What’s Your Hairstyle IQ?

By: Alex Wittman
Estimated Completion Time
4 min
What’s Your Hairstyle IQ?
Image: Wild Horse Photography / Moment / Getty Images

About This Quiz

From the shoes on our feet to the clothes on our bodies to the hair on our heads, we are in a constant state of self-expression. Even that messy 'do you roll out of bed with says something about the person you are!

Over the years (over the centuries!), people have cut and styled their hair both for fashion and function. To say the world has seen a lot of different hairstyles would be an understatement. This decade alone has seen a variety of unique looks. Perhaps you've rocked a few of them yourself.

In this quiz, we're testing your hairstyle IQ. From the slicked-back styles of the 1950s to the big hair of the 1980s and beyond, how much do you know about the 'dos of the decades?

But, we'll warn you up front: This quiz is challenging. Even a seasoned hairstylist might not be able to score genius status on our hairstyle IQ test. Some of these questions are so tough, you'll be pulling your hair out! However, if you know a bouffant from a beehive, you very well could have what it takes.

So, what are you waiting for?  Push your bangs out of your eyes and take our hairstyle IQ quiz!

1 rockabilly
Willowpix / E+ / Getty Images
John Travolta rocked this look in "Grease." Can you name this hairstyle?
Crew cut
Rockabilly
Pompadour
Mohawk
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

All about that slicked-back style, John Travolta embraced all things greaser with this classic rockabilly cut. You can still see this style worn today. Rapper G-Eazy loves this retro look for himself.

Advertisement

2 mullet
RyanJLane / E+ / Getty Images
Business in the front and party in the back. What's the name of this hairstyle?
Dreadlocks
Comb-over
Buzz cut
Mullet
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Generally worn by men (although a few women have dared to rock this cut), the mullet is easily identifiable due to the hair cut short in front and left long in the back. Today, a modern mullet is short on the top and sides.

Advertisement

3 beehive
Nick White / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Marge Simpson really worked this 'do. Can you name this hairstyle?
Pixie
Finger wave
Beehive
The Rachel
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

For years, fans of "The Simpsons" have been buzzing about Marge's beehive hairstyle. Singer Amy Winehouse made this hairstyle all her own with her long locks and rounded out the look with dramatic eyeliner.

Advertisement

4 bouffant
Ronald Hope / E+ / Getty Images
We're not sure if its gets more 1960s than this. What's the name of this vintage hairstyle?
Bouffant
Bun
Mohawk
Afro
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

More volume is never a bad idea. The bouffant hairstyle takes a good tease to the next level with the hair raised high on the head. Usually, some hair is left covering the ears or hanging down on the sides

Advertisement

5 bettie page
Baronés Lovey De Luxe via YouTube
Named for an American modeling legend, what is this hairstyle called?
The Rachel
Bettie Page
The Brenda
Five-point cut
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Back in the 1950s, people were crazy for Bettie Page's pinup pictures. In particular, her short jet-black bangs became iconic. To this day, you can see women with this retro look rocking the "Bettie bangs."

Advertisement

6 bob
Kathrin Ziegler / DigitalVision / Getty Images
One of the most famous women to ever wear this look was Jackie O. Can you name this hairstyle?
Pixie
The Cleopatra
Wedge
Bob
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Of all the haircuts in history, the bob might have the most variations to its name. The classic bob is a short to medium-length cut in which, typically, the hair is cut straight around the head at jaw-level.

Advertisement

7 bowl cut
Sean Murphy / Image Source / Getty Images
Yikes, this hairdo isn't for everyone. What's the name of this style?
Bowl cut
Crew cut
Ducktail
Undercut
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

We can't imagine actually asking for this cut, but some people do! A bowl cut is the same length all the way around. It's almost as if someone put a bowl on your head and spun it around while snipping away.

Advertisement

8 feathered
Kayla Marie via YouTube
You'll channel Farrah Fawcett with this 'do. Can you name this hairstyle?
Braids
Vargas-girl curl
Feathered
Flapper bob
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Going for those laid-back California girl vibes? The feathered hairstyle sounds like just what you need. This hairdo was popular in the 1970s and 1980s among both men and women. Fly away!

