Top 15 Mohawk Haircuts That You Can Rock This Year
The Mohawk haircuts remain a favored choice for those seeking to make a hair statement. Renowned celebrities such as David Beckham, Zayn Malik, and Jared Leto have embraced this style. Its versatility allows for both casual and formal settings, making it a sought-after option for individuals of all genders. Discover more about the history, origins, and influential figures behind the iconic Mohawk hairstyle.
If you have been in search of some of the best Mohawk haircut to try in 2023, you have reached the right place. In this article, I will be sharing with you almost everything related to Mohawk, its origin, and how to take care of it. So, keep reading this article till the end to learn more…
What Is Mohawk Haircut?
The Mohawk hairstyle is a distinctive haircut in which both sides of the head are shaved, leaving a strip of hair running from the forehead to the back of the neck. The strip of hair can be styled in various ways, such as standing upright, spiked, or braided. It’s named after the indigenous Mohawk people of North America, who traditionally wore their hair in a similar fashion. The hairstyle has become a symbol of rebellion and individuality in modern times.
What Is The Background To Mohawk Hairstyle?
The Mohawk hairstyle draws its name from the Mohawk nation, an indigenous group that originally resided in the Mohawk Valley of Upstate New York. However, the Hollywood connection and its notable association can be traced back to the popular 1939 film “Drums Along the Mohawk,” featuring Henry Fonda.
Within the Iroquois confederacy, including the Mohawk, Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Tuscarora, and Oneida, a distinctive hairstyle was sported—a square patch of hair positioned at the back crown of the head.
Rather than shaving their heads, the Mohawk gently pulled out hair in small tufts to achieve this square formation. James Smith, a captive during the French and Indian War and later adopted by the Mohawk tribe, provides a firsthand account of this practice:
“[A] number of Indians collected about me and one of them began to pull hair out of my head. He had some ashes on a piece of bark in which he frequently dipped his fingers in order to take a firmer hold, and so he went on as if he had been plucking a turkey until he had all the hair clean out of my head, except a small spot about three or four inches square on my crown the remaining hair was cut and three braids formed which were decorated.”
Hence, an authentic Mohawk hairstyle involved the removal of hair, resulting in a distinctive three-inch square patch at the posterior crown of the head. This square was adorned with three brief hair braids, adding to its allure.
In present times, the three braids emblematic of the genuine Mohawk style are mirrored in the traditional Mohawk headdress, referred to as a Gustoweh. Within the Gustoweh, three erect eagle feathers are utilized to symbolize the historical trio of braids.
Are Mohawk And Faux Hawk The Same?
Faux hawks offer a toned-down version of the mohawk style, aiming to capture its essence while minimizing the boldness. This style maintains the characteristic contrast between short sides and a longer top but with a more understated approach compared to a traditional mohawk.
The top section is generally shorter than that of a mohawk, seamlessly transitioning into the clipped sides. Faux hawks provide an excellent choice for men seeking to adhere to office attire norms or those easing into the idea of a full mohawk.
However, it’s important to note that the faux hawk lacks the same striking impact as its authentic counterpart.
How To Take Care Of Mokawk Hair?
Taking care of a Mohawk hairstyle involves a few steps to keep it looking its best. If you want to know how to do that, you have reached the right place. Here are some of the things that you need to take a look at:
1. Regular Trimming
Keep the central strip of hair at the desired length by trimming it regularly. This will help maintain the shape and style of the Mohawk.
2. Shaving The Sides
If you’ve shaved the sides of your head, you’ll need to maintain that look by shaving or trimming them regularly. You can do this at home with clippers or visit a barber for professional help.
3. Washing And Conditioning
Wash your hair with a mild shampoo and conditioner to keep it clean and healthy. Avoid overwashing, as excessive washing can strip the hair of its natural oils.
4. Styling Products
Use hairstyling products like hair gel, wax, or pomade to shape and hold your Mohawk in place. Experiment with different products to achieve the desired look.
