Faux Hawk
The faux hawk borrows the dramatic central ridge of a mohawk without shaving the sides, making it a bold yet wearable everyday style. It works on almost any hair length — from cropped cuts to shoulder-length hair — and suits every gender.
Length: Short
Texture: Straight, Wavy, Thick, Medium, Fine
Best for: Oval and Square and Heart and Diamond face shapes
Similar Styles
FAQ
Is a faux hawk appropriate for professional settings? +
Yes, the faux hawk is one of the most workplace-friendly edgy hairstyles because it has no shaved sections and can be styled subtly. A low, textured faux hawk reads as a modern, well-groomed style rather than a punk statement. If you keep the height modest and the sides neat, most workplaces will have no issue with it. You can also flatten it down for important meetings and spike it back up afterward.
What is the difference between a faux hawk and a mohawk? +
A true mohawk features shaved or buzzed sides with a distinct strip of longer hair down the center. A faux hawk keeps the sides intact — they are shorter than the top but not shaved — and creates the central ridge through styling rather than cutting. The faux hawk is less dramatic, more versatile, and does not require growing out an extreme cut if you change your mind.
Can women wear a faux hawk? +
Absolutely. The faux hawk is a unisex style that looks stunning on women. Women often create the look with longer hair by sweeping or pinning the sides back and teasing the crown for volume. It is a popular red carpet and bridal style when done with an elegant twist. Short-haired women can style it exactly like the men's version using product to lift the center.
How long does my hair need to be for a faux hawk? +
You need at least 2-3 inches of length on top to create noticeable height. The sides should be shorter than the top but there is no strict minimum — even a slight length difference works. For a more dramatic faux hawk, 4-6 inches on top gives more volume and styling options. Longer hair can be pinned or braided into a faux hawk shape without cutting.