Advertisement

9 fingerwave
mammuth / E+ / Getty Images
Set those waves like it's 1920! What's the name of this hairstyle?
Shag
Finger wave
Beachy waves
Cher hair
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

In the 1920s and 1930s, actresses like Bette Davis and Anita Page popularized finger waves. You can wear this style either super structured or loose. In the 1990s, we saw a resurgence of the finger waves.

Advertisement

10 flat top
Sue Barr / Image Source / Getty Images
This one has a very functional feel to it. What's the name of this hairstyle?
Mohawk
Buzz cut
Crew cut
Flattop
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

When you look at it, the name totally makes sense. This short haircut is mostly worn by men. The hair on the top of the head stands upright, forming a flat deck of sorts. In some cases, it almost looks weight-bearing!

Advertisement

11 hi-top fade
PeopleImages / E+ / Getty Images
We can credit hip-hop for this style's popularity. Can you name this hairdo?
Hi-top fade
Crew cut
Ducktail
Pompadour
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Oh yes, the golden age of hip-hop. We're talking about the 1980s and early 1990s. In a hi-top fade, the hair on the sides is shaved while the hair on the top is left long. This classic look screams cool.

Advertisement

12 mop-top
Juanmonino / E+ / Getty Images
Girls went crazy for this look on The Beatles. Can you name this hairstyle?
Comb-over
Crew cut
Pompadour
Mop-top
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Some people simply know this look as the "Beatles' haircut." An entire generation of teenagers had the band (with their mop-top hair) plastered on their bedroom walls. Adults, on the other hand, thought it symbolized rebellion.

Advertisement

13 pageboy
WikiCommons by V.Sekletov
This look is slightly medieval. What's the name of this hairstyle?
Pageboy
Quiff
Top knot
Dreadlocks
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Also known as doggone hair, the pageboy is similar to a bowl cut. Apparently, this "pudding-basin" style was popular among page boys during medieval times. It was also popular in the late 1950s and 1960s.

Advertisement

14 perm
CoffeeAndMilk / E+ / Getty Images
Some people actually think this is a good idea! What's the name of this hairstyle?
Shag
Perm
Up-do
Braids
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Worlds different than today's popular beachy waves, the permanent waves of the 1980s and 1990s were chemically set into the hair. A perm could last several months (hence the name).

Advertisement

15 pompadour
moodboard / Cultura / Getty Images
This 'do has an interesting origin story. Can you name this hairstlye?
Ducktail
Tuck
Pompadour
Pixie
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

In the 1990s, American hairstylists had a good laugh naming this hairstyle after Madame de Pompadour. She was a mistress of King Louis XV of France. This hairstyle is generally very precise and requires some styling products.

Advertisement

16 rattail
HayKayli via YouTube
The animal that inspired this look isn't exactly our favorite. Can you name this hairstyle?
Undercut
Ducktail
Mohawk
Rattail
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

One of the more interesting hairstyles we've seen in recent decades, you know the rattail when you see it. It's characterized by a long section of hair hanging down from the back of an otherwise shaved or close-cropped head. Sometimes, it's braided, dreaded or curled.

Advertisement

17 classic up-do
Jackie Wyers via YouTube
Audrey Hepburn made this look iconic. Can you name this hairstyle?
The 1960s flip
Classic up-do
The Rachel
Shag
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

If you've ever seen "Breakfast At Tiffany's," then you probably recognized this look in an instant. Actress Audrey Hepburn made the classic up-do famous in this iconic film. Throw on a string of pearls, and you'll be the vision of Hollywood glam.

Advertisement

18 buzz cut
Klaus Vedfelt / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Haircuts don't get more low maintenance than this. What's the name of this style?
Buzz cut
Fade
Taper
Crew cut
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

As long as you're prepared to keep what hair you do have clean and your scalp conditioned, there isn't an easier hairstyle than the buzz cut to manage. We especially loved it on Millie Bobby Brown in the first season of "Stranger Things."