5. Drying
After washing your hair, gently pat it dry with a towel. Avoid vigorous rubbing, as this can cause frizz or damage.
6. Protect From Sun And Weather
Use a hat or scarf to protect your hair from harsh sunlight and extreme weather conditions, which can lead to drying and damage.
7. Avoid Heat Styling
Minimize the use of heat styling tools like hairdryers and straighteners, as excessive heat can weaken and damage the hair.
8. Regular Moisturizing
Keep your hair moisturized by using a leave-in conditioner or hair oil. This helps prevent dryness and keeps your hair looking healthy.
9. Maintenance Routine
Establish a routine for maintaining your Mohawk, including regular trims, washing, and styling. This will help you keep your desired look.
10. Professional Help
If you’re unsure about maintaining your Mohawk on your own, consider visiting a professional barber for regular maintenance and styling advice.
Remember, the specific care routine may vary depending on your hair type and the style of your Mohawk. It’s important to tailor your routine to suit your hair’s needs and your preferred style.
Can You Get A Mohawk Haircut At Home?
In case you were hoping to get a mohawk haircut and want to try that at home, then it is totally possible. And I have you covered! You can easily achieve a Mohawk hairstyle at home with a little effort and a lot of patience. To do so, follow these simple steps:
1. Preparation
Make sure your hair is clean and dry. If you have longer hair, consider washing and blow-drying it beforehand.
2. Sectioning
Decide on the width of the central strip you want for your Mohawk. Use a comb to part your hair along the sides, separating the strip of hair you want to keep for the Mohawk from the rest of your hair.
3. Trimming The Strip
Use hair clippers or scissors to trim the central strip of hair to your desired length. You can leave it longer for a dramatic look or go shorter for a subtle Mohawk.
4. Shaving The Sides
If you prefer a shaved look on the sides, use clippers to shave the hair on the sides of your head carefully. You can choose how high you want the shaved portion to be.
5. Styling
Apply a hairstyling product like gel, wax, or pomade to the central strip of hair. Style it as you desire, whether that’s spiking it up, creating waves, or leaving it natural.
6. Finishing Touches
Use a mirror to ensure both sides of the Mohawk are symmetrical, and adjust the length or style as needed.
7. Maintenance
As your Mohawk grows, you’ll need to trim and maintain regularly to keep the style looking sharp.
Keep in mind that achieving a Mohawk hairstyle at home might require some practice, especially if you’re new to haircutting and styling. If you’re unsure, you can also seek help from a friend or family member or consider visiting a professional barber for the initial shaping and guidance.
Fifteen Best Mohawk Haircuts To Try In 2023!
While the popularity of specific Mohawk hairstyles can vary over time and across cultures, here are the top fifteen notable and iconic Mohawk styles that have made an impact. Each of these Mohawk haitcut variations provides a unique way to express individuality and style, making it possible to choose the one that best suits your personality and preferences.
Take a look at these and choose the one that you might want to try:
1. Classic Punk Mohawk
The traditional punk style features a tall, spiked central strip of hair with shaved sides. The iconic punk Mohawk is a rebellious statement with a tall, sharply spiked central strip of hair, flanked by shaved sides. It originated in the punk subculture as a symbol of nonconformity and individuality.
2. Faux Hawk
A more subtle version, with shorter sides and a raised strip of hair styled to mimic a Mohawk. A more subtle take, the faux hawk features shorter sides and a raised central strip of hair that mimics the Mohawk’s height. It offers a stylish yet less extreme appearance, suitable for various settings.
3. Curly Mohawk
This style involves curly hair standing upright in the center while the sides are shaved or closely cropped. The curly mohawk style adds a twist to the classic Mohawk by using naturally curly hair, which stands upright in the center. The sides are usually shaved or trimmed, creating a dynamic contrast between textures.
