Aquage Sea Salt Texturizing Spray
- American Crew Forming Cream
