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Styling technique

Top knot

A top knot gathers enough length at or near the crown to form a compact tied shape. The surrounding hair may remain longer or be tapered, making the perimeter part of the overall silhouette.

This is a styling arrangement as much as a cut: section placement, tie tension, and the amount of loose texture left around the knot change its character.

Transparent editorial reference showing a tied top knot above a tapered perimeter.
Top knot with tapered perimeter · Notice the gathered crown above the close, gradually shortened sides.The knot concentrates length at the crown while the perimeter creates a clean contrast.Enough crown length is gathered securely; the perimeter is shorter and tapered around the ears and nape.

Reference gallery

Different ways it can read

Transparent editorial reference showing a tied top knot above a tapered perimeter.
Top knot with tapered perimeter · Notice the gathered crown above the close, gradually shortened sides.The knot concentrates length at the crown while the perimeter creates a clean contrast.Enough crown length is gathered securely; the perimeter is shorter and tapered around the ears and nape.
Transparent editorial reference showing a compact curly top knot.
Curly top knot · Notice the natural curl remaining visible through the compact gathered shape.Texture gives the knot a fuller, softer outline than a smooth pulled-back finish.The gathered shape depends on enough dry length and comfortable tension through the crown.

Variations

Choose the details

Tapered perimeter

Pairs the gathered crown with close, gradually shorter sides and nape.

Curly knot

Allows curl and coil to remain visible through the gathered shape and loose ends.

Loose gather

Keeps the knot relaxed with less tension and more visible texture around the tie.

Confirm the minimum length, tie position, perimeter finish, and comfortable tension before committing to the arrangement.

  • Where should the knot sit: crown, high top, or farther back?
  • Should the sides and nape stay long, taper, or be cut close?
  • How much curl, coil, or loose texture should remain visible around the tie?
  • What level of tension is comfortable, and how often will the style be worn?

“I want a small top knot at the crown with a low taper around the sides and nape. Keep the tie comfortable and leave the natural texture visible through the knot.”

What changes the result

Bring these variables

  • A knot needs enough length to gather securely; a stylist can test the placement before cutting the perimeter.
  • Tension matters. Styles that hurt, sting, or pull should be loosened and reassessed.
  • Curl and coil shrinkage change the apparent knot size and required length; plan with the hair in its usual worn state.

Pattern guidance

Explore by hair type

Type 1 · Straight

Straight hair may need more length or a secure tie to keep a compact knot; discuss placement and perimeter contrast.

1A1B1C
Type 2 · Wavy

Wave can add looseness and volume around the knot; decide whether the finish should stay smooth or visibly textured.

2A2B2C
Type 3 · Curly

Curl changes the gathered length and knot size; plan placement with the hair in its usual dry state and keep tension comfortable.

3A3B3C
Type 4 · Coily

Coily hair may shrink substantially before gathering; discuss stretch, tie tension, and how much natural texture should remain visible.

4A4B4C

Related guides

Transparent editorial reference showing a patterned mohawk with a curved raised crest.

Cut

Patterned mohawk

A raised central crest paired with deliberately shaved or patterned sides.

Transparent editorial reference showing a short cropped afro with rounded coily texture.

Cut

Cropped afro

A short rounded shape that keeps coily texture visible while trimming the silhouette close and intentional.

Dated person records

These links show a documented appearance where this style was observed. They are visual records, not universal definitions.

Mario Balotelli · 2019-01-25 ↗

Sources reviewed

Mario Balotelli’s hair: an obituary 2008–2015 · The Guardian · reviewed 2026-09-22

Mario Balotelli: Blond bombshell · Manchester City · reviewed 2026-09-22