4. Braided Mohawk
Introducing braids to the Mohawk creates an intricate and textured look. The central strip is braided while the sides are either shaved or closely cropped, combining edginess with elegance. As the central strip of hair is braided, it creates a textured and stylish look.
5. Colored Mohawk
Adding vibrant colors or highlights to the hair can create a striking and attention-grabbing Mohawk. This style of the Mohawk haircut draws attention and showcases individuality. The central strip becomes a canvas for creative and eye-catching shades.
6. Undercut Mohawk
Combining an undercut (shaved sides and back) with a Mohawk strip on top is the next on the list. This style marries the Mohawk with an undercut, where the sides and back are shaved, emphasizing the length and prominence of the central strip.
7. Disconnected Mohawk
With a noticeable separation between the central strip and the sides, the disconnected Mohawk offers a distinct and edgy appearance, creating a bold visual contrast. In this form of mohawk haircut, the strip of hair is disconnected from the rest of the hair, creating a distinct separation.
8. Mullet Mohawk
A fusion of the Mohawk and mullet styles, it retains the strip of hair at the top while allowing longer hair at the back, resulting in a striking blend of punk and retro aesthetics. Mixing the classic Mohawk with a mullet, leaving the hair longer at the back while keeping the central strip, you are sure to make some jaws drop!
9. Mohawk Fade
Gradually fading the sides from longer to shorter, this style boasts a seamless transition between the central strip and the shaved sides, providing a sleek and modern look. To explain it a bit more, let’s say that in this hairstyle, the sides of the head fade gradually into the central strip of hair, creating a seamless transition.
10. Mohawk With Designs
Creative people, this one is totally for you! This Mohawk variation adds an artistic and personalized element to the bold hairstyle by incorporating shaved designs or patterns on the sides or back. Intricate shaved designs or patterns on the sides or back of the head add a unique touch.
11. Mohawk With Mohican
Inspired by the historical Mohican warrior style, this variant features a longer central strip that extends to the back of the head, combining cultural influence with contemporary flair. A central strip of hair that is longer and extends to the back of the head, resembling a Mohican warrior’s style.
12. Mohawk Ponytail
You must have seen the hairstyle where the central strip is pulled back into a ponytail while the sides remain shaved, right? Well, it is the Mohawk Ponytail. This style ties the central strip into a ponytail while maintaining shaved sides, offering a unique and fashionable way to wear a Mohawk.
13. Bald Mohawk
Pushing the boundaries of the Mohawk concept, the bald Mohawk shaves the central strip completely, leaving only a strip of bare skin, resulting in a dramatic and daring appearance. This Mohawk haircut is a variation where the central strip is completely shaved, leaving only a strip of bare skin.
14. Short Mohawk
Are you looking for a shorter version of a Mohawk haircut with a minimal strip of hair standing upright? If yes, then this one is worth giving it a shot! A subtler Mohawk style, the short mohawk features a shorter strip of hair standing upright, providing a balance between edginess and a more reserved look.
15. Twisted Mohawk
Last but definitely not least, we have twisted mohawk. Instead of spiking the hair, the twisted Mohawk uses hair twists to create a textured and captivating central strip, offering a distinct twist on the classic style. This means that the hair is twisted instead of spiked in this hairstyle, creating a visually interesting texture.
Remember that personal preferences and trends can influence the popularity of specific Mohawk styles, so what’s considered “top” can change over time. Feel free to choose a style that suits your personality and look!
Who Are Some Popular People Who Have Sported A Mohawk?
In case you were wondering who are the popular celebrities who have sported the Mohawk style before, I have you covered! These individuals have each contributed to the popularity and diverse interpretations of the Mohawk haircut, showcasing how it can be adapted to suit different personalities and aesthetics.
Here are 10 popular individuals who have sported the Mohawk hairstyle and rocked it:
1. Mr. T
The iconic actor and former professional wrestler is perhaps one of the most well-known figures associated with the classic Mohawk hairstyle.
2. David Beckham
The former professional footballer has experimented with various hairstyles, including the Mohawk, which he popularized during his career.
