The marvelous mohawk - styles & how to rock it in 2025

The marvelous mohawk first appeared in the late 1970s and it's a look that has been experimented with over the years.

While we appreciate that the mohawk won't be for everyone, we're here to tell you that there's no better time than now to rock this iconic style.

Here, stylists explain what the mohawk haircut actually is, and introduce you to five style ideas that you can model your look on this year.

What is a mohawk haircut?

A mohawk haircut is a style that has shaved back and sides and notably longer hair that runs in the center. It was a look popularized by punk rockers in the 1980s, and has been adopted by style icons like David Beckham and others in more recent times.

In 2025, the mohawk is back. There are lots of variations to the mohawk hairstyle, with more subtle options available to people who don't want to take significant risks with their styles.

In what remains of this article, we introduce you to 10 styles for hair style mohawk that you can go for in 2025 if you're looking to experiment with this daring style.

10 styles for mohawk haircuts

Ready to choose a mohawk style in 2025? Here are great ideas that you can try to showcase this classic look this year:

1. Simple ladies mohawk haircut

Though often regarded as a men's haircut, we're here to tell you that women can also rock this iconic style. Frankly, there are no boundaries when it comes to styling a mohawk, and what works for men can also work for women.

From the mohawk fade to the mullet mohawk, women can sport this style in the same way as men. Be sure to check out our styles for mohawk haircuts below so you can decide on the best look for your style preferences.

2. Mohawk fade haircut

One of the most popular mohawk haircuts is the mohawk fade. The signature of the fade sees your barber work from a decent length at the top to a shorter back and sides. Though not unique to the mohawk, the fade looks super smart with the additional length of the mohawk on top.

The key to a successful mohawk fade is using a talented barber. It's not easy to fade hair to perfection, so you need someone who knows what they're doing, particularly when dealing with two contrasting styles like the mohawk and the fade.

3. Mullet mohawk haircut

If you're looking for a long hair mohawk haircut, look no further than the mullet. This hairstyle was the talk of the town in the 1980s, but it made a big comeback in 2025, thanks mainly to the emergence of the wolfcut.

The length of the mullet is important, so it's ideal for people with hair just above the shoulder. As for the mohawk element, you can style it in any way that you wish. Feel free to keep it simple with a slightly longer length, or take things to another level with some blonde highlights.

The mullet mohawk is definitely a throwback to decades past, but it's an eye-catching look that is sure to capture the attention for all the right reasons.

As the mullet mohawk haircut is a longer style, you need to look after your hair properly. Wash your mullet 2-3 times per week with a high-quality shampoo, and be sure to dry it with an ionic dryer like the Laifen Swift Premium.

The ionic dryer will prevent your mullet from frizzing, which is a common problem that people with longer hair experience. You can then add a product like a leave-in conditioner to retain moisture in your hair.

4. Kids mohawk haircut

Though a mohawk might be a little out there for most kids, it's certainly an option. We recommend reigning it in a little for kids - a mohawk with fade works really well, or you can opt for a short mohawk that fades into a similar length on the sides and back.

A side note - if you're styling your kids with a mohawk, be sure to check with their school, first! Some schools don't allow such hairstyles, so it's worth asking the question to avoid any unnecessary issues when your kid arrives at the school gates!

5. Highlighted mohawk haircut

The mohawk is undoubtedly a statement haircut, so why not take things a step further with colorful highlights? For a modern option, go for a bleached mohawk, as bleached highlights are undoubtedly a trending style in 2025.

Alternatively, you can rock a mohawk with green or even red hair, which pays tribute to the punk rock mohawks that were so popular in the 1970s and 1980s.

Whichever you choose, a colored mohawk is a great way to elevate this look and you can achieve it with some simple highlights that you can add yourself at home.

6. Braided mohawk with a twist

Who says mohawks have to be all spike and shave? A braided mohawk gives you edge and elegance in one. This style keeps the sides neat with cornrows or flat twists that guide the eye toward a voluminous center braid or bun.

You can add gold cuffs or beads to your braids for that little extra something because a mohawk can be bold and beautiful at the same time.

7. Curly mohawk for natural texture

If you’ve got curls, don’t hide them, you can elevate them. The curly mohawk lets your natural texture shine through while giving it a bold, defined shape. Taper or pin the sides to draw attention to the gorgeous.