Advertisement

19 pixie
Paper Boat Creative / DigitalVision / Getty Images
We wish we were bold enough to give this look a try. Can you name this haircut?
Shag
French twist
Pixie crop
The Marcia
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Celebrities from Kristen Stewart to Natalie Portman have rocked the pixie crop. This hairstyle has been around for a while, but a feathery texture gives it a modern twist. Wow, did you see Kate Hudson's pixie crop?

Advertisement

20 afro
Thomas Barwick / DigitalVision / Getty Images
The bigger the better. Can you name this iconic hairstyle?
Afro
Blowout
Dreadlocks
Bob
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Ah yes, this hairstyle is none other than the afro! Sometimes shortened to just 'fro, the afro has been worn by some very famous people. Did you know former President Barack Obama had an afro when he was in college?

Advertisement

21 the rachel
TheSalonGuy via YouTube
You can still catch the show behind this famous look on Netflix. What's the name of this hairstyle?
Long layers
Swooped bangs
Graduated bob
The Rachel
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Back in the 1990s, the Rachel haircut took the world by storm. Everyone was watching "Friends," and women started asking their hairstylists for Jennifer Aniston's bouncy, square-layered hairstyle.

Advertisement

22 five-point cut
MisterSantilli via YouTube
You'll earn some bonus points if you get this one right. Can you name this hairstyle?
Boho curls
The five-point cut
Space buns
Baby braids
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

One of the most iconic hairdressers of all time, Vidal Sassoon gave us the five-point cut. He embraced geometry and used it to inspire his looks. Sassoon's simple styles liberated women from hours spent sitting under dryers to achieve hair he thought of as "superfluous."

Advertisement

23 wedge
Maksim Nikitochkin via YouTube
Yum, we like the salad by the same name. What's this hairstyle?
High bun
Midlength cut
Wedge
High ponytail
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

This hairstyle was popular back in the 1970s, especially among women with with fine, straight hair. By adding some bulk, the wedge haircut allowed women with thinner hair to enjoy the short hair lifestyle.

Advertisement

24 cornrows
Anthony Charles / Cultura / Getty Images
We love this look on singer Alicia Keys. Can you name this hairstyle?
Cornrow braids
The Brenda
Retro bangs
The Cleopatra
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

In the Caribbean, this hairstyle is known as canerows. But, everywhere else, it's simply known as cornrow braids. Cornrow braids are an ancient African style of hair braiding characterized by raised rows.

Advertisement

25 vargas girl curls
upheaval / E+ / Getty Images
Vintage is as vintage does. What's the name of this iconic hairstyle?
Dorothy braids
Space buns
Vargas-girl curls
Flapper bob
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

If you're interested in channeling classic pinup girl glamour, you can't go wrong with Vargas-girl curls. This retro look is reminiscent of Bettie Page, and when you add her famous bangs to the mix, you'll be the total pinup package.

Advertisement

26 shag
Free Salon Education via YouTube
We're living for this effortless 1990s vibe. Can you name this hairstyle?
Old-Hollywood waves
Shag
Cher hair
Beachy waves
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

It doesn't get more rock 'n' roll than the shag haircut. For the perfect shag, choppy layers are a must. For all the texture you can handle, make sure your stylist starts the layers at your crown.

Advertisement

27 french twist
Alex Gaboury via YouTube
Wow, this is a classy look. What's the name of this hairstyle?
Big curls
Thick braids
Loose waves
French twist
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

You probably recognize this iconic hairstyle from Sharon Stone in "Basic Instinct." Embody power and class with a French twist. It's easy enough to do on your own and will undoubtedly complete your boardroom look.

Advertisement

28 the marcia
ABC
Popular TV shows are always inspiring new styles. What's the name of this haircut?
The Marcia
Teased bump
Tuck
Flip
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Aww, how positively wholesome! As soon as we mention them, you'll probably have their theme song stuck in your head, but this hairstyle comes from the eldest "Brady Bunch" daughter. Long live the middle part!

Advertisement

29 dreadlocks
Mireya Acierto / DigitalVIsion / Getty Images
Popular among both men and women, can you name this hairstyle?
Side sweep
Ombré
Dreadlocks
Taper fade
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

To get these rope-like strands of hair for yourself, you'll need to either mat or braid them. Singer Bob Marley may have popularized them, but dreadlocks actually date back thousands of years.

