Mohawk Fade
Originating from the Mohawk people of the Iroquois Nation and reinvented by 1970s punk culture, this bold style features a strip of longer hair down the center of the head with faded sides going to skin. The modern mohawk fade softens the punk edge while maintaining the distinctive silhouette. Requires 3-6 inches on top for styling; suits oval and round faces. Style upward with strong-hold gel or wax for spikes, or texture for a relaxed look. Maintain fade every 1-2 weeks.
IDEAL_FACE_SHAPES
SUITABLE_FOR
- bold personalities
- creative fields
MULTI-ANGLE_VIEW
FRONT / SIDE / BACK
HISTORY_&_ORIGIN
The mohawk has profound cultural significance, originating from the Mohawk people of the Iroquois Nation who wore their hair in this style as a sign of tribal identity and warrior status. It was adopted and transformed by 1970s-80s punk culture as a symbol of rebellion. The modern mohawk fade bridges cultural history with contemporary styling, making the look more accessible and workplace-appropriate.
MAINTENANCE
High maintenance style. The fade needs touch-ups every 1-2 weeks as the contrast is the key visual element. Daily styling is required to keep the mohawk standing or styled. Training the hair to stand takes time and product.
RECOMMENDED_PRODUCTS
- Strong-hold gel or wax
- Blow dryer
- Texture clay for relaxed mohawk
- Extra-strong hold hairspray
- Fine-tooth comb
BARBER_TIPS
Ask for a mohawk with faded sides going to skin. Discuss the width of the mohawk strip - it can range from narrow (1 inch) to wide (3-4 inches). Specify how much length you want on top for your desired style. The fade level matters - skin fade creates maximum contrast.
STYLING_STEPS
- 1
Apply strong-hold gel to damp hair
- 2
Blow dry while pushing hair straight up
- 3
Work in sections from front to back
- 4
For spiky mohawk: use gel and hairspray liberally
- 5
For relaxed mohawk: use texture clay instead
- 6
Set with extra-strong hold hairspray