A fierce, fun, and refreshingly soft mohawk that works just as well for a weekend brunch as it does for a rooftop party. Use a curl-enhancing cream to keep the texture defined, and you’re good to go.

8. Faux hawk with sass

Love the mohawk look but not ready to commit to the shave? Say hello to the faux hawk. This clever style fakes the mohawk silhouette by styling the center hair up and pushing the sides back. You can wear it up for a night out or slick it down for the office.

Bonus: it works on almost any hair length and type, making it one of the easiest mohawk-inspired styles to pull off.

9. Shaved sides with long mohawk

Looking to make a serious statement? Go all in with shaved sides and a long, flowing mohawk.

The contrast is bold and fearless, and totally worth it. Keep the length up top and style it however you want: straight, wavy, even braided. The clean-shaved sides give the top even more power to stand out.

Just remember: this style thrives on upkeep, so book regular trims to keep the shape sharp.

10. Soft tapered mohawk with texture

If you’re after something a bit more subtle, the soft tapered mohawk is your best bet. This style blends the sides into the center strip, creating a natural, easy-flowing shape. The top is textured and layered for movement and gives you volume without the spike.

Mohawk VS Faux Hawk: What’s different?

How to style mohawk hair?

With the right tools, smart styling, and consistent upkeep, your mohawk can go from just cool to completely iconic.

1. Blow dry with purpose

The foundation of a great mohawk is volume and direction, and that starts with a smart blow dry. After applying a heat protectant, use the Laifen SE Lite with a concentrator nozzle to guide the airflow upward from root to tip.

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Blow drying in sections while using your fingers for tension gives your mohawk shape and structure before any product even touches it.

2. Choose the right product

Use a matte wax or styling clay for thick hair and textured finishes, or opt for gel or pomade if you want sleek shine and hold. For curly or natural hair mohawks, a defining cream keeps volume while adding control.

3. Keep the sides fresh

A clean mohawk needs clean edges. Maintain the sides by trimming or fading regularly—every 1–2 weeks if possible. You can use clippers at home for minor touch-ups, but if you're going for a sharp fade or design, visiting a barber keeps things precise.

4. Set the style with a cool shot

Once you’ve shaped your mohawk, seal the deal. Use your blow dryer’s cool shot to lock the shape in place if you’ve styled it upward or added volume. For extra hold, finish with a light mist of flexible hairspray.

Conclusion - the mohawk haircut

The mohawk is a statement-making haircut that first appeared in the 1970s. Though it was initially attached to the punk rock movement, it is more mainstream these days and can be styled in different ways by lots of different people.

Though the mohawk is a daring style that won't suit everyone, given the choice of mohawk styles available to you, there's nothing stopping you from experimenting with this look in 2025.

FAQs

What hair is similar to mohawk hair?

Haircuts similar to the mohawk include the faux hawk, undercut, and mullet, all styles that play with contrast between longer top sections and shorter sides. While they each have their own vibe, they share that bold, rebellious energy mohawks are known for.

What face shape is suitable for a mohawk?

Mohawks work surprisingly well on oval, round, and square face shapes. Oval faces suit just about any style, while a mohawk can elongate a round face and sharpen a square one by adding height and vertical structure.

What is the personality of a mohawk hair cut?

The mohawk is loud, proud, and unapologetically bold. It signals someone who’s confident, creative, and not afraid to break the mold.

Are Mohawks still popular in 2025?

Absolutely, mohawks have evolved and are more versatile than ever in 2025. From classic punk-inspired versions to modern fades, curly textures, and braided styles, mohawks continue to trend across all age groups and hair types.

How long should my hair be for a mohawk?

Ideally, your hair should be at least 3 to 6 inches on top to shape a proper mohawk, though longer lengths give you more styling options like braids or curls. The sides can be shaved or faded. If your hair’s too short, you can still fake it with a faux hawk or grow it out gradually for the real deal.

Autumn Skye

Autumn’s words feel like comfort food for your beauty routine. With a background in journalism and a lifelong love of self-care, he writes about hair & wellness with a cozy vibe. He's your guide to slower routines, deeper nourishment, and confidence that starts from the roots. Think mindful beauty with real-life charm.