A faux hawk gathers volume into a strip down the centre of the head without requiring the sides to be shaved, which makes it one of the most adaptable edgy looks for women. This gallery covers both routes. Long-hair versions are built from stacked ponytails, French and fishtail braids, four-strand plaits, twisted loops and curls pinned into a ridge. Short versions include a tall rocker hawk with close sides, a pink pixie hawk with undershaves, a short hawk with roses shaved into the side and a powder blue pixie styled into peaks.
Long, thick or textured hair has the most material to work with for updo hawks, and second-day hair grips better than freshly washed strands. Very fine hair can still manage a ponytail or braided version with some teasing and texturising spray. If you are not ready to shave, tight cornrows along the sides create the same contrast and can be undone later.
The shape adds height, so it is particularly flattering on round faces. Bridal and evening versions with flowers or a sleek low bun show it can be refined as well as rebellious.
1. Two Trick Ponytail Faux Hawk
Two or more overlapping ponytails create a sleek, professional faux hawk on long hair. The lower pony provides volume, while the upper one smooths over it to form an even curve and anchor the height. It is quick to master and suits the office.
Inspiration: @Instagram
2. French Braid Pinup Faux Hawk
A French braid is the foundation of this pin-up hawk taken to wild extremes. Deep violet fades into lighter lavender through loose, piled loops, all twisted and pushed forward toward the forehead. Plenty of bobby pins and hairspray hold the height.
Inspiration: @Instagram
3. Messy Fishtail Faux Hawk
Chunky twists, a side-braided fishtail ponytail and a rich copper tone give this hawk a romantic, siren-like feel. Pair it with a flowing skirt and loose top for a soft, sultry look. Long hair offers enough length for the twisted sections.
Inspiration: @Instagram
4. Punk-Rock Princess Faux Hawk
Teased volume, a fringe and two braided lines define this rebellious punk hawk with pink overtones. It calls for a mini skirt and a matching lip colour. Backcomb the crown and set with strong-hold spray to keep the shape.
Inspiration: @Instagram
5. Messy Braided Faux Hawk
Crimped brown-blonde hair adds texture to a braided mermaid-style hawk, finished in a ponytail threaded with tiny braids and twists. The crimping makes the braid look fuller. An adventurous option for festivals or summer events.
Inspiration: @Instagram
6. Billy Idol’s Hot Cousin Faux Hawk
Closely cut sides and a tall faux mohawk deliver bold eighties rocker energy. Most of the volume runs over the top and down the centre of the back, forming a strong ridge with serious height. A blow-dryer and firm gel or wax build the lift.
Inspiration: @stylistricardosantiago
7. Black Braided Faux Hawk
Textured hair is ideal for sculpting, as this sleek braided hawk with blue highlights shows. A smooth, even undercut line around the crown makes the braid stand out against the curves. Pair it with a dress in a matching shade.
Inspiration: @kiastylez
8. Amber Waves of Faux Hawk
Three cornrows along each side replace shaved sections, ideal if you are not ready to commit to an undercut. Amber highlights and darker roots emphasise the waves flowing down the back. The braids can simply be taken out later.
Inspiration: @Instagram
9. Retro Pop Can Updo Faux Hawk
Big, wave-like curls in pastel lavender recall the old trick of setting hair on soda cans for volume. Pinned into a faux hawk, the result is elegant yet unconventional. Large-barrel rollers or a curling wand recreate the bouncy curls.
Inspiration: @Instagram
10. Tattoo You Tonight Faux Hawk
Roses carved into the shaved side soften this short, sharply angled hawk, making it both fierce and feminine. Creative hair art like this is a great way to express personality. Book frequent touch-ups to keep the design crisp.
Inspiration: @Instagram
11. Lobster Tail Faux Hawk
A thick fishtail plait creates the ridge, while the sides are neatly pulled back into a low pony that resembles a lobster tail. Fishtail braids look more intricate than standard three-strand plaits. Bright blonde hair shows off the braid detail.
Inspiration: @Instagram
12. …And I Will Always Love You Faux Hawk
A glorious pile of ringlets in black with a touch of gold makes a regal curly hawk, with the sides pulled tightly back for contrast. The look evokes the elegance of a legendary diva. Curl cream keeps ringlets defined.
Inspiration: @Instagram
13. The Neelix Faux Hawk
A windswept blonde mohawk with braided sides pays tribute to Neelix, a lesser-known alien character from Star Trek. It is a fun choice for sci-fi fans and conventions. Teasing and strong-hold spray give the top its dramatic sweep.
Inspiration: @Instagram
14. Wedding Day Bliss Faux Hawk
Curly loops, twists and a bouffant at the front form an exquisite bridal hawk, finished with delicate flowers tucked into the crown. The blooms draw the eye upward. Book a trial with your stylist to perfect the placement.
Inspiration: @Instagram
15. Spartan Warrior Faux Hawk
A four-strand braid running down the centre echoes the horsehair plumes on Spartan helmets. It is a fascinating option for long hair inspiration. The look works equally well with a dress or jeans. Pull the edges of each strand loose for a fuller, plume-like ridge.
Inspiration: @Instagram
16. Pink Pixie Princess Faux Hawk
Shaved sides, a pixie cut and a faux hawk combine into a radical pink look with messy bedhead texture. It is a style that stands on its own, making any outfit work. Pink fades quickly, so plan regular colour refreshes.
Inspiration: @Instagram
17. Where Did You Get Your Hair Done Faux Hawk
A surface braid and a pompadour meet in an elegant updo that can be worn with an evening gown. Blonde tones deepen underneath while frosty highlights sit on top. A tight low bun neatly closes the shape at the nape.
Inspiration: @Instagram
18. Asymmetrical Pixie Faux Hawk
An off-centre brown pixie with bangs makes an asymmetric faux hawk with a strong personality. Cute at any age, it may push you outside your comfort zone. A little pomade defines the peak. Ask your stylist to keep one side noticeably longer than the other.
Inspiration: @Instagram
19. Athenian Goddess Faux Hawk Updo
A loose French braid contains a pile of blonde curls arranged into a messy yet classy faux hawk. The look offers volume, elegance and plenty of curls. Pair it with flowing fabrics for a goddess-like finish.
Inspiration: @Instagram
20. Sweet Tart Peaked Faux Hawk
Powder blue colour and a row of peaks make this pixie hawk truly unique. The pastel shade acts as an accessory, so even a simple outfit looks finished. Pastels fade within weeks; wash sparingly in cool water.
Inspiration: @Instagram
Building a faux hawk on long hair in ten minutes
- Spray dry hair with texturising spray or dry shampoo for grip.
- Section a strip from the front hairline to the nape, roughly the width of your eyebrows.
- Secure that strip into three or four small ponytails running front to back, teasing each one at the root.
- Pin the sides flat with crossed bobby pins, or French braid them tightly toward the centre.
- Roll or loop each ponytail upward and pin it into the ridge, then finish with strong-hold hairspray.
Keeping a short shaved faux hawk sharp
Short hawks rely on the contrast between the shaved sides and the lifted top. Book clipper touch-ups every two to three weeks, and carved designs even more frequently as they blur quickly. Style the top with a strong wax or pomade, pushing hair from both sides toward the centre and pinching it into peaks. Pastel and neon shades fade fast on short hair, so wash with cool water and refresh colour regularly.