The Faux Hawk, often referred to as a Fohawk or Faux Mohawk, offers an edgy and modern aesthetic without the pronounced commitment of its traditional counterpart. This style emerged as a popular alternative, allowing individuals to embrace a bold look that remains adaptable for various settings. Gaining significant traction in the early 2000s, it has maintained its appeal, particularly among those seeking a fashionable statement that balances distinctiveness with daily wearability.
Understanding the Faux Hawk
At its core, the Faux Hawk is a less extreme variation of the Mohawk. Instead of shaved sides, it features hair on the sides cut short with a gradual taper or fade, while the central strip of hair on top is left longer and styled upwards. This creates the illusion of a hawk-like crest, offering a softer, more integrated look. Barbers often refer to it as a “soft mohawk” or “tapered hawk,” emphasizing the blend rather than a stark disconnection.
The key characteristic lies in achieving the distinctive upward-styled peak using the existing hair length on the sides, rather than eliminating it. This allows for versatility, making it a fitting choice for those who desire an individualistic style that can transition from casual to professional environments.
Achieving the Faux Hawk Cut
Effective communication with a barber is paramount to achieving the desired Faux Hawk. Precision in describing the cut ensures the outcome aligns with expectations. Consider these points when consulting your barber:
- The Side Profile: Specify the desired fade or taper. Options typically include a low, mid, or high fade, each offering a distinct level of contrast with the longer top section.
- The Top Length: Indicate the preferred length for the central strip, usually a minimum of 2 to 3 inches, to allow for adequate styling volume and shape. Providing reference images can be highly beneficial.
- The Blend: Request a seamless transition from the shorter sides to the longer top, avoiding any abrupt or choppy lines.
- Texture and Finish: Discuss texturizing techniques, such as point cutting, to enhance natural movement and achieve a less rigid, more contemporary finish.
A skilled barber will consider your hair type and face shape, offering professional insights to customize the cut accordingly.
Variations of the Faux Hawk
The inherent adaptability of the Faux Hawk allows for several stylistic interpretations:
- The Textured Faux Hawk: This rendition emphasizes a disheveled yet controlled appearance, achieved through layering and specific cutting techniques. It complements natural waves or texture, providing a modern, lived-in feel.
- The Sleek Faux Hawk: A more refined option, this style requires careful sculpting for a polished, smooth finish. It is often chosen for more formal or corporate settings.
- The Faded Faux Hawk: The fade on the sides is a defining element. Adjusting the fade’s height (low, mid, high) alters the overall boldness and impact of the style.
- The Disconnected Faux Hawk: For a more pronounced and assertive look, this variation features a distinct line separating the shorter sides from the longer top, creating heightened visual contrast.
Faux Hawk in Context: Similar Styles
Understanding the Faux Hawk often involves differentiating it from related hairstyles. While the Faux Hawk mimics the upward motion, it avoids the extreme side-shaving of a traditional Mohawk. Other styles, like the Quiff and Pompadour, also feature prominent top volume but typically sweep back rather than forming a central crest. Elements of Spiky Hair can be incorporated into a textured Faux Hawk for added definition.
Suitability and Lifestyle
The Faux Hawk is categorized under trendy edgy styles and is ideally suited for individuals who lead dynamic lives and are comfortable with a moderate level of daily styling. Its versatility allows it to be dressed up or down, making it appropriate for a range of occasions.
- Face Shape: This style often complements round, oval, and square face shapes, as the upward volume can elongate features and add angular definition.
- Personality: It appeals to individuals with a confident, modern, and slightly edgy personality, signaling an awareness of current trends without being overly rebellious.
- Hair Characteristics: The Faux Hawk generally requires at least 2-3 inches of hair on top for effective styling. It is best suited for straight, wavy, and some curly hair types, with medium to thick density. Fine hair may require specific cutting and styling to achieve sufficient lift and volume.
Faux Hawk: Sculpting and Taming the Modern Edge
The Faux Hawk is all about creating height and texture, which means choosing the right styling products is key. You’ll need products that deliver strong hold to keep the center strip standing tall, while also texturizing the hair for definition. The goal is to achieve a structured yet flexible style that can last throughout the day. Here’s our recommended arsenal of products to help you bring your Faux Hawk to life.
Jesse’s Signature Pick
Reuzel Extreme Hold Matte Pomade, 3.38 oz
Tame your Faux Hawk with Reuzel Extreme Hold Matte Pomade. This product provides all-day hold and texture to sculpt the perfect upright central strip. Achieve a modern, edgy style with a strong, flexible hold.
The Value Pick
GVP Generic Value Products Styling Gel, Extra Hold, 32 oz
Get the edgy faux hawk you crave with GVP Extra Hold Gel. Its powerful hold keeps your upward-styled center hair in place all day. Achieve modern style without compromise.
The Essential Tool
Andis High-Speed Professional All-Pro Adjustable Blade Hair Clipper, 1 ea
Achieve the perfect Faux Hawk with the Andis All-Pro clipper. Its adjustable blade provides the precision needed for creating the shorter sides and shaping the longer center strip of your edgy, customizable style.
The Ritual
American Crew Prep & Set Lotion, 8 oz
American Crew Prep & Set Lotion is perfect for your Faux Hawk. This lotion provides hold and control for the upward styling of the longer central strip, ensuring a modern, edgy look that lasts all day.
The Maintenance
Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Dandruff Shampoo, 14.2 oz
Keep your faux hawk looking sharp and flake-free with Head & Shoulders Classic Clean. This shampoo effectively fights dandruff, ensuring a clean, confident look, essential for maintaining your edgy style.
The Finishing Touch
TIGI Bed Head Superstar Queen for a Day Thickening Spray, 8.36 oz
Get a gravity-defying Faux Hawk with TIGI Bed Head Superstar Queen for a Day! This thickening spray adds major lift and volume, giving your central strip the structure and hold it needs for a bold, textured style.
Maintenance and Longevity
Maintaining a Faux Hawk involves a consistent routine to preserve its shape and definition:
- Washing: Regular washing, typically 2-3 times per week, helps keep the scalp and hair healthy.
- Drying: Gentle towel drying followed by a hairdryer on a low setting can assist in creating volume before styling.
- Styling: Daily styling is typically required, applying product to damp hair and shaping the central section upwards.
- Trimming Schedule: To retain the sharp lines and fade on the sides, barbers recommend re-trims every 3-4 weeks.
Should one wish to transition out of the Faux Hawk, a barber can gradually blend the side length into the longer top, allowing for a seamless grow-out.
Cultural Impact and Evolution
The Faux Hawk’s roots trace back to counter-cultural movements, evolving into a universally recognized style. Its popularity surged with celebrity endorsements, notably from public figures like David Beckham, and continues to be a favored choice among modern trendsetters. This enduring presence underscores its ability to adapt and remain relevant across diverse fashion landscapes.
The Faux Hawk: A Contemporary Choice
The Faux Hawk stands as a modern, versatile hairstyle that allows for personal expression through its customizable nature. With careful cutting and thoughtful styling, it offers a sophisticated yet edgy appearance, solidifying its place as a distinguished option within contemporary grooming.
