13 Faux Hawk Hairstyles That Blend Edge with Elegance
The faux hawk, or “fohawk,” is the stylish cousin of the classic mohawk. It brings attitude without going full punk and remains adaptable to different lifestyles, hair types, and settings. From clean office cuts to edgy street styles, the faux hawk is a hairstyle that expresses confidence and individuality without compromising versatility. In a world where first impressions matter, the right haircut can say a lot before you even speak. These ten faux hawk variations will help you find the perfect balance between structure and spontaneity.
1. Classic Short Faux Hawk
The classic short faux hawk is a timeless option that’s ideal for men who want a bit of edge without committing to anything extreme. The sides are usually trimmed down with clippers—short but not faded—and the top is left slightly longer. This style can be spiked, slicked back, or left tousled, depending on your mood and the occasion. It’s easy to maintain, professional enough for the workplace, and still gives off a subtle rebellious vibe. Ideal for guys with straight to wavy hair, this look requires minimal styling effort—just a small amount of matte wax or gel.
2. High Fade Faux Hawk
The high fade faux hawk kicks things up a notch with a dramatic contrast between the top and the sides. The fade begins high on the head, creating a striking silhouette that draws the eyes upward. This version is especially popular among athletes and style influencers because of its bold aesthetic. It works well with thick or textured hair, allowing you to mold the top into a strong peak or keep it slightly messy for a more relaxed appearance. It does require regular trips to the barber to keep the fade sharp, but the payoff is a clean, defined style that demands attention.
3. Curly Faux Hawk
Curly hair adds natural volume and character to a faux hawk. Instead of fighting your curls, this style celebrates them by allowing the curls on top to form a soft, voluminous ridge while the sides are trimmed close to create contrast. It’s a great look for men with Type 2 or Type 3 curls who want something stylish without the daily struggle of straightening or over-styling. Use a light curl cream or mousse to define the curls without weighing them down. This version can look casual or refined depending on how much definition and hold you want.
4. Taper Fade Faux Hawk
The taper fade faux hawk is a more subtle version that blends style and sophistication. The sides gradually fade from short near the ears to longer as they approach the top, offering a smoother, more refined transition. It’s a great middle ground between edgy and formal, making it perfect for corporate settings or formal events where a full high fade might feel too aggressive. This style can be tailored to different head shapes and face types, and when paired with a well-groomed beard or clean shave, it delivers a polished, mature look.
5. Long Faux Hawk
The long faux hawk takes a bold approach by keeping the top significantly longer—usually four inches or more. This extended length opens the door for endless styling options: slick it back for a red-carpet look, spike it up for a night out, or tie it into a man bun or braid for a creative twist. Because the top holds more volume, it’s ideal for men with thick or coarse hair. However, longer faux hawks do require more effort in terms of daily styling, detangling, and occasional conditioning. If you’re into experimenting with textures, colors, or heat tools, this is your playground.
6. Textured Faux Hawk
Texture is the name of the game here. The textured faux hawk is all about creating movement and dimension with layers and styling techniques. Instead of a rigid, structured top, you get a soft, dynamic look that feels modern and effortless. Ideal for medium to thick hair, this version uses light styling products like matte paste, sea salt spray, or dry shampoo to enhance the hair’s natural direction. The end result is a casual, lived-in vibe that looks as good in a leather jacket as it does under a blazer. This style shines when it’s not trying too hard.
7. Undercut Faux Hawk
The undercut faux hawk features a stark contrast between the top and the sides—usually with the sides clipped down to a uniform length, creating a bold separation. Unlike a fade, which blends, the undercut emphasizes disconnection, giving the faux hawk a more architectural, assertive look. It’s popular in urban fashion circles and among musicians, creatives, and influencers. The top can be styled straight up, combed over, or even slicked to one side. It’s a flexible style but does demand a bit of daily effort to maintain its shape and polish.
8. Disconnected Faux Hawk
Think of the disconnected faux hawk as a geometric take on the style. The top and the sides are separated by a visible line or design element, often with a drop fade or hard part that exaggerates the contrast. This creates an almost futuristic look that works great for people who enjoy pushing the fashion envelope. Barbers often carve clean lines or even creative etching into the transition areas. It’s best suited for people who aren’t afraid of standing out and want to make their haircut a part of their personal brand.
9. Faux Hawk with Line Design
Add an artistic twist to your faux hawk with shaved-in line designs. These designs can range from simple parallel lines to complex patterns or even tribal and geometric motifs. This addition turns your haircut into a canvas, reflecting your creativity and style preferences. While the top remains true to faux hawk form, the real show happens on the sides. Ideal for special events, photo shoots, or simply to break the monotony, this version works well for all ages and is highly customizable.
10. Low Fade Faux Hawk
For those looking for a clean and understated version, the low fade faux hawk offers the perfect solution. The fade starts closer to the ears and gradually rises, blending softly into the longer top. It’s a conservative yet fashionable look that suits a range of environments—from casual to corporate. Pair it with a subtle side part or a mini quiff to add a touch of personality. This version is great for guys who want a manageable style that still carries a bit of attitude without screaming for attention.
FAQs About Faux Hawk Hairstyles
What face shape suits a faux hawk?
The faux hawk complements most face shapes, especially oval, square, and diamond. For round faces, the added height on top can help elongate the appearance, while the shorter sides define the jawline. The style can also be adapted to soften angular features or enhance symmetry.
Can a faux hawk work for thinning hair?
Yes, especially the textured or short faux hawk. By styling the hair upwards and using volumizing products, you can create the illusion of thickness. A skilled barber can also add strategic layers or taper the sides to make thinning less noticeable.
Is a faux hawk hard to maintain?
Maintenance depends on the version you choose. Short faux hawks with subtle fades require less upkeep, while high fades, designs, or longer tops need more frequent barber visits and daily styling. Using the right products also plays a big role in how easy the style is to manage.
What products should I use for styling a faux hawk?
For a structured faux hawk, use a strong-hold gel or pomade. For textured styles, go for matte pastes or sea salt sprays. If you have curls, a lightweight curl cream will help maintain bounce and definition without crunchiness. Finish with a bit of hairspray if you need all-day hold.
How often should I get it trimmed?
To keep a faux hawk looking fresh, plan for a trim every 2 to 3 weeks—especially if you’re rocking a fade or undercut. For longer tops, you might stretch it to 4 weeks, but touch-ups on the sides are key to maintaining the overall shape.
Conclusion
The faux hawk stands out as one of the most adaptable and expressive hairstyles out there. It offers the perfect mix of edge and elegance, rebellion and refinement. Whether you’re aiming to impress at work, attract attention at a party, or just express your unique personality, there’s a faux hawk that fits your needs.
By choosing a version that suits your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle, you ensure that your hairstyle works for you—not the other way around. Talk to your barber, experiment with styling, and don’t be afraid to reinvent your look as you evolve. A good faux hawk doesn’t just change how you look—it changes how you feel.
