Style Spotlight: Faux Hawk Hairstyle via a Unicorn Braid
But first, some astrology: Every year, the Chinese (and tons of people around the world) celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year on a date that varies year to year. Unlike Western countries that celebrate on a fixed Gregorian calendar date of January 1st, the Lunar New Year occurs when the New Moon is closest to the beginning of spring—a time perfect for new beginnings and endeavors, and which usually falls between the middle of January and late February, depending on where it lands on the lunar calendar. Each year is assigned an animal ruler taken from the Chinese zodiac, and 2017 happens to be the Year of the Fire Rooster. And for those of you in the know, that means lots of industrious (up and crowing at dawn, #sorrynotsorry!), fiercely proud and yes, cocky energy. We decided to pay homage with a look that best embodies all these fiery, socially active vibes: the faux hawk hairstyle. Unlike other faux hawks, this hairdo—which features a skinny, solo Dutch braid in the center of the head, akin to a rooster comb (see what we did there?)—is a much more directional take on the regular teased faux hawk. It’s an edgier version of a half-updo as well, a trait not lost on designers and celeb hairstylists, who have featured this look on several runway shows.
Three in one
Just as we usually make three wishes for peace, prosperity and good luck in the New Year, the faux hawk hairstyle is also a triple threat. This mohawk/unicorn braid/half-updo hybrid checks all our boxes for chic, unique and cheeky. And like those born in the Year of the Rooster (1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005), this look was made for larger-than-life personalities who love to stand out from a crowd.
Get the look
Wear your “rooster crown” high! First, section off a thin area in the middle of your head, and split that section into three parts. Begin a Dutch braid by crossing the left section under the middle and joining it with the right, and vise versa, till you reach your skull bump at the back of your head. Tie off your braid with an elastic and twist your ponytail into a top knot, securing with another elastic. You can choose to smooth down the sides of your new faux hawk hairstyle with some serum for an elegant evening look, or grunge up your lengths with some texturizing balm for a funky, grittier take. Whichever way you decide to wear this look, we wish lots of love, luck and a year full of awesomely cocky hair days to you and yours! Gōng Xǐ Fā Cái! Want more party hair ideas? Check out more fun, flirty holiday looks.
