Mohawk

What it is

This style involves shaving the hair on both sides of the head while leaving a strip of noticeably longer hair in the center. The central strip typically runs from the forehead to the nape of the neck. In its most common form, the sides are bald, creating a stark contrast with the upright center section. Variations exist, such as the reverse mohawk which shaves the center instead, or the fauxhawk which keeps the sides longer. The look is often associated with non-conformity and punk aesthetics.

Where it comes from

The style has existed for millennia across various cultures. Herodotus recorded similar looks among Libyan tribes. In North America, the Pawnee wore a version of this cut. The name 'mohawk' comes from the Mohawk nation, though their traditional style involved plucking hair to leave a square patch on the crown, not a full strip. The modern association stems from Hollywood films like Drums Along the Mohawk. During World War II, American paratroopers wore it to intimidate enemies. It became a staple of the punk subculture in the 1970s.

What it means

In contemporary society, the mohawk is strongly linked to punk rock and broader non-conformity. It serves as a visual statement of rebellion against mainstream norms. Historically, among indigenous groups like the Pawnee, it was a common cultural practice. For military personnel, particularly airborne troops, it served a functional purpose of intimidation and practicality during combat. The style transcends mere fashion to represent identity and attitude.

How it is made

To create a standard mohawk, the hair on the sides of the head is shaved close to the skin. A strip of hair remains in the center, running from the front to the back of the scalp. This central strip is then styled to stand upright, often using gel or wax. Variations include the reverse mohawk, where the center is shaved and sides are kept, and the fauxhawk, which mimics the look without shaving the sides completely, usually keeping the hair shorter than a traditional mohawk.

Who and what it suits

It is generally considered suitable for any hair type, though the ability to style the center strip upright may depend on hair texture and thickness. The style is versatile enough to be worn by men and women alike, regardless of specific facial features.

Versions

Several variations exist beyond the classic look. The reverse mohawk, also called a nohawk, shaves the center strip and leaves hair on the sides. The fauxhawk copies the upright center look but does not shave the sides, often extending only to the peak of the cranium. An euro-hawk is a type of fauxhawk where the center hair is longer than the sides. Another variant is the ponyhawk, which features a row of ponytails down the middle instead of a single strip.

In culture

The mohawk gained widespread recognition through its adoption by the punk subculture in the 1970s. It has been worn by numerous musicians, actors, and athletes, including Joe Strummer, David Beckham, and Mr. T. Its presence in film and media, such as the BBC adaptation of The Last of the Mohicans, has further cemented its place in popular culture. The style continues to be a symbol of individuality and artistic expression.

Questions people ask about Mohawk

Good reading and sources

• Mohawk hairstyle on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data