3. Travis Barker
The drummer of the band Blink-182 has been recognized for his distinctive Mohawk hairstyle, which contributed to his punk rock image.
4. Cassie Ventura
The singer and actress turned heads when she rocked shaved sides and a long central strip Mohawk, adding a touch of edginess to her style.
5. Rihanna
The renowned singer and fashion icon has been known to experiment with various hairstyles, including a striking red-tinted Mohawk.
6. P!nk
The pop-rock singer has showcased her daring spirit with multiple variations of the Mohawk, often incorporating vibrant colors and punk-inspired aesthetics.
7. Dennis Rodman
The former NBA star is famous for his eccentric and ever-changing hairstyles, including a memorable period with a colorful and spiked Mohawk.
8. Cristiano Ronaldo
The international football superstar has adopted the Mohawk style at different points in his career, adding an edgy flair to his athletic image.
9. Willow Smith
The young singer and actress has embraced her creative and bold side by sporting a unique Mohawk haircut that reflects her artistic personality.
10. Ruby Rose
The model, actress, and LGBTQ+ advocate has often been seen with various edgy hairstyles, including the Mohawk, which complements her distinctive style.
What Is The Reason Behind The Popularity Of Mohawk?
While many people think that the Mohawk hairstyle is a little too much, a little too “rad,” there is no point in denying that this hairstyle is rather popular among several groups of people. This hairstyle has gained popularity for several reasons:
1. Symbol Of Individuality
Mohawks are seen as a symbol of non-conformity and self-expression. People who choose this style often embrace their uniqueness and stand out from the crowd.
2. Rebellion And Counterculture
Mohawks were popularized by the punk subculture in the 1970s, a movement associated with rebelliousness and challenging societal norms. This association with rebellion continues to attract those seeking to make a statement.
3. Cultural Significance
The Mohawk hairstyle has roots in indigenous cultures, like the Mohawk Nation of Native Americans. Wearing the style can be a nod to these cultural influences and a way to honor their history.
4. Artistic And Creative Expression
Mohawks offer a canvas for artistic and creative expression. People can experiment with different lengths, colors, spikes, and braids, showcasing their artistic inclinations.
5. Attention-Grabbing
The distinctive and edgy appearance of a Mohawk naturally draws attention. It can be a conversation starter and a way to be noticed in social settings.
6. Versatility
There are various ways to style a Mohawk, from classic spikes to braids, fades, and more. This versatility allows individuals to adapt the style to suit their personal tastes.
7. Historical And Pop Culture Influence
The Mohawk’s association with historical figures, movies, and music icons has contributed to its enduring appeal. Icons like Mr. T, David Beckham, and Travis Barker have sported the style.
8. Gender-Neutral Appeal
Mohawks transcend gender norms, appealing to people of all genders. This inclusivity contributes to its widespread popularity.
9. Low Maintenance
Depending on the style, Mohawks can be relatively low maintenance compared to more elaborate hairstyles. This convenience can be appealing to those with busy lifestyles.
10. Continued Evolution
Over the years, the Mohawk has evolved, leading to new variations and adaptations. This ongoing evolution keeps the style fresh and relevant.
In essence, the popularity of Mohawk hairstyles lies in their ability to serve as a canvas for self-expression, individuality, rebellion, and creative experimentation while also paying homage to cultural and historical influences.
Wrapping It Up!
The Mohawk hairstyle is a daring and impactful haircut, characterized by shaved sides and a central strip of hair. This strip is typically styled upwards, resulting in a bold and dramatic appearance. Rooted in the heritage of Native American warriors, the Mohawk gained prominence within 1980s punk and grunge subcultures.
In case you are searching for the best Mohawk haircut that you can try this year, I hope that this article has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the same, feel free to let me know. All you need to do is scroll down until you reach the bottom of the page, then leave your comments and queries in the box below. And I will be there to answer them all for you!
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