21 Faux Hawk Hairstyles for Women Edgy Fierce Center Volume Sides

Let’s be real for a second: sometimes you want a look that says “I mean business” but also “I’m here for a good time.” That’s exactly where the faux hawk comes in. It’s edgy but not over the top, and it gives you that instant volume on top without committing to a full-on shaved style. Whether you’re heading to a concert, a brunch date, or just want to shake up your everyday routine, this style is your new best friend.

In this post, I’m walking you through 21 incredible faux hawk hairstyles for women that focus on that fierce center volume and sleek sides. Think of it as your cheat sheet to looking effortlessly cool. No complicated tools, no hours in front of the mirror—just real, achievable looks that work with your natural texture. Ready to feel powerful? Let’s dive in.

The Modern Faux Hawk with Texture

This version is all about that lived-in, effortless vibe. You don’t need a ton of product here. Just a bit of sea salt spray and some light teasing at the crown.

• Start with day-old hair for better grip.
• Use a texturizing paste to piece out the ends.
• Keep the sides smooth with a light gel.

It’s perfect for when you want to look cool without trying too hard. Plus, it works great for those with wavy or curly hair.

The Sleek and Polished Faux Hawk

Need to look put-together for a meeting or a nice dinner? This is your go-to. It’s clean, sharp, and gives off some serious quiet luxury bob energy—but with a twist.

1. Blow-dry your hair straight first.
2. Slick the sides back with a strong-hold gel.
3. Tease the top section and smooth the surface.

The key is a high-shine spray to finish. It’s a power move that whispers confidence.

The Braided Faux Hawk for Texture Lovers

Braids add such a romantic, tactile feel to any style. This one combines the edge of a faux hawk with the softness of braids.

• French braid both sides from temple to nape.
• Leave the center section loose and voluminous.
• Backcomb the top for that big, bold shape.

It’s a great way to keep hair out of your face while still looking incredibly stylish. I love this for weekends exploring the city.

The Curly Faux Hawk with Volume

If you’ve got curls, you already have built-in volume. This style just amplifies that in the best way possible.

• Define your curls with a leave-in conditioner.
• Twist or pin back the sides.
• Fluff the crown with a pick for maximum height.

It’s a celebration of your natural texture. And honestly, it’s one of the most eye-catching 2026 hairstyles I’ve seen on the runway this season.

The Short Faux Hawk for Fine Hair

Think you need thick hair for a faux hawk? Nope. Fine hair actually holds a teased shape really well because it’s lighter.

1. Use a volumizing powder at the roots.
2. Tease small sections at the crown.
3. Pin the sides behind your ears for a clean look.

You’ll be surprised how much lift you can get. This is a total game-changer for anyone avoiding heavy products.

The Asymmetrical Faux Hawk Lob

Mixing an asymmetrical lob with a faux hawk? Yes, please. The uneven lengths add so much movement and interest.

• Cut one side slightly shorter than the other.
• Slick the shorter side back for contrast.
• Keep the longer side flowing for softness.

It’s a high-fashion look that you can actually wear to work. I’m obsessed with how versatile this is.

The Romantic Goth Faux Hawk

For those days when you want a little drama. This style blends the structure of a faux hawk with a softer, almost romantic goth hairstyles aesthetic.

• Wave the top sections with a small curling iron.
• Pull the sides back loosely, not too tight.
• Add small hair accessories like silver pins.

It’s moody, it’s soft, and it’s incredibly chic. Perfect for a night out or a cozy evening in.

The Glitchy Glam Faux Hawk

This is for the trendsetters. Using hair clips or metallic accessories, you can create a visual “glitch” effect on the sides.

1. Slick the sides straight back.
2. Place small metallic clips in a diagonal pattern.
3. Tease the center for a tall, smooth finish.

It gives off major glitchy glam hair vibes and is guaranteed to turn heads. It’s art, but on your head.

The Vampire Cut Faux Hawk

The vampire haircut is all about sharp, dramatic layers. Pair that with a faux hawk, and you get something truly fierce.

• Ask your stylist for very choppy layers.
• Wear the longest layer over your forehead.
• Keep the sides close to the head.

It’s a look that screams confidence. And it’s incredibly low-maintenance once you have the cut down.

The Soft Wavy Faux Hawk

Not in the mood for a super structured look? Go soft. This version keeps the volume but adds a romantic, carefree feel.

