In the realm of men’s hair trends, one look has dominated 2021: the curly hairstyle. From Timothée Chalamet to Bruno Mars, celebrities have embraced their natural curls, but none have captured the hearts of fans quite like Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

As he dazzles on the football field, fans are equally enamored with his distinct and stylish curly locks, leading many to wonder about the secrets behind his iconic hairstyle.

A Hairy Bet Turns Into a Signature Look

Patrick Mahomes’ journey to discovering his hair identity began during his college years at Texas Tech University.

In a playful bet with a friend over who could grow their hair out the longest, Mahomes found himself leaning into his natural curls. “And, I think I won,” he quipped during an interview with Head and Shoulders, a brand for which he is both an ambassador and loyal user.

The positive feedback he received from fans and peers in college solidified his decision to keep his curly mane, transforming it into a defining aspect of his persona in the NFL.

Styling Secrets Straight from the Source

Maintaining those coveted curls is no easy feat, but Mahomes is dedicated to his hair care routine. He acknowledges that his helmet can be a challenge for his style, but the combination of his headband and curls has become part of his brand. To replicate Mahomes’ iconic look, London-based barber Julius Caesar suggests a few styling tips that anyone can try, regardless of gender.

“Natural curls allow for effortless styling,” he says, emphasizing the importance of using quality products. Caesar recommends his STMNT Grooming spray, which offers a soft hold without the dreaded crunch. For optimal results, apply the product to freshly washed, towel-damp hair. This technique helps ensure that the curls maintain their form, even amidst the physicality of a football game. For those looking to add a bit more structure, a blow dryer can help achieve a polished appearance.

The Art of the Mahomes Look

Patrick Mahomes regularly visits Purple Label Luxury, a Kansas City barbershop renowned for styling Chiefs players. DeJuan Bonds, Mahomes’ personal barber, reveals that it takes about 40 minutes to achieve the quarterback’s signature curly mohawk. This isn’t just a simple cut; Bonds employs seven different clippers to meticulously sculpt Mahomes’ hair in various directions.

Since Mahomes rose to fame, demand for his hairstyle has surged, with fans flocking to Purple Label specifically requesting “the Mahomes.” Yet, despite the buzz surrounding his look, Mahomes remains relaxed about his signature style. “Patrick, his hairstyle says freedom,” Bonds remarks. “He goes with the flow with his haircut.”

Embracing Individuality

While Mahomes’ curly mohawk exudes a vibrant energy, it’s essential to recognize that what works for him may not suit everyone. Mahomes encourages those searching for their own iconic hairstyle to explore different looks until they find what resonates with them. “Just be you,” he advises. “Pick a style, try it out, and if you don’t like it — try something else! I had a few other looks before I found what works for me.”

In a world where individuality and self-expression are celebrated, Patrick Mahomes not only excels on the football field but also inspires countless fans to embrace their natural beauty and find their unique style. So, whether you’re sporting curls like Mahomes or experimenting with a completely different look, remember that confidence is key — and sometimes, a little bit of freedom can go a long way.