The allure of the mohawk has been tantalizing fashion enthusiasts for what feels like an eternity. This iconic style first burst onto the scene during the 1970s as a bold declaration of rebellion and subcultural affiliation. The classic mohawk, characterized by shaved sides and a voluminous or spiky central hair strip, has endured despite the passage of time. Today, women with short to medium hair are embracing their inner punk rockers, sporting fantastic variations of the classic look.
Some take it up a notch with mini braids and bold color choices that set them apart from the crowd. Meanwhile, those with longer locks need not feel intimidated; there’s a world of fauxhawk possibilities waiting to be explored. Poufs, braids, and some hairspray can create an illusion so convincing, you’d swear it was the real deal. Armed with a teasing comb, bobby pins, and your favorite styling products, you’re ready to join the ranks of mohawk aficionados.
The cult classic – shaved sides and central hair strip
The classic mohawk hairstyle is a timeless favorite, suitable for both short and medium-length locks. The central section of hair can stand alone or be boosted with styling products, making it an ideal choice. One of the benefits of starting with this style is that growing it out will be a smoother process, as the difference in length between the shaved sides and the central section is relatively small.
When it comes to styling, you have two main options: tease the hair to create a dramatic look or wear it flat against your head like bangs. For an edgy twist, consider an asymmetrical mohawk – a fresh and modern look that’s also easy to style. What’s more, this classic look can be achieved with long hair, too, by shaving the sides and styling the central section into a mohawk using braids and knots.
To create this look, start by gathering all your hair onto the central strip and begin a French or Dutch braid. Once you’ve reached the end of the braid, twist the remaining hair into an intricate pouf and secure everything in place with pins and hairspray.
The modern twist – braided sides for short and long hair
For girls seeking a stylish yet understated mohawk, this braided variation offers a perfect compromise. By combining clean, strong sides with a braided midsection, you can achieve a bold look without fully committing to shaving. If you’ve already taken the plunge and shaved your sides, you can create this look by starting at the crown and working your way down to the scalp with small French braids or twists.
The key is to keep the braid as close to the skin as possible, allowing it to follow the natural contours of the mohawk until it reaches the neck. You can then choose to blend the remaining braid into your surrounding hair or let it hang freely for a truly edgy look. This style is perfect for making a statement without going all out – just add a leather jacket and you’re ready to take on the night!
The fauxhawk – a mohawk hairstyle for long hair
The grandeur of a fauxhawk is often directly proportional to the volume of its crowning glory. Big, luscious locks are perfect for this style, as they can be effortlessly swept back to create a majestic, curly center strip. There are two primary variations of fauxhawks: one featuring a single, towering braid and another showcasing a cascade of curls bisecting the crown.
While the former is straightforward in its execution, the latter may appear intimidating at first glance, but trust us, it’s much simpler to achieve than you might think.
To recreate this stunning look, begin by curling your tresses with your go-to styling tool. Next, gather all the hair in the center of your head, creating small ponytails along the parting, working your way down from the crown. Ensure the strands framing your face are sleek and smooth.
Then, carefully separate the curls and pin them in place as you go, covering the ponytails with each section. The resulting center strip should be a magnificent, curly masterpiece. To seal the deal, apply an ample amount of hairspray to keep everything in place, especially if your locks are fine or limp.
And there you have it! Fauxhawks may seem intimidating at first, but they’re surprisingly easy to master and boast a dramatic visual impact – we dare you not to become hooked!
Pastel mohawks
The allure of a pastel-colored mohawk is undeniable, especially when you consider the trend’s enduring popularity. Slowly but surely, pastel hues have crept into various aspects of fashion, from clothing to accessories and now, hair. And why not? These bold yet dreamy styles are made all the more intriguing by the strategic placement of color.
The top center strip or shaved sides are where you’ll find these soft, pastel shades – a deliberate design choice that adds an air of mystery to the overall look. With temporary hair dyes offering endless options, it’s little wonder why this trend is hard to resist. Will you take the plunge and try out this playful hairstyle? As always, every mohawk is unique, reflecting the wearer’s personal style. Which one caught your eye?