Advertisement

30 lob
Compassionate Eye Foundation/Mark Langridge / DigitalVision / Getty Images
A variation of a classic hairstyle, can you name this haircut?
Crop
Lob
Smooth out
Blow out
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A hybrid of "long bob," a lob is just that. For this style, the length is key. It should be either just at or just below your shoulders. The lob is a sassy, versatile style that looks great on a variety of face shapes.

Advertisement

31 ballerina bun
Thomas Barwick / DigitalVision / Getty Images
This one makes us want to get up and dance. What's the name of this hairstyle?
Curls
Space buns
Heidi braids
Ballerina bun
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The quest for the perfect ballerina bun is one many women know all too well. For this style, hairspray is definitely required. Even a single strand out of place can ruin this neat look.

Advertisement

32 caesar cut
TerryHealy / E+ / Getty Images
Major Roman vibes, can you name this hairstyle?
Man bun
Caesar cut
Taper fade
Crew cut
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

You didn't know there would be a history portion of this quiz, did you? The Caesar cut gets its name from the Roman general, Julius Caesar. What sets this short haircut apart is its sharp edge.

Advertisement

33 comb over
RyanJLane / E+ / Getty Images
Work with what you've got. What's the name of this hairstyle?
Mullet
Slicked back
Comb-under
Comb-over
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Not every man who does a comb-over wishes to be doing so. It's a Godsend for men with thin or fine hair. However, even if you have enough hair to go around, this polished style is a viable option.

Advertisement

34 crew cut
moodboard / Cultura / Getty Images
Kind of military chic, can you name this hairstyle?
Buzz cut
Crew cut
Quiff
Braids
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

In the market for a hairstyle that is both practical and stylish? Look no further than the crew cut. This easy-to-maintain haircut is popular among service members, but even if you're not in uniform, it's a flattering style.

Advertisement

35 quiff
Digital Vision / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Closely related to the pompadour, what's the name of this hairstyle?
Quiff
Man bun
Mohawk
Afro
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

This hairstyle may sound like Dr. Seuss made it up, but we promise the quiff is actually very popular. A cross between a pompadour and undercut, this style is longer on the top and shorter on the sides.

Advertisement

36 mohawk
georgeclerk / E+ / Getty Images
You can even do a faux version of this look. What's the name of this hairstyle?
Side part
Mohawk
Spikey
Top knot
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Spiked and severe, the Mohawk has deep roots in punk culture. For something a little less intense, you can go for a faux hawk. With the help of a little wax or styling gel, you don't need to completely commit to the look.

Advertisement

37 undercut
talip / E+ / Getty Images
It seems like this haircut is everywhere these days. Can you name this style?
Buzz cut
Faux hawk
Undercut
Fringe
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Today, the undercut is very popular among men. It has some female fans as well, and we can't get enough of this androgynous hairstyle. The undercut is extremely versatile and pairs well with other looks such as slicked-back hair or a pompadour.

Advertisement

38 ivy league
Paul Conrath / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Perfect for back to school, can you name this haircut?
Low fade
Disconnected pompadour
Slicked back
Ivy League
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

For something sleek and stylish, we encourage you to try on an Ivy League on for size. As the name suggests, this hairstyle is university chic. Preppy yet cool, you'll look right at home from the classroom to the boardroom.

Advertisement

39 bump
Pose via YouTube
Va-va-volume! What's the name of this hairstyle?
Boho waves
Bump
Subtle layers
Lob
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Remember those "Bump It" hair inserts? Those late-night infomercials are burned into our memories forever! They made achieving this volume-centric look a snap thanks to tiny teeth we could smooth a section of hair over.

Advertisement

40 chignon
Steven Errico / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Positively timeless, what's the name of this classic hairstyle?
Chignon
Bouncy curls
Low ponytail
Faux pompadour
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Not sure how to style your hair for a fancy dinner party? You can't go wrong with a chignon. We've seen it on many a bride for their big day, and this classic look is always flawless. Give some French flair to your special event!

Advertisement

You Got:
/40
Wild Horse Photography / Moment / Getty Images