The quiff is back in vogue - with a more modern approach.
No man likes to look all floppy and soft, so it's no wonder the quiff is a standout style again. It has enough attitude to lend the wearer an individual edge, but its strong masculine heritage won't label the wearer a fop or fashion victim.
Viva asked Paul Serville for an overview of how to make this look work and what directions he is forecasting for men's hair. He says the modern quiff has more movement, texture and versatility than the old-style lacquered look. "The style is still youthful and fresh - but it's sexier, slicker and perhaps more corporate-friendly." It can be worn controlled by day and then more expressively outside work.
"Think a modern twist on the quirky Johnny Cash, sultry James Dean, and Elvis Presley rocker looks of times gone by."
Serville says men's styles are shaping up less boyish and more masculine. "Gone is the Bieber fever: the heavily styled and solid side-swept fringe with grown out sides."
A version of the quiff, longer on top and neat at the sides, can work for many men. "It's a key look evolving for men of all ages - kicked off by the nonchalant, mussed up styling of 20-somethings Robert Pattinson and Zac Efron, and now seen on everyone from our own Dane Rumble to, on a smaller scale, thirtysomething Ryan Reynolds."
Serville says Efron's look, most likely achieved with a scissor or razor cut, keeps the sides quite structured with tight boxed-like edges. The top is highly textured keeping a square shape through the crown, but also achieving height and direction. He calls it "the updo for men".
Such looks can be worn to the side in an asymmetrical quiff, scrunched on top into edgy curls or softly straightened over the face. The key is achieving a styled dishevelled look, says Serville, is through the right balance of movement and texture.
Get advice on using the right products to complement the texture of the style and allow movement while still having a slight hold. Serville recommends towel-drying the hair, then applying Redken Woolshake to the sides and top, before blow waving for a smoother effect, or scrunching the product in and leaving hair to dry naturally.
Tidy with Redken Matt Sponge through the top.
Men are increasingly getting their hair coloured, mostly to integrate rather than completely hide greys.
Trend-wise burnt gold and copper colours are in, says Serville. For the man who is simply trying to hold back nature rather than make a fashion statement, the likes of L'Oreal L'Homme in-salon colour gives subtle coverage, but adds healthy shine to greying hair.
