Mohawk
The mohawk is one of the most recognizable and daring hairstyles in the world, featuring a bold strip of hair down the center of the head with the sides shaved or closely cropped. From its roots in Indigenous culture to its punk rock reinvention, the mohawk is a statement of individuality that commands attention in any room.
Length: Varies
Texture: Straight, Wavy, Curly, Coily, Thick
Best for: Oval and Square and Diamond and Heart face shapes
Similar Styles
FAQ
Is the mohawk a professional hairstyle? +
It depends on the workplace and the version of the mohawk. A dramatic, spiked punk mohawk is generally not suitable for conservative corporate environments. However, a low, textured mohawk or a faux hawk variation can look polished and intentional in creative industries, tech companies, and casual workplaces. Many modern professionals wear subtle mohawk-inspired cuts that keep the silhouette without the extreme height.
How long does it take to grow out a mohawk? +
Growing out a mohawk can take 3-6 months depending on how short the sides were shaved and how long you want the final result. The awkward middle stage — when the sides are too long to look shaved but too short to blend — typically lasts 6-10 weeks. During this phase, ask your barber to gradually taper the sides while keeping the top longer to ease the transition into a more conventional cut.
Can women wear mohawks? +
Absolutely. The mohawk is a gender-neutral hairstyle that looks striking on women. Many women opt for a shaved-side mohawk with a longer, textured center that can be styled curly, wavy, or straight. Female celebrities from Rihanna to Scarlett Johansson have worn mohawk variations. Women often incorporate color, braids, or decorative shaved patterns into the sides for a more personalized, fashion-forward interpretation.
Does a mohawk work with curly or coily hair? +
Curly and coily textures are fantastic for mohawks because the natural volume creates a full, dramatic center crest without needing products to defy gravity. The contrast between voluminous curls on top and clean-shaved sides is visually stunning. Simply moisturize and define your curls with a curl cream or gel, and let your natural texture do the heavy lifting — no spiking products or blow-drying required.
What face shapes suit a mohawk? +
Oval and square face shapes work best with mohawks because the upward height and exposed sides complement their proportions. Diamond and heart shapes also look great, as the volume on top balances a narrower chin. Round faces can pull off a mohawk if the center strip is styled with significant height to elongate the face. Those with longer faces should opt for a wider, lower mohawk to avoid adding too much vertical emphasis.