Rockabilly Hairstyle for Men: Elvis Quiff, Ducktail and More

The rockabilly hairstyle for men stands for the 1950s like no other look. Rock'n'roll musicians wore high, shiny quiffs with the sides combed back, meeting at the nape in a duck tail. This look is unthinkable without pomade. Here's how to style it.

The three rockabilly classics

• Elvis quiff: lots of volume at the front, combed up and back. Related to the pompadour.
• Ducktail: the sides are combed back and meet at the nape in a center line, like a duck's tail.
• Greaser: very shiny, close to the head and back, with a loose strand on the forehead.

What hair length do you need?

For a proper quiff, the top should be 10 to 15 cm long at the front. The sides stay longer than in modern cuts so they can be combed back. Tell your barber you want a rockabilly hairstyle. Many barbershops know the cut.

How to style the Elvis quiff

1. Blow-dry for volume: blow-dry the top up and back over a round brush. More at pomade and blow-drying.
2. Warm the pomade: rub a generous pea-sized amount between your hands.
3. Sides first: comb the sides smoothly back.
4. Shape the quiff: roll the front of the top up and back with a comb. Push it back slightly with a flat hand from the front to create the wave.
5. Ducktail: comb the hair at the nape from both sides towards the center.
6. Shine: add a little extra pomade for the typical shine.

Pro tips

• A comb with fine and wide teeth is a must.
• Restyle with a comb during the day. Tips at restyling with pomade.
• Clean your comb regularly, see cleaning your pomade comb.

More on the history of the look at the history of pomade.

The right pomade

NO STYLIST Pomade Pure Lemongrass is oil-based and combines petrolatum, beeswax and lanolin. It gives you a strong, pliable hold, a silky shine and a water-repellent texture. The scent comes only from lemongrass oil, patchouli oil and lavender extract. Handmade in small batches in Germany, free shipping to Germany and Austria. To try it, there is a 10 g size with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.

Strong hold and shine are exactly what a rockabilly hairstyle needs.

Frequently asked questions

Which pomade for rockabilly hairstyles?

Oil-based pomade with strong hold and shine. It stays pliable and can be recombed.

What is a ducktail?

A ducktail is the nape of a rockabilly hairstyle where both sides meet in a line.

Does the style work with curly hair?

Yes, with a bit more pomade and a blow dryer. Tips at pomade for curly hair.