• Create loose waves all over.
• Twist small sections from each side to the back.
• Bobby pin them loosely for a messy finish.

It’s a beautiful middle ground between edgy and sweet. I wear this one all the time when I’m just hanging out.

The High Ponytail Faux Hawk

Take your regular ponytail and level it up. This is basically a ponytail that got a major upgrade.

1. Gather your hair into a very high ponytail.
2. Slick the baby hairs down for a clean look.
3. Tease the ponytail itself for huge volume.

It’s an easy way to get the faux hawk look without any major restructuring of your hair. Super practical.

The Braided Crown Faux Hawk

This is basically a crown for your head. It’s a labor of love, but the result is so worth it.

• Dutch braid from ear to ear over the top.
• Leave a section of hair at the crown loose.
• Backcomb that section for a big, fluffy center.

It gives a very old money hair vibe but with a rebellious twist. Perfect for festivals or brunch with the girls.

The Blunt Faux Hawk with a Hime Cut

If you love the hime cut, you’ll love this. The blunt fringe pieces at the cheekbones frame your face perfectly.

1. Cut a sharp, blunt fringe at cheekbone level.
2. Slick the back section into a faux hawk.
3. Keep the top very straight for a modern look.

It’s a fusion of two iconic styles. I’ve seen this on a few influencers, and it’s really taking off.

The Sleek Pixie Faux Hawk

For the short hair lovers out there. Even a pixie can be styled into a faux hawk with the right technique.

• Use a strong pomade on the top section.
• Smooth the sides completely flat.
• Pinch the ends to create a spiky texture.

It’s low maintenance but makes a massive impact. A true power move for short hair.

The Half-Up Faux Hawk Bun

Half-up, half-down is already a classic. This version turns the top section into a mini faux hawk bun.

1. Take the top section and tease it well.
2. Twist it into a small, messy bun at the crown.
3. Leave the rest of your hair loose and wavy.

It’s playful and practical. You get the volume of a faux hawk but with all your length still flowing.

The Asymmetrical Braid Faux Hawk

This is for when you want balance but also a little chaos. One side is braided, and the other is all volume.

• French braid one side from temple to nape.
• Leave the other side completely free.
• Tease that free side heavily for volume.

It’s unique and catches the light in a cool way. Definitely one of the more artistic looks in this list.

The Faux Hawk with a Deep Side Sweep

Old Hollywood meets punk rock. This look gives you a dramatic side sweep that feels very cinematic.

1. Create a deep side part.
2. Tease the smaller section for height.
3. Sweep the larger section across your forehead.

It’s dramatic but wearable. I’d wear this to a gallery opening or a nice date night.

The Textured Crop Faux Hawk

This is a great option if you already have a short, textured crop. You’re just taking it one step further.

• Use a clay pomade for a matte finish.
• Push the front section forward and up.
• Keep the sides very close to the head.

It’s rugged, easy, and very low fuss. Perfect for busy mornings when you still want to look put together.

The Faux Hawk with a Quiff

A quiff is basically a taller, bolder version of a faux hawk. Combine them, and you get maximum height.

1. Blow-dry the front section upwards with a round brush.
2. Tease the roots for extra lift.
3. Slick the sides back with a strong gel.

This is a great style for those who love a retro-inspired look. It feels both classic and rebellious.

The Faux Hawk with Micro Braids

If you have the patience for tiny braids, this is absolutely stunning. It’s all about the detail.

• Create 6-8 small micro braids on each side.
• Leave the center section loose and big.
• Accessorize with tiny beads or rings.

It’s a showstopper that takes a little time but pays off big time. A true work of art.

The Faux Hawk with a Sleek Low Bun

For the minimalist. The volume is all at the crown, and the rest is sleek and pulled back into a low bun.

1. Tease the crown section only.
2. Pull the rest back into a low bun.
3. Use a shine spray for a polished finish.

It’s a quiet luxury moment. Perfect for when you want to look expensive without trying too hard.

So there you have it—21 different ways to rock a faux hawk that feels totally you. Whether you want soft and romantic or sharp and edgy, there’s a version here waiting for your next hair day. The best part? Most of these take under 15 minutes once you get the hang of it.

I’d love to know which one you’re trying first. Drop your favorite number in the comments below and tell me about the look you’re going for. And if this helped you find your next style, save this post to Pinterest so you can find it again when you’re standing in front of the mirror with a brush in